Archive: 2024

Discover the Pacific with Hawkes Bay Travel Agency Champion Travel and Pacific Resort Hotel Group

30 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Travel

Embark on a dream island getaway with Champion Travel, your gateway to the luxurious properties of Pacific Resort Hotel Group in the beautiful Cook Islands. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo escape, Pacific Resort Hotel Group offers the perfect setting to suit your travel needs.

Experience the untouched beauty of Pacific Resort Aitutaki, where white sandy beaches meet vibrant blue lagoons. This award-winning luxury resort offers beachfront bungalows and villas, providing you with front-row access to the stunning natural surroundings. Relax in style while indulging in world-class dining and rejuvenating spa treatments.

For a cultural immersion, head to Pacific Resort Rarotonga, located on the main island. With its unique blend of Polynesian charm and modern amenities, this boutique beachfront resort offers easy access to local markets, traditional performances, and adventure activities. Perfect for families or those looking to explore the local culture while staying in comfort.

If privacy and tranquillity are what you seek, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa offers self-contained beachfront villas, providing the ultimate blend of independence and indulgence. With your private pool and optional in-villa spa services, you’ll experience the beauty of Rarotonga in an intimate, luxurious setting.

For a romantic escape, Little Polynesian Resort, an adults-only retreat on Rarotonga’s southern coast, offers stunning beachfront and garden studios, ideal for couples wanting to experience a more intimate island getaway.

Champion Travel partners with Pacific Resort Hotel Group to offer exclusive deals and tailored experiences, ensuring your time in the Cook Islands is unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking relaxation, these stunning resorts will provide the perfect backdrop for your next holiday.

Let Champion Travel help you discover your slice of paradise with Pacific Resort Hotel Group!

Contact Maxwell Burns at Champion Travel

021 022 02220

info@championtravel.co.nz

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Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

AI Revolution: Transforming the Global Travel Industry

27 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Artificial Intelligence, Travel

UK Correspondent: Peter Minkoff

AI has become a strong force in many fields, and this goes without saying in the travel industry. Be it automating customer service or bespoke travel recommendations, AI technologies come out as a strong disrupting force that changes how people plan, experience, and reflect on their journeys. In this age, consumers yearn for personalisation, AI processes vast amounts of data and delivers insight in real time. Its international scope means that tourists from Tokyo to Toronto reap from its sophisticated applications and radically change how the world travels.

The Role of AI in Enhancing Sustainable Travel

In New Zealand, AI is being harnessed not only to improve the experience but to further sustainability efforts as well. With its striking natural landscapes and strong environmental focus, New Zealand is leveraging AI to promote eco-friendly tourism. AI systems help in managing tourist traffic in hotspots by utilising predictive models so that overcrowding does not take place and the impact on the environment is reduced. Besides, AI-enabled tools have started helping travellers make more eco-friendly choices by recommending sustainable accommodation options, energy-efficient modes of transportation, and ecotourism options. In this manner, integrating AI into New Zealand’s tourism not only fortifies ease of travel but also ensures that this pure environment will be preserved for future generations. AI is leading from the front to show how technology can help the country keep its reputation of promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Changing Transportation: AI-Driven Transformation

In the United States, AI is playing a significant role in optimising transportation and enhancing the travel experience among locals and cross-country. Major cities are now integrating AI into the public transportation systems for better optimisation of predictive analytics for improving traffic flow and congestion, hence accurate times in public transport schedules. Every kind of ride-hailing app makes use of AI techniques that help them match the rides of the passengers effectively with that of the drivers. This reduces wait times while commuting. In addition, it optimises routes to reduce travel time and ensures safety on board in the charter bus industry. For travellers in Boston, for instance, finding the best charter bus companies has become more streamlined through AI-powered platforms that offer real-time tracking and customised service options. These technologies enable travellers to explore cities with ease while reducing the unpredictability that normally characterises transportation.

