When Grant Forrest first bought Tyres Direct in Auckland, he couldn’t have predicted that three years later, he’d be running the business out of shipping containers on the East Coast. Today, Grant and his team are proudly serving retailers across New Zealand from their innovative setup in Gisborne.
So, why the switch to shipping containers? We had a chat with Grant to find out.
Moving the business closer to home
“When we took a step back and thought about it, using shipping containers was a no-brainer,” says Grant. “We’ve had Harris Tyres in Gisborne for years. We’re proud Gizzy locals and we love it here. When we acquired Tyres Direct, I was making frequent trips to Auckland, and eventually I got over the commute. So, we decided it was time to move the business closer to home.”
The move happened faster than expected. “We thought we’d have some time before our lease in Auckland was taken over,” Grant explains. “But it got snapped up almost immediately. That pushed us to get everything sorted in Gisborne a lot faster than we planned.”
Shipping containers more cost-effective than leasing a warehouse
Initially, they considered leasing a warehouse in Gisborne, but with rates at about $95 per square metre of floorspace, and the market being what it was, they didn’t want the extra overheads. They already had a sizeable yard in Gisborne, so they brainstormed ways to maximise it. They had some shipping containers from Container Space for Harris Tyres’ storage and realised it made sense to use more containers for their new setup.
“Switching to shipping containers cost us around $10 per square metre,” Grant says. “Comparing that to $95 for a warehouse or the expense of building something ourselves, the container option was a no-brainer.”
The value of personal and prompt service
Grant reached out to Container Space, and their spacemaker Deon Mauger, got on to it quickly. “They were fantastic to work with. They came up with a plan and made sure the containers arrived on time,” Grant recalls. “What really impressed me was their personal touch. A few weeks after finalising everything, Nick Walker, their Managing Director, dropped by to see how we were settling in. It meant a lot that he took the time to visit.”
As a business that values personal service, Grant appreciated Container Space’s approach. “We’re all about honesty,” he says. “If someone doesn’t need new tyres, we tell them straight. We do right by our customers because that’s just how we operate.”
What’s next for Tyres Direct? Grant says, “We’ll keep looking after our customers with Harris Tyres and continue to grow Tyres Direct, all right here from our home in Gisborne.”
Need cost-effective space for your business?
If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to warehouse space, we can help you create the space you need using our shipping containers. Get in touch with our spacemakers, and we’ll make it happen.
If you’re after a reliable tyre shop in Gisborne, get in touch with Harris Tyres at admin@harristyres.co.nz or call their friendly team on 06 867 0728. You can also follow them on Facebook.
And if you’re a tyre retailer who needs a trustworthy supplier, drop an email to Grant and the team at Tyres direct sales@tyresdirect.co.nz.
After enduring several extreme weather events in recent years, the Tairāwhiti Emergency Management Office (TEMO) have developed a leading emergency response facility and approach, that is setting new standards in Aotearoa. TEMO’s emergency response facility, which opened last year, is designed to IL4 seismic standards, ensuring resilience against significant earthquake events. It features multiple communication modes, backup energy supplies, and data security measures, making it fully self-sufficient. Led by Ben Green, TEMO’s Group Manager, this epic team has taken a proactive approach to emergency management, which focuses on community empowerment and strong partnerships.
Empowering communities to support themselves
“Here in Tairāwhiti we have 42 communities spread across our 52,000 population. And many of them become isolated when a severe weather event or natural disaster strikes.” Says Ben. “When the worst happens, some of our communities may need to be able to support themselves for a week or two, or more. That’s why it makes sense for us to focus on empowering people within our communities to lead their own emergency response efforts.”
In addition to building their emergency response facility, a key part of TEMO’s empowerment strategy is being achieved by establishing community clusters. Each cluster is equipped with the specialist gear needed to survive an extreme event. Everything has been thought of, from emergency water generation, to shelter, off-the-grid energy generation, communications, and first aid supplies. Local people are then given specialist training, so they understand how to lead an emergency management response in their community and know how to use the equipment. So far, TEMO have established 19 community clusters, and they have exciting plans to add 13 more this year.
Creating secure storage space to house vital equipment
For Ben and the TEMO team, a key part of setting up these clusters was figuring out how best to store and protect vital emergency equipment. That’s where Container Space came in. As specialised shipping container partners, TEMO leaned on Container Space to help create secure, resilient storage spaces for each community hub.
