Archive: June 2023

UK Correspondent: Peter Minkoff

The economies of New Zealand and the United States both heavily rely on the real estate sector. The two nations’ approaches to property, however, differ significantly. Understanding these disparities is essential for both investors and homeowners, from market dynamics to legislation. The following piece will compare and contrast the housing markets in the USA and New Zealand in five main areas, highlighting the differences between both.

Market Size and Dynamics

The United States significantly outpaces New Zealand in terms of market size. The US real estate sector is noticeably bigger and more diverse, with a sizable land area and a population of over 330 million. Due to the market’s growth, there are more different sorts of properties and investment options available. On the other side, New Zealand has a more constrained market with fewer investment opportunities due to its lower population and geographical area. Despite this distinction, each area has special chances for those seeking to invest in land and properties.

Financing and Mortgage Practices

There are also observable disparities between US and NZ mortgage and financing practices. Long-term fixed-rate mortgages are frequently available in the United States of America, frequently with small down payments. This makes it possible for buyers to spread out the cost of owning across several years. In contrast, shorter-term mortgages with bigger down payments are more common in New Zealand. In addition, compared to the USA, New Zealand uses interest-only mortgages more frequently. These different financing alternatives are a reflection of how each nation views homeownership.

The Importance of Location

In the real estate industry, location has a significant impact on demand and property values. The significance of location can be seen in the United States, where some cities are seeing rapid growth and appreciation while others are experiencing a downturn in their economies. For instance, the demand for excellent apartments near Lubbock, Texas, has increased as a result of the city’s economic expansion and ideal living circumstances. However, compared to major US cities, location matters less in New Zealand due to its smaller market and more balanced economic landscape. Considering their popularity and amenities, places like Auckland and Queenstown continue to fetch greater home prices.

Property Ownership and Foreign Investment

Regulations governing foreign investment and property ownership differ between New Zealand and the United States. International investors can buy properties in the United States with relative ease because there are no limits on foreign ownership of real estate. However, in order to limit foreign ownership and speculation, New Zealand has put in place stronger controls. There are a number of restrictions that non-residents wanting to invest in NZ real estate must work around, including prohibitions on buying pre-existing residential homes. These laws are designed to balance local housing needs and stop market speculation.

Regulatory Framework

The two countries’ housing industries are governed by quite different legal systems. In the USA, state rules and regulations are primarily in charge of regulating the real estate industry. This decentralized strategy may result in different licensing standards, disclosure laws, and transactional processes in different states. NZ, in comparison, has a more centralized regulatory structure with laws that apply across the country managing property transactions. For buyers, sellers, and agents, this standardization streamlines the procedure and creates a more consistent experience. The fact that both nations continue to update and alter their legislation to take into account changing market situations and consumer needs must be noted, even within these frameworks.

In conclusion, there are significant disparities between the New Zealand and American housing markets in a number of areas. For individuals intending to buy homes in either country, recognizing these differences is crucial. Investors and homeowners can traverse the complexities of the real estate industry with greater assurance if they take into account the distinctive features of each market.

UK Correspondent: Peter Minkoff

Search engine optimisation (SEO) has grown in importance as a component of online marketing strategies in the current digital era. Artificial intelligence (AI), a potent tool that has multiple effects on SEO, has emerged in the ever-evolving technological scene. The way search engines rank websites, interpret user intent, and deliver pertinent search results has been completely transformed by AI algorithms. We will examine the relationship between AI and SEO in this article and look into how AI affects the optimisation process.

Enhancing Search Engine Algorithms

Search engines, such as Google, are constantly working to enhance their algorithms to give users the most accurate and worthwhile search results. By analysing massive volumes of data, gaining insight from user behaviour, and adjusting to shifting patterns, AI significantly contributes to improving these algorithms. It is crucial for businesses to stay up-to-date with the most recent AI-driven SEO techniques because search engines can now understand complex search queries better, interpret user intent more precisely, and give highly relevant search results. Following these trends will be critical to success.

