Research Briefing for Business
Social & Sustainable Development
Education and research will be key factors in enabling New Zealand to be a sustainable
nation.
At the Waikato Management School our purpose is to inspire fresh understanding of
sustainable success in a connected world.
This fresh understanding will be achieved through our high quality research that can influence
policy makers; through the knowledge and the values that our graduates take into the
workforce; and through our continued consulting with business.
Sustainability is not just about environmental, social and economic issues; it also has a
cultural dimension. In the face of globalisation, societies seek to preserve their cultural values
and community identity and still participate in the global economy.
I believe New Zealand is awakening to the opportunities of sustainability, though we are still
in the early stages. Our nation is yet to fully-grasp the potential for sustainability and how it
can create wealth and well being and authenticate New Zealand’s competitive advantage as a
clean, green and ethical nation.
In contrast with the traditional university approach of creating a centre to study sustainability,
the Waikato Management School embraces sustainability at the heart of our activities. We
see sustainability as central to the future of business.
This research briefing for business is designed to give you an insight into some of the quality
research activities being conducted by Waikato Management School staff in the area of social
and sustainable development. Feel free to contact staff regarding the projects. Your feedback
and interest in these research projects would be welcomed.
Yours sincerely
Mike Pratt
Dean
Waikato Management School
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Contents
Environmental Taxation ............................................................................................................. 3
Sustainability Reporting ............................................................................................................. 4
Systematic Modelling for Understanding Not-for-Profit Systems ............................................. 5
Sustainable Core Competencies for Start-Up Firms .................................................................. 6
Maori Sustainable Development in Te Puku o Te Ika ............................................................... 7
Economic Impacts of Tourism in the Coromandel .................................................................... 8
Strategic Clustering for Community Sustenance ....................................................................... 9
Sustainable Taxation ................................................................................................................ 10
ICTs & New Zealand Primary School Boards of Trustees ...................................................... 11
International Trade Reform: Impacts on NZ and the Environment ......................................... 12
Water Economics and Policy ................................................................................................... 13
Economic Impacts of Tourism in the Waikato......................................................................... 14
An Emerging Virtual Community of Practice of Innovators ................................................... 15
Assessment of Demand for a Pacific Islanders’ Cultural Centre in Auckland ........................ 16
Business School Education for Sustainability.......................................................................... 17
Business Awards & Higher Performance................................................................................. 18
Harnessing Private Enterprise to Achieve Sustainable Development ...................................... 19
New Zealand Business and Sustainability ............................................................................... 20
Governance and the Waikato River ......................................................................................... 21
Customer Relations .................................................................................................................. 22
A Growth and Innovation Acceleration Process for Small &Medium Enterprises ................. 23
Futuristic Rural Landscapes ..................................................................................................... 24
Resident Attitudes Into Tourism – the Case of Raglan ............................................................ 25
Energy Economics and Climate Change .................................................................................. 26
Parameters To Predict Not-For-Profit Business Success ......................................................... 27
Enhancing Road Transport for Regional Development ........................................................... 28
Evaluation of Iwi Social Services ............................................................................................ 29
Parallels Between Diversity Management and Employee Management ................................. 30
Irrigation Development and Rehabilitation in Asia ................................................................. 31
Perceptions of Auckland as a Tourist Destination ................................................................... 32
Sustainable Development of the Lake Taupo District ............................................................. 33
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This research briefing is printed on recycled stock.
Environmental Taxation
Researchers: Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Waikato Management School, and
Professor Ken Piddington, University of Waikato.
Research Project Summary: This research explores the potential of environmental taxes to
bring the costs of pollution and use of the environment (negative externalities) into the price
of all goods and services. It is frequently argued that environmental taxation produces a
double dividend. That is, this form of taxation both increases economic efficiency and
enhances the environment. The research defines environmental taxes, provides a conceptual
analysis of environmental taxes and double dividends, documents international experience
with environmental taxes and identifies opportunities to enhance the effectiveness and
relevance of its tax system.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Green taxation is a policy of the
Greens in New Zealand and of many OECD countries. This research is important to clarify
what potential there is to enhance sustainability through the use of environmental taxes in
New Zealand. To this end this research has involved collaboration with major New Zealand
companies, government departments and other interested parties.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz
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Sustainability Reporting
Researchers: Kate Kearins, Waikato Management School, and Sharon Livesey Fordham
University, New York.
Research Project Summary: This project looks specifically at the emerging genre of
corporate social and environmental reporting in terms of the language and metaphors
(discursive strategies) employed in promoting company sustainability efforts. The
researchers’ long term interests in The Body Shop International and Royal Dutch/ Shell
Group respectively came together in the first of a series of papers which examines these
companies "pioneering" social reports. In these cases we show how this type of reporting
aims to re-story the progress myth by deconstructing the polarity between profits and
principles and thus constituting new premises for sustainable business practice. We analyse
the common discursive strategies deployed in these reports—for instance, the interpolation of
sentimental discourses of caring/passion with more rationalist discourses of business
economics and accountancy. We explore how such reports might work to potentiate more
democratic decision-making and communication, as well as new forms of managerial control.
