Meurig Chapman the Director of Happy Prime, a risk and data analysts consultancy who have just moved in to Teed Street, shares his favourite drink spots in Newmarket and advice for starting out in the workforce.

N. Why do you love working in Newmarket?

Great shops, great food and great people.

N. What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone who was looking at starting out in your industry?

I have three pieces of advice. Firstly, surround yourself with people that will give you honest advice, even though you may not always ask for it. Don’t be afraid to ask people for help. And finally, never stop learning!

N. What would you do if you weren’t in your current role?

I would love to run a small bar and micro- brewery.

N. Name your top three favourite songs.

Mardy Bum by Arctic Monkeys Love Spreads by Stone Roses Going Underground by The Jam

N. What was your first job?

Prior to Happy Prime I spent most of my career working for banks and finance companies. However, my first actual job was working as a lifeguard which helped to pay my way through University.

N. What motivates you?

My team at Happy Prime and our customers.

N. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?

I’ve been fortunate to live in several places over the years, but New Zealand is home and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.

N. Where is your favourite place to get coffee or a drink in Newmarket?

The team at Teed Street Larder keep me well supplied with coffee; while The Lumsden supply me with great craft beer!

N. Describe Newmarket in 3 words:

Our new home.

N. What do you wish you’d known before you started your career?

Life is for living, enjoy the chaos.

N. How do you start each morning?

With a big mug of coffee and toast with jam.

N. What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve received?

The past is the past, now what are we going to do today?!

N. What is your favourite holiday destination and why?

There are so many places I love holidaying in! Phuket would have to be one of my favourites though.

N. What is Newmarket’s best kept secret?

Happy Prime has just recently moved into our new offices on Teed Street, so I don’t have a secret spot just yet but I’m looking forward to discovering what Newmarket has to offer.

N. What would you consider to be your greatest achievement?

My two boys.

N. Name one item that you can’t live without.

Coffee.

N. It’s 10am on a Sunday morning. Where would we find you and what are you doing?

I am typically at the Olympic Pool watching my boys have their swimming lessons.

N. Who has had the greatest influence on your life and why?

My father. He is always supportive and ready to give me honest feedback.

N. What is your greatest fear?

Being bored.

N. What do you love most about your job?

Not having a “proper” job title!

happyprime.co.nz | 1 Teed Street