Personalised Travel Planning: Redefining the Experience

Perhaps one of the most profound influences AI has on the travel industry is in personalising travel planning. AI-driven platforms analyse user preferences, browsing habits, and travel history to recommend destinations, accommodations, and activities tailored precisely to a certain individual. These algorithms go through millions of data points and make recommendations that otherwise would have been difficult to stumble upon using usual search methods. Further, chatbots and virtual travel agents help power bookings and answer questions, apart from real-time updates. This saves time but also ensures that the best available opportunities are extended to travellers. Many companies have embraced AI that yields predictive insights on flight prices and trip itineraries, thus letting travellers make informed decisions based on data rather than guesswork.

AI in Global Hospitality: A Revolution in Guest Services

AI is making waves in the global hospitality industry. AI is being integrated into operations around the world to offer superior guest experiences in hotels and resorts. The range of AI-powered virtual assistants goes from taking room service orders to facilitating check-ins, even offering customised recommendations of nearby attractions. Certain high-end hotels have gone as far as adding AI-powered robots that welcome guests, bring luggage, and even serve room service. Moreover, AI is supporting hoteliers in providing an analysis of guest feedback to anticipate needs and improve services in real time. Machine learning models will predict guest preferences from past stays for hyper-personalised experiences that enhance customer satisfaction. This makes one seamless travel experience wherein the needs of guests are almost intuitively understood, further solidifying AI’s transformational influence in global hospitality.

Conclusion: The Future of Travel

As AI continues to mature, with each passing day its impact on the travel industry will deepen. From personalised trip planning to AI-enabled transportation, the potential of the technology to enable newer ways of smarter, more efficient, and more enjoyable travel experiences is limitless. As it is, predictions are difficult regarding when fully AI-powered travel could turn into a reality; however, looking at the present trajectory, it most definitely will be an exciting future for travellers around the planet.

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Spring into Flavour at Great Spice Otumoetai – Your Local Indian Restaurant

23 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Food

https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact

As the days grow warmer, Great Spice Otumoetai, your local Indian restaurant, is ready to tantalise your taste buds with a selection of light and refreshing Indian dishes, perfect for spring. Whether you prefer a traditional curry or something a little different, there’s something for everyone on the menu.

For those looking for a lighter bite, the Tandoori Prawn Salad and Tandoori Chicken Salad offer a fresh twist on classic tandoori flavours. These salads combine succulent, marinated prawns or chicken with crisp greens, providing a perfect balance of smoky and refreshing. The Chicken Tikka and Garlic Tikka deliver the same tandoori magic, with perfectly grilled pieces of chicken, while the Great Platter allows you to enjoy a variety of these popular dishes in one.

Indian street food enthusiasts will enjoy the crispy, flavour-packed Samosa and Onion Bhaji, while the hearty Samosa Chaat takes things to the next level with its delicious medley of spices, sauces, and textures. For something a little different, try the Honey Cauliflower, a sweet and tangy twist, or the ever-popular Chicken Lollipop.

For those who prefer non-curry options, the menu includes Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice and a variety of noodles, ensuring that every guest finds something they love at Great Spice Otumoetai.

To complement your meal, cool down with a refreshing homemade Mango Lassi or a zesty Shikanji, and don’t forget to add a side of Raita for a cooling accompaniment.

Can’t make it into the restaurant? No problem! Great Spice Otumoetai offers easy online ordering and convenient takeaway options. Enjoy your favourite dishes from the comfort of your home or office with just a few clicks. Whether you’re planning a cosy night in or a spring picnic, our delicious meals can be picked up to go or delivered straight to your door.

This spring, embrace the season with fresh, vibrant flavours at Great Spice Otumoetai, where every dish is crafted to bring the taste of India to your table.

Contact Great Spice:

07-570 2244

info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz

https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact

https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATV’s “Top Beat” Horse Trek: The Ultimate Adventure for Experienced Riders

23 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Travel

For the ultimate horseback adventure, look no further than The Cardrona’s Top Beat—New Zealand’s highest guided horse trek. This exclusive ride offers plenty of fast-paced cantering and galloping on fun, forward-moving horses, perfect for experienced riders seeking a thrill off the beaten track.