“What Container Space gave us turned out to be much more than just shipping containers or storage spaces,” says Ben. “We needed a storage solution sure, but we also needed a partner who could help us identify where best to place the containers to ensure they are accessible. With their guidance, we have now deployed high-cubed shipping containers which are strategically placed outside risk zone. This gives them the best chance of being accessible during emergencies.”
Ben said that in addition to their expertise, the Container Space crew were easy to deal with, and took care of all the end-to-end logistics. They also understood the significance of the project and it’s benefits to the community, which was important to the TEMO team.
“It’s a pleasure to work with a team who understands the purpose and what we’re trying to achieve in community emergency preparedness planning,” says Ben.
A truly humbling spacemaking experience
Container Space Director Nick Walker says that being part of such a choice and innovative community initiative was an immense privilege.
“We’re absolutely blown away by the incredible work that Ben and the TEMO team does,” says Nick. “It’s humbling to partner with people and organisations who dedicate 100% of their time and energy to protecting the people in their communities. Having seen the immense commitment and work that’s going into this project, we believe the Tairāwhiti community should be extremely proud of the what’s being achieved here.”
Award-winning data capabilities
TEMO’s commitment to enhancing emergency response systems recently earned them a prestigious national award – the inaugural Member’s Choice Award at the Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards for their Common Operating Picture (COP) intelligence dashboard. This tool integrates real-time data with geospatial mapping to enhance situational awareness and decision-making during emergencies.
“In an emergency, managing the influx of data is crucial to understanding what is essential,” Ben said. “If community leaders have access to the right data, they can make responsive and informed decisions.”
Strengthening Aotearoa’s resilience through shared experiences
As Ben Green and his dedicated team continue to innovate and improve their emergency management systems, they set a standard for resilience and community empowerment that other regions eagerly follow. The lessons learned and partnerships formed through TEMO’s efforts provide a blueprint for effective emergency management in the face of increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
“We often share our experiences and knowledge gained from the many events we have dealt with,” says Ben. “We’ve certainly had more opportunities to put our learnings into practice, and we’re happy to share our knowledge with other regions looking to strengthen their systems.”
Need space for your community project?
If you’re looking for unique shipping container storage advice and solutions for your community, get in touch with our spacemakers, and we’ll make it happen.
If you’d like to learn more about the incredible mahi that Ben and the team at TEMO do, then we encourage you to connect with Ben on LinkedIn and follow TEMO on Facebook.
When the crew at Container Space heard about Gerry Hart’s storage challenge, they leapt at the chance to help create a versatile and affordable shipping container space for him and the team at Tauranga Intermediate School.
A special assignment in a magical space
Nestled on Ngamuwahine Road, amid the scenic Kaimai Ranges, lies a truly epic space that has become a rite of passage for students at Tauranga Intermediate: Ngamuwahine Lodge. Over the past three decades, this facility has evolved into a breathtaking haven of adventure and learning. This is largely thanks to the efforts of Gerry Hart, an awesome teacher at the school, and ongoing support from the Bay of Plenty business community.
For many tamariki, the lodge represents the pinnacle of their school experience. It’s a place where lasting memories are made. And for Container Space, the stunning lodge grounds are now home to one of our spacemaking beauties, a new 40-foot shipping container storage solution.
Gerry’s storage challenge
After visiting the site and listening to what Gerry needed, our spacemakers provided a cost-effective storage solution that has made a real difference. Using a 40-foot high cubed shipping container, we created a versatile shipping container storage shed that can comfortably house Gerry’s new tractor and all his gear. However, this project wasn’t just about storing gear – we also wanted to make Gerry’s life a little easier. So, we modified the shipping container by fitting it with two large roller doors on one side. This makes it easy for Gerry to get his gear in and out and also means he can safely lock everything away when he’s done for the day.
As well as secure storage for Gerry’s new tractor and equipment, we were able to create a dedicated workshop space where Gerry can easily organise and use his tools. And the result? We created an epic and functional space that meets all of Gerry’s needs, right from the day it was delivered.
