Patrick Porter (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Porou) and Jade Sievers have their own web business specialising in providing websites that generate sales.

The couple first met when they were working for Ticketek. In 2006 they started their business, Jade Creative, after identifying a gap in the website industry.

“We provide a total package website solution for anyone interested in selling their products or services online,” says Patrick.

“Having a great website is only the start of being successful online. You need to promote your site, persuade your visitors and measure all that you can to stand out from your competitors,” he says.

Patrick has nine years’ experience in website development, web marketing and website hosting while Jade has more than 10 years’ management experience including managing web design and development teams.

Jade Creative has created many e-commerce websites for customers including Māori businesses.

“We noticed an increase in sales and customer interest within the first 14 days of launching our new e-commerce website,” says Managing Director Plush Puku Aroha Eynon. “Overall our web sales have increased by more than 90 percent. Our website has been a huge success,” she says.

Patrick and Jade have been working with Te Puni Kōkiri’s Māori Business Facilitation Service to move their business forward.

“We’ve joined the Māori Business Network. I remember doing a presentation on our business to other Māori businesses. It was a bit scary, but as a result I’ve become more confident in presenting at other forums,” says Patrick.

Jade Creative employs five people, three full-timers and two part-timers, with fantastic networks in the industry to enable them to outsource work when there is a heavy demand.

For more information visit www.jadecreative.co.nz