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GWE Consulting Engineers Joins NZ Business Connect – Delivering Practical Solutions for Complex Challenges

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We are pleased to welcome GWE Consulting Engineers, through Johan Smit, to NZ Business Connect. GWE is a 100% New Zealand-owned, multidisciplinary consultancy with a reputation for solving complex problems and delivering practical, future-focused solutions. Established in 2011 by CEO Gareth Williams, the company has grown from a one-person home office on Auckland’s North Shore into a nationwide team of 50, with offices in Auckland, Waiheke Island, Hamilton and Tauranga. From the beginning, GWE’s motivation has been to provide high-quality engineering and environmental services that make a meaningful difference for clients of all sizes. The company started with residential and industrial wastewater expertise, then expanded into geotechnical engineering, civil and land development, stormwater, drinking water, and environmental services. Today, GWE works with a wide range of clients including architects, planners, project managers, surveyors and developers, helping projects move forward with clarity and confidence. At the heart of GWE’s approach are its values: Progress Engineered, Problems Solved. Guided by LIFT, which stands for Listen, Innovate, Follow Through, Team Up, the company is known as the team clients turn to when projects get tough or stall. By simplifying complexity and providing defensible, practical solutions, GWE ensures challenges are resolved in a calm, methodical way. GWE’s services cover the full spectrum of development and infrastructure needs. This includes site investigations and foundation solutions, subdivision design, stormwater and wastewater management, contaminated land assessment and drinking water systems. With integrated expertise under one roof, the company delivers smoother collaboration, faster results and fewer gaps between disciplines. What sets GWE apart is not just technical excellence but a strong culture built on trust, responsiveness and long-term partnerships. The company balances progress with responsibility, ensuring communities and businesses can grow sustainably while protecting people and the environment. With a personable scale and big capability, GWE continues to stand out as a reliable partner for projects of any size or complexity. NZ Business Connect is proud to welcome GWE Consulting Engineers, a business committed to solving hard problems and enabling sustainable growth for New Zealand. Contact GWE https://gwe.co.nz 07 838 3119 Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

Gail’s Flowers Joins NZ Business Connect: A Lifetime of Passion and Excellence in Floristry

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It is a pleasure to introduce Gail Jones, founder of Gail’s Flowers, as a new member of NZ Business Connect. Gail’s journey in floristry began in 1963 when, at just 18 years old, she opened her own florist shop after being told she was “overqualified” for employment. Determined to follow her dream of working with flowers, Gail built her own path and has spent over six decades creating arrangements that bring beauty and meaning to life’s most important moments. From weddings and funerals to family milestones, births, and celebrations, Gail’s Flowers provides floral arrangements for every occasion. The business also offers corsages and buttonholes for school balls, gift baskets, house plants, and a growing range of dried flowers. With a central Hamilton store filled year-round with blooms and gifts, along with an online ordering system and an active social media presence on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, Gail’s Flowers is both a trusted local florist and a modern, forward-looking business. What sets Gail apart is her rare combination of qualifications, international experience, and creative flair. Holding a Diploma with the New Zealand Professional Florists Association, membership with the American Institute of Floral Designers, and recognition as a Professional Floral Communicators International member, Gail has earned a reputation for excellence worldwide. Her achievements include placing second in the prestigious Interflora World Cup and serving as Manager Head Referee for the 2012 Interflora World Cup in China. For customers, this means every arrangement comes with the assurance of quality design, expert craftsmanship, and a personal touch. Gail’s wealth of experience also allows her to meet special requests, from unique and unusual designs to bespoke floral creations tailored for each client. At the heart of Gail’s Flowers are the values of honesty, design, service, and customer value. With over 60 years of dedication to her craft, Gail remains committed to offering her community not just flowers, but thoughtful creations that mark life’s most treasured occasions. NZ Business Connect is proud to welcome Gail’s Flowers, a business built on passion, experience, and a lifelong love of floristry. Contact Gails Flowers 07 839 0988 gailjones@gails.co.nz https://gails.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

Ignite YOUR Dreams: Paulette Coombes Joins NZ Business Connect to Help People Create Lives They Truly Love

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We are delighted to welcome Paulette Coombes, transformational life coach, to NZ Business Connect. Paulette’s journey into coaching began in 2023, when personal development created a profound turning point in her own life. Inspired by the lasting change she experienced, she followed her calling and trained with the Brave Thinking Institute as both a Dream Builder Coach and a Life Mastery Consultant. By October 2024, she had officially launched her coaching practice, dedicated to helping others design lives they truly love. Paulette offers transformational coaching via Zoom through one-on-one sessions, group coaching, and workshops both live and online. Her core programmes include the 12-week Dream Builder Programme, the 4-week Standing Firm Programme, and her six-month VIP offerings such as Life Mastery, Into Your Genius, and Working with the Law. These structured systems of support help clients move from feeling stuck or unfulfilled into a place of empowerment, clarity and possibility. Her coaching serves a wide audience. This includes individuals seeking clarity and purpose, people navigating major life transitions, youth needing confidence and direction, and organisations looking to support staff wellbeing through mindset and stress management workshops. Paulette also works with personal development enthusiasts and professional networks who want to deepen their growth through vision workshops and empowerment talks. At the heart of her work are three key messages. First, you don’t have to settle for a life that doesn’t make you feel alive. Second, discontent is not something to ignore, it is often a growth signal pointing us toward greater possibilities. And third, transformation is possible at any age or stage of life. What sets Paulette apart is that she has lived the transformation she now facilitates. With authenticity, compassion, and a heart-centred, vision-driven approach, she empowers people to overcome limiting beliefs, take inspired action, and create lasting results in health, relationships, vocation, and time and money freedom. NZ Business Connect is proud to welcome Paulette Coombes, a coach committed to guiding others toward their highest potential and a life they truly love. Contact Paulette Coombes paulettecoombeslifecoach@myyahoo.com +64 21 222 9114 Facebook page Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

