Markhams - Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors

John and Jenny Milburn have developed a thriving tourism business that embraces two of the region’s key assets: heritage and wildlife.

Monarch Wildlife Cruises & Tours operates on the Otago Harbour and Peninsula, offering both locals and tourists the opportunity to view wildlife such as penguins, seals, dolphins and albatross in their natural environment.

At the heart of the operation is a 16m long 1950s heritage boat, the M.V. Monarch. The Milburns remember watching the Monarch sailing past from their home in Waverley and were captured by the romanticism she invoked. So when the Monarch Tours business came up for sale in 2001, John and Jenny jumped at it, realising a dream John had held for many years.

"I previously worked in the meat processing industry and then in resource management. However, I always hoped I would have my own business that combined my two loves – the sea and wildlife – and which utilised my degree in Zoology. The Monarch business was a very attractive option. Viewing wildlife from a boat, not from land, is a special experience," says John.

This year John and Jenny are celebrating 10 years in business and whilst wildlife tourism has always been their core business, they have extended their offerings to meet market demand.

Social cruising has evolved with Jenny taking care of this part of the operation. Monarch works in with and supports other local businesses such as restaurants, combining to offer a range of social cruises from ‘Cruise & Dine’ to a ‘Fish & Chip Cruise’. The company also works in with international cruise ships offering charter services for passengers.

The Milburns have enjoyed success with their business, winning the 2006 Chamber of Commerce award for Excellence in Business and have also been the recipients of three New Zealand Tourism awards. Part of this success is attributed to their focus on their ‘triple bottom line’ or three aspects of sustainability – social, environmental and economic.

John feels businesses must be active participants in the community and his commitment to this philosophy has seen the company donate more than $25,000 worth of product each year to schools, sports clubs and community groups for their fundraising activities.

Tourism industry businesses are often known for their low returns, but Monarch is regarded as a high performer, thanks largely to a focused approach to economic sustainability.

"The last 18 months have been very tough in a difficult economic climate, but we have held our own when others have not fared so well – it’s a testament to the quality of the operation."

The business faces two unique challenges; the weather and the need for significant forward planning. With more than 70 percent of business coming from international visitors, the need for forward planning is essential and Markhams Clarke Craw has been invaluable in that process.

"As an export business, we are required to set our prices two years in advance to meet the needs of international wholesalers. Although this can take a bit of crystal ball gazing, Denise Gow has been invaluable in helping us get a handle on forward costs."

Denise also does the company’s annual accounts and advises on all financial matters including GST, employment and taxation. She also handles the personal finances and family trust matters for
the Milburns.

"Markhams Clarke Craw’s sound advice enables us to be profitable, ensuring our business is strong and sustainable. With a sustainable business we can consistently deliver a quality experience that exceeds our customer’s expectations."

www.wildlife.co.nz