Grow with the right crew
Every day, Island Direct helps commuters, residents and visitors travel between Auckland and Waiheke Island. But running a growing ferry business is about more than getting people from A to B.
Behind the scenes, the team also supports local tourism, partnering with wineries, accommodation providers, attractions and event organisers to help showcase everything the island has to offer.
As Island Direct has grown, having the right banking partner has become increasingly important.
Looking for more than finance
Island Direct operates a fleet of high-speed passenger ferries and employs around 30 people across maritime operations, customer service, administration, sales and management.
As the business expanded, so did its banking needs.
Owner David Todd knew it was time to review whether the business had the right banking support for its next stage.
“We were looking for a banking partner that could support the growth of Island Direct and be readily available to discuss funding options as our needs evolved.”
Taking the time to understand the business
For David, one of the biggest differences was TSB’s interest in getting to know the business before discussing the available options.
The early conversations focused on understanding how Island Direct operated, the realities of the marine transport industry and where David wanted to take the business.
“We appreciated having direct access to decision-makers, open and honest communication, and people who were responsive when opportunities or challenges arose.”
That approach gave David confidence he had a banking team that understood the realities of the business, not just the numbers.
A partnership built on trust
As Island Direct has continued to grow, having a banking team that knows the business has made a difference when new opportunities arise.
“Having a banking partner that understands our business and is accessible when we need them has given us confidence to make strategic decisions and focus on delivering a reliable, high-quality transport service for our customers.”
For David, it’s the consistency of that relationship that stands out.
“We have developed a strong working relationship with TSB. Their team understands our business, industry and growth strategy and has consistently provided responsive service and practical support.”
Banking starts with listening
TSB Commercial Manager John Blackmore has worked closely with David and the Island Direct team.
“Island Direct is a fantastic Kiwi business that’s passionate about its customers and the communities it serves. Taking the time to understand what matters to them means we can better understand their banking needs and how we may be able to support their future plans."
For John, that approach is at the heart of a good business banking relationship.
“Our role is to understand where a business is heading and be there when opportunities come along.“
For other business owners
David says that willingness to listen was clear from the beginning.
“From the outset, the team took the time to understand our business, our industry and our long-term goals rather than simply assessing us through a standard banking lens.”
His advice to another business considering TSB is simple.
“I would encourage any business considering TSB to have a conversation with them. In our experience they took the time to understand our business, our goals and the challenges we faced rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.”
As Island Direct looks ahead, David knows he has a banking team that understands where the business has come from - and where it wants to go next.
Interested in finding out more about Island Direct's services?
Check out their website for more information or perhaps book your next trip to Waiheke.
Could John help with your business?
Whether you’re starting out, investing in growth or planning your next step, our team can help. Have a chat with John or another team member in your region.