Improving User Experience

User experience (UX) is now a key component of SEO as well. By delivering tailored and contextually relevant content, AI-powered technologies like natural language processing and machine learning have significantly enhanced the user experience. Websites are able to provide specialised information and recommendations by using AI algorithms to analyse user behaviour and find trends and preferences. Companies must embrace the power of AI to create outstanding user experiences that fuel their search engine optimisation efforts as this not only increases user pleasure but also the likelihood of conversions and customer loyalty.

Identifying Potential Issues

Tools with AI capabilities can be quite useful for spotting potential SEO issues and speeding up optimisation. An effective SEO crawler, for instance, is necessary to find technical problems that might influence a website’s functionality and search engine rankings. Utilising a great crawler tool to conduct thorough website audits on a regular basis aids in locating duplicate content, broken links, and other technical issues that impede SEO efforts. This makes it possible for companies to be proactive and keep a strong optimisation environment.

Voice Search Optimisation

The development of virtual assistants and smart speakers has had a big impact on how consumers look for information. Due to the fact that voice search optimisation demands a different strategy than conventional text-based search, it has grown to be an essential part of SEO. By comprehending natural language, speech patterns, and user intent, AI is essential to voice search. Using conversational keywords, offering succinct responses to frequently asked inquiries, and making sure your website is mobile-friendly are all components of content optimisation for voice search. Firms can increase their exposure and draw more organic visitors by implementing AI-driven voice search optimisation tactics.

Streamlining Content Creation

In the world of SEO, content reigns supreme, and AI has significantly streamlined the content production process. AI-powered systems are capable of producing high-quality content, conducting content audits, and optimising already-existing content. Organisations can save time and resources by using natural language-generating algorithms to create articles, blog posts, and product descriptions. To guarantee authenticity, relevance, and brand identity, a balance between human- and AI-generated content must be maintained. To preserve a distinctive and appealing brand voice, businesses should use AI to automate regular content generation chores while still combining human creativity, experience, and a personal touch.

In conclusion, the world of digital marketing has been completely transformed by the merger of AI and SEO. Businesses must modify their SEO strategy to keep up with the improvements in AI as it progresses. Organisations can increase their online exposure, draw in more organic traffic, and stay one step ahead of the competition by utilising the power of artificial intelligence.

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz 

facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

FOR SALE 1093 Tairua Whitianga Road, Whenuakite, Whitianga 3591

The property in question is a rural grazing property spanning an area of 48 hectares. It is nestled in the picturesque rural area of Whenuakite, on the Thames Coromandel eastern coast. Previously, it operated as a dairy farm with all the necessary supporting buildings. However, it has more recently been used for cattle pasturing, with the potential for much more.

The Hot Water Beach and the town of Hahei are a 10-minute drive away and the Cathedral Cove car park is a 14-minute drive. Whenuakite school is a mere few hundred metres down the road.

The main dwelling on the property is a substantial weatherboard house in average condition. Additionally, there is a second dwelling, an unused cowshed, a large implement shed, and other standard rural lifestyle improvements. With a bit of TLC, the dwellings could be evolved to the new owner’s preferences.

With flat to undulating terrain split into 38 paddocks suitable for dry stock and dairying. The farm has a very good soil type which is classified as Allophanic (the parent material is volcanic ash). The soil is a silt loam with good drainage characteristics and there are no barriers for root growth to at least 2 meters for most of the farm. There are 40 hectares that can be used for horticulture, such as kiwifruit and avocados, as shown on the neighbouring properties. It has natural shelter, and the annual rainfall is usually 1900 mm. There is a stream running through the property that does not dry up and the water source to the property is from a gravity-fed natural spring in the bush. How can it get any more Kiwi than that?!

The property encompasses sprawling acres, where lush green meadows meet gently rolling hills and dense forests. From the moment you set foot on this ground, you’re greeted by a sense of tranquillity. The pristine natural surroundings serve as a constant reminder of the immense power and beauty of New Zealand.

1093 Tairua Whitianga Road is a place where dreams come alive, where nature and community intertwine. Explore the landscape and embrace the energy that permeates every corner.

Video and Photo credit to Dwight Dawson

Link to a video and photos of the property:

Dwelling 1:

Bedrooms: 4

Bathroom: 1 Combined bath/shower/toilet, 1 Separate Toilet,

Floor area: 164 sqm approx.