McDonald’s Frankton and Centre Place Franchisee PJ Goel Joins NZ Business Connect’s Thriving Waikato Community

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We are thrilled to welcome PJ Goel, owner of McDonald’s Frankton and Centre Place in Hamilton, to the NZ Business Connect network. PJ’s journey into business ownership is an inspiring one, beginning with night shifts at NZ Post after arriving in New Zealand in 2004. From there, he built a successful retail chain before joining the McDonald’s franchise family in 2015. Today, PJ is proud to lead two thriving McDonald’s restaurants with a strong focus on community, customer experience, and people-first leadership. Since taking over McDonald’s Frankton and Centre Place in December 2023, PJ has brought a fresh energy to both locations. His vision is clear: to create warm, welcoming spaces that serve great food while supporting local families, staff and customers. Both stores offer McDonald’s beloved menu, including freshly brewed barista coffee and convenient drive-thru service. Frankton is open 24/7, while Centre Place operates throughout the week during standard shopping hours. At the heart of PJ’s approach is a deep belief in putting people first. This philosophy has shaped the culture in his restaurants, with a renewed focus on team morale, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. Families with young children are especially well catered to, with Frankton boasting a large play area featuring the iconic rocket ship. PJ has also reintroduced kids’ birthday parties – and they’ve been a hit. These affordable party packages include a decorated party room, a dedicated host, games, goodie bags, balloons, and of course, delicious McDonald’s food. All the stress is taken out of planning; families just need to show up and enjoy. To keep the fun going year-round, PJ’s team also runs interactive school holiday events such as colouring competitions, “Make Your Own Cheeseburger” days, and “Build Your Own Sundae” sessions. These experiences are designed to bring joy to kids and create lasting memories for families. With a strong foundation in entrepreneurial spirit and a clear dedication to people and community, PJ Goel is not just running restaurants; he’s creating places where memories are made, families connect, and people feel valued. NZ Business Connect is proud to support business owners like PJ, who lead with heart, vision, and a true commitment to making a difference in their local communities and are part of the social giving ethos. Contact McDonald’s Frankton/Centre Place You can contact their friendly staff by emailing events@pjmaccas.co.nz or calling 07 847 2780 Contact Media PA027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Food, Members

Sweet Success and Community Spirit – Izzy Hughes from The Girl On The Swing Joins NZ Business Connect

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We’re excited to welcome Izzy Hughes, owner of The Girl On The Swing, to the NZ Business Connect network. A familiar name in Hamilton, The Girl On The Swing is a cake shop known for its stunning custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies and personalised treats that add a special touch to any occasion. From corporate gifts and weddings to school fundraisers and community events, Izzy and his team deliver with care and creativity. Izzy took over the business two and a half years ago, building on its strong legacy and expanding its offerings. What was once focused mainly on buttercream cakes has grown into a hub of cake artistry, now including detailed fondant and royal icing designs. With Fernando, a highly skilled cake decorator with nearly 20 years’ experience, by his side, Izzy has elevated the standard of custom cakes in the Waikato. Community is at the heart of everything The Girl On The Swing does. Izzy is a strong believer in giving back, regularly supporting local schools, charities and events. From judging school bake sales and speaking to food tech classes to donating cupcakes for charity fundraisers, he shows time and again that his business is about more than profit. Looking ahead, Izzy is launching a new section of the website to offer cake decorating supplies to customers across New Zealand. He’s also planning to grow the business by offering wholesale options to other cake shops and home bakers, with a vision to create a thriving online store and eventually refit the shop for even better customer experience. The Girl On The Swing has become a trusted choice for a wide range of customers, from busy mums and engaged couples to home bakers and corporate clients looking to treat their teams or impress stakeholders. Whether you’re after a show-stopping cake, branded cupcakes for a business event, or thoughtful treats delivered across Hamilton, Izzy and his team bring creativity, care, and a personal touch to every order. To place an order or find out more, visit thegirlontheswing.co.nz or contact Izzy through the website. 07 855 4107 Info@thegirlontheswing.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

Supporting Kiwis into Homes and Business Success – Meet Paul Marlow from Vega Lend