Set in the rugged, mountainous terrain of the Cardrona Valley, Top Beat takes you high up into the hills for breathtaking views and an exhilarating ride. With steep climbs, sharp turns, and plenty of opportunities to let your horse stretch out in a full gallop, this is the fastest ride on offer at The Cardrona. As you navigate the remote bushy landscape, you’ll stop at a hitching rail high up the mountain, giving you a chance to catch your breath and snap some stunning photos. This exclusive alpine equine experience is one you won’t want to miss.

Right click on this video, go to show all controls, press play to see the action!

The trek lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and enjoy the thrill of riding these spirited, well-trained horses. Top Beat is not for beginners or nervous riders—this ride demands confidence and a passion for speed.

The Top Beat trek requires a minimum of two riders to go ahead, but solo riders can request a private, one-on-one experience (terms and conditions apply).

Don’t just take our word for it—experienced riders visiting Queenstown and Wanaka have been raving about this ride:

“Absolutely wonderful morning riding with Kelly on a private “Top Beat” ride. Lou is a beautiful, forward moving horse who was a joy to ride. Stunning landscape, interesting terrain and a fast pace makes for an exhilarating ride. Kelly is a fabulous, welcoming leader with lots of local knowledge that she shares along the way. Can’t recommend this experience highly enough if you are a comfortable rider. Would rate it 6/5 if I could!”

For those craving an unforgettable adventure, Top Beat is the ride of a lifetime!

To book this incredible adventure, email Kelly at info@thecardrona.co.nz.

Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs

info@thecardrona.co.nz

+64 3 443 1228

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Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

NZ Business Connect Welcomes Harmony Harding: A Fresh Perspective in the Painting Industry

18 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Business

Harmony Harding’s journey into the painting business is a story of passion, resilience, and significant milestones.  After losing her job and apprenticeship due to the recession back in October 2023, this led her to pursue sole tradership and start her own business. This drive led her to establish Harmony Painting Services, which officially launched in June 2024, following initial groundwork that began in October 2023.

Harmony Painting Services offers a diverse range of services, including residential painting, commercial projects, repainting, and new builds. The business currently employs the traditional cut and roll method, with plans to introduce spray painting and cabinetry spraying in the near future. Harmony’s target markets include homeowners, real estate developers, commercial property managers, retirement homes, and property renovation companies.

Over the past year, Harmony has achieved several notable milestones. Starting her self-employment journey at 24, she is approaching her first anniversary in business this October. Her social media presence has been growing steadily, and she is in the process of acquiring a shared office space. However, the most rewarding aspects of her journey have been the connections, friendships, and relationships she has built along the way.

Harmony’s core values—fairness, equality, honesty, trust, respect, integrity, and accountability—are central to her business philosophy. As a female in a traditionally male-dominated trade, she values fairness and equality, aiming to challenge underestimation and undervaluation in the industry. Her commitment to honesty, trust, and respect fosters strong relationships and customer loyalty, while a focus on customer satisfaction helps build a solid reputation.

What sets Harmony Painting Services apart is Harmony’s youthful perspective, her role as a female business owner, and her innovative approach to starting her business with limited experience. Her story is a testament to perseverance and passion, showing that success is attainable with dedication and hard work.

Contact Harmony Harding

Harmonypaintingservices@gmail.com

022 637 0204

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Contact Media PA


027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

NZ Business Connect introduces Mark from Pukeko Property Managers: Bespoke Property Management and Development Solutions

16 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Business

We are excited to welcome Mark from Pukeko Property Managers as the latest member of NZ Business Connect’s network. With over 14 years of experience in the industry, Pukeko Property Managers, founded by David Pearse, is a leader in professional and bespoke property management services across New Zealand. Mark has recently taken over the Tauranga franchise, bringing a wealth of expertise to existing property owners, new investors, and Iwi/Hapu.

