CEMARS (the Certified Emissions Measurement And Reduction Scheme) is a key certification offered by carboNZero^CertTMHoldings Limited.

Partner Simon Rowell, who heads the firm's Sustainable Business Committee, says achieving CEMARS is a memorable milestone: "We are proud to be the first intellectual property law firm to achieve certification, reinforcing our place as a leader in the profession.

"We do IP work for a lot of companies which are at the forefront of clean technology innovation, and this has challenged us to examine our own processes and demonstrate our environmental commitment.

"The process of measuring and understanding our emissions has been challenging and exciting."

To gain CEMARS certification, James & Wells Intellectual Property has measured its greenhouse gas emissions in compliance with ISO 14064-1, and made a commitment to manage and reduce those emissions to certain targets through documented plans.

The firm's current carbon footprint is 296.35 tonnes of CO₂e (equivalent to 1,267,000km driven in a two litre petrol car), of which the key components are work air travel, and energy use (mainly electricity and vehicle fuel). It has committed to reducing its emissions by 5 per cent a year for the first three years.

Simon Rowell says the business case for reducing costs such as electricity, travel and waste is also very clear.

"We now know our benchmark, and the measurement is one with the global credibility of CEMARS behind it. The environment's long-term health depends on all of us making the effort to reduce our carbon footprint, as companies and individuals."

So far, the firm has adopted video conferencing in all offices to reduce domestic travel, and the Christchurch office has become paperless.

The CEMARS certification is a key part of James & Wells' new corporate social responsibility strategy, which also includes supporting Sustainable Coastlines (www.sustainablecoastlines.org) as a silver sponsor, and providing a volunteer base for clean-ups including Ruapuke and Milford beaches so far.

Simon Rowell today announced a unique scheme where James & Wells Intellectual Property will donate to Sustainable Coastlines 5 per cent of any professional fees billed to members of the Sustainable Business Network, Sustainable Business Council, or organisations with CEMARS certification.

For more information about CEMARS organisation certification, please see http://www.carbonzero.co.nz/options/cemars.asp.

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Toyota New Zealand General Manager of Marketing Neeraj Lala, says Toyota is excited to support the tour as the primary commercial partner. The tour is being accompanied by radio station Classic Hits in a sign-written Hilux visiting Toyota dealers.

"We can't wait to see what hidden talents are revealed in this first auditions phase. Dealers are looking forward to being involved in the vibe of talented Kiwis preparing for the first round of auditions in their community," says Mr Lala.

Dealerships in the 14 locations are encouraging communities to come along to their local dealership, enjoy a sausage sizzle and chat to Classic Hits about the Toyota Talent Tour from 12-1pm on the day, or the day before, the auditions take place (see schedule below).

Exclusive to those who attend the Toyota dealership events is the opportunity to enter Toyota's competition to win a family trip to Wellington to be part of the audience for the grand decider final of the show later in the year.

For audition details check out: http://tvnz.co.nz/new-zealands-got-talent/open-audition-details-4801037.

Dealership Events and Audition Schedule

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The Awards celebrate our tall poppies, in fields ranging from business and academia to the creative arts, and demonstrate New Zealand's global connectedness.

The seven category winners for the 2012 World Class New Zealand Awards are:

The winners of a special Iconic New Zealander Award and the Supreme World Class New Zealand Award will be revealed at a gala dinner at The Langham Hotel in Auckland on Thursday 31 May.

The Iconic New Zealander Award is presented to a New Zealander who has enhanced New Zealand's reputation and international standing.

The winners will be presented with the World Class New Zealand Tall Poppy statuette designed by Sir Richard Taylor, recently named 2012 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, and 2009 winner of the Supreme World Class New Zealand Award.

The Awards this year were judged by a panel of six, comprising John Stace (Chair of judges), Jon Mayson, Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, Dame Judith Mayhew Jonas, Bridget Liddell and Sir Tipene O'Regan.

The nominees are evaluated against five main criteria, with a focus on promoting New Zealand internationally, building global connections and facilitating the exchange of information, knowledge and skills domestically and internationally.

