North Canterbury Women in Business

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Our region is brimming with brilliant and innovative businesses – some of the most successful are run by the 11 women in this special feature showcasing the skills and talents of local wāhine toa.

Deb Riach, co-owner, Coffee Worx

The idea to start a coffee business quite literally came to Deb Riach in a dream.

In 1995, I woke up from a dream that changed the course of my life. At the time, I knew nothing about coffee and like most Kiwis, drank instant coffee. Yet in that dream, I could clearly see a coffee business. I saw coffee beans, roasting equipment and people gathering around coffee. As a person of faith, I honestly felt that the dream came downloaded with a blueprint for a thriving coffee business.

It was so vivid that the next morning, I told my husband Ian that we needed to start a coffee business. He thought I was crazy, but the vision was so clear that I travelled to Sydney to find an example of what I had seen. Soon after, a former colleague of Ian’s approached us with the invitation to partner in an idea for a coffee business. We said yes, and that was when the concept of Coffee Culture came to life. Looking back, it was one of those prophetic moments that felt like a nudge from the universe. I believe working in the coffee industry is my destiny. Since then, coffee has been at the centre of our lives.

We sold out of Coffee Culture to set up a chain of bagel and coffee shops (Yellow Rocket). Unfortunately, the Christchurch earthquakes wiped out our whole chain, and we were forced to rebuild almost from scratch. Our coffee roaster was the only part of the business that survived, so we pivoted and set up our Coffee Worx Roastery Cafe in Rangiora, being North Canterbury locals. The coffee journey has been tough. Over the years, we’ve faced challenge after challenge, the earthquakes, the GFC, the Covid-19 pandemic, global coffee price rises and shortages, and freight disruptions. Fortunately, our Heartland Brew brand, which is sold through supermarkets and online, carried us through the pandemic when all cafés were closed, which helped us survive.

In 2023 we took the plunge and set up a new large-scale roastery back in Christchurch beside our distribution centre to cope with growing sales. We supply Coffee Worx coffee to many other cafés, and restaurants and Heartland Brew is sold nationwide, from Stewart Island to the far north. We now roast about three tonnes of coffee per week and we’re one of the few privately owned coffee companies left in New Zealand.

What keeps me going is the people. Coffee is about connection. It’s the morning ritual shared by couples, the catch-up between friends, the quiet moment before a busy day begins. Every cup is part of someone’s story. After all these years, I still feel how I did when I woke from that dream: this is what I was meant to do. I love coffee, and I’m so proud to be a North Canterbury business that is not only surviving but thriving and expanding.

Ph. 027 228 9914 | sales@coffeeworx.co.nz | coffeeworx.co.nz

Lisa Meredith, co-owner, SMOOCH Dental Spa

Lisa Meredith is on a mission to change the way Kiwis think about oral health. As co-owner and clinical director of SMOOCH Dental Spa in Ravenswood Central, and with 25 years in the dental industry, Lisa has built a modern, spa-inspired clinic focused on prevention, wellness, and transforming the way people think about dentist visits.
“We wanted to create something completely different,” Lisa says. “Dental visits have traditionally been associated with fear, discomfort and cost. We’ve created an experience that feels calm, welcoming and empowering.”
Lisa began her career as a dental assistant and completed her studies at the University of Otago in 2007. She then spent 15 years as a senior hygienist within one of New Zealand’s largest dental organisations before taking the leap into business ownership and co-founding SMOOCH.
Lisa takes a holistic approach. “Your mouth is the gateway to the body. Gum disease and inflammation have links to many systemic health conditions, and more people are starting to understand that oral health isn’t separate from general health.”
“I love building genuine relationships with patients and seeing the transformation that happens when people start prioritising their oral health. Many patients come to us anxious or embarrassed, and watching that turn into confidence and pride is incredibly rewarding.”
The clinic combines advanced preventative dental care with a luxurious, wellness-focused environment. From guided biofilm therapy and teeth whitening to holistic oral health education, every aspect of the business has been designed to support long-term wellbeing rather than simply fixing problems once they occur. Preventive dentistry at SMOOCH is delivered through a wellness lens – focusing on comfort, long-term stability, patient education and early intervention.
Ph. 03 313 3223 | www.smooch.co.nz