Pukeko Property Managers offers a unique owner-operated service. Mark personally manages each property, ensuring high accountability and a personalised touch. This structure of limited properties per franchise allows Mark to offer clients dedicated attention and a professional, tailored experience.

Mark’s extensive background in building materials and construction equips him with valuable knowledge for property owners, especially those looking to buy, build, or maintain residential housing. His project management skills add another layer of value for investors interested in property development.

Honesty and integrity are at the core of Mark’s approach, as he understands the significance of managing people’s homes and investments, ensuring that both owners and tenants feel secure and well-cared for. As a member of the Residential Property Managers Association (RPMA), Mark is committed to professionalism and ongoing development, staying up to date with industry standards to deliver the best service possible.

With support from founder David Pearse, the first franchisee Vicky Harris, and the Pukeko Advisory Council, Mark is well-positioned to offer expert property management services, delivering peace of mind and long-term results for clients across Tauranga.

Whether you’re looking for property management, to buy or build, or to explore investment opportunities, Mark from Pukeko Property Managers offers professionalism and bespoke service, making him the ideal partner for managing your assets.

Contact Mark from Pukeko Rental Managers  

022 355 6510

mark@pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz

www.pukekorentalmanagers.co.nz

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Agraforum New Zealand: Tackling Soil Compaction for Dairy Farmers with Proven Solutions

12 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Rural
A single pugging event can cause severe compaction of the soil.

Canterbury, New Zealand — Soil compaction has long been a significant issue for farmers, especially following severe pugging events and intensive cropping practices that compress the soil and reduce productivity. Agraforum New Zealand, a leader in soil health innovation, has developed solutions to help farmers tackle this ongoing challenge. Compacted soils suffer from reduced hydraulic conductivity, poor air permeability, and increased resistance to root growth, all of which impair crop and pasture performance and reduce plant resilience.

Research highlights the impact of pugging on pasture yields: “On a Te Kowhai soil at the DairyNZ No. 2, Ruakura Research Centre dairy farm near Hamilton, a single severe pugging event by dairy cows reduced ryegrass DM yield by 37% and clover DM yield by 52% over the following 12 months” (Menneer et al., 2005). Similarly, intensive cropping can lead to soil compaction, with heavy machinery and repeated cultivation compacting the soil, restricting root development, and reducing water infiltration.

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading soil scientist, explains that soil compaction from both livestock and cropping practices continues to be a major concern for farm productivity. “Compacted soils limit water infiltration, root growth, and nutrient availability,” he says, pointing out the long-lasting effects that require targeted management.

Agraforum New Zealand compaction and Bio N field trials conducted by Dr. Gordon Rajendram in Canterbury.

In addition to less economical mechanical solutions like aeration, Dr Gordon Rajendram emphasises the importance of chemical interventions. “Introducing calcium-based products is vital for restoring soil structure and improving porosity, allowing roots to penetrate deeper and access essential nutrients,” he notes.

Farmers can also improve soil health by incorporating organic amendments and enhancing biological activity to break up compacted layers. These methods, combined with careful grazing and cropping management, can help restore soil structure, improve water retention, and promote stronger plant growth.

Agraforum New Zealand remains committed to providing sustainable, science-driven solutions to help farmers address soil compaction, ensuring long-term productivity and resilient pastures for future generations.

Contact Agraforum New Zealand

Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@Agraforum.co.nz

www.Agraforum.co.nz

About Agraforum New Zealand

Agraforum New Zealand has been a trusted partner to the farming community for years, helping farmers reduce the environmental impacts of their operations while boosting productivity. Their approach is in-depth, considering the unique soil conditions of each farm and providing tailored solutions that address both immediate problems, such as compaction, and long-term soil sustainability.

