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JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Proud to Sponsor the Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run

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At JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we have always believed that a business is only as strong as the community that supports it. Our success is not just measured by technical excellence or quality workmanship. It is also about social responsibility, connection, and giving back to the people and organisations that make our region what it is. “I have always believed that a business is only as strong as the community that supports it. For us at JSR, success is not just about technical excellence. It is about social responsibility and giving back,” says Jujhar Randhawa, CEO of JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. That is why JSR is incredibly proud to sponsor the upcoming Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run and Walk, taking place at Hamilton Lake. This vibrant community event brings people together through music, movement, and colour, while supporting a cause that makes a real difference close to home. The Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run raises vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities, an organisation that provides accommodation, support, and care for families with seriously ill or injured children. During some of life’s most challenging moments, Ronald McDonald House offers families a place to stay together, close to the medical care their children need. Supporting this charity aligns strongly with JSR’s values and our commitment to community wellbeing. Events like the Colour Run are about more than fundraising. They create opportunities for people of all ages to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate community spirit. Hosting the event at Hamilton Lake adds to the sense of connection, turning a familiar local space into a hub of energy, colour, and shared purpose. JSR is proud to stand alongside local businesses, families, and volunteers who are helping make this event possible. Being involved in initiatives that promote health, inclusion, and community support is an important part of who we are as a business. If you are in the Waikato on Sunday, 15 February, we would love to see you at Innes Common. Come along, get colourful, and support an incredible cause. Together, with Ronald McDonald House Charities and the wider community, JSR is proud to help make a positive impact where it matters most. Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

Are You Dying From the Heat? Take Control With JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Hamilton

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Hot, sticky nights and overheated days can make summer feel unbearable. If you are constantly uncomfortable in your own home, it may be time to take control of the heat with JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. Effective cooling does more than improve comfort. It can help you sleep better, stay healthier, and enjoy your home again. Better Sleep Starts With Better Temperature Control Excess heat is one of the biggest causes of poor sleep during summer. When your bedroom stays too warm, your body struggles to cool down, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. A well cooled home helps regulate your body temperature, allowing you to reach deeper, more restorative sleep. Better sleep means improved focus, mood, and energy throughout the day. Reduce the Risk of Dehydration and Heat Stress Prolonged exposure to high indoor temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, particularly for children, older adults, and those with existing health conditions. When your home stays cool, your body does not need to work as hard to regulate temperature. This helps reduce fluid loss and lowers the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stress during extreme weather. Fewer Insects and Parasites Indoors Warm, humid environments attract insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and cockroaches. These pests are not just annoying. They can also carry bacteria and parasites into your home. Keeping indoor temperatures controlled and humidity levels lower makes your home less inviting to insects, helping create a cleaner and healthier living space. Take Back Control of Your Comfort Modern cooling solutions allow you to manage indoor temperatures efficiently without relying on fans or open windows. This gives you consistent comfort throughout the day and night, even during heatwaves. With expert advice and tailored solutions from JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, you can enjoy a cooler home, better sleep, and improved wellbeing all summer long. Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Accommodation

Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites: A Comfortable Base for All Seasons in Auckland

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No matter the season, finding accommodation that feels easy, reliable and well located makes all the difference when travelling to Auckland. Best Western Newmarket offers a comfortable base year-round for visitors who want convenience, connectivity and comfort close to the Auckland CBD, without the intensity of staying right in the city centre. Winter in Auckland is often driven by purpose rather than leisure. From medical appointments at Auckland Hospital to university visits at the University of Auckland or AUT, winter travel is about being close to where you need to be. Staying in Newmarket places guests within easy reach of major transport routes, Auckland Domain and key health and education facilities. After a busy day, returning to a warm, comfortable room in a quiet but central neighbourhood is a welcome advantage. Spring brings a busier calendar. School events, graduations, family visits and weekend getaways fill the city. Newmarket is well known for its shopping and dining, with Westfield Newmarket, boutique stores and popular cafés all close by. Guests can enjoy the energy of the area while still being moments from green spaces such as Cornwall Park and Mt Eden, ideal for spring walks and downtime between commitments. Summer in Auckland means movement and events. From concerts at Spark Arena to matches at Eden Park, graduation ceremonies and seasonal shopping trips, travellers need accommodation that allows them to move easily around the city. Newmarket provides excellent access to the Auckland CBD, motorways and public transport, while avoiding peak summer congestion found in waterfront areas. Across winter, spring and summer, the appeal of staying in Newmarket remains consistent. Comfortable rooms, practical amenities and a location that suits business travellers, families, visiting students and short-stay guests alike make it a dependable choice. Being close to shopping, hospitals, universities, parks and major venues means fewer compromises and smoother travel. For visitors looking for accommodation that works in every season and for every reason, Best Western Newmarket continues to provide a reliable, comfortable and centrally located base for exploring Auckland at any time of year. Contact Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites info@abf.net.nz 0508 899 699 https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Social Giving