Kea Global board member and Chair of judges John Stace said the World Class New Zealand Awards offer an opportunity for all Kiwis to feel proud of the achievements of some of our leading men and women.

"The Awards recognise and appreciate the significant contribution of our tallest poppies- the talented and successful Kiwis who are actively involved in supporting and promoting New Zealand and raising our reputation internationally."

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Nikki Wright, Managing Director of Wright Communications, says she is proud the firm contributed to such a successful campaign for long-term client Toyota New Zealand.

"Wright Communications was fully involved from the outset, and was able to contribute strategic PR advice, writing and media management expertise to the team. Toyota believes in a true partnership approach with its agencies, and this really paid off with a superb project outcome," says Nikki Wright.

Wright Communications' PR strategy delivered comprehensive print media coverage with a PR value of nearly $150,000, including editorial features in the Sunday Star-Times - which provided crucial nationwide reach - and many regional publications.

Overall, more than 5,000 people engaged with the journey website, nearly 9,000 people became Facebook fans, photos on Flickr received nearly 33,000 views, and sales of FJ Cruiser were 9 per cent ahead of Toyota's half-year forecast.

Toyota New Zealand's agency team also included advertising company Saatchi & Saatchi, film producers Leftfield Productions, digital agency AIM Proximity, media agency Starcom, TRN and TVNZ. The campaign also won gold in the Social and Content category and silver for Digital and Interactive.

'Team Toyota' was praised for the way the Top to Bottom journey, with Marc Ellis at the wheel from Cape Reinga to Bluff, resonated with Kiwis and exceeded Toyota's  targets.

The winners were chosen from 578 entries, judged by 45 local creatives and five internationally recognised judges - including Thirasak Tanapatanakul, Duncan Marshall, Executive Creative Director of Droga5 Sydney, Sir John Hegarty, Worldwide Creative Director and Founder of Bartle Bogle and Hegarty (BBH), Paul Silburn, Creative Partner of Saatchi & Saatchi London and Richard Flintham, Founding Partner of 101 London.

Toyota New Zealand General Manager of Marketing, Neeraj Lala, says New Zealand's Got Talent is a great fit with Toyota's key values and it is delighted to be a foundation partner of the Kiwi version.

"Toyota has always been about adding value to its customers, communities and the country. New Zealand's Got Talent is the perfect event to continue this vision. We know many Kiwis harbour huge dreams and amazing talents, and just need a chance in the national spotlight," says Neeraj Lala.

"Toyota New Zealand is proud to be the key partner of TVNZ in New Zealand's Got Talent, and to support the dreams of our superstars of the future".

In the coming weeks, more details about New Zealand's Got Talent will be revealed, including the judging panel line-up, the winner's prize package and how people can enter.

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To show his support Russel Norman then agreed to get his head shaved by Shearer.

Georgie Hackett, spokesperson for LBC, said, "It was a close race for a while, and we were delighted that so many Kiwis cast their vote. We are also very touched that the heads of political parties were prepared to lose their hair for our campaign."

David Shearer said: "Given the cause, it was a sacrifice I was prepared to make, though I'm not sure my wife would agree. If it raises the awareness of the work the foundation does and helps more people to get the support and assistance they need, then it's been well worth it."

Russel Norman said: "It's a great cause which I don't mind losing my hair for. The bald look works for my colleague Kevin Hague and I think it will be a winner for me too. And at the end of the day it's about raising awareness on a really important issue.

"Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand does great work for an important cause and I'm happy I've had chance to be a part of it," he added.

The political duo will be joined by the thousands of individuals in schools, universities, businesses and community groups who will shave their heads this week.

LBC receives no government funding so the money raised goes towards their core services including patient support and research.

It's not too late to register to shave - register online now www.shaveforacure.co.nz.

Follow Shave for a Cure on Facebook www.facebook.com/LBFNZ during Shave 12.