Contact Phillip Quay
phillip@mediapa.co.nz
P: 0274 587 724
www.mediapa.co.nz

References:

Crush, J.R., & Thom, E.R. Review: The effects of soil compaction on root penetration, pasture growth and persistence. AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton; DairyNZ, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton. Email: jim.crush@agresearch.co.nz.

From Recruitment to Retention: AI-Driven HR Insights

12 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Artificial Intelligence

UK Correspondent: Peter Minkoff

AI has reached a level of maturity whereby it is changing industries from top to bottom. Amongst these, one of the most visibly and significantly changed is the field of Human Resources. From facilitating recruitment processes to assisting in employee retention, the AI impact is turning out to be an important focus of HR practices. The article below highlights five key points about how AI will affect HR through the changes it will bring in operational modes for businesses, thus enabling them to meet the evolving needs of their workforce.

Automated Recruitment: Saving Time and Resources

Automated recruitment is the most effective use of AI in human resource departments. It is increasingly handling tasks related to filtering out resumes for vacancy matching by AI-powered tools, and even reaching the level of first-round interviewing with chatbots. These technologies help lessen the time recruiters spend on such manual activities and instead free them up for more strategic pursuits. Moreover, AI can grade candidates without biases, which sometimes may emanate from humans during the hiring process, hence making fair hiring decisions. Businesses are consequently reaping benefits such as reduced hiring costs and improved candidate sourcing as these systems become increasingly sophisticated.

Emergence of AI-Focused Job Platforms

With AI technologies diffusing into every industry, new types of jobs are emerging, while the role of platforms focused on careers in AI becomes pivotal to connecting talent with opportunities. These platforms help individuals find AI jobs, offering a streamlined interface for matching AI professionals with companies in need of specialised skills. Many platforms use artificial intelligence algorithms themselves, hence further enhancing the search for a job. They do this by matching people to jobs based on candidates’ resumes and career trajectories, placing them in locations that better fit their experiences and goals. This focus on AI does not help job seekers only but also allows companies to tap into an increasingly larger pool of AI-acumen talent, hence ensuring that they remain competitive in a fast-developing market.

Performance Management Through AI

AI has started to change the performance management landscape with immediate feedback and continuous monitoring. Rather than relying on annual or biannual performance reviews, an AI system can continuously analyse an employee’s productivity, collaboration efforts, and overall contribution. Thus, it gives birth to a more dynamic and transparent performance management system whereby employees can get actionable insights and areas for improvement in real time. Moreover, AI tools can point out various patterns that might have been overlooked by traditional management methods, such as recognising high performers who may be well-deserving of recognition or specifying the exact area where additional training or resources might be required for any team.

AI-Driven Employee Retention and Satisfaction

The retention of employees has always been one of the major concerns of the HR departments, and now AI is playing a significant role in helping sort it out. By analysing massive amounts of data, AI can identify specific patterns and trends contributing to employee turnover. Predictive analytics can then alert an HR team in advance about the potential risks, so they can take action before an employee has decided to leave. AI can be used to personalise employee engagement for the workers, ensuring that their needs are taken care of and that they receive all they require to stay satisfied and productive. This sort of personalised approach seems to pay off, providing a means of morale improvement and long-term loyalty.

Ethical Considerations and AI in HR

Ethical considerations are assuming greater importance as AI takes over big HR functions. One is ensuring that AI systems do not perpetuate biases, especially in recruitment and performance evaluations. Whereas AI can eliminate some human biases, algorithms are only as good as the data on which they were trained. If that data contains inherent biases, then the AI could reproduce them and even amplify them. HR teams must ensure they use transparent, fair AI tools that have been tested to the full. Finally, the most crucial factor is data privacy issues since AI systems handle sensitive employee data. It is required that the companies focus on data security and compliance with privacy regulations to ensure that employees’ personal information is secure.

In conclusion, artificial Intelligence is completely transforming human resources. With companies having to constantly change and mould to the shifting landscape, one thing is certain: AI will be one of the key building blocks in how HR evolves in the future.