Further work on The Body Shop and Royal Dutch/Shell Group’s efforts is ongoing as is
analysis of other companies’ sustainability reporting, including other research partners.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? An increasing number of New
Zealand businesses are producing or contemplating producing sustainability or triple bottom
line reports. Although there is research which examines the rationalities surrounding
reporting, and increasing avenues of assistance including that of more experienced reporters
and the development of indices, many reports acknowledge the process of reporting presents
challenges to established modes of doing business – and that they are embarking on a
‘journey’ towards but not actually achieving sustainability. Examination of these dilemmas
and of both the products and impacts of current reporting efforts may promote greater
understanding and hence assistance in moving towards more sustainable business and
organisational practice.
Contact details: Kate Kearins, 07-838-4112, knk@waikato.ac.nz.
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Systematic Modelling for Understanding Not-for-Profit Systems
Researchers: Dr. Eric Deakins, Waikato Management School, Beverly Steele.
Research Project Summary: This research involves a series of researcher interventions
aimed at developing models to support managers in NZ’s not-for-profit business sector.
Utilising learning organisation principles, the first phase of the research involved the Trust
Board and staff of a community-based early learning centre in achieving a shared
understanding of their unique contribution to the world and a deeper understanding of key
trends and stakeholder influences. Creation of a shared vision of a transformed
workplace/learning environment, and enhanced stakeholder relationships, was aided by
system dynamics modelling and 3D virtual modelling tools to portray feedback relationships
and a range of alternative futures. This phase culminated in the total refurbishment of
existing facilities as a catalyst for increased profitability via enhanced professional services,
empowered staff, and enhanced image. The most recent phase of intervention has involved
envisioning a custom-built learning environment for older preschoolers that incorporates a
proven, progressive learning curriculum stressing child-centred education and family and
community involvement. The next phase involves evaluation of the new facility and its
impact on stakeholders to refine the management processes and models being developed.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Robust models are needed by
hard-pressed managers in the not-for-profit business sector to help them more effectively
manage scarce resources and achieve the highest quality products and services. This research
shows that relatively unsophisticated community groups can utilise learning organisation
principles and systematic modelling to envision high-leverage futures with the potential to
generate tangible value for the various stakeholder groups. In the context of the early learning
education sector being investigated, the link between quality preschool education and higher
educational achievement is well established. Widespread industry adoption of the identified
enabling management processes has the potential to increase the quality and extent of early
childhood education and ultimately can increase the number of high educational achievers
entering the workforce, to the benefit of all NZ businesses.
Contact details: Eric Deakins, 07-838-4565; edeakins@waikato.ac.nz.
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Sustainable Core Competencies for Start-Up Firms
Researcher: Jens Mueller, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: New Zealand generates more start-up businesses based on its
entrepreneurial business climate, than many other countries. Most of the new firms operate
without structured external support, while some others attach to innovation parks or
mentoring schemes to develop their business. We will analyse firms which have applied for
admission to an innovation park, to determine what resources are required most frequently, to
develop sustainable core competencies in those firms. The outcome of this research will aid
innovation parks, Government agencies, private mentoring groups, funding sources and others
to target their efforts more effectively.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Start-up firms, by their very
definition, have little history to learn from. We propose to develop a list of resources which
will be more likely than others, to catapult a new firm to the level of sustainable operation.
Our research will create a blueprint for many organisations around the country, and firms and
their management, of key activities, competencies, warning signs and support needs. Based on
this list, stakeholders with an interest in the creation of sustainable growth can compare for
each firm in which areas resources need to be applied. This will improve the firms’ likelihood
of sustainable commercial success.
Contact details: Jens Mueller, 025-516-326, mueller@waikato.ac.nz.
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Maori Sustainable Development in Te Puku o Te Ika
Researchers: Dr Tamati Reedy, School of Maori and Pacific Island Development, Dr Russell
Bishop, School of Education, (University of Waikato), Dr Frank Scrimgeour, Dr John Gibson,
Dan Marsh, Catherine Iremonger, Kim Barclay-Kerr, Waikato Management School; Dr
Garth Harmsworth, Landcare Research, and iwi researchers from Runanaga and Maori Trust
Boards of Ngati Porou, Tauranga Moana, Ngati Raukawa, and Te Arawa.
Research Project Summary: This project examines and develops capacity building for
Maori Sustainable Development in Maori Trust Boards and related organisations. This
encompasses social, economic, environment, cultural values and capital. The project
outcomes include an ethical investment decision-making computer model (which takes into
account the “quadruple bottom line”), a population scenario planning model, reports on
SWOT analysis, market opportunity, strategic planning, developing indicators, a Maori
Sustainable Economic Development website, and the Maori Environmental Business
Network.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Maori are a significant part of
NZ society and the economy. Maori are the indigenous people with whom the NZ
Government has a strategic partnership under the Treaty of Waitangi. The inclusion of culture
is important for sustainable development. The United Nations, recognises the importance of
indigenous cultures for sustainable development, and has set a goal for all nations to ensure
that their indigenous peoples’ role in sustainable development are strengthened and
empowered. Maori culture is a major component in Maori Sustainable Development, and
international trade by all NZ businesses. Many development processes impinge on indigenous
peoples rights and resources, and as a matter of social responsibility and ethics, it is important
to limit and mitigate adverse impacts on indigenous people and the environment from
development, business activities, and investment.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-856-2889 ext 4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz, or
Catherine Iremonger, 07-856-2889 ext 6444, cath10@mngt.waikato.ac.nz.