Powered by Our Community: Thank You to the Sponsors Behind the Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk

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With event day fast approaching, excitement is building for the Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk, made possible by the generous support of local and national sponsors and partners who have come together to back this community fundraiser. Set to light up Innes Common at Hamilton Lake on Sunday 15 February 2026, the event will run from 10am to 2pm, with gates opening at 9am for early check-in, filling the lakefront with colour, music and connection. This 4km run and walk is designed for all ages and abilities, bringing families, friends and workplaces together in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). Every step taken and every ticket sold helps support families when they need it most. Full event details, tickets and donations are available at www.HamiltonColourRun.co.nz. The Businesses Making This Event Possible Community events don’t happen on goodwill alone, and this one is no exception. We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who have stepped up to support this kaupapa. At the forefront is Platinum Sponsor McDonald’s Restaurants Limited, whose long-standing commitment to family wellbeing and community connection underpins the heart of this event. Our Gold level Sponsors – JP & Associates, After, Omega Finance, Aman Bali & Co, The Bottle-O Te Rapa and No.1 Motels – have played a vital role in bringing the Colour Run/Walk to life. We also acknowledge Blackfox Creative for providing creative direction across the event’s marketing and website. Colour, Energy and Interaction on the Course Participants can expect plenty of action along the route thanks to our Colour Station Sponsors, who will be out there creating memorable moments: We also thank our Silver Sponsors – BNZ, Lorna Jane, Glenview School and Parry Group of Restaurants – for backing this community fundraiser. Supporting the Event from the Ground Up A number of partners are working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs safely and smoothly on the day. Our thanks go to: We also acknowledge MediaPA for their role in helping share the story of this event across the wider community. Join Us and Be Part of the Colour As the countdown continues, now is the time to get involved. Whether you’re running, walking, volunteering or donating, your support makes a real difference for RMHC and the families they care for. The Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk is a celebration of what can happen when a community comes together. To every sponsor, partner, supporter and participant, thank you for helping make Hamilton Lake shine. 👉 Tickets & donations: www.HamiltonColourRun.co.nz FRANKTON McDONALD’S COLOUR RUN / WALK📍 Innes Common, Hamilton Lake🗓 Sunday 15 February 2026⏰ 10am–2pm (gates open 9am) Live music, face painting, photo booth fun, giant bubbles, splashes of colour and water, coffee, food trucks, kids’ activities, and emergency services displays will all be part of the day.

Media

NZ Business Connect Founder Phillip Quay One of Three Speakers at Waikato’s Premier Business Networking Event – LinkedIn Local Hamilton

