Last week from August 4 to 6, AUIP hosted its staff for an annual retreat. The retreat took place in Hanmer  Springs, which is approximately 85 kilometers northwest of our main office in Christchurch, New Zealand.

We all stayed in a five-bedroom house, which served as our accommodation, meeting space and café-style dining. Our agenda was comprehensive (read: meeting from 8 a.m. until evening daily) and focused on past delivery, accountability and future growth of the company.

The highlight, for me, was the second evening when we sat in our own “café” wining and dining and exchanging stories. As a team bonding, we each shared two childhood experiences from our life at age five to eight. It was a great way to get to know more about our work mates and acknowledge achievements.

The main reason for the retreat, of course, was not to wine and dine but give everyone the opportunity to learn more about the strategic direction of the company, put forward ideas and understand everyone’s roles. We definitely achieved this; it was a most enjoyable three days which, I am sure, benefited all those in attendance.

Pictured right, Eleanor and Sheena prepare chicken alfredo and garlic bread one night while, pictured below, Sara and Laura decorate personalized cupcakes for dessert.

Text by Noeline Ward.