Dwelling 2:

Bedrooms: 3

Linkedin Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1093tairuawhitiangaroad/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/1093TairuaWhitiangaRoad

Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/1093tairuawhitiangaroad/

Contact Phillip Quay

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy is welcoming the announcement that this Winter, pharmacies are providing Health Consultations and treatments for a range of common conditions.
For eligible patients, this service can be FREE.

The conditions covered are: 

– Acute diarrhea/vomiting/ dehydration 

– Bacterial eye infections 

– Eye inflammation 

– Pain/fever 

– Scabies/ Head lice 

– Eczema/ Dermatitis 

– Minor skin infections. 

Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy owner Nancy Nasef says, “It is really important to me to feel like I am serving the community, that I am there for my community.”

“Call in and make a time to see us for trusted advice to help you to manage your condition. We can provide treatment options including medicine.  If your condition needs further support, we can recommend the best place for you to go for your condition.” – says Nancy 

“We can safely and efficiently dispense a wide range of medicines, including prescription and non-prescription treatments for most common ailments and medical conditions.”

Who is eligible to receive this FREE service?

The FREE Winter Health Consultations are available for:

• All Māori and Pacific people.
• All Children under 14 years of age, or Whānau members of a child with similar symptoms*
• All Community Service Card (CSC) holders

*For example, if the pharmacist gives your child medicine for scabies and you, or your brothers and systems also have symptoms, they may give advice and medicine to all of you.

The service runs from Monday 12 June to Saturday 30 September 2023.

If you don’t meet the FREE eligibility criteria, one of our pharmacists will be able to provide you with advice about your health condition, appropriate treatment options and let you know whether you should also see your doctor or another healthcare provider.

“You and your family’s health and well-being is at the centre of everything we do. We care that the people in our local community can trust our team of friendly, local professionals to provide advice and solutions to help them live happily and live well.”

“If you did need more advice or wanted to talk to someone, I want people to understand that they can come in and talk to a very highly qualified professional about anything.” –says Nancy.

Contact Devonport 7 Day Pharmacy

09 445 4000

www.devonport7daypharmacy.co.nz 

www.facebook.com/247pharmacy.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Located in the vibrant city of New Plymouth and established in 2018, Mike’s Bistro has become a beloved destination for food lovers and beer enthusiasts alike. Since its establishment, Mike’s Bistro has stood out for its commitment to providing an unforgettable dining experience.

One of the defining aspects of Mike’s Bistro is the hands-on involvement of the owners. They can be found on the floor, working side by side with the staff and interacting with customers on a daily basis. This level of dedication and personal involvement sets the tone for the entire establishment, creating an atmosphere of warmth and genuine hospitality. They also go the extra mile by personally tasting and serving the meals and drinks to ensure quality is always maintained.

Mike’s Bistro has implemented an electronic tablet menu and ordering system for an easier experience. This allows patrons to explore the extensive menu, providing them with detailed information about each dish and beer offering. Additionally, the ordering system gives customers more control over their dining experience, ensuring their preferences are met. They are also involved with Bartecard for even easier collaboration.

With the largest selection of quality Craft Beer on tap in New Plymouth, and delectable food such as Seafood Chowder, Scotch Fillet Steak, Ferdinand & Friends Burger, Katsu Chicken Rice Bowl, Calamari, and Hakka Chilli Chicken entrée’ to name a few. Teamed with genuine hospitality has earned Mike’s Bistro a loyal following. Visitors are not just customers; they become part of a community that shares a passion for great beer and memorable experiences. This atmosphere makes Mike’s Bistro a standout destination in New Plymouth’s bustling culinary scene.

Mike’s Bistro is more than just a place to enjoy a great meal and exceptional beer. It is a testament to the dedication and passion of its owners, who work tirelessly to create an environment that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. So, whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone seeking an extraordinary dining experience, a visit to Mike’s Bistro in New Plymouth is an absolute must.

Contact Mike’s Bistro

bistro@mikesbeer.co.nz

027 333 0215

facebook.com/mikesbistroNP

www.mikesbeer.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

Small businesses in industries such as cafes/restaurants, hair salons/barbershops, bakeries, Web Designers/IT, gyms etc can benefit from an insurance broker. Insurance brokers act as valuable partners to help business owners protect their investments and navigate the complexities of insurance.