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Join Hamilton’s leading business networking event on February 25 and hear from award winning media expert Phillip Quay, pictured, who will be joined by Waikato Times editor Jonathan MacKenzie along with business owner, entrepreneur and politician Himanshu (Ash) Parmar. LinkedIn Local Hamilton is a top rated Waikato business networking event designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to build authentic connections. This relaxed, social networking experience brings together Hamilton professionals, Waikato business leaders, and local entrepreneurs for meaningful conversations – without sales pressure. LinkedIn Local Hamilton returns in 2026 to celebrate nine years of connecting professionals across the region. The next event – The Changing Face Of Media – will be hosted by Ebbett on 25 February at their brand new car showroom at The Base – a modern venue designed to elevate the experience for attendees. Daniel Hopper’s Story: Building Something Exceptional from the StartOne of the most important chapters in the LinkedIn Local Hamilton story is the vision and leadership of Daniel Hopper, a well known Hamilton business figure who founded the event and set its direction from day one. Rather than following the traditional networking formula, he designed LinkedIn Local Hamilton to be relaxed, human, and community driven. The focus was on real conversations, genuine connections, and bringing people together in a way that felt authentic and inclusive. Right from the outset, Daniel secured high profile speakers and strong community support. In its first year, LinkedIn Local Hamilton quickly gained momentum and was widely regarded as one of the largest LinkedIn Local events of its type in the world. What started as a local initiative rapidly became a standout example of how powerful people first networking could be. Daniel’s leadership helped establish a clear message: this was not about transactional networking, but about creating a space where professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders could build meaningful relationships. That foundation continues to shape the event today. His story is a reminder of something crucial:‘A networking event grows when influential people believe in it – and share it’. Daniel’s vision laid the groundwork for LinkedIn Local Hamilton’s ongoing success, helping it attract high calibre speakers, engaged audiences, and a reputation that now extends well beyond the Waikato. Key Speaker: Phillip Quay – Hamilton’s Leading Media, PR & Digital Marketing ExpertPhillip Quay, a highly respected and award winning Hamilton journalist, PR strategist, and digital marketing specialist, is also the founder of the fast-growing business networking group NZ Business Connect. Phillip Quay is known across New Zealand for his expertise in:• Digital marketing and social media strategy• Public relations and online branding• Business storytelling and media communication• Online visibility and Google ranking growth• Global PR and international media assignments As the founder of MediaPA and NZ Business Connect, Phillip has helped more than 200 New Zealand businesses grow their online presence through strategic PR, SEO driven content, and social media integration. Phillip has delivered keynote presentations at major national conferences and is recognised as a leading voice in New Zealand digital marketing, social media education, and business communication events. This event is ideal for anyone wanting to:• Grow their Waikato business network• Connect with Hamilton entrepreneurs and professionals• Learn from a top New Zealand media expert• Build authentic business relationships• Improve their digital marketing and PR knowledge Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and genuine networking in a friendly environment, and kick off 2026 with the people who drive Hamilton forward. Contact Phillip Quay / MediaPAPhone: 0274 587 724Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nzWebsite: www.mediapa.co.nzFacebook: facebook.com/MediaPA

Travel

Romance in the Hills: The Perfect Date with The Cardrona Horse Treks, 4×4 ATVs & Motorbikes

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The Cardrona Horse Treks, 4×4 ATVs & Motorbikes offers a different kind of date night for Valentines day, one that swaps tables and screens for wide skies, shared adventure and unforgettable moments. Set in the heart of the Cardrona Valley, it is a place where couples can choose how they want to connect, whether that means slowing the pace on horseback or leaning into the thrill of the high country on a quad bike. For couples who love connection and calm, a horse trek offers something quietly powerful. There is a natural rhythm to riding together, moving at the same pace, breathing in the alpine air and letting conversation drift as easily as the landscape. Crossing rivers, climbing gentle hills and taking in sweeping views creates space to slow down and truly be present with each other. It is intimate without trying too hard, romantic in a way that feels effortless and real. If your idea of the perfect date leans more towards energy and excitement, a 4×4 quad bike adventure delivers shared adrenaline and laughter in equal measure. Navigating high country terrain, opening up on long tracks and tackling the landscape together turns the date into a story you will retell long after the dust has settled. It is playful, thrilling and full of those moments where you glance at each other and grin, knowing this is far better than dinner and a movie. The beauty of The Cardrona experience is that there is no wrong choice, only the one that suits your shared spirit. Whether you lean towards hooves or horsepower, the landscape has a way of bringing people closer, framed by mountains, rivers and endless sky. For couples wanting something truly special, there is the option to make the experience even more personal. Choose to upgrade any advertised horse trek or quad bike tour to an exclusive private couples tour for additional $200 & Kel will organise the best two horses/ bikes & an exceptional guide to make the experience even more special & romantic! It is your adventure, your pace and your moment, shaped around what makes your time together meaningful. At The Cardrona Horse Treks, 4×4 ATVs & Motorbikes, the perfect date is not about what you do, but how it makes you feel, and those feelings tend to stay with you long after the ride is over. See tour options at;WWW.THECARDRONA.CO.NZ Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs Today! info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

