I was working on a light and friendly post for today, but with the devastating events in New Zealand it didn’t sit right with me. So instead I’m sharing some thoughts. You’re more than welcome to share your thoughts too.
As a New Zealander myself, being in Melbourne for a MYOB conference this week and being isolated from the tragedy that’s unfolding has felt quite surreal. While I’m based in Auckland, we do have a large team and office in Christchurch and I don’t think I have ever felt more helpless.
Our Christchurch office was evacuated and all our staff are safe. Our office building is currently closed pending inspections and repairs, but we have escaped lightly compared to many businesses.
I cannot even begin to imagine what Christchurch residents and businesses are feeling right now. What I do know is, like the Queensland and Victorian floods that devastated many Aussie businesses, there are support networks waiting to help.
The Canterbury region did an amazing job to pull together to recover from the earthquake in September last year and while the devastation is still unfolding in Christchurch and it’s still very early days, there will be a lot of work ahead.
In terms of natural disasters and tragedy, both Australia and New Zealand have had an appalling start to 2011. But I know the strength of Aussie and Kiwi businesses and know that business communities will find that strength and determination that we’ve seen them demonstrate in the past and get each other through this.
Right now we watch and hope as the rescue operation in Christchurch continues. And to everyone in Christchurch, or those with family in Christchurch, our hearts and thoughts are with you.
