“New Zealander of the Year” Stephen Tindall Says E-Commerce Is A Business Challenge: Veteran Honoured For His Multifarious Community Initiatives

Sir Stephen Tindall, who has been named "Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year 2015" this week, has stated that his current business sees online shopping as a challenge but he is ready to face it. Sir Tindall, the founder and a director of the Warehouse Group received the honour from New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Bill English, at a vibrant ceremony in Auckland. Dr. Lance O'Sullivan, the winner of the title last year, presented Sir Tindall a special Kaitaka huaki cloak at the awards ceremony.

Sir Tindall who was knighted in 2009 has been chosen among more than 230 nominees for the prestigious award, which is in its sixth year.

In his speech at the award ceremony, he noted that the Warehouse Group has been growing to strength from various acquisitions, including Noel Leeming and has a distinct digital sales strategy.

Man with a Mission

Sir Stephen Tindall had set up the Tindall Foundation with his wife Margaret and has given away over $100 million in various community initiatives, including many environmental, housing and family projects. “Our goal is to make New Zealand a stronger place, and we do that by working with communities around the country," he said. He gave credit to the funding managers of his organization, who correctly oversee the projects and understand the communities better.

The Tindall Foundation has also been working towards mitigating youth unemployment in the country. Besides, Sir Tindall has invested and helped many start-ups and businesses in their early stages.

Start Up Focus

Acknowledging that the selection of the winner was not easy, chief judge Cameron Bennett paid tributes to the choice of Sir Stephen Tindall and said New Zealand is fortunate to have such great people. He added, Sir Tindall embodies what it is to be a Kiwi, with his passion for the country and its people. The personal value that he invests in ensuring integrity and hard work is admirable.

Senior New Zealander

Awardees in other categories included Metlifecare “Senior New Zealander of the Year” that went to businessman Donald Sew Hoy, who has over 50 years of experience in New Zealand’s textile and garment industry and is currently the managing director of Glacier Investments Ltd, reported Stuff.Co.Nz. The Sanitarium “Innovator of the Year” award was given to Peter Beck of Auckland, who pioneered affordable space expeditions through his company Rocket Lab.

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