Neighbourly Good Sort: Mark Dunajtschik
Todays Good Sort is someone who can claim to have changed the face of Wellington.
Wellington property developer Mark Dunajtschik was this week honoured as the Property Council New Zealand Members’ Laureate, a lifetime membership awarded once a year.
Mark was called “a shining example of ‘property for good’, consistently breaking the often-negative connotations that come with the role of property developer”.
A humble man, Mark came to New Zealand as a toolmaker in 1958 to make a new life after an extraordinary story that saw him imprisoned in a Yugoslav concentration camp before eventually escaping with his mother to Germany.
He trained as a toolmaker, before spending five years travelling the world and deciding to make New Zealand his home.
After a few months on Kiwi soil, Mark established Precision Grinders, running the business successfully for 25 years.
After retiring in 1987, he dabbled in property investment and development as a hobby, quickly accumulating and adding value to commercial and residential property around central Wellington, developing his unique, hands-on formula for success.
He has added value
His legacy includes properties such as Environment House, the James Smith Building, the Harcourts Building, HSBC Tower, the Asteron Centre, and more recently the new $50 million-dollar Children’s Hospital for Capital and Coast District Health Board, which he has developed and gifted to the city.
Mark has also been benefactor for many charitable organisations including a helicopter service which eventually morphed into the present Life Flight Trust, disability provider Hohepa, the Wellington Free Ambulance and as one of the first private donors to the Michael Fowler Centre.
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Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.6% Yes
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32.9% No
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2.5% Other - I'll share below
Unlock the Answer: Today’s Riddle is Trickier Than You Think!
What English word retains the same pronunciation, even after you take away four of its five letters?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Casual summer work available
We have a few opportunities for casual Catering Assistants to join our Interislander Production Kitchen in Kaiwharawhara over the summer months. No experience required – chance for young people to develop their skills and gain work experience. We can fit in with College or University dates.
Send your CV to sarah.knowles@kiwirail.co.nz by COB, Wednesday 13 November.
Please share with your friends and family.
#work #interislander
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