A Team of Experts
It is no accident that Vision is the leading Sound and Vision Company in Otago, and much of the South Island. For more than 25 years our core team has worked side by side, turning the best new technologies, products and systems into solutions that create technological magic for our customers.
The combined expertise of our project managers, AV sales & design team, AV intergration technicians and administration staff keep us at the forefront of this ever-changing industry.
Meet our team members below.
Managing Director
Date Started at Vision
Apr 1994
What I do at Vision
My primary responsibility is to ensure our team has all they need to provide our clients with more than they imagined possible. I also plan long term strategies in consultation with the other members of our senior management team. On a day-to-day basis I take care of the finances and look after the HR side of the organisation
Previous experience
I have been involved in the electronics industry since the late 70’s – back when televisions were made of wood! I started with electronic component sales and by the end of the 80’s was a registered electrical service technician working on all manner of electronics. In the early 90’s an opportunity to take over the electronics side of our former employer’s business came up and I grabbed it with both hands. Soon after SKY TV launched in Otago and Vision really took off. I learned the ‘business of business’ by hands-on trial and error (luckily without too many errors).
Why I work at Vision
I love the buzz of a project coming together as we’ve planned, and everyone – clients and service staff alike – is happy. Our great team ensures this happens again and again, and when everyone is smiling I know I have done my job right.
A bit more about me
My family, music and motorbikes make me smile and get me out of bed in the mornings. Escaping the rat race in our VW camper is when my wife and I can relax and recharge while exploring our wonderful country.
Management Team
Date Started at Vision
Apr 1994
What I do at Vision
I’ve been involved in most aspects of Vision’s growing range of services as a technician, technical supervisor and manager. This has included design, installation, product testing and support, sales, training and people management - “if I don’t have the answer I know where to get it”.
Previous experience
Worked in electronics and aerial wholesale. After selling 100s of aerials to installation companies during the TV3 boom I saw what a vibrant industry Television reception could be - I wanted in.
Why I work at Vision
First and foremost the people. Vision has always managed to keep a great team. We work very hard but there is nothing better than having a laugh with your workmates. I also love working for proactive innovative market leaders - at Vision we’re always planning ahead for future technologies.
A bit more about me
As much time as possible is spent with my awesome family. Hobbies include gardening, fishing, duck shooting, freedom camping (as far from the world as I can get and testing my latest 12 volt portable TV) and working in my shed on ‘the next project’ … my wife says I’m a bit of a mad scientist...
Date Started at Vision
Apr 1994
What I do at Vision
My role has been ever evolving over the last 25 years and still is. I take care of the financial side of the business but mostly it’s just about whatever needs to be done. As the company grows so do the little jobs. It’s important to me to keep a hand in all areas of admin so that I can interchange positions when required.
Previous experience
Prior to joining Vision, I lived for many years in Australia. My work experience was varied from nurse aiding to farm work. Before joining Vision, I worked for a short time for Fletcher homes as a hostess in a show home and then in their office.
Why I work at Vision
I enjoy it because I get to work with some amazing people. We are a great team and we like to laugh and have fun. Most importantly we care about each other. For me it’s not just about the ‘job’, but it is exciting to be involved in such a fast-moving industry.
A bit more about me
I’m 57 years of age and I have a 29 year old daughter. My most favourite thing to do is to have a very chilled glass of Sav in my hand, a platter of cheese and crackers in the very great company of my friends and family. I also like to travel when I can both in New Zealand and overseas. Not my favourite things… but for fitness I do aqua jogging and walking.
AV Consultants
Date Started at Vision
Jan 2008
What I do at Vision
Working at Vision gives me the opportunity to assist the team here to get the high-end audio-visual systems up into the 21 st century, with the integration of ‘touch control’ through to ‘simple easy-to-use’ automation. I am also one of the Projects & Design team; here to help anyone with their AV adventure.
Previous experience
Before Vision, I worked in Dunedin and Queenstown as a chef while juggling a weekend music passion as a mobile DJ for a local company.
Why I work at Vision
I enjoy the challenges in technology as it moves so fast. We’ve also got a great team to work with - everyone has a different range of knowledge and experience.
A bit more about me
For me the things I love are spending time with my family and friends, enjoying all that life can offer.