A tricky delivery made to look easy
Delivering this shipping container wasn’t easy. Ngamuwahine Road is a narrow, winding path, that’s normally bustling with energetic tamariki on their bikes. As always, our partners at Les Harrison Transport Group executed the delivery with precision, skillfully navigating the challenging route and positioning the container perfectly. The sight of the new shed nestled within the lodge’s picturesque setting was truly epic, and seeing how rapt Gerry is with the result made our day.
It’s all about getting behind our community
The transformation of Ngamuwahine Lodge into the outstanding facility it is today would not have been possible without the tremendous support from the Bay of Plenty business community. Over the years, local businesses have rallied behind Gerry Hart’s vision, contributing resources and expertise to enhance the lodge’s offerings.
Ngamuwahine Lodge stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Tauranga Intermediate students are incredibly fortunate to have access to such an exceptional place, where they can embark on adventures, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. It’s a place where the spirit of exploration and the joy of discovery are celebrated every day.
At Container Space, we’re thrilled to have played a part in enhancing this remarkable facility. We believe in the power of innovative spacemaking solutions, and its choice to see our efforts make a difference in the lives of young people. Here’s to many more years of adventures at Ngamuwahine Lodge – a true kid’s paradise!
Need space for your community project?
If you’re looking for practical and affordable shipping container storage solutions for your community, get in touch with our spacemakers, and we’ll make it happen.
Every year, more than 100,000 people head to Mystery Creek for Fieldays®, the largest agricultural event in the Southern Hemisphere. Having exhibited at Fieldays® for the past 6 years, the Container Space crew is excited to be attending again this year and anticipate greeting even bigger crowds this time round.
Container Space Director Nick Walker describes the Fieldays® experience as phenomenal. “Last year marked my inaugural venture into Fieldays® and the experience was exhilarating. The event provided us with an extraordinary platform to showcase our business to a diverse cross-section of New Zealand’s economy – rural and urban, young and old.”
What makes Fieldays® an event like no other?
Nick believes what makes Fieldays® special is that it’s a good reflection of what’s going on in the New Zealand economy. It’s also an opportunity to focus on all the many positive things happening around the country. “What gets us excited about Fieldays® is that it’s a melting pot of innovation and tradition. And it all happens within an environment that encourages people to come together to exchange brilliant ideas.”
As a business that puts people at the heart of what they do, Nick says the Container Space crew are looking forward to having the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, forge new partnerships, and immerse themselves in New Zealand’s vibrant economic landscape. “It’s going to be an epic few days of fun! It’s just so awesome to be reminded of what makes up a huge part of NZ’s economy.”
Come see us at site C22
Having secured the exact same spot as last year’s event – site C22 – the crew are in great company with neighbouring businesses Tough Shelters and Container Shelters, both who use shipping containers to help craft durable weatherproof workspace solutions.
This year’s Fieldays® is on at Mystery Creek from June 12-15, and you can get your tickets here.
At Container Space, we’re passionate about crafting dynamic spacemaking and storage solutions from shipping containers that empower people to thrive in any environment. From workshops, offices, and retail spaces to specialist on-farm storage, and more, our solutions are designed to meet your needs.
Whether you’re seeking innovative spacemaking solutions or are simply looking to immerse yourself in the dynamic atmosphere of Fieldays®, come say kia ora to the Container Space crew, and be in to win 1 of 5 cash prizes. You’ll find us at site C22. See you there!
A message from Container Space Director, Nick Walker
Kia ora Container Space customers,
We’ve been rattled by the news that some low life scammers are using our name to try and rip off hardworking Kiwis.
If you come across a company called Containers Port, please steer clear. They are using our company name and details to try and trick customers into purchasing fake shipping containers.
After seeing their Facebook advertisements, a customer almost fell victim to their scam, until they decided to do their homework by calling our 0800 number. And boy, are we pleased they did. This matter has been reported to Kiwibank, Meta and the NZ police.
We’ve been in the shipping container game for a long time now, and we know who’s who. If you want peace of mind that you’re buying from a trusted shipping container supplier, you’re always welcome to check with us. Of course, we’d love you just to do business with us, but we respect your right to shop around and do your research. So, if you’re considering buying or hiring a shipping container, to protect yourself, consider choosing a company that’s been around for a while and has a proven track record of delivery.
Companies like Containerco, Royalwolf, A1containers, TITANContainers, and SEAContainers, are all good options.