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Economic Impacts of Tourism in the Coromandel
Researcher: Chris Ryan, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: The Department of Tourism Management has worked with
Tourism Coromandel for four years with a view to better inform the Regional Tourism
Organisation as to the nature of tourism and its impacts. It has undertaken not only a summer
survey of visitors in each of these years, but in different years has examined the impacts of
tourism on the farming, professional business and retail sectors. This has been undertaken by
specific surveys aimed at the businesses concerned.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Tourism is an industry that
generates a series of indirect employment and income impacts. For example these studies
indicated that agricultural produce sales to visitors in the Coromandel represented revenue in
excess of that part of the rates that the local farming sector were paying toward the support of
Tourism Coromandel. This was even before taking into account farmers more direct
involvement in the industry through farm based attractions. Failure to recognise indirect
impacts leads to the type of poor planning shown by the British Government in the foot and
mouth outbreak of 2000/2001 when the slaughter policy and associated countryside closure
led more monies being lost to the UK economy from a loss of tourists than any loss incurred
by the agricultural industry.
Contact details: Chris Ryan, caryan@waikato.ac.nz.
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Strategic Clustering for Community Sustenance
Researchers: Dr Kathryn Pavlovich. Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This research examines the interface of organising through the
integration of economic, social, environmental and spiritual values within local communities.
Underlying this perspective is an ecosystem of cooperation among businesses through the use
of strategic alliances, networks and clustering activities that form for the co-construction of
knowledge.
Individual projects explore how collaboration occurs to create vibrant and rich local
economies. Multiple sectors are involved: core firms, supporting firms, social infrastructure
and hard infrastructure. The interdependence of these collaborative clusters and/or networks
forms mutually interdependent macrocultures of specialisation that can become the life-force
of sustenance within the community. By collaborating, the firms share information and
resources so that they increase productivity and build knowledge within the system. At the
same time, notions of trust and interdependence - socially, environmentally and culturally means longer term outcomes become important in the building of richer local contexts.
Research contexts currently include: Waitomo Tourism Destination; Hawkes Bay Wine and
Food Cluster; Organic Food Industry and Nelson Deepsea Fishing Cluster. Other projects
are also included in a forthcoming book.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? New organisational forms are
being created within the business community. The old ways of singular short term economic
performance are giving way to new forms of collaborative alliances and clustering with
competitors, complementors and community partnerships.
This research takes a wider strategic focus as it examines these integration activities. While
the long term focus is on local community and regional development, it is through the
examination of economic activities that we can understand how integration can be achieved
for long term outcomes. This research is of interest to local and national government
planners, and to organisations that wish to lead their communities forward.
Contact details: Kathryn Pavlovich, 07-838-4837, kpav@waikato.ac.nz.
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Sustainable Taxation
Researchers: Keith Hooper and Kate Kearins, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This project traces the history of taxation in New Zealand with
an emphasis on taxation on Maori. With the benefit of hindsight and new intellectual
framings, government revenue derived from particular sources is shown as inherently
unsustainable forms of taxation with unsustainable effects.
Government revenues derived from early land sales and the colonial policy of “pre-emption”
could be construed as forms of capital gains tax on Maori. Legislation effecting confiscations
and public works imperatives with minimal compensation could again be seen as a form of
taxation, not as capital gains tax so much as a form of wealth taxation.
Such taxes are not unusual in Eurocentric tax law but it is unusual to levy them on a racial
basis. Moreover, levied in these forms, they were simply unsustainable as from 1840 to 1920.
Although vast revenues were transferred to the Crown through these mechanisms, Maori land
as a source of revenue was effectively exhausted.
By contrast, bringing our analyses into the present through just one example, applications
from Maori organisations to gain charitable, tax-exempt, status have not found legislative
approval.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Land revenues were a
significant part of the Crown’s income for some eighty years but were unsustainable. With
their assets depleted, Maori were impoverished except for a rump of reserves held by various
Maori organisations. Distributions of income from these reserves are taxed at the standard
rate (resident withholding tax of 33%) leading to over-taxation as many of the beneficiaries
are on lower tax rates. Past parliaments have had no difficulty levying discriminatory taxes
and there is now a strong case for legislation to treat Maori organisations as special charities.
By enabling Maori organisations to distribute income tax free, cases of over-taxation would
be avoided and the cause of bi–culturalism promoted. This research has received financial
support from the Crown Forestry Rental Trust.
Contact details: Keith Hooper, 07-838-4249, kch@wakato.ac.nz., Kate Kearins, 07-8384112, knk@waikato.ac.nz.
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ICTs & New Zealand Primary School Boards of Trustees
Researcher: Suzanne Grant, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Regardless of one’s individual perspective, the use of
information and communication technologies (ICTs) is becoming increasing prevalent across
many aspects of society, promoted in part by initiatives such as e-commerce and egovernment. The extent to which growth in ICTs and associated activities is occurring in the
not-for-profit sector of society is explored in this research, with a view to developing a
revised process of not-for-profit governance that reflects the usefulness of ICTs in fulfilling
the requirements and interests of multiple stakeholders. Recognising the diversity of the notfor-profit sector, school boards of trustees are the focus for the study. Case studies of up to six
schools will be developed, allowing influences on, and consequences of, ICT adoption and
usage to be considered for individual schools as well as across the research group. The key
purpose of this study is to contribute towards a better understanding of the impact and
potential improvements in governance, management and leadership that may be able to be
obtained through a Board’s choice of, or commitment to, ICTs.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The ability of School Boards of
Trustees to perform their governance task impacts upon the success of their school - which in
turn impacts upon the education of our future generation. Providing a link between school and
community, the Board of Trustees is often the first contact when a business has dealings with
a school - be it for supply/purchase of resources or for a potential sponsorship partnership.