1. Customized Insurance Solutions:

Insurance brokers understand the unique risks associated with each industry. They work with business owners to assess their specific needs. Brokers leverage their industry knowledge to identify risks and design insurance packages that adequately cover property damage, liability claims, professional indemnity, employee compensation, and more.

2. Time and Cost Savings:

Insurance brokers can help small business owners with insurance-related matters, by handling policy research, comparisons, and negotiations. They use their network and relationships with insurance providers to secure competitive rates and coverage options, saving time and potentially reducing insurance costs.

3. Risk Management and Loss Prevention:

Insurance brokers collaborate with business owners to identify potential risks and develop risk management strategies. By conducting comprehensive risk assessments, implementing safety protocols, and providing guidance on preventive measures, brokers help mitigate potential losses. This approach may minimize business disruptions and can also lead to reduced insurance premiums.

4. Claims Advocacy:

Many brokers give support around claims along with the brilliant claims team behind them. They can guide them through the claims process, ensuring prompt and fair settlements. They have knowledge of policy terms and conditions and negotiate on behalf of their clients, helping them focus on their business, not on the claim.

5. Ongoing Support and Expertise:

The insurance landscape evolves, and policies need to be reviewed and adjusted to align with changing business needs. Insurance brokers provide support by regularly reviewing policies, identifying coverage gaps, and suggesting modifications to ensure small business owners have up-to-date insurance coverage.

Small business owners should partner with an insurance broker to access tailored insurance solutions, manage risks, receive claims advocacy, and receive ongoing support. This helps them focus on their passion and growth while having a comprehensive insurance plan in place.

Is your insurance due for renewal? Give Wayne Cooney your go-to insurance broker a call for a free quote or review today!

Contact Wayne Cooney

Cooney.wayne@gmail.com

021 347 640

www.waynecooneyinsurancebroker.co.nz

facebook.com/waynecooneyinsurancebroker

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

The new owners of the Friends Café, Ravi Singh and Priye Kumari Darshni, are not only passionate about food but also take immense pride in what they serve to their customers. Their journey began on July 6th, 2022 when their ideas and dreams morphed into the beloved café located in Papamoa. In the span of just eight months, they have tirelessly toiled to offer their patrons top-quality products, prepared from scratch and sourced locally. From regulars who drop by for their daily caffeine fix to first-time visitors exploring Papamoa and its sites, everyone is made to feel like a cherished friend.

One of the distinguishing features of Friends Café is its inclusivity. Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of their customers, the café warmly welcomes individuals with specific dietary requirements. Ravi and Priya have made it a point to cater to various dietary preferences, including gluten intolerance, keto, vegetarian, and other special diets.

To accommodate different occasions and events, Friends Café provides a range of menus for their catering services. Friends Café aims to expand its catering services, making it the go-to choice for anyone seeking outstanding, handcrafted food for their next event. How does it get any better than that?

The café proudly serves locally roasted Altura coffee beans, which perfectly complement their all-day Kiwi breakfast and brunch options available seven days a week. By ensuring consistency in their offerings, Ravi and Priya have remained steadfast in their belief that quality should never be compromised.

But what about the canines? Well, dogs are also welcome to share in the space that is Friends Café!

Friends Café in Papamoa is a testament to the passion and culinary skill of Ravi and Priya, who have turned their idea into a reality. With their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional food and fostering a sense of community, the duo has created a haven where delicious food and warm hospitality come together. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Papamoa, a visit to Friends Café promises to be a delightful experience for the senses.

Contact Friends Café

website- friendscafepapamoa.co.nz

email- Friends26cafe@gmail.com

mobile no-0278354119

landline-075757288

Contact Phillip Quay

Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

In Aotearoa, New Zealand, half of the gross emissions come from agriculture, which includes
the majority of nitrous oxide and biogenic methane emissions. 
Agriculture is a significant emitter, but reducing emissions will build the sector’s resilience.
To meet our 2050 target, it is crucial to decrease these emissions, specifically biogenic
methane emissions, by 24-47% by 2050.
One central approach to reducing emissions is through changes in significant polluters such
as the Tiwai smelter. This could involve transitioning from coal power to a different form of
gas.
The second approach is to release water vapour from the exhaust of hydrogen-powered cars
rather than a carbon molecule.
The 3 rd approach is to reduce carbon (methane, NO 2 and CO 2 ) from agriculture.