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

CEO Peter Nation to step aside after nearly 30 years involvement with the New Zealand National Fieldays Society

12 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
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Categories: Rural

Peter Nation has announced he is stepping down from the helm of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, owner and operator of the 114 hectares of Mystery Creek Events Centre and the Iconic Fieldays® event, finishing up on the 20th December this year.

“I have made the decision to step aside so I can pursue more personal interests and time with family, I feel that I am leaving Society in a very stable position with a bright future ahead” says Nation.

Nation is quick to outline that he has been “in and around Society for nearly 30 years, so the time is right”, first as the major sponsor representative as the ANZ Regional Manager Rural, and the Bank’s sponsor representative, where he supported major capital investments such as the Mystery Creek Pavilion, followed by a variety of roles within the Society before being appointed as CEO in March 2016. 

Whilst 30 years of contributions is significant, Nation states it’s been a privilege and one not without its challenges.  “There is no escaping the weight of running an event business during turbulent pandemic times, but successfully navigating such upheaval will undoubtedly go down as one of my highlights”.

Nation says “Transitioning from governance to a senior management leadership role in the same organisation is not for the faint hearted.  There are not many people who get this unique experience or opportunity to help build something that opens up a massive window across the world for New Zealand agriculture. As CEO I have been given many opportunities both in New Zealand and across the world, attending and speaking at conferences and events, hosting important international delegations, promoting agriculture and food producers while ensuring we grow New Zealand through our many activities in events”.

“I have loved every minute of this high-profile role, which included leading a high performing team, successfully staging the largest event in New Zealand annually, operating the renowned Mystery Creek Events Centre while supporting the community, youth and the many organisations that need our support. A job like this does not get much better”.

He goes on to say “I have been blessed with very sound Board and Chairs leadership. It is so important to have trust and support between the CEO and Board. This success and growth are a direct result of these relationships which include leadership and wider team, including volunteers and members.  Not many people land roles like my current one, and while my career has been full of unique opportunities, this last one will be the one that will be fondly recalled in my memory.”

Society Board Chair, Jenni Vernon states Peter has been instrumental in building enduring and trusted relationships in our community and amongst key stakeholders including local and central government, all critical to the ongoing success of the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural Fieldays event and the Mystery Creek Events Centre’s social license to operate.  “It has been my pleasure to be Chair in Peter’s tenure as CEO and whilst change can be unsettling, Peter has set a solid foundation for the Society’s next phase having worked tirelessly to bring the organisation into the future, developing sound systems and processes that underpins the Society’s place on the world stage.  Alongside the Society Board and membership, we sincerely thank Peter, supported by his family, for his contributions and stewardship” says Vernon. 

Peter will sign off for the final time at the end of the year following the Society’s Annual Awards and celebration.

ENDS.

About the New Zealand National Fieldays Society

The New Zealand National Fieldays Society was created in 1968 to bring town and country together and to advance agriculture for the benefit of New Zealand through collaborative leadership in innovation, education, and globalisation.

The Society owns Fieldays® and operates the Mystery Creek Events Centre, supports education through grants and scholarships and gives back to the community through its charitable activities.

Business Web Solutions – Steve Fallon

11 September 2024
NZ Business Connect
No comments
Categories: IT Department

While working as a Sales Manager in Australia, Steve Fallon started Bizweb as a side venture in 2011, which grew into a full scale business. He has since relocated to New Zealand and continues to deliver exceptional results in website design, lead generation, and comprehensive CRM system integration. Bizweb specializes in transforming underperforming websites into highly effective lead generation platforms, enabling businesses to scale efficiently without increasing headcount.

At the core of Steve’s approach is the belief that businesses can leverage online automation to streamline operations and significantly enhance customer engagement. His expertise lies in implementing systems like AI chatbots, marketing automation, and SEO, which collectively drive customer acquisition and retention while empowering teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

Contact Steve Fallon

07 807 9484

steve@bizweb.nz

https://bizweb.nz/contact
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