How a school approaches its governance role (including use of technologies), will impact
upon any business/school/community relationship. A better understanding of these processes
and influences benefits all parties concerned. The role of school trustees as individuals who
are contributing their time and skills should not be overlooked. These individuals may also be
employers, employees and consumers. The trustees in this research will have the opportunity
to further develop their knowledge, skills and capabilities; with regard to such areas as
governance, management, leadership and ICTs generally. The benefits of this capacity
building will flow through to their other activities, eg: work, family and leisure activities.
Contact details: Suzanne Grant, 07-838-4466 extn 6052, slgrant@waikato.ac.nz.
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International Trade Reform: Impacts on NZ and the Environment
Researchers: Anna Strutt, Waikato Management School, with Allan Rae, Massey University.
Research Project Summary: This research includes several projects that examine the
potential impact of international trade agreements on the New Zealand economy and on the
environment. We model and quantify the anticipated impacts of a range of different trade
reform scenarios, including the new WTO Round. Global trade barriers are especially large
for dairy and beef products; these are export industries of particular significance to New
Zealand and potential gains from reform are large. However, further liberalisation of
agricultural markets may give rise to environmental concerns. In addition to examining the
welfare, output and employment impacts of further reform, we examine the consequences of
agricultural trade reform on the natural environment.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? If the barriers to international
trade are reduced, large potential gains exist for New Zealand business, New Zealand
consumers and the New Zealand economy. The stakes are high, particularly for New Zealand
agriculture. Our work explicitly analyses the gains from further trade reform and addresses
issues that may help to minimise adverse consequences. Concerns that increases in
international trade may harm the environment may lead to further distortions to international
trade, rather than contributing to the formulation and implementation of improved
environmental policies. Improved information should assist trade negotiations to move
forward so that the gains from further liberalisation can be realised with appropriate policies
in place to help ensure the sustainability of increases in world trade.
Contact details: Anna Strutt, 07-838-4958, astrutt@waikato.ac.nz
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Water Economics and Policy
Researchers: Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Dan Marsh, Siham El-Kafafi, Waikato
Management School.
Research Project Summary: This research analyses the allocation, pricing and protection of
water resources in New Zealand. This includes water used for agricultural and urban uses.
The research addresses issues of quantity and quality, management processes and
environmental and economic outcomes. The work is collaborative with government
departments and regional councils.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Adequate water of high quality
is essential for households and firms. New Zealand’s infrastructure is aging and its policies
are costly. This research has the potential to enhance the efficiency of water allocation and
management and so facilitate environmental protection, economic growth and an enhanced
quality of life.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz
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Economic Impacts of Tourism in the Waikato
Researcher: Chris Ryan and Warren Hughes, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This study involved a survey of businesses plus an input-output
analysis leading to the calculation of multipliers relating to tourism in the Waikato. Using
very conservative approaches it was nonetheless concluded that tourism contributed over
$400 million to the regional economy. The study was commissioned by Tourism Waikato.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Such research as this helps
justify the expenditure by local authorities on the support of tourism. Such support is often
justified on the premise of ‘market failure’ where an industry comprised of numerous small
businesses, often family based, have very limited funds with which to attract an overseas and
domestic market. However, the expenditure of rates on the promotion of a specific industry is
not without controversy, no matter how much it can be argued that the availability of tourism
attractions represent new recreational facilities for local people that can help retain
populations and attract new businesses. This study was able to indicate that such expenditures
were justified.
Contact details: Chris Ryan, caryan@waikato.ac.nz. Lynda Keene, Tourism Waikato.
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An Emerging Virtual Community of Practice of Innovators
Researcher: Annick Janson, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This research includes a series of projects, with the aim of
developing a model for virtual networking which assists New Zealand entrepreneurs and
innovators to commercialise their ideas.
The first stage of the research involved establishing two different online forums to discuss the
specific factors that optimise and inhibit collaboration in a virtual community of practice of
innovators.
As a result, members of one of the ‘study’ networks have chosen to remain active, forming
the nucleus of the Innovators Online Network. Its first activity as a group is helping facilitate
a project to create a new Venture Capital stream into New Zealand through active networking.
Other projects to follow include investigating the protocols of successful business networking
and laying the foundations for an active networking model in order to develop a novel
business decision making tool.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Virtual networks associated
with innovation processes potentially offer a powerful new organisational model for creating
value and wealth. Yet not enough is known about how they form, can be sustained, and how
trust – critical for optimising business opportunities – is established.
This research is already demonstrating that New Zealanders working around the world can
build a virtual ‘community of purpose’ which generates tangible value for innovators and
entrepreneurs. A greater understanding of the process and critical factors will increase the
potential for such networks to be replicated, allowing accelerated commercialisation of New
Zealand innovation and continuing support for sustained success.
Contact details: Annick Janson, 07-838 4466 ext 6226; 021-151-0834,
annick@waikato.ac.nz
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Assessment of Demand for a Pacific Islanders’ Cultural Centre in Auckland
Researchers: Jenny Cave, Chris Ryan and Charlie Panakera, Waikato Management School,
Hamilton.
Research Project Summary: This study involved discussions with Pacific Island
communities and organisations in Auckland and the assessment of resident perceptions about
a proposed cultural centre based on Pacific Island people’s culture to be built in Auckland.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The study represents an
appreciation of the importance of local communities as a base for both tourism product
initiatives and as generators of demand for resultant products due to the visiting friends and
relatives market. The study also analysed the importance of perceptions with reference to
product development, and through the use of neural network analysis showed how
perceptions might be measured.
