A good turnout of Rotarians from local clubs, together with some partners and children, met at the Fisher and Paykel Healthcare premises first for an introduction to the generous programme initiated by Michael Meredith to provide lunches for needy children in Auckland schools. By enjoying a sample of his lunches – a very healthy salmon, potato and salad mix with light dessert – attendees contributed approximately 80 servings into local schools. A win-win for all.
The meal was followed by an escorted tour through part of the extensive premises, first to the assembly area for the respiration equipment, past extensive office areas where close to 350 engineers and designers work on new devices and improvement of existing ones, then to a basement where four
The whole emphasis of the visit was on the sustainable energy aspect of the company’s operations. Detailed statistical information showed the business to be in the forefront of programmes designed to reduce the carbon footprint in all areas of production and distribution – no easy task, but well skilled personnel provide the vision and leadership to see measurable progress being made to the satisfaction of the ISO assessors who make half-yearly checks.All visitors could not fail to be impressed, first by the extent of the facilities (expected to be doubled in the next six years), then by the quality of the products made, but most of all by the expertise and enthusiasm of the hosts. Most enjoyable and informative.