For many, the Christchurch dust may have settled, but the reality for BNI members in the earthquake struck city is far from normal.
BNI Christchurch director Sam Williamson says some businesses are doing well and some are in the doldrums.
“Those whose lives have been most severely influenced have either left or changed roles.”
And yet there is an expectation amongst Cantabrians that things will improve.
“Everyone has been affected by – or at least seen – change, with many homes and businesses needing to relocate.
“However, the standard line is one of: “I’ve lost my business / home, but there are people worse off than me,’” says Sam.
Big business opportunities still exist
BNI members within the chapters are buoyant. They regrouped quickly after the earthquake and it didn’t take long to find a new meeting place, even if it was just an interim home at McDonald’s.
Certain industries are, understandably, showing growth.
Plumbers and drain layers are hard at work, trying to meet the demand. Tradesmen like electricians and cabinet makers can expect to be called upon soon to make their contribution to rebuilding the community.
Alison Poulter from the BNI Kinesis Chapter in Christchurch is with ADT / Armourguard and she says they have never been busier.
“Business has more than doubled since February this year, with over 200 people being employed since then,” says Alison.
Alison’s personal situation has been more challenging and yet she remains upbeat, refusing to be defeatist about life in Christchurch, post-earthquake.
“My partner and I have moved our bedroom into the lounge for safety’s sake. We have to make use of a chemical toilet and driving around in a dirty car – courtesy of liquefaction – has become a way of life.
“But Christchurch is where I grew up. It’s beautiful. And I believe we are well prepared for any civil emergency.”
A caring community makes a difference
Practical repercussions of the earthquake have been numerous.
What many take for granted, like travel for instance, has become a challenge. Travel time has increased due to disruptions to existing road structures and dislocation means that some have further to travel.
The challenge of running a business is exacerbated by the fact that many have had to face hefty personal issues. Marketing plans and updating websites, for example, cannot be top-of-mind when the safety of loved ones is at risk.
But the community continues to focus on the positive and find victories worth celebrating. People are still in business, with members still focused on helping each other.
“There is a good level of care amongst BNI members,” says Sam.
This sentiment is well-illustrated by the way members have worked together to dig out homes surrounded by liquefied soil, offering meals and other basic bathroom amenities to those who need it.
Donations have been put to good use
The generosity from other parts of New Zealand, and the world, have been extraordinary.
New Zealand BNI members donated approximately $62,294 – some donations were made by BNI members in their individual capacity – and many chapters also benefited from pulling together as a team to generate funds by organising charity events.
BNI New Zealand also added $5,000 to the earthquake and the international BNI community stepped up to help with a $14,000 donation to the New Zealand Red Cross.
The more than $8,500 raised for Christchurch by a recent cabaret on in Auckland have been used to provide approved cash grants to those members who have been badly affected.
Some of the funds have also gone to funding guests’ first visits, as members focus on building chapters up again.
The repercussions for businesses are still being felt and that will continue to be the case for a while yet. What has been uplifting is how people have pulled together, with virtual strangers chipping in to help where they can.