Contact details: Jenny Cave, jenny.cave@waikato.ac.nz, Chris Ryan caryan@waikato.ac.nz.
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Business School Education for Sustainability
Researchers: Kate Kearins, Waikato Management School, and Delyse Springett, Massey
University.
Research Project Summary: This ongoing project looks at the opportunities and challenges
business schools face in educating students about sustainability. There are three parts to this
research. First, the case for incorporating sustainability into business school curricula is
examined from both idealistic and pragmatic perspectives. This work has been published in
Sustainable Development. Second, the methodology for teaching environmental
management/sustainability electives in two New Zealand business schools is presented in a
paper currently under second review for Journal of Management Education. The paper
elaborates a critical theoretical perspective based on three key skills of reflexivity, critique,
and social action / engagement and illustrates these skills through the framing of such elective
courses and through possible class exercises. The third part of the project seeks to examine
current business school practice in educating for sustainability through survey research and
interviews.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? This research project seeks to
more fully examine the current situation in business school education and provide some
assistance in moving the sustainability agenda forward, both philosophically and
pragmatically.
Contact details: Kate Kearins, 07-838 4112, knk@waikato.ac.nz.
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Business Awards & Higher Performance
Researcher: Jens Mueller, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Many of New Zealand’s cities and regions offer business
award competitions, mostly through the local Chamber of Commerce. Although the purpose
of these awards is ostensibly to highlight the best performers in each region, we presume that
one of the effects of such competitions could be for competing firms to accelerate their
growth and performance, possibly by learning from the winning businesses, or by attempting
to win themselves. We will investigate the performance of regional firms before and after
their participation in business award events, and attempt to determine whether these events
create an environment in which sustainable growth is created and accelerated.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Business award events highlight
better performing firms in a region, and usually allow for several different categories in which
firms compete. If business awards can be shown to have a lasting stimulating effect on
business performance, these programmes can be used to accelerate regional growth. It is
presumed that certain categories create a greater interest among businesses, and we will
attempt to develop a business award scheme which would maximise the opportunities for
regional growth, guiding organisations in the development and positioning of award schemes.
Contact details: Jens Mueller, 025-516-326, mueller@waikato.ac.nz.
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Harnessing Private Enterprise to Achieve Sustainable Development
Researcher: Steven Lim, Waikato Management School, Hamilton.
Research Project Summary: We approach the sustainable development debate in a novel
way, by linking large businesses to positive environmental, community health and social
outcomes in developing countries. The novelty arises from the mechanism by which large
businesses might indirectly contribute to the welfare of the local population, despite following
a strictly profit-maximisation approach. The flavour of the argument is as follows. Low
household incomes can lead to adverse economic, social and health outcomes. The poor
become even further excluded from market opportunities, exacerbating pressure on the natural
environment as households seek to boost their incomes from alternative sources, such as
natural resource exploitation. The key is to break the poverty-environmental degradation
cycles with decisive interventions, including the creation of jobs to alleviate poverty in the
first place. As we seek to demonstrate, the private sector, working in tandem with appropriate
non-government organisations, the government and local villagers, can have a pivotal impact
in reducing poverty and improving environmental outcomes.
Why this research is important to New Zealand business: As lower wages in developing
countries induce New Zealand manufacturing companies to relocate their production
overseas, the companies become open to criticism that they are exploiting low wage workers.
This criticism can hurt business profits. Our research attempts to demonstrate that under
certain conditions the opposite may hold. Indeed, preliminary results indicate a positive
impact of private business on poverty reduction, decreased pressure on the environment, and
improved community health outcomes, such as reduced spread of HIV/AIDS. Moreover, the
presence of international firms creates a market for workers’ rights, as the newly arriving
companies compete with incumbents to secure higher quality workers. By publicising the
indirect contributions of their overseas activities, New Zealand firms will be better placed to
improve their bottom lines.
Contact details: Steven Lim, 07-838 4315; slim1@waikato.ac.nz.
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New Zealand Business and Sustainability
Researchers: Kate Kearins, Waikato Management School, Markus Milne, University of
Otago, Richard Morgan, University of Otago, and Rob Gray, Glasgow University.
Research Project Summary: This research investigates the “sustainability” practices of NZ
organisations. It aims to evaluate the extent to which NZ business is responding to the
pressure to become more “sustainable”, and investigates three key themes. First, how do NZ
businesses conceptualise “sustainability” as portrayed through their external “sustainability”
or “triple-bottom-line” reports and other public acts and statements, and how do these differ
from conceptualisations portrayed in the broader economic, political, environmental and
social literatures? Second, how do NZ businesses operationalise sustainability concepts, and
what internal organisational changes are taking place as a result? Third, how is NZ business
management decision-making being affected by the new emphasis on “sustainable”
operations? The programme seeks to explore the changes taking place in organisational
members’ visions, goals and behaviour, and the role language and discourse play in such
changes. Of interest is whether traditional economic goals become re-aligned with, and
perhaps subordinated to, social and environmental goals as a result of such decision-making
and reporting behaviour. This research is funded by a Marsden Grant from the Royal Society
of NZ. PhD students based at Waikato and Otago Universities are being sought for this
project.
