FAQ
Why do you specialise in the education sector?
The education sector is unique and we believe it requires a specialist response. With our background in secondary and tertiary education we understand the dynamics and we care and providing a solution that actually makes a difference.
Why did you choose the name Basalt Solutions?
It's inspired by the basalt rock in the volcanic crater that borders our home town of Christchurch, New Zealand. Basalt is a rock that can be trusted to remain reliable and dependable under pressure - exactly what you need from an investigation. We think it sums up our mission nicely.
How big is your team?
Basalt Solutions is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Tim and Natalie Sterne. Tim manages our operations and Natalie provides administrative support. We engage other experts when required.
How does an independent investigation actually work?
You're dealing with a complaint, grievance or allegation of misconduct. You need to investigate to establish the facts. Contact us and we'll tell you whether we can investigate for you. We'll work with you to create agreed Terms of Reference. We conduct the investigation independently of you, keeping you regularly updated on any emerging risks that need to be managed and the progress of our investigation.
At the conclusion of our investigation, you receive a final investigation report on which to base your decisions.
How can you conduct workplace investigations when you're not an employment lawyer?
It's a common misconception that you have to engage an employment lawyer to undertake workplace investigations. This is not the case. We understand the areas of employment law that govern the way in which investigations should be conducted. We don't need to be employment lawyers because we don't provide you with any legal advice. An investigation is simply a fact-finding exercise. We don't make recommendations about what should happen as a result of the investigation. We leave that decision up to you and any lawyers you might wish to engage separately to us. Because we investigate independently, you avoid any perceptions of bias. We believe you get the best result when you pay a lawyer to operate within their area of expertise and pay specialist investigators to investigate. If you require the services of an employment lawyer, we can refer you on to someone in our network. We work with large firms as well as independent operators.
How do you conduct an investigation outside Christchurch?
There are three options. Firstly, we can travel to your location and conduct the investigation in-person. Secondly, in some cases, the entire investigation can be conducted remotely using Microsoft Teams and Zoom - this is a very efficient and cost-effective option. Thirdly, we can take a hybrid approach - interview as many people as possible remotely and only travel to conduct the most important interviews face-to-face.
How much investigation experience do you have?
Tim joined the New Zealand Police in 2012. He quickly progressed to the Criminal Investigation Branch where he was promoted to the rank of Detective Sergeant. He has investigated serious crime all around New Zealand and has deployed to Australia. He has led investigations into allegations of misconduct and corruption within Police, other government agencies and private businesses. Since launching Basalt Solutions, he has led investigations into allegations of bullying, harassment, sexual abuse, fraud and corruption. He has trained staff in investigation leadership and investigative interviewing. He has helped his clients write policy and procedure and managed physical threats to people and property.
What would a typical consulting engagement look like?
You've identified a gap in the way you prevent, triage or respond to complaints, grievances or misconduct allegations. Contact us to book a consultation. We discuss your problem and tell you whether we can provide a solution. If you need a written a proposal we can create one for you. Once all the formalities are out of the way, we'll get to work.
What are your workshops like?
They contain a combination of case studies, discussion, scenario-based exercises, and role-playing. Some people will be pushed outside their comfort zone and we'll be guaranteed to have a laugh along the way.
How do you charge for your work?
Our hourly rate is NZD$250 plus taxes. If we have to charge for travel time, it's charged at half our hourly rate. For a short investigation we can provide a fixed fee, however most of our investigations are charged at an hourly rate. Our workshops are a flat fixed rate for up to 10 participants. A bigger class size may be negotiated for an additional cost per participant. Consulting projects are usually charged by the hour but in some cases we can offer fixed fee.
How can I keep up to date with the work you’re doing?
Join a group of professionals from across Australia and New Zealand by subscribing to our newsletter using the form at the bottom of the page. Our newsletter contains investigation tips, news, case studies, and updates.
Can I make suggestions regarding your consulting services and training?
Sure. We get all sorts of requests and we love finding new ways to help our clients. Just contact us and tell us what you need. If we can't do it, we'll do our best to refer you on to someone who can.