We know that if we all work together, we can help stamp out these lowlifes and get on with doing what we do well – delivering good quality shipping containers to New Zealanders.
If something doesn’t add up and you want someone to check it out, please call us on 0800 080 170 or email info@containerspace.co.nz. We’re always happy to help.
Ngā mihi,
Nick
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Here’s our top tips about how you can keep yourself safe from shipping container scammers like Container Port:
- Do your research
Before you click that tempting ad, do your homework. Google the company, check their website, and check out their customer reviews. Check their address, website domain and contact numbers all add up. Be wary of suppliers who use email addresses that aren’t consistent with their website domain i.e. Gmail, Hotmail or other non-business addresses. Send an email to their business address to verify it’s them. Call their 0800 number. And if you need to, ask them for their NZBN or company number. If they’re a registered company, you’ll be able to find them with a quick search on the NZ Companies Office Register website. If something smells fishy, swim away!
2. Watch out for red flags
Is the deal too good to be true? Are they asking for payment upfront without any guarantees? Trust your gut instincts and don’t let the promise of a bargain cloud your judgment.
3. Turn to a trusted shipping container provider
Stick to reputable suppliers like Container Space, who have a proven track record of delivering quality containers and excellent customer service. We’ve been helping Kiwis navigate their storage challenges for years, and we’re not about to let some scammers ruin our solid reputation. If you want to know who else you can get a quote from, just ask us. We pride ourselves on giving our customers straight-up, honest advice.
4. Report suspicious activity
If you suspect a scam, don’t keep it to yourself. Report the shady ads to Facebook, warn your bank and inform the police. You can also log a report on the Netsafe website. Together, we can make the digital space a safer place for everyone.
5.Turn to a trusted shipping container provider
Stick to reputable suppliers like Container Space, who have a proven track record of delivering quality containers and excellent customer service. We’ve been helping Kiwis navigate their storage challenges for years, and we’re not about to let some scammers ruin our solid reputation. If you want to know who else you can get a quote from, just ask us. We pride ourselves on giving our customers straight-up, honest advice.
6. Report suspicious activity
If you suspect a scam, don’t keep it to yourself. Report the shady ads to Facebook, warn your bank and inform the police. You can also log a report on the Netsafe website. Together, we can make the digital space a safer place for everyone.
Need a spacemaking partner you can trust?
If you’re looking for a shipping container supplier you can trust, get in touch with our team. We’ve been spacemaking for hardworking New Zealanders since 2018 and have a proven track record of delivering what you need, where you need it. We’d love to help you out.
When the leaders and ākonga at Te Manawa ō Pāpāmoa School needed storage space to house their gardening equipment, the team at Container Space jumped in to help by providing a shipping container gardening shed.
The incredible garden is part of PiPS – People, Plants, Schools – a charitable programme in the Bay of Plenty, that enables tamariki at participating schools to create a bountiful garden.
With a proud history of supporting community initiatives, Container Space Managing Director, Nick Walker says getting behind the community by helping out, was a complete no-brainer.
“The PiPS programme is such a choice initiative,” Says Nick. “So when Shane (Cunliffe), Te Manawa ō Pāpāmoa School’s Principal, came asking for help, we saw this as a really positive way for Container Space to give back to the community.”
“We believe the work PiPS and the school are doing will benefit children, their families, and the wider community for years to come,” Nick explains, “Giving them a secure and dry space to store their gardening equipment, is our way of saying that we’re loving what this team is doing here, and we’re behind them all the way.”
See how Te Manawa ō Pāpāmoa School is putting their new shipping container gardening shed to use
Learn how PiPS is helping tamariki to grow their own kai
Ki te mea ka taka te kākano ki te wāhi e tika ana ka tinaku, ā, ka pihi ake he tipu hou.
If a seed falls in the right place it will germinate and a new seedling will sprout.
PiPS was formed in 2016 by a group of school parents in the Pāpāmoa Beach/Mt Maunganui area of Aotearoa New Zealand, who are passionate about demonstrating, to our children and their families, the principles of kaitiakitanga: respect and care for the environment and an understanding of how to grow food.
To learn more about the mahi PiPS do, visit their website.
Need space for your community project?
If you’re looking for practical and affordable storage solutions for your community, get in touch with our spacemakers, and we’ll make it happen.