“As a scientist, I know we must do all these to reduce carbon emissions for a
sustainable future”.

Farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs in New Zealand are skilled at finding innovative
solutions. Vaccinees are being worked on and testing trials are being conducted.
For example, they have discovered a way to reduce methane emissions by feeding cows a
certain type of seaweed (as much as 90% reduction) or biochar (15% methane reduction),
which also helps to bind nitrogen and reduce NO 2 emission from cow dung and prevent
nitrate leaching once the biochar gets to 10% of the soil volume.

“New Zealand signed up to the Paris Protocol – so we are heading in this direction
whether we agree or disagree”.

Livestock accounts for about 75% of agricultural emissions, primarily from biogenic methane.
Nitrous oxide from nitrogen fertiliser use accounts for about 3.9% of agricultural emissions.
Additionally, we have set separate targets for reducing biogenic methane emissions.
Specifically, we aim to decrease biogenic methane emissions by 10 per cent by 2030
compared to 2017 levels and by 24 to 47 per cent by 2050.
The agricultural industry significantly impacts the environment, accounting for a growing
portion of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Therefore, the sector must take action to limit the effects
of climate change.
There are various ways to decrease nitrous oxide emissions, such as:

• improving fertiliser application and
• opting for low-nitrogen crops. 

Reducing production intensity, even by a small amount, can positively impact the
environment while maintaining profitability. In addition, farmers can offset their greenhouse
gas emissions by planting trees.
Studies have shown that optimising food production by altering farming methods is vital to
decreasing emissions from agriculture. By utilising a range of established technologies and
practices currently in use, we could achieve up to 20% of the necessary emissions reduction
for the sector by 2050.

Steps to reduce emissions

1. Know your farm’s greenhouse gas emissions.
   Most dairy farmers will receive their greenhouse gas information from their dairy company. In
   addition, Fonterra farmers will have received a report that includes an emissions profile to
   help identify emission sources. 
2. Identify opportunities to reduce emissions and capture carbon.
   Many opportunities involve making simple changes to current farm management practices;
   others require a farm system analysis.

How can we improve the efficiency of pasture and crop production?

Reducing nitrogen loss and emissions are firmly connected. The focus is on lowering N-
surplus, decreasing imported/harvested feed and reducing methane.
Some tips for reducing N-surplus:

• use less N-fertiliser and supplementary feed
• make the most of homegrown pasture and crops
• improve the timing and placement of N-fertiliser
• ensure proper soil fertility, and
• optimise pasture quality and production.

An effective way to reduce methane emissions is by regulating the feed given. Studies
indicate that there is a connection between methane production and feed consumption. 
This implies that the more feed given per hectare, the higher the methane emissions will be.

Research shows there is a direct link between feed intake and methane produced. For every
additional kg of total feed eaten per hectare, total methane emissions increase
proportionally.

“Feeding Biochar to Cows is an Innovative Solution for Improving Soil Fertility and
Farm Productivity”.

One of the issues of cattle farming is the urine patch, and high fertility, i.e. the loss of
nutrients in the ground.
“If you feed animals with carbon supplement such as biochar, you can reduce methane by
15 per cent and nitrous oxide by 50 per cent and reduce nitrate leaching”.
To conclude; by the start of 2025 ALL NZ farms must have a written plan to measure and
manage their emissions aligning with the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Act.

Dr Gordon Rajendram is a New Zealand Independent Soil Scientist specialising in Soil Fertility, Agronomy & Farm Environmental Consultancy.

Gordon Rajendram
9 Kakanui Avenue, Hillcrest, Hamilton 3216
P: 021 466 077
E: rajendram@xtra.co.nz
Web site: https://gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz/
‘ Bringing science to the farm.’

Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz
facebook.com/mediapa