After 18 years as the general manager of the Radio Network Rotorua, Aaron Gillions set up Nitro Technology, a Hinemoa St business that brings Rotorua's technology devices back to life.
In a nutshell, what does your business do?
We repair all technology. We fix mobile phones and tablets, PCs, Macs and laptops, Playstations and Xbox. In-store, we have a range of second-hand PCs, laptops and Macs.
What inspired you to set up your current business?
I've had a consultancy business for many years but the time was right for me a couple of years ago to work on the business fulltime. My family has been supportive of the change, which has been full of challenges.
What was the best business decision you have made?
Follow trends and diversify, business is never standing still and technology is always changing.
What was your worst business mistake (if any) and what did you learn from it?
Mistakes are our way of learning, I make them every day - business is about risk - some pay off some don't. I have learnt there are quite a few light-fingered people in the world, so if you want to keep it bolt it down.
What do you see as the biggest opportunity for your business in the year ahead?
Cloud computing - we are helping many local businesses see the benefits of storing information in the cloud, gone are the days of having to install expensive servers - cloud storage and exchange email is the future. I would encourage any business to look at cloud options before committing to installing a new server.
If you could do any other job for a day, what would that be?
I learnt to fly small planes a number of years ago and I would love to be a pilot of a long-haul flight.
How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
I keep fit and compete in triathlon events, I recently completed Ironman New Zealand. Often I'll be swimming in the mornings and running in the evenings and biking in between. I try and spend as much time as I can with my wife and three kids.
What's the best thing about being in business in Rotorua?
Rotorua is so diverse being a tourist town. We often get people in the shop from all over the world - it's great that we're able to help out so many people.
If you were mayor of Rotorua for one day, what one change would you make?
Free parking in the CBD (with time limit) - when you think about it parking charges are a relic of the past, when the CBD was the only place to shop. It's not just a Rotorua problem and I hope that the council follow through on the recommendations that have been made.