Date Started at Vision
Oct 2012
What I do at Vision
Since July 2020, I have been a registered Independent Qualified Person under the Building Act 2004 Section SS12. This means I am licensed to carry out inspections and maintenance for Audio Loops and other assistive listening systems in all buildings that require a BWOF (Building's Warrant of Fitness).
I also consult with clients, design theatre, multi-room audio, data and video over IP systems, installation, system hand-over, customer education.
Previous experience
Started in appliances with Paterson and Barr in the 80s. Moved to Brisbane and worked for a large HiFi and custom installation company. Moved back in the mid-90s as retail and domestic installation manager for a competitor. I ran my own installation company for 10 years until starting with Vision.
Why I work at Vision
Vision has a ‘work’ ethic and a ‘quality of work standard’ I’ve always admired. I jumped at the chance to work with such a great team. We work hard to achieve good results for clients and have a lot of fun doing it. There is a comradery hard to match at other work places.
A bit about me
I am married to my wife Trish and have two great identical sons, Josh and Matt. I’ve coached/managed junior rugby teams at Green Island. I am involved with a local American and custom car club and can be seen cruising with the family in our 85 Pontiac Trans AM Firebird.
Date Started at Vision
Oct 2018
Previous Experience
My 20+ years of professional audio industry experience is diversified across various market segments and includes business development, project sales, system design, project management, consulting, training and field engineering.
Prominent projects I have been involved with include:
- Broadcast facilities for TV and radio – I worked on system design and sales for most of South Africa’s public and private broadcasters.
- Audio production for film and music recording facilities – I designed and installed the only DOLBY ATMOS-approved film dubbing studios in South Africa.
- Commercial and private cinemas – I designed, supplied and installed well over 100 cinema sound systems of which eight were DOLBY ATMOS-certified.
- Houses of worship – I designed, supplied and installed more than 200 church systems, from small seating capacity up to 7500 seats.
- Corporate and office space – I consulted, designed, supplied and installed a multitude of audio and video conferencing systems in some of the most prestigious executive boardrooms in the country.
- Production and rental systems – I designed, supplied and assembled a multitude of touring and portable sound systems. This market sector also introduced me to systems engineering and calibration in the field and I had the opportunity to tour with quite a few prominent bands and music groups.
Why I work at Vision
I feel honoured to have a job with Vision. After several Skype interviews with Vision’s directors and some employees I realised that the work ethic and culture were very similar to my previous employer, Wild and Marr.
A bit more about me
We’re a family of four – my wife and I plus our two kids. Gustav Jnr (13) is keen on water sports and as well is an avid gamer and Youtuber (as most teens are these days). Danike (10) is a great ballet dancer and really likes arts and crafts. My wife Madelein is a master at child-raising and bookkeeping so she works as a part-time administrator.
We made the decision to immigrate to New Zealand because of the political situation in South Africa. The main driving force was to provide a better education and future, plus more freedom for our kids.
We decided on Dunedin as we wanted to experience climate shock when compared to Gauteng province where temperatures can reach the mid-thirties! Just kidding! New Zealand was our first choice due to your international political standing and sense of peace. Combined with a comparable culture to South Africa and great education opportunities for our kids, it was a very easy decision to come here.
Cementing a formal job offer allowed us to begin the tedious skilled migrant visa application process. Four months later we were happy to be living in the best city in New Zealand.
Date Started at Vision
Nov 2019
What I Do at Vision
As part of the project management team, my role is to combine my all round experience in the commercial and professional sound, lighting and AV industry to develop business and sales in relevant market spaces, design systems and manage installation projects.
Previous Work Experience
My industry experience spans 15+ years, during which I have developed knowledge and expertise in various vertical markets such as live touring and events, corporate AV, nightlife & entertainment, theatre, distributed AV, hospitality, religious organisations, education, sports facilities and more.
Disciplines withing these market spaces include…
- Live touring and portable sound re-enforcement
- Mixing consoles
- Audio signal processing and dynamics
- Corporate AV and conferencing systems
- Installed and distributed audio
- BGM and public address systems
- Wireless microphone and RF technology
- Professional lighting and effects
- AV over IP systems
- Distributed AV systems
- MATV RF distributed systems
- Video and LED walls
- Digital signage
- HiFi and home cinema
Why I Work at Vision
At Vision there is a diverse spectrum of work and projects to get involved in, which always keeps one learning and things interesting. That combined with a happy, quirky, caring and fun team of staff and management, provides a really great work environment!
