01/07/2026
Two weeks ago, we closed our business for the day.
Not because the weather was bad (it wasn't).
Not because we were quiet (far from it).
We closed because we make a commitment to invest in something just as important as the work itself... our people. And while a couple of our team couldn't make it on the day (and they were very much missed!), the rest of us embraced the opportunity to spend some quality time together.
Last year, we flew the team to Nelson for a day of connection. It was such a powerful experience that we all agreed it couldn't be a one-off.
So this year, Wellington was our playground.
We started with morning tea at Te Papa before visiting the Gallipoli exhibition. I'd experienced it years ago, and the memories had never really left me. Walking through it again was every bit as moving as I remembered.
For many of our team, it was their first visit. We walked out quiet, reflective and emotional. Some might think that's an unusual way to begin a day of fun, but for me it was the perfect place to start. A powerful reminder of courage, sacrifice, camaraderie and what it truly means to have each other's backs.
From there, the mood lifted. Lunch at Joe's Garage (with a couple of cheeky lunchtime cocktails), followed by an impromptu stop at Timezone. Watching grown adults sprint towards their favourite arcade games with the excitement of ten-year-olds was absolute gold ๐ฏ
Next stop was the Wellington Chocolate Factory for a chocolate-making masterclass. Delicious? Absolutely. Elegant? Not so much... especially once the Helga Ogden-style hairnets made an appearance! ๐
After nearly two hours of making (and enthusiastically sampling) chocolate, we headed to The Ballroom for a few highly competitive games of pool. I started quietly confident in my abilities... but as the drinks flowed, so did my talent - in the opposite direction!๐น๐คฃ
We finished the day with my wonderful parents, John and Judy, our Managing Directors, at Mr Go's to celebrate Stratmore's 72nd birthday. What a truly special way to end a truly special day ๐
Outstandingly great food. Exceptional company. Lots of laughter. Memories we'll be talking about for years to come.
Days like this remind me that culture isn't built in staff strategy sessions or meeting rooms. It's built in our shared experiences. In laughter. In 'real' conversations, getting to know who people really are. In supporting each other. In creating memories together.
I couldn't be more proud of our team. Whether they were with us on the day or cheering on from afar, every single person plays such a massive part in making Stratmore what it is. Every opportunity we have to spend time together outside of work reinforces just how much our Stratmore whฤnau genuinely cares for one another.
So cheers ๐ฅ to 72 years of Stratmore... and to many more years of continuing to build something very special, together.
Now... the only question is... what are we doing next year? โค๏ธ