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For further information please contact:

Georgie Hackett

Communications & Media Relations Manager

Leukaemia &Blood Cancer New Zealand

Ph: 09 638 3556, Mobile: 021 523 172

Email: Georgie.hackett@leukaemia.org.nz

Editor's notes:

Shave for a Cure

• Shave for a Cure is Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand's signature fundraising event
• Everyone Shaves including individuals, schools, businesses and community groups
• Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBC) is the national charity dedicated to supporting patients and their families living with blood cancers and related blood conditions.
• LBC does not receive government funding - the dollars raised from Shave help fund our core services including patient support, support and funding for research, awareness and advocacy

Key facts about blood cancers

• Every day, six New Zealanders are diagnosed with a blood cancer - that's about 2,200 New Zealanders a year
• The cause of blood cancers is unknown
• These diseases can strike anyone, of any age, at any time, without warning
• Blood cancers combined (leukaemia, lymphoma and, myeloma) are the fifth most common cancer in New Zealand
• Immediate treatment may be necessary and that treatment can go on for months or even years.

Leukaemia

• Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer.

Lymphoma

• In New Zealand, lymphoma is the sixth most common cancer, with close to 900 people being diagnosed every year
• Lymphoma is the most common cancer affecting 15-24 year olds.

Myeloma

• Around 300 people are diagnosed with myeloma in New Zealand each year
• Pacific Islanders and Maori have a higher incidence of myeloma.

Pru Etcheverry, CEO, LBC, says, "So many people know someone who has been diagnosed with leukaemia or a blood cancer.  Shaving is a simple and very visible way of showing their support.

"It will be fun to see who New Zealanders most want to see Shave and we're looking forward to seeing the minister's new hairdos. We hope their leadership encourages other Kiwis to shave their heads to make this the biggest New Zealand Shave yet."

The political duo will join the thousands of individuals in schools, universities, businesses and community groups who will shave their heads during the week long campaign.

LBC receives no government funding so the money raised goes towards their core services including patient support and research.

To vote for your preferred party 'head' or to sign up to shave (or donate to one of LBC's already committed shavees) go to www.shaveforacure.co.nz.

Follow Shave for a Cure on Facebook www.facebook.com/LBFNZ during Shave 12.

Corporate Cabs chief executive Colin Samson says the App is a major step forward in convenience for clients of the company's 400-strong fleet in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.

"Corporate Cabs is always looking for ways new technology can improve our service, and we think the App is revolutionary."

"The focus is on accuracy and convenience. We have excellent booking system operators, but the App virtually eliminates the chance for human error or confusion."

Colin Samson says the App is quick and easy to use. The customer enters their details, including pick-up address, destination, date and time. They then confirm their booking by pushing a button on the App which sends the request direct to Corporate Cabs' booking system, which in turn is linked electronically to the fleet.

Users also have the ability to save regular routes such as 'Home to airport', or 'Airport to hotel'. This removes the need for them to give the same details in future. All they need to do is enter the date and time of the required pick-up.

Developed by Web Logix, the App underwent client user trials prior to being made available to all clients.

"The customers who took part in the trial identified some areas of improvement, and these refinements were included in the final App."

Hotel concierges have begun using the App on iPads and android pads they use to book services for guests.

Colin Samson says the 'App' is a major component in Corporate Cabs' suite of technology advancements aimed at improving customer service.

The company can produce detailed reports which clients can use to increase efficiency of their cab use - particularly around airport journeys - and reduce costs. The reports can also be used to check whether staff meet company protocols around taxi use.

The company also offers real-time EFTPOS in its cabs, has significantly improved its booking website with further enhancements planned, and is in discussions to be involved in a trial of 'tap and go' payment technology in the near future.

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Manawatu Toyota - which includes TRC Toyota in Masterton, Feilding and Levin - claimed the top award at a glittering black tie event ahead of five-time finalist Manukau Toyota, and two-time finalist GWD Toyota, Southland.

The company's CEO, Debbie Hart, says winning a second title in a row - and third in total -reflects the Manawatu Toyota team's ongoing commitment to ultimate customer service and sales performance.

"It starts with a genuine family culture. Having my husband Brendon as General Manager, and his brother Fraser managing the new and used divisions, creates a supportive environment which the team of about 80 can achieve success in," says Debbie Hart.