Why is this research important to NZ business? Careful examination of NZ businesses’
reporting, operational and decision-making practices is central to enhanced understandings of
how sustainability could be achieved. An increasing number of NZ businesses are engaging
with ideas around and practices toward greater sustainability. These include producing
sustainability triple bottom line reports. Although there is research examining the rationalities
surrounding reporting and increasing avenues of assistance including that of more
experienced reporters and the development of indices - many reports acknowledge the process
of reporting presents challenges to established modes of doing business – and that they are
embarking on a ‘journey’ towards, but not actually achieving sustainability.
Contact details: Kate Kearins, 07-838-4112, knk@waikato.ac.nz
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Governance and the Waikato River
Researcher: Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This research examines the historical and contemporary
context of the river claims and analyses their resolution. The research develops alternative
institutional regimes for managing water resources in the light of various property rights
specifications. It considers the implications and issues surrounding potential solutions to these
claims. This work has been facilitated by signficant cooperation and assistance from Tainui.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Settlement of land claims
between Maori and the Crown have received prominence in New Zealand in recent times,
often causing heated debate. A greater challenge lies in the settlement of Maori claims to
rivers, several of which are now in the negotiation stage with the Crown through the Office of
Treaty Settlements (OTS). Land claims, although they can be extremely complex, are
relatively simple when compared with the river claims. The complexities of river claims
include difficulties surrounding ownership of rivers, their constituent parts, and the interests
of a range of stakeholders in the continued management of the river.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz
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Customer Relations
Researchers: Michèle Akoorie, Carolyn Costley, Cheryl Cockburn-Wootten, Lorraine
Friend, Beth Godwin, David Taylor, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This research includes a series of projects, with the aim of
developing insights into what is one of the most important aspects of the market exchange
economy – the role of the consumer in modern society.
Several projects are underway including research on consumer coping strategies to investigate
the way customers experience the service encounter and how they, and the firms that they
deal with, cope with the service encounter. Customer retention is currently an underresearched area in New Zealand, and this project will help entrepreneurs and businesses
understand more about the nature of the service encounter.
Other projects include research on shopping and consumption experiences. The projects
cover issues such as consumer credit and debit, the leisurisation of grocery shopping and
healthcare relationships. An investigation of the healthcare relationships is in an advanced
stage of development.
Other research includes ethical issues in marketing research: consumers, society and
investigators, learning in teams and the use of lived experiences to learn.
An investigation of distribution loyalty within a service industry (insurance) examines the
issues of commitment and loyalty within this particular industry; the data gathering stage has
now been completed and work is proceeding on the data analysis.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Despite the complex web of
social and business structures that constitute modern society, people are more reliant on each
other and hence more vulnerable, due to the specialisation of skills and functions that
constitute modern living.
Few individuals now possess the knowledge or skill to survive independently, but trust and
loyalty enables individuals in society to live with this reliance on others to meet the needs that
we are unable to meet ourselves. Research into these aspects of customer relations is
underdeveloped in the New Zealand context, and these ongoing projects will fulfill this need.
Contact details: Carolyn Costley, ph 07-838 4466 extn 8648; ccostley@waikato.ac.nz.
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A Growth and Innovation Acceleration Process for Small &Medium
Enterprises
Researcher: Merran Davis-Havill, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This action research project investigates the acceleration of
growth and innovation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), through the development of
a collaborative process model. The practical process will be designed to build and exploit
innovative capacity by enhancing organisational culture, learning and knowledge creation as a
prerequisite for developing sustainable growth and innovation, and building new
technological platforms.
Targeting groups of SMEs in the manufacturing and emerging technologies sector, the project
will incorporate elements of experiential learning, mentoring, storytelling and content
delivery. Short and longer-term measurement of company performance will be undertaken to
evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the process, with an ongoing feedback component to
ensure there are benefits for the SMEs involved, as well as forming a robust process model at
the conclusion of the project.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Growth, innovation and
technological change are fundamental to a competitive economy. Managerial leadership plays
a vital part in building innovative enterprises. It provides the framework for focusing
creativity and taking risks, and ensures innovation is both an organisational behaviour and a
systemic capability.
Despite increased attention through inducements and business development programmes
being put into the SMEs sector in New Zealand, it is evident nearly three quarters are not
involved in any form of training or acquiring new knowledge. While access to finance is not
usually found to be a major barrier to innovation, access to information particularly through
education and networking of managers is.
Sustainable growth, innovation, and technology uptake, must be supported by governance
process and collective learning, and thus the need for developing a practical process to get
SMEs ‘learning to learn’ and talking to each other.
Contact details: Merran Davis-Havill, (025)-268-3612, mdd2@waikato.ac.nz
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Futuristic Rural Landscapes
Researchers: Terry Parminter, Jenny Cave, Waikato Management School, Andrea Donnison,
Mike Dodd, Geoff Kaine, AgResearch, Irene Parminter, MAF, Mere Roberts, University of
Auckland, Liz Wedderburn, AgResearch.
