John Cobb is a director of North Shore based business Heco Group – a group of construction related business including, Symonite Panels, ACM Fabricators, KBL Serene Joinery, Solar Edge, Shingle Shake, and SPS Building. The businesses supply and install high quality architectural products focussed on the building envelope. John became a trustee of the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust at the 2016 AGM held in July 2016. We put these questions to John in late 2016.
NORTHSIDE: How long have you lived on the north side of the bridge?
JOHN COBB: I have lived in or around Takapuna for my entire life. Boring I know, but have never seen the logic in moving away from the best place on earth!
NS: What do you love most about the lifestyle in general?
JC: Water sports, in particular sailing, have always been a large part of my life. Access to the North Shore beaches is such a unique aspect of living in Takapuna. I am very much enjoying watching the development of Takapuna and Milford with new apartment buildings, restaurants and bars and other leisure facilities. It's an exciting time for the area. Its also been a great place to raise a family with access to excellent schools and all sorts of outdoor activities for young people. The only issue is I suspect my children, probably like me, will never want to leave!
NS: How did you get involved with the North Harbour Club?
JC: I was introduced the the North Harbour Club by Hugh Stedman many years ago and attended a number of functions. The AIMES awards and lunches as Hugh's guest and eventually Hugh suggested I join. Those who know Hugh will be aware of how persuasive he can be! I'm glad he encouraged me though as I enjoy it immensely.
NS: What to you enjoy most about your involvement?
JC: I enjoy socialising with people I have known for many years and meeting other interesting people that live on the North Shore and our wider region. I also enjoy supporting the clubs main activity – the AIMES Awards. I am continually amazed at the talent and achievements of AIMES awardees. I find it incredibly inspiring.
NS: What are your ambitions for the club during your time as a trustee?
JC: I would like to help maintain the clubs objectives and goals as originally intended by the founding members. The platform they set has proved to be very sound. Also to work with the other trustees and members to help with the continued growth and support the AIMES Awards programme delivers to youth of the North Harbour region.
NS: What AIMES Award would you have been closest to picking up if you were 20 again?
JC: Unfortunately I would have been nowhere... !