Milly Henderson, Owner, Out of the Bleu

Out of the Bleu is a carefully curated homewares, clothing and giftware boutique built on my love of creating beautiful spaces. The store is an extension of me and everything I love. I want customers to know that every piece has been intentionally selected. If I don’t genuinely love something, it doesn’t make it onto the shelves.
Quality is really important to me; I want our customers to purchase pieces they will enjoy living with for years to come, rather than disposable or trend-driven products. Although we’re a small store, I think we pack a punch in terms of experience and range. It’s curated in a way that feels personal and authentic.
The most rewarding part of the business is seeing customers return, recommend us, and share how much they love their purchases. Social media has been instrumental; people enjoy seeing the day-to-day side of things: new arrivals, styling, behind-the-scenes moments and the reality of running a small business alongside family life.
Ph. 027 334 2435 | milly@outofthebleu.co.nz
outofthebleu.co.nz

Poppy Silcock, CFO, Millbrook Kitchens Limited (A Mastercraft Kitchens Licensee)

“People are what matter most to me. Building a successful business isn’t just about financial results, it’s about creating stable employment, supporting our team, and making a positive impact on the lives of those around us,” says Poppy Silcock, Chief Financial Officer at Millbrook Kitchens in Rangiora. Poppy manages finance and human resources within the company, combining her passion for people with a strong focus on business performance. “What really lights me up is creating an environment where both our clients and our team can thrive. Seeing satisfied clients who value the work we do, alongside engaged and motivated staff who enjoy coming to work, is incredibly rewarding.”
That commitment to people flows into Poppy’s wider community through her work, supporting a range of local charities and initiatives. “We support local charities because we’re part of this community ourselves. The community supports our business, so it’s important to us that we give back and help support causes that make a real difference locally.” Visit Poppy and the team at Millbrook Kitchens, 25 Southbrook Road, Rangiora.
Ph. 03 313 5764 | millbrookkitchens.co.nz

Lisa Taylor-Haleck-Halu, Pacific health advisor, Pasifika Lens

As the founder of Pasifika Lens, my mission is to help organisations embed Pasifika values into long-term vision, policies and operations. I am incredibly proud to do this work.
As a registered nurse with 30 years of experience across acute surgical care, medicine, mental health, and chronic health conditions, becoming the Pacific health advisor for Forte Health is my first major contracting role. We deliver support with all aspects of Pacific expertise including policy, and strategy implementation. Before this, I worked with Body Wise Health, which is where my leadership potential and ability to bridge clinical practice with cultural insight was first recognised. I continue to support Southern Cross Hospital and Windsorcare. More recently, I’ve worked closely with Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand.
As someone who was adopted and now reconnecting with my own Pacific and German/Scottish heritage, I bring a deep commitment to belonging, equity, and community first practice. What drives me is connection, integrity, and improving outcomes for Pacific peoples.
Ph. 029 778 8011 | lisa@pasifikalens.co.nz | pasifikalens.com

Jan McCormick, Real estate agent, Bayleys Canterbury

Award-winning real estate professional Jan McCormick applies her years in marketing to achieve the best results in buying and selling property, but it’s working with people that gives her the most joy.
“Connecting with people is at the heart of what I do,” Jan says. Combining extensive local market knowledge with a strong background in business and marketing, Jan’s greatest satisfaction comes from helping vendors achieve outstanding results and matching buyers with a home that suits their needs and aspirations. “I’ve lived in North Canterbury for many years and understand the communities, property trends, and the factors that drive successful sales.”
Jan values the relationships built with clients, many of whom become lifelong friends and advocates for her business. What sets her apart is extensive marketing expertise. Before her real estate career, she held senior sales and marketing roles. “This experience enables me to create tailored marketing strategies that showcase each property’s unique appeal to attract the right buyers,” she explains.
Ph. 021 395 241 | jan.mccormick@bayleys.co.nz | bayleys.co.nz

Clare Giffard, Café owner, Urban Revival and Three Streams

Kaiapoi restaurateur Clare Giffard has built her community by serving fresh, local, feel-good food every day.
“I don’t like food coming out of packets or boxes. I’m an advocate for using local produce and supporting local producers. It’s all about creating fresh from scratch and delivering goodness through real ingredients,” Clare says.
Serving great plates at her two Silverstream cafés – Urban Revival and Three Streams at The Sterling – quickly grew a community of people who kept coming back.
“Community is all about connecting people and that’s exactly what we do. We bring people together.”
Having clocked up 15 years in hospitality in Pegasus, Clare set up food and beverage at the golf club, followed by the Flat White Cafe, before stepping up to bring the passion of cuisine and communities to Silverstream.
“When I came into Silverstream, we were one building with green grass around it,” she says. “I’m so passionate about developing new spaces and bridging new communities.” Visit Three Streams at The Sterling or Urban Revival at 42 Silverstream Boulevard, Kaiapoi.
Ph. 03 421 7787 | facebook.com/thesterlingvillage
facebook.com/UrbanRevivalSilverstream

