WHK building makes big statement

Every list of key Southland qualities includes innovation, determination to excel, close connection to the community and putting people first.

That’s the essence and driving force of New Zealand’s fifth largest accountancy firm, WHK, chief tenant of the new Bruce Ansley development in Invercargill’s central business district.

Inspiration behind the building is WHK Chief Executive Phil Mulvey who agrees that being the first new building in Invercargill for nearly 20 years is making a statement.

“We absolutely believe in the future of Southland,” Mr. Mulvey said.

The innovation is clear from the time you enter the spacious reception. The layout includes a reversal of managers hogging the bright outlooks and corner offices – the majority of the workforce is open to the long windows giving light and an outlook for staff.

Three screens per computer make for efficient file viewing, and staff breakout areas provide either a change of outlook or the opportunity to hold meetings over laptops. There is a drying room for coats and a computer area to occupy children while mum finishes her day’s work.

“Happy people make efficient staff,” Mr. Mulvey said.

WHK’s impact on the physical environment is matched by its outreach to the community. The company supports major players like the Cancer Society and Southland sporting talent such as the Stags, Steel and Sharks. 

With a market positioning that focuses on small-to-medium sized businesses, the majority of WHK’s sponsorship goes to a whole host of smaller, local community groups to a contribution of over half a million dollars per annum.

“Our position as major supporting sponsor of Southland Spirit of a Nation signals that we identify with the community spirit of Southland, we support Venture Southland and all endeavours to drive our region forward. Positivity is the key to progress,” Mr Mulvey said.

The Southland Spirit of a Nation sponsorship programme enables businesses to support the promotion of the region. The major sponsor is Fonterra Edendale, the largest and most efficient dairy milk powder factory in the world.

Other major sponsors are noted for their safety standards including Fulton Hogan and EIS; and for quality and excellence, award-winning Cunningham Building and Construction and Gen-I; Phoenix Services for energy efficiency and E.H. Ball and E. Hayes and Sons for outstanding service.

Venture Southland contracts the delivery of the Southland Spirit of a Nation brand programme to grow and develop community pride in the region and promote Southland as a great place to live. The programme relies on local business support, which allows the programme to be delivered into schools and be associated with community events and activities and the delivery of a planned media programme.