NZ Business Connect Welcomes Emblems New Zealand – Promotional Products with Purpose

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NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome Emblems New Zealand, a Hamilton-based business with more than three decades of experience in promotional products, awards, and recognition solutions, built on strong relationships, thoughtful design, and a deep connection to the community. Emblems New Zealand was established in 1989 by Rob and Joy Gillard as a small engraving and medal business. From the outset, the focus was on quality workmanship and reliable service, values that continue to underpin the business today. Hamilton City Council became Emblems’ very first customer and remains a valued client, reflecting the long-standing partnerships the business is known for. As demand grew, Emblems expanded its capabilities beyond medals and engraving into custom trophies, awards, signage, and promotional products. The business quickly gained recognition for its ability to deliver both standard and highly bespoke solutions, attracting high-profile organisations such as Athletics New Zealand, World Netball, and major national sporting events, while still maintaining a strong commitment to local schools, clubs, and community groups. In 1999, Rob’s daughter Penni and her husband Sandy joined the business, bringing fresh energy and a shared passion for design and customer service. After years of hands-on involvement and learning every part of the operation, Penni and Sandy purchased Emblems in 2016, continuing its evolution while preserving the family values the business was founded on. Today, Emblems specialises in promotional products, corporate and sporting awards, trophies, medals, badges, signage, and engraving services. Known for flexibility and creative problem-solving, the team works closely with clients to design products that are fit for purpose, distinctive, and aligned with the occasion they represent. From simple recognition items to complex, sculpted awards, Emblems prides itself on delivering solutions rather than off-the-shelf answers. Community involvement remains central to the business. Emblems is actively involved in social giving and is a strong supporter of powerchair football at both club and national level, providing support that helps athletes and organisations gain recognition and visibility. This commitment reflects the company’s belief in inclusivity, opportunity, and giving back to the communities that support it. Now part of the NZ Business Connect network, Emblems New Zealand brings a legacy of craftsmanship, a people-first approach, and a genuine passion for recognising achievement in all its forms. Contact Emblems New Zealand: sales@emblems.co.nz 0800 362 536 https://emblems.co.nz/ Contact NZ Business Connect: 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business

One Property Management – A Boutique, People-First Approach to Residential Property

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NZ Business Connect welcomes new member Megan Brunel of One Property Management, a locally owned residential property management business built on strong relationships, clear communication, and pride in service. After working in property management for a number of years, Megan played a key role in building and supporting other businesses within the industry. With that experience came a clear decision to establish her own business alongside a business partner, creating something focused on long-term quality, personal service, and a secure future. One Property Management officially commenced on 1 September 2025. The business provides residential property management services for property investors and property developers, managing investment properties with care and consistency. Central to the approach is creating respectful, professional relationships between owners, tenants, and the management team. As a boutique operation, One Property Management deliberately limits each property manager to a maximum of 80 properties. This ensures a consistently high level of service, proactive management, and genuine availability. The business is locally owned and operated, with decisions made close to the communities it serves. A key point of difference is accessibility. Owners and tenants are able to reach the team 24 hours a day when it matters, providing reassurance and timely resolution of issues. Fees are kept simple and transparent, with no add-ons or hidden costs, offering clear value and confidence from the outset. The values behind One Property Management shape every interaction. Properties are treated as if they were the team’s own, with no shortcuts or set-and-forget management. Communication is honest, clear, and timely, and people are always placed first. Strong outcomes for owners are balanced with fair and respectful treatment of tenants. A proactive approach underpins the service, with a strong focus on compliance, inspections, reporting, and preventative maintenance. Pride in professionalism ensures every detail is handled properly. NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome Megan Brunel and One Property Management as a new member of the network, and looks forward to supporting her as the business continues to grow. Contact One Property Management: Facebook megan@onepropertymanagement.co.nz 027 663 4663 Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business