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We are pleased to welcome Paul Marlow, Residential & Commercial Mortgage Adviser at Vega Lend, to the NZ Business Connect network. Based in the Waikato, Paul is a dedicated financial adviser who supports Kiwis through every stage of their personal and commercial lending journey. With a practical, hands-on approach and a strong focus on results, Paul helps clients navigate the ever-changing property and finance landscape with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, seasoned property investor, business owner, or planning a large-scale development, Paul is committed to helping you secure the most competitive and strategic lending solutions. Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to his role, working closely with clients to structure loans effectively and assess the feasibility of complex development projects, from land acquisition right through to project completion. His clients value his ability to simplify the lending process and offer clear, honest guidance tailored to their goals. At Vega Lend, Paul is part of a wider team that prides itself on personalised service and long-term client relationships. He understands that every situation is different and takes the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances, ensuring they receive tailored advice and lending support that fits. From residential mortgages to commercial lending and development finance, Paul’s expertise covers a wide range of financial services. His approach is grounded in integrity, transparency, and a genuine desire to see his clients succeed. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, approachable mortgage adviser who can help you take the next step, whether it’s buying a home, growing your investment portfolio, or undertaking a business development, Paul Marlow is ready to assist. Connect with Paul today to find out how he can help you structure smarter lending solutions and achieve your property and business goals with confidence. Contact Paul Marlow at Vega Lend     https://vegalend.co.nz paul.marlow@vegalend.co.nz 020 4151 9342  Contact Media PA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz mediapa.co.nz

Business, Members

Stephen Hatfield from Tauranga-based Hatfield Business Development and Accounting Services Joins the NZBC Network

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NZ Business Connect is proud to announce one of our new members: Stephen Hatfield, a Chartered Accountant operating out of the Bay of Plenty with over 30 years of experience in the wider world of accounting. Since 2012, Stephen has been offering his clients a different kind of accounting service to the one that you might have come to expect. Hatfield is what Stephen calls a “boutique agency” — he and his team target small and medium size businesses with a model built on three prongs: business planning and development, traditional accounting services, and tax. Hatfield not only helps you to understand your past and present finances— the traditional accounting services that they offer — but also where you can go in the future with their business planning and development services. The company will help you plan for your future prosperity, and keep you accountable on implementing the strategies needed to reach your success. Success comes in many forms for Hatfield. It could be a dutiful compliance to tax regulation that keeps you out of trouble with the IRD, or helping you reach that aforementioned prosperity. It’s also an adherence to the values of the company, namely: ● Being proactive in communication, not just at the end of the financial year ● Ensuring clarity in communication, and avoiding “Accountanese” ● Maintaining a positive and conscientious attitude ● Being forward thinking and solutions focused; a fixer instead of only an alarm bell ● A good work/life balance for their team Stephen is a man who likes numbers and formulas. That’s why he became an accountant. Over the years he’s developed his own formula: good information allows for better decisions, and better decisions = mind, time, and financial freedom. He thinks you’ll like the outcome it provides when applied to your business. Next time you’re considering an accountant, be it when in dire straits, or so wealthy that you need someone to help you count the bills by the 1000, give Hatfield a call. They’re sure to pick up, and Stephen is sure that you’ll leave knowledgeable and satisfied. Contact Stephen Hatfield: 07 579 6022 Stephen@hatfield.co.nz https://hatfield.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect: 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

Lawrence Millington for Harcourts Mt. Maunganui, a Real Estate Team with Integrity

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Lawrence Millington, a residential real estate agent representing Harcourts Mt. Manganui, has joined the NZ Business Connect network. Mr. Millington worked as a banker in the UK for 20 years before moving to New Zealand with his wife in 2019. He was seeking a change in scenery, but after coming across an advert in the paper for real estate agents, and having had a terrible experience selling his house in the UK, he thought: “Why not? I could do a good job of that.” Mr. Millington started his real estate course in January of 2020, and with determination finished just in time for the first national lockdowns. Despite a trying start to his new career, Mr. Millington has done well for himself. He abides by a simple philosophy of “integrity, honesty, and transparency” — a way of work that reduces the frustrations experienced by sellers, and prospective buyers alike. Mr. Millington applies this same philosophy to his life outside of work. He is the President of the Papamoa Lions club, where he helps to run and organise charitable events for a variety of causes. His current fundraising goal is to collect $60,000 for the Papamoa Volunteer Fire Service, who plan to spend the money on an ATV, an essential piece of kit for beachside fire rescue. “I pride myself on doing the right thing because it’s the right thing – not because I might get caught!”, Mr. Millington said. In his work, Mr. Millington targets residential home owners who want to sell, and connects them with people looking to buy. He also works with property investors, both those entering and exiting the market, as well as ‘professional flippers’, who plan to do both. Mr. Millington works alongside a team at the Mount Maunganui Harcourts branch: ‘Team Theo’ — a group composed of Theo Smith, Ben Cantley, and Jo-Ellen Powell. Together, they possess over 35 years of experience in Bay of Plenty real estate. Be it selling an apartment, or buying a little house by the sea, Lawrence Millington and his colleagues at Harcourts stand a good chance at having done it before. If you’re eyeing the property market for any reason, enquire at Team Theo. Contact Lawrence, and Team Theo:027 286 4019https://www.teamtheo.co.nz/ Contact NZ Business Connect: 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

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