A Bit More About Me
Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, with a few years in Gaborone, Botswana, my family and I are now enjoying life here in New Zealand.
Music and sound has always been in my blood, from DJ’ing to mixing bands, concerts and events, home theatre and just listening. I enjoy getting out and about with family, motorsport, bit of photography, good BBQs, socialising and meeting new people, spending time with friends, and good vibes.
AV Technicians
Date Started at Vision
May 2005
What I do at Vision
I’ve been working for Vision for over 14 years. I love meeting and working with customers across a wide range of AV plus the fact we’re always learning new things in this job.
Previous Experience
I started in the AV industry in Scotland back in 1988 after leaving school. I’ve worked in the sector ever since and have seen lots of changes over the years which keeps things interesting.
Why I work at Vision
I like working for Vision as it’s such a good team here. In many ways it’s like a family and everyone helps each other. Glen and the management team set good ethics and lead by example.
A bit more about me
I was born in Glasgow, Scotland. I love living in Dunedin and my hobbies are hiking, fishing, playing poker… and yes… reading books.
Date Started at Vision
Sep 2011
What I do at Vision
Sky Installs and maintenance around Dunedin most of the time, sometimes Further afield to places such as Balclutha and Oamaru.
Previous experience
I applied for the job with no previous experience. I convinced the boss I was fast learner and got it. I’d previously spent 19 years in the freezing works where I started at the bottom and worked my way up to a boner/sawyer. I’d also had some building and road work experience. After 20 years or so of mainly working inside and frequently on night shift it’s great to be out and about.
Why I work at Vision
I enjoy the technical side. Also - techs like us mainly work solo but there is good back up and support from the team here.
A bit more about me
Family, golf, surfing, motocross, fitness, Black Caps, All Blacks and the Highlanders… that fills in most days I’m not working.
Date Started at Vision
Nov 2012
What I do at Vision
I work as an AV technician based in Invercargill where I keep the penguins happily indoors.
Previous Experience
I’m from Sri Lanka where I worked as an ICT technician. I have 18 years’ experience installing and troubleshooting personal computers, LAN/WAN networks, wireless networks and telecommunications.
Why I work at Vision
I like my friendly boss, and my helpful and caring senior managers who are always willing to help colleagues. I also like that the company keeps its technicians up to date through regular training and updates which helps us keep up with fast-changing technologies.
A bit more about me
I moved to Invercargill from Sri Lanka in 2011 with my wife and son, seeking a better life. I’m planning to travel around the country soon to see more of New Zealand.
Date Started at Vision
Feb 2017
What I do at Vision
I'm the Central Otago Vision tech, based in Wanaka. Most days are busy with SKY installs and repairs with some private work mixed in. With support from the Dunedin team, I've been involved in some bigger commercial work, upgrades and new installs of AV equipment.
Previous Experience
After leaving school in Qld in the mid 80's, I completed an apprenticeship as a radio and television mechanic. After a few years in the trade I then spent a couple of years traveling through Canada, Alaska and Europe, ending up in Scotland for 12 months. When I returned to Australia I started in the satellite pay tv industry as a service technician. In 2000 I started with Nielsen Australia as a television audience measurement technician where I stayed until January 2017.
Why I work at Vision
Vision has a fantastic work environment. The team are all very supportive and approachable. Even though I'm a 3-hour drive away from our head office, I know I can call any of the Vision staff anytime for advice or just a catch up and a laugh. The technical knowledge within Vision is outstanding and they keep right up with the latest advancements in the industry.
A bit more about me
Yes, I'm Australian... My wife, Jo is a Central Otago girl, so we've been coming here for holidays for the last 15 years visiting her family and exploring the South Island. We enjoyed it so much we decided to make the move over. I enjoy snowboarding and trout fishing, so Wanaka is the perfect place to be. Happy wife happy life.
Date Started at Vision
Feb 2018
What I do at Vision
My role as a technician at Vision consists of many things, from pre-wiring of houses and installation of home theatre systems, to Sky installations and helping customers having issues with their electronics.
Previous experience
I have been in the audio visual industry for more than 10 years. I sold audio visual goods for the first five or so years but wanted to get my hands dirty and learn how to install the electronics, and to see how they work in the home.
