Nothing beats a good old-fashioned Kiwi road trip.Luckily, it's an all-season activity in NZ, but during the festive season there are more Kiwis doing just that - raising the need for greater care.Before every road trip, things must be planned, considered, packed and (crucially) communicated.Here's a guide to tackling your next road trip to make sure you and your whānau are safe:1. Check your vehicle Before you hit the road, it always pays to do a quick vehicle check to ensure everything is in tip-top condition.a. All tyres are in good condition, and the spare is at the correct tyre pressure.b. Check your windscreen, wipers and mirrors, if your windscreen has a chip or crack get it fixed, check your wiper blades and top-up the washer fluid.c. Check that your lights are all working including indicator and brake lights.d. Do you have a current WOF and registration?e. Does the car need a service?f. If you're unsure, head to your local testing station where they'll check brakes, structure, steering and safety belts.2. Plan your route carefully A good plan will help you relax, whether you've driven the route before or you've got GPS to show the way.a. Check NZTA Journey Planner (https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz) for real time updates on disruptions or information you should know about your route.b. For example; SH1 between Turangi to Waiouru, including the Desert Road, will be closed from Monday 13 January 2025 for around 2 months.3. Pack the essentials Make sure you take your map, notebook and pen, first aid kit, water, umbrella, phone charger, hand sanitiser, sunglasses and a toilet roll or tissues for that unexpected moment.You could even take a used ice cream container or plastic bag in case of car/motion sickness.Snacks, a good playlist and sunblock also never go amiss, as well as activities for your children which might include their favourite toy.4. Tell friends or family about your plans It's always a good idea to let someone know about your plans in case of an emergency - that's the thing with the unexpected, you never know what's around the corner.5. Check out local must-try places Sure, we all know that Google reviews and Tripadvisor have ratings on local eats and activities - but why not hear the latest from the locals?Use social media to find the local hotspots for the freshest flavours and activities.Search for your destination or hashtag on Instagram and Facebook to get the latest!If you need a new vehicle for your upcoming trip, then there is still time to be pre- approved to find that replacement vehicle to ensure you and your whānau are safe.As detailed recently by Waka Kotahi (NZTA), people are twice as safe in a 5- star vehicle than a 1-star vehicle.Contact MTF Silverdale on 09 421 0335 or email us at [email protected] so that we can help make that trip even safer.From the team at MTF Silverdale, we wish you all safe travels, and an enjoyable and rewarding upcoming holiday season.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, email remains the cornerstone of professional communication. Whether it's for sealing a deal, clarifying a point, or simply staying in the loop, email keeps the wheels of business turning. But here’s the thing: how you manage your inbox can say a lot about your professionalism.There seem to be two distinct camps when it comes to email etiquette. On one side, you have those who acknowledge emails promptly—ensuring that communication flows seamlessly. On the other side, there are those whose inboxes might as well be black holes, leaving senders guessing if their message was even received.If you’re reading this and thinking, “I could do better with email,” you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: mastering email etiquette doesn’t require a massive overhaul. With a few simple habits, you can not only improve your communication but also enhance your reputation and relationships.Why Quick Email Responses Make a DifferenceLet’s break down why responding to emails promptly is one of the smartest professional moves you can make:1. Respecting Time and EffortWhen someone sends you an email, they’re investing their time to communicate with you. By responding quickly, you’re acknowledging their effort and showing that you value their time. It’s a small gesture, but it goes a long way in building mutual respect.2. Projecting ProfessionalismQuick responses signal that you are organised, proactive, and on top of your workload. These traits don’t just help you manage tasks—they help you stand out. Whether you’re corresponding with a colleague, a client, or a potential partner, your email habits can create a lasting impression of reliability and competence.3. Avoiding MiscommunicationEver had an email sit too long in your inbox, only to realise later that a missed reply caused confusion or frustration? Delayed responses can escalate minor issues into major headaches. A timely reply can nip problems in the bud, clarify misunderstandings, and keep projects on track.4. Strengthening RelationshipsWhen you respond promptly, you’re sending a subtle yet powerful message: You’re important to me. This kind of attentiveness can foster trust and deepen professional relationships, whether you’re dealing with a long-time client or a new connection.5. Taming the Inbox BeastLet’s face it—an overflowing inbox can feel overwhelming. By addressing emails as they come in, you can keep your inbox manageable and reduce stress. A clear inbox isn’t just satisfying; it’s a productivity booster.How to Step Up Your Email GameIf you’re convinced that better email habits can make a difference (spoiler: they can), here are a few tips to start implementing today:Commit to the 24-Hour RuleMake it a priority to respond to emails within 24 hours, even if it’s just to acknowledge receipt and let the sender know you’ll follow up soon. This keeps the communication loop active and sets expectations.Use Smart ToolsSet up filters, labels, or folders to organise your inbox.Automate responses for routine queries, and block time in your schedule to tackle emails in focused batches.Prioritise ClarityWhen replying, be concise and clear. Address the key points and, if necessary, confirm next steps to ensure everyone is aligned.Acknowledge When You’re BusyIf you’re swamped, a quick response like, “Thanks for your email! I’ll get back to you by [specific time/date]” can go a long way in maintaining trust.End with a Call to ActionWhen appropriate, close your email with actionable steps or a question to keep the conversation moving forward.Why 2025 Is the Year to Master This SkillAs we move further into an era dominated by digital communication, the ability to manage emails effectively is no longer optional—it’s essential. The difference between those who respond promptly and those who don’t often comes down to opportunities gained or missed.By adopting these practices, you’re not just improving your email game—you’re enhancing how others perceive you in the professional world. After all, in a world of endless notifications and messages, being responsive and attentive is a rare and valuable skill.So, as you dive into your inbox today, take a moment to consider: are you sending the right message with how you respond? A simple, timely email reply could be the first step in unlocking better relationships, smoother workflows, and greater success in 2025.