Having played 197 international tests for the New Zealand Men’s Black Sticks hockey team, appearing at the 2012 Olympics and winning a bronze medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games – Andrew Hayward knows a thing or two about teamwork.
Now, as the new owner operator of Four Square Red Beach, he’s bringing that same spirit of teamwork, collaboration and leadership to his community.
“Sports prepared me for store ownership in so many ways,” Andrew explains.
“The constant challenges, the importance of working together – every day is a test. You win some, you lose some, but you always re-strategise and then come back stronger the next day.
“Being an owner of a Four Square is similar. I’m excited to take all the lessons I’ve learnt at the highest level of sport and put them towards making my store the best it can be for the Red Beach community.
After a few years of living, working, travelling, and playing hockey overseas, Andrew returned to New Zealand in 2016 to start his retail journey with Foodstuffs North Island, the 100% New Zealand owned co-operative whose local grocers own and operate the North Island’s New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores.
Andrew had already met several Foodstuffs owners through sport, but it was while working as a butchery business manager at Foodstuffs North Island’s support centre, that it became clear to him just how much each owner contributes to their local communities.
“I realised I wanted to be an owner because I wanted to be part of something bigger,” he says.
“I wanted to run my own business, be part of the community, and build a strong team where I could develop and support people, just like coaching young athletes.
“Every Four Square looks after the community in its own unique way. Everyone is working together in the same team.
“Whether you’re coaching young kids or developing a team, it’s all about communication and support to make them stronger.”
Situated on the Hibiscus Coast, just north of Auckland, Red Beach is a sunny beach town home to friendly locals and visiting tourists. Four Square Red Beach is the only supermarket within walking distance of the town.
“Whether you’re a local looking for that one extra dinner ingredient, or a passing surfer looking for some sun block, we’ve got a great range of everyday essentials, value items and treats.” Andrew took over ownership of the store in June 17th 2024, and he says the place is already feeling like home.
“My family is settling in amazingly,” he says.
“My wife Hannah, and my two girls Eddie (6) and Tilly (3) are excited to be here, and it’s great to have them be a part of the store. We’ve been checking out the surf beach and the shopping centre, just talking to locals, introducing ourselves, and asking what they’d like to see from the store.”
“The store team are really strong, and the locals have been friendly and welcoming.”
“It’s feels great to be here and it’s amazing to feel the love right away.”