Research Summary: The purpose of this research is to provide an understanding of the
changing use of the rural landscape through studying the inter-relationships between
processes, people, and place. This will be achieved by developing system and decision
models and providing innovative options for future environments (natural, economic, and
social). The research is conducted in collaboration with AgResearch. Six projects will be
conducted. They are: the Application of New Land use Technologies by Rural Communities;
the Development and Application of Production Systems for Indigenous Species;
Development Strategies for Small Disempowered Rural Communities (predominantly Maori);
Development Strategies for Rural Territorial Local Authorities; Community Strategies for
Global Change and Developing Foresight for Rural Communities.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? This research will create a
better understanding of how New Zealand’s rural landscape is changing and address a number
of issues surrounding sustainability in this area. Some of the outcomes will include assisting
rural communities to develop sustainable futuristic environments through business options
that are innovative, creative, and plausible; developing policies that support sustainable landbased businesses and communities through addressing infrastructure improvements;
developing policies that include or address urban values as one of the main drivers for change
in rural areas and create greater mutual dependency between urban and rural aspirations;
developing policies that recognise and address differences in people’s (Maori / Non Maori,
urban/rural) expectations about the economic, cultural, and social goals for their communities;
developing models that assist communities to identify the potential for new technologies; and
developing models that assist communities to identify the social networks they need to
support sustainable development.
Contact details: Jenny Cave, jenny.cave@waikato.ac.nz
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Resident Attitudes Into Tourism – the Case of Raglan
Researcher: Chris Ryan, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Tourism represents an experience of places. These experiences
include interaction with local people, while additionally local people can shape the formal
responses made to tourism development through consultative processes that surround the
Resource Management Act and local politics. This study builds upon past similar studies
undertaken in New Zealand and found that Raglan residents were generally favourably
disposed toward tourism developments subject to them being consistent with their perceptions
of Raglan. Arising from this study is an exploration of Raglan following Kaikoura in
securing a Green Globe 21 Community status.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Tourism development always
runs the risk of significantly changing social and natural environments with implications for
the future product development of existing and new products, and for local communities.
These issues were highlighted as being of major concern in the Tourism Strategy 2010
document, and this study both reiterates past work on community involvement and indicates
how communities and tourism operators can forge common interests through the adoption of
sustainable tourism principles as enunciated in the Green Globe initiatives.
Contact details: Chris Ryan, caryan@waikato.ac.nz.
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Energy Economics and Climate Change
Researchers: Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Koli Fatai, Waikato Management
School, & Professor Les Oxley, University of Canterbury.
Research Project Summary: This research uses econometric methods to explore the
relationship between energy prices and GDP, energy prices, carbons emissions and
employment. It also evaluates alternative approaches to forecasting energy consumption.
These two research themes are integrated by Computable General Equilibrium Modelling to
forecast the outcomes of alternative policies. The research generates a series of scenarios
which can inform policy makers and investors.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The New Zealand Government,
businesses, citizens and non-governmental organisations are significantly interested in energy
consumption patterns and their associated impacts on the economy and the environment.
Changing energy prices impact the energy sources used by firms, the profits they make and
the amount of carbon that is emitted into the environment. The New Zealand Government has
signalled its intention to ratify the Kyoto Protocol with the intention of stabilizing carbon
emissions as a contribution towards reducing global warming. This research facilitates the
evaluation of alternative policy instruments proposed as means to achieve Kyoto Protocol
goals.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz
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Parameters To Predict Not-For-Profit Business Success
Researcher: Jens Mueller, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Not for profit organisations are a major driver of activities in
many areas of New Zealand life. They consume substantial funds. It is assumed that some
not-for-profit firms operate more effectively and efficiently than others. This research project
will test for the most suitable set of organisational parameters, including financial and nonfinancial data, to determine which data is most likely to predict the level of success for a nonprofit business. It is assumed that educational programmes targeted into areas where the
organisations’ effectiveness is lower than average, can assist to improve the performance. We
will investigate more than 100 non-profit firms to compile information.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? New Zealand by and large relies
on the philanthropic efforts of organisations and individuals, to augment services not
available from the Government, and to target specific areas of need in local communities.
There is little, if any, independent and credible performance information available from nonprofit firms, which would aid donors with the determination to provide funding support. The
outcome of this research project could be the establishment of a data bank with performance
information from most non-profit firms, which those organisations can then make available to
donors, to support funding applications. We presume that those organisations which perform
worse than others will avail themselves of targeted educational opportunities to improve their
performance. The end result should be greater transparency in the non-profit market, and
greater efficiency and effectiveness.
Contact details: Jens Mueller, 025-516-326, mueller@waikato.ac.nz.
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Enhancing Road Transport for Regional Development
Researchers: Professor Les Foulds and Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Waikato
Management School.
Research Project Summary: This six-year programme of research investigates ways in
which New Zealand can make the best use of its road transportation network to enhance
regional development. The programme seeks to analyse how existing transportation networks
can be improved to promote economic growth in rural New Zealand. The programme
involves the creation of new models, methodologies, and systems that will be more effective
than those currently in use. This will include the development of simulation, decision, and
economic models; information management systems, and information technology; and
systematic planning methodologies for the improvement, new construction, maintenance, and
sustainability of rural road systems. The programme will focus on the development of major
arterial routes. The analysis will identify, in a nationally coordinated fashion, how to gain the
benefits of: more efficient freight movement and greater tourist convenience. The design,
construction, management, and sustainability of rural road networks will be investigated.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The research will contribute to
rural transport policy formulation and implementation, at both the central and regional
government levels. New knowledge will be generated about how to maintain and improve
existing rural road networks, and how to identify the location and nature of new rural roads,
with a view to maximising economic benefit. Having effective rural transport networks is a
significant contributor to New Zealand’s economic development objectives. An efficient
network of rural arterial routes, enabling higher productivity, faster freight movement, better
tourist experience, and improved: road safety, lower fuel consumption, and enhanced
individual convenience, all enabling New Zealand to recoup its investment in regional
development more readily.
