Do you enjoy your job?
Do you wake up in the morning and look forward to the day ahead, or do you sit down to your Weetbix with trepidation and wish you were someone, anyone, else? I bet NZ Transport Agency regional director Wayne McDonald did this morning.
I laughed like a drain while watching the news last night, as he stood before 2000 Getacross protesters, armed only with a loud-hailer and a staunch disposition. The invasion of Auckland’s harbour bridge by the multitudes of bikes and marching protesters was always going to happen. There were your usual ‘protester’ types, but what surprised me were the numbers of families with young children and pushchairs, all making the most of the gloriously sunny day and the wonderful views enjoyed at leisure just for once.
And now this morning, Mr McDonald is under pressure again, trying to control the flood of hikoi protesters demonstrating against the lack of guaranteed Maori representation on the proposed Super City council. Gridlock is forecast for the CBD, accompanied by gnashing of teeth and more frustration for commuters. Hope Mr McDonald had an extra helping of Weetbix this morning – I have a feeling he’s going to need it.
This edition of FTD includes a preview of the forthcoming MHL materials handling and logistics trade show. A lot of people have put an enormous amount of work into preparing this showcase of the best products and services from New Zealand, Australian and overseas manufacturers and distributors, all aimed at providing a ‘one-stop shop’ for those interested in improving their supply chain practices.
There really is no better opportunity for those tasked with running our distribution centres and warehouses to meet and chat with a wide variety of suppliers, to see the products and services on offer, to try them out, to see them in action, and to witness the interactive theatre demonstrations.
I urge you to make the time to visit MHL this year. Not only will you witness a wonderful array of solutions to your warehousing needs, but you will be supporting our industry at a time when it needs your support the most. It’s completely free to visit MHL, plus there is the National Safety Show running alongside, entry to which is included in your visitor’s pass.
Register on the MHL website now, and support our industry. www.mhlshow.co.nz

Until next time …