The team at Ballance Agri-Nutrient's celebrated the opening of their newly extended and renovated building in Mount Maunganui on Friday and planted a time capsule.

After two years and an investment of approximately $5 million the new wing and renovated offices are now complete.

An integral part of the event was the burying of a time capsule to be opened in 2072.

Over 70 items were included from staff uniform, photos, utility bills, company publications, newspapers, a Covid information pack, product samples, to name a few, as well as a list of predictions for what the world will be like when the time capsule is opened.

'I can only imagine the humour in 50 years' time when the Ballance team open and read our stories and see the examples of innovation and reflect on how far they have come,” says Balance CEO Mark Wynne.

'We are a proud co-operative collectively owned by 17,000 farming and growing families throughout New Zealand.”

Balance Chair Duncal Coull says Farmers and growers have intergenerational businesses.

'To be able to walk alongside them, we need to build resilience in our network.

'This intergenerational investment to future-proof our home in Mount Maunganui is a small snapshot of our overall network investment.

'Through-out New Zealand we are investing in smart technology and future-proofing our assets to ensure New Zealand's primary sector continues to be the backbone of our economy.

'Buildings are just buildings, they have no feelings, it's our people that create the atmosphere and culture. The Ballance team will continue to focus on innovation, creating more sustainable nutrient solutions, and in the case of this building, a more sustainable work environment,” says Duncan.

'Our values of caring for the land and people of New Zealand are evident through-out the building, from the 100% wool carpet, to the trees that were sourced from all over New Zealand and the use of recycled materials wherever possible,” says Mark.

The vibrant interior reflects Ballance's aspiration to provide their team with a welcoming, contemporary and bright workspace.

The design team drew inspiration from the Ballance brand and New Zealand native plants and products. The tables, chairs and furniture coverings are all made from recycled materials, and the coffee table in reception is a re-purposed milk shed trolley.

'Everything you see, and touch reflects the natural environment, Ballance and New Zealand farmers and growers,” says Duncan.

At the opening a ‘Mighty Tōtara' tree was planted by staff. The Tōtara can live for one thousand years, signifying strength and longevity. New Zealand's story is often told through Totara, as it is at the heart of Māori carving and culture. The durability of the timber is why it was used as fence posts.

The Tōtara was donated by Turning Point Trust a mental health and wellbeing agency based at the Historic Village (17th Ave, Tauranga). Turning Point offers vocational work streams, one of which is a Horticulture group.