Contact details: Les Foulds, 07-838-4127, lfoulds@waikato.ac.nz or Frank Scrimgeour, 07838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz.
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Evaluation of Iwi Social Services
Researchers: Associate Professor Frank Scrimgeour, Waikato Management School,
Associate Professor Richard Benton, University of Auckland.
Research Project Summary: A number of changes have occurred in the last decade in the
provision of social services for Maori. A key factor in this has been the development and
implementation of the Department of Social Welfare’s Iwi Social Services Strategy, following
the 1992 amendment to the CYPF Act (1989). The purpose of this research is to examaine
the success of this strategy from the perpsective of Maori, the public sector, and other
interested parties.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Over the last two decades, there
has been a change in the way many publicly funded social services are delivered. In many
instances, government sets the goals for what it wants achieved and then through a purchase
arrangement, contracts out to a third party to deliver the service and be responsible for
achieving government aims. In parallel with these changes Maori have been seeking to take
responsbility for their own services. This research is important in facilitating public provision
of services for Maori, by Maori.
Contact details: Dr Frank Scrimgeour, 07-838-4415, scrim@waikato.ac.nz
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Parallels Between Diversity Management and Employee Management
Researchers: Dr Debashish Munshi, Waikato Management School, Professor George
Cheney, University of Utah, USA and Adjunct Professor, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Many organisations now talk of creating diverse workplaces.
Yet, ironically, institutional control often remains vested in the norms and value systems of
dominant elites. This project examines a wide range of organisational discourses to map the
parallels between the processes of control exercised by dominant groups in the areas of
diversity management and of employee management. In particular, it seeks to uncover hidden
layers of institutional problems faced by many different groups and classes of employees
today.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? Business organisations in New
Zealand, as elsewhere, have been swept by processes of economic globalisation, which
involve large-scale organisational restructuring, downsizing, and profit-driven
competitiveness. This research project seeks to identify the ways in which such processes
reinforce conformity and, consequently, have major structural implications for an increasingly
diverse workforce. The research seeks to come up with suggested avenues for making
organisations truly inclusive and, therefore, socially sustainable.
Contact details: Dr Debashish Munshi, 07-838-4450, munshi@mngt.waikato.ac.nz.
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Irrigation Development and Rehabilitation in Asia
Researcher: Dan Marsh, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This project involves provision of technical assistance to a
development project in Pondycherry, South India. A rapid increase in the use of tubewells for
irrigation has led to falling water tables, increasing levels of salinity and falling crop yields.
The Tank Rehabilitation Project, Pondicherry (TRPP) aims to halt this process through a
participatory rural development programme to rehabilitate all irrigation tanks in the region
over a seven-year period.
Activities have included design and implementation of a baseline survey covering economic,
agricultural and social issues throughout the project area, analysis of agro-economic aspects
of present agricultural practices and advice on potentially profitable crops and cropping
patterns. Recognising the vital importance of the policy framework, also investigated was the
financial and economic price of surface water and groundwater in order to make
recommendations for achieving optimal use of these resources.
Why is this research important? Development projects often fail to achieve their goals
because insufficient attention is paid to the policy framework and farmer level incentives.
This study highlights the areas in which the present policy framework is inefficient. It
encourages wasteful use of water and electricity, it subsidises tube well owners but not water
buyers and it will lead to saline intrusion and a falling water table. The challenge is to find
policies that will ensure that groundwater extraction is kept at sustainable levels and to find
ways to efficiently allocate water between different users.
Contact details: Dan Marsh, 07-838-4950, dmarsh@waikato.ac.nz.
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Perceptions of Auckland as a Tourist Destination
Researchers: Chris Ryan and Jenny Cave, Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: Based on qualitative research in Wellington, Christchurch and
with overseas visitors to Auckland, and by using software based on the principles of neural
network analysis, the researchers were able to develop mental maps of Auckland as a tourism
destination. Clear distinctions were shown to exist between New Zealanders and overseas
visitors, with Sydney clearly emerging as the nearest competitor with which Auckland had to
benchmark itself. This work was commissioned by Tourism Auckland.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The image of Auckland is
important to New Zealand in terms of not only attracting tourists, but also maintaining an
image as a place attractive to foreign capital.
Contact details: Jenny Cave, jenny.cave@waikato.ac.nz, Chris Ryan caryan@waikato.ac.nz.
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Sustainable Development of the Lake Taupo District
Researchers: Murugesh Arunachalam ( PhD candidate); Stewart Lawrence, Martin Kelly
and Joanne Locke (supervisors) , Waikato Management School.
Research Project Summary: This purpose of this research is to undertake a case study of
environmental management and sustainable development focussing on accounting and
reporting in a New Zealand setting. The case study relates to Taupo District where plans are
being formulated to deal with issues of sustainability as perceived by various stakeholder
groups. The project will present the problems and opportunities as defined by each group of
stakeholders, the context, and the lessons learned about the linkages between perspectives,
accounting and reporting, and decision making.
Why is this research important to New Zealand business? The concept of sustainable
development is still being debated. The part that different agencies and organisations can play
in providing information that assists in the integration of social, cultural, environmental and
economic aspects of sustainable development is worthy of research. The Taupo study will
assist businesses understand their role in informing, protecting and enhancing the values of
communities with which they are connected.
Contact details: Dr Stewart Lawrence, 07-856-2889, extn 8794, stewartl@waikato.ac.nz.
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