Leah Abraas | Owner, LA Lasers

As the founder of LA Lasers, I’ve built a thriving skin clinic in Rangiora specialising in laser tattoo removal, skin rejuvenation, and advanced skin treatments. My clinic is heavily influenced by Korean skincare principles, combining innovative technology with results-driven treatments that work with the body’s natural healing processes. I also incorporate Korean dermaceuticals and skincare products to help achieve healthy, long-lasting skin outcomes. Every skin journey is different and I help clients manage concerns such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation, sun damage, melasma and ageing skin through personalised treatment plans designed around their individual needs and goals.
What I love most is helping people feel confident in their own skin. Whether it’s removing an unwanted tattoo or improving skin concerns, being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding. I am passionate about continually expanding my knowledge, introducing new technologies, and bringing innovative treatments to North Canterbury to ensure my clients receive the best possible care and outcomes. Visit me at 9 Cone Street, Rangiora, or book through my website.
Ph. 022 637 6312 | enquiries@lalasers.co.nz | lalasers.co.nz

Michelle Anderton, owner, Re.clotheme

Michelle is the mind behind Rangiora’s Re.clotheme, a preloved consignment fashion boutique giving beautiful clothing a second life. “I love that we play a part in sustainability, while offering women a solution to declutter and sell their quality pieces. But beyond that, it’s the people. Meeting new customers and consignors, hearing their stories, and helping them find their look – there’s something really special about being part of that journey. Fashion should be accessible, circular, and fun, and this business lets me bring all of that together,” Michelle says.
Moving from Oxford to Rangiora put Re.clotheme on the map, but key to Michelle’s success is the community she’s built with daily presence both in-person and on social media with short videos. “Together those two things have driven foot traffic to both our physical and online store, growing a following of women who keep coming back (and bringing their friends!) Visit Michelle at 2A Good St, Rangiora.
Ph. 027 673 5154 | reclotheme.com

Lisa McGoldrick, Owner, SB Autos Rangiora

Twenty-six years ago, if someone had told me I’d spend my working life in an automotive workshop surrounded by mechanics, engines, and occasional colourful language, I wouldn’t have believed them.
While I may not be holding any spanners, I am very much hands-on in the day-to-day running of the business. I’m in the office every day supporting our technicians, assisting customers, coordinating workflow for our talented technicians, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. My strengths lie in administration, organisation, and building relationships. My real passion, however, is people. I love looking after our team, creating a positive work environment. Communication with customers who trust us with their vehicles is where our success lies.
Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry has taught me that you don’t need to know every nut and bolt to lead a successful automotive business. It’s the ability to listen, organise, problem-solve, and bring people together that makes all the difference. After more than two decades, I still love walking through the workshop each day and proving that there is definitely a place for women in the automotive industry – high heels optional.
Ph. 03 313 9180 | admin@sbautosrangiora.co.nz

Anna Flanagan, owner, North Canterbury ChemDry

From carpet, rug, mattress and upholstery cleaning to helping families and businesses recover after floods or fires, we provide specialist cleaning, restoration and remediation services from Kaiapoi to the Hurunui.
Anyone can clean a carpet, but what sets us apart is the ChemDry cleaning process. We know it delivers outstanding results, and I’m just as passionate about creating memorable customer experiences through strong systems, clear communication and a culture of continuous improvement.
Our work has a real impact on people’s lives. What I love most it is seeing the difference we make, especially when we’re helping a family recover after a flood, restoring a treasured piece of furniture or simply making someone’s home healthier and more comfortable. I also get huge satisfaction from watching our team grow in capability through ongoing training and development. Knowing our business genuinely helps people is what drives me every day.
Ph. 03 313 3336 | anna.flanagan@gardencity.chemdry.co.nz
chemdry.co.nz/locations/north-canterbury-chem-dry