Why I work at Vision
I work at Vision for a couple of big reasons. The first is I get to work with great people who are always there for support – technical or otherwise. The other is that I love working with electronics and seeing how they operate so I am fortunate to be able to learn a great deal from the experienced staff here.
A bit more about me
I was born and bred in Dunedin but began my installation career in Australia (don't hold that against me!). After getting married, my wife and I moved back to Dunedin with the Kiwi dream of owning our own home. In my spare time I enjoy playing with electronics and dabble a bit in brewing beer.
Date Started at Vision
Apr 2019
What I do at Vision
As my job title implies, I’m a Vision all-rounder. You will often find me out in the field installing or upgrading AV and home theatres, or carrying out maintenance on customers’ many and varied types of audio and visual systems. On any given day I could be working on Sky TV set ups, installing a home theatre for residential customers or working on one of Vision’s commercial clients’ applications. On some days I do all of these!
Previous experience
I have long been keen on technology but spent my early years training and working as a builder. It gave me an excellent grounding in the trades and makes me very popular with my mates! When jobs became harder to come by in 2010, I made the switch to AV work and starting contracting for Vision in 2010. It was such a good arrangement that they offered me a full time job and I am really pleased to now be able to say I’m a fully fledged staff member.
Why I work at Vision
The two aspects of my job I enjoy the best are getting out and about, and helping people to get the most from new technology. In my time contracting to and now working for Vision, the work has taken me from North Otago, through Central and now more predominately to Dunedin. I get a kick out of teaching people the benefits of technology and how to use it, and seeing clients’ lives improved as a result.
A bit more about me
I expect my passion for technology and AV began with my love of musical theatre. I often spend my spare time helping out backstage on amateur shows and over the last 15 years have volunteered for a range of tasks from props and stage crew, to sound and lighting. As well, I like to help out family and friends with their building and technology problems. As I said, that makes me very popular and who doesn’t want that!
Administration
Date Started at Vision
Sep 2009
Date Started at Vision
May 2014
What I do at Vision
I work as part of the administration team as the Stock Logistics Coordinator.
The stock required for all facets of Vision tend to flow through me.
I assist the Project Managers with aligning their staff and any other requirements for their jobs,
I also get to spend some time in the field with the tech’s lending a hand when required.
Previous experience
I spent 12 years as Warehouse Assistant Manager for Harvey Norman. I also did nine months as Stores Manager for Bell Tea in Dunedin.
Why I work at Vision
Fantastic work environment, ever changing products, damn good fun – co-workers,happy customers and even suppliers who are a pleasure to deal with.
A bit more about me
Family and friends are the most important things for me in life, coupled with some good beers, food to keep making me fat, sport (typically on the telly these days as I’m getting lazy in my old age) and dreams of the future that keep me entertained…
Date Started at Vision
Jul 2014
What I do at Vision
It’s usually me that answers the phone, works out what the customer wants and arranges for one of our technicians to do it.
Previous experience
I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Photography major) from Otago Polytech. I taught English as a Second Language in South Korea for two years.
Why I work at Vision
Apart from the obvious (they pay me) I enjoy the interaction with co-workers.
A bit more about me
I like travelling and knitting; in either order but at the same time is even better.
Date Started at Vision
May 2020
What I do at Vision
I like to tell people that I’m Vision’s Girl Friday in charge of Ablution Solutions. Anything to do with hygiene is my responsibility. I know how important it is to have a clean environment in which to work, both for health and wellbeing, so I see my personal mission as helping everyone at Vision be able to do their best work.
As well, I have another complementary role which is a bit unusual in a small business. Our offices are home to a large number of healthy, happy indoor plants so when the cleaning gloves come off, my green thumbs are revealed and I get busy ensuring our in-house botanicals have everything they need to thrive and blossom. And, if I do say so myself, they look spectacular.
Why I work at Vision
There is a wonderful all-round, energetic work environment at Vision, enhanced by a zero harm, renewable resources and Do it Once - Do it Right ethic! Who’d want to work anywhere else?
Get in touch…
All you need to do to get the ball rolling is call us or drop in to our showroom at 30 Portsmouth Drive, Dunedin.
0800 508 538 / (03) 477 2898 info@visionnz.co.nz
smart audio visual solutions