"We pride ourselves on our connection to all four communities we operate in, and each member of our team believes they are going to make a difference to their customers every day."

Among other coveted awards: Giltrap City Toyota, Auckland, won the President's Trophy for outstanding customer satisfaction, and the Toyota Finance Dealer of the Year; and Lexus of Auckland City was named Lexus Dealer of The Year.

Steve Prangnell, General Manager New Vehicles and Dealer Operations, says the Awards are an opportunity for Toyota New Zealand to thank dealers for their consistently high level of performance.

"The support and commitment of dealers around the country contributes to the ongoing trust and loyalty in the Toyota brand in New Zealand. We have topped the sales charts for 24 years, and it is important for Toyota to acknowledge the contribution dealers make to this achievement," says Steve Prangnell.

"Having clear Awards criteria gives dealers targets to aim for, and every year the competition seems to be more intense as dealers aim for continuous improvement."

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For more information, please contact:

Steve Prangnell, Toyota New Zealand General Manager of New Vehicles and Dealer Operations, (06) 350 3460 or 029 287 8866 or email: steve.prangnell@toyota.co.nz.

Award winners in addition to those named above:

Associate/Branch Dealer of the Year - PACIFIC TOYOTA, WHAKATANE

New Vehicle Excellence Cup - BLENHEIM TOYOTA

Used Vehicle Excellence Cup - GILTRAP CITY TOYOTA

Parts & Accessories Excellence Cup - RANGIORA TOYOTA

Service Excellence Cup - MANUKAU TOYOTA

Extra Care Excellence Cup - HAWKES BAY TOYOTA

Platinum Award winners

The dealership must achieve a level of excellence that significantly exceeds that of similar sized dealerships in all areas of operation.

Tasman Toyota; Rangiora Toyota; Manawatu Toyota; Hawkes Bay Toyota; Manukau Toyota; Bowater Toyota; GWD Toyota.

Gold Award winners

The dealership must achieve a level of excellence that exceeds that of similar sized dealerships in all areas of operation.

Cooke Howlison Toyota; Prescott Toyota; Northland Toyota; Giltrap City Toyota; Papakura Toyota; Miles Toyota; South Canterbury Toyota; Rutherford & Bond Toyota.

Triple Crown Certificate winners

Awarded to Dealers with Toyota leadership in Passenger, Commercial and Total New Vehicle sales.

Albany Toyota; Wilmot Toyota; Hawkes Bay Toyota; Rotorua Toyota; Papakura Toyota; Manawatu Toyota; Bowater Toyota; South Canterbury Toyota; Coast Toyota; Pacific Toyota; Manukau Toyota; Rutherford & Bond Toyota; Rangiora Toyota; Giltrap City Toyota; Cooke Howlison Toyota; Tasman Toyota; North Shore Toyota.

The annual Urgent Couriers Commuter Challenge, which tests the efficiency of the four different modes of transport, saw all commuters take off from the New Lynn Transport Centre at 0715 this morning, finishing at the Auckland Council's Go By Bike Breakfast at Wynyard Quarter.

Urgent Couriers managing director Steve Bonnici said the challenge, which started five years ago, proves the efficacy and benefits of cycling over driving to work.

"Auckland roading and transport has undergone numerous changes in the last five years, and, yet still we have a serious traffic congestion problem. Leaving the car at home and either cycling or taking public transport even once a week can make a significant difference, both to the environment, and to your health and wellbeing," he said.

Urgent Couriers, the only carbon-neutral Kiwi courier company, co-ordinates the Commuter Challenge to highlight its concern about the environmental impact of cars on Auckland's carbon footprint.

As part of the Bike Wise Month and coinciding with Auckland Council's Go by Bike Breakfast, the annual event aims to encourage the use of bikes and public transport to reduce congestion on Auckland roads.

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For more information please contact:

Clare Naden, Senior consultant, Wright Communications

Phone: 09 366 2457

Mobile: 022 6143826

Email: clare@wrightcommunications.co.nz