River City Signs Joins NZ Business Connect – Experience-Led Signage for Complex Environments

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NZ Business Connect welcomes River City Signs, a signage business specialising in bespoke and large-scale projects for commercial, construction, and property environments. River City Signs operates alongside Safety Genius within a family-owned signage and manufacturing group with deep roots in the industry. The wider group was built on decades of hands-on experience in screenprinting and signwriting, creating a strong foundation in both craft and production. Over time, this experience has been combined with structured business systems and operational discipline, enabling the group to deliver consistently across different markets. In 2024, River City Signs was acquired to expand the group’s capability into more complex and custom signage work. While Safety Genius focuses on high-volume safety and compliance products, River City Signs operates in a different space, delivering signage where scale, design detail, and installation conditions play a significant role in the final outcome. The two businesses are closely aligned in values, but serve distinct customer needs. River City Signs provides building signage, vehicle wraps, CNC routering, and full signage installation and removal. Its clients include business owners, building companies, property managers, and fleet managers who require signage that integrates cleanly with buildings, vehicles, and operational spaces. Projects are approached with careful consideration of site conditions, durability, and long-term function, ensuring signage performs well beyond installation day. The team, led by Darwin, brings together financial oversight, strategic planning, and operational leadership, supported by experienced signwriters and production staff. This depth of experience allows River City Signs to manage complex projects with clarity, particularly where multiple stakeholders, tight timelines, and technical constraints are involved. River City Signs is recognised for its practical problem-solving, dependable delivery, and attention to detail. Clients value working with a team that understands the realities of commercial and construction environments and takes responsibility for delivering signage that is fit for purpose. NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome River City Signs, a capable and experienced signage partner for organisations managing complex spaces and long-term assets. Contact River City Signs: https://www.rivercitysigns.co.nz Phone 07 846 6042 Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Rural

Ways to Reduce Nitrate Leaching Part 1

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By Dr Gordon Rajendram In the previous article, I outlined why nitrate leaching occurs and why it is so difficult to control. Now, I will look at some of the practical options that can help reduce losses. These are not silver bullets, and they are not all suitable for every farm, but each can play a role. One option is to reduce cow numbers. From a purely scientific point of view, fewer cows mean less nitrogen entering the system, and therefore less nitrate leaching. However, I need to be very clear that simply reducing stocking rates is usually not economically viable on its own. Without major system changes, farm income often drops to a point where the business becomes unsustainable. It may reduce leaching, but it is not a realistic standalone strategy for most farmers. Pasture typically contains 3% nitrogen (approximately 18% protein). If you apply nitrogen fertiliser, these levels can get up to 5.5%, and the excess N gets excreted by the animal. This work of mine showed that the amounts of nitrate-N, calcium leaching went up with increasing rates of N applied at DRC No. 2 dairy during 1996. The key takeaway here is: The less nitrogen applied, the less nitrate leached. Another option is keeping cows off pasture for part of the day using feed pads. Urine patches are one of the biggest drivers of nitrate loss. A 500-kilogram cow can excrete close to 10% of its body weight each day, which equates to around 50 kilograms of dung and urine. If cows are kept off pasture for roughly a third of the day, nitrate leaching from urine patches can be reduced significantly. Whilst this can result in large reductions in nitrate loss, it does come with costs such as infrastructure, additional management time and feed handling. It is an effective tool, but it must be carefully considered. Diet also plays an important role. The key point here is that feeding more carbohydrates reduces the amount of nitrogen excreted in urine. Supplements such as grain or palm kernel are lower in nitrogen. If you substitute more carbohydrates for pasture, the total nitrogen entering a cow’s system is lowered. This dilution effect means less excess nitrogen is excreted in urine and less nitrate is available to leach. All of these options show that nitrate leaching can be influenced through management changes. In the Canterbury region, I am working with a farmer using a combination of these approaches, and the measured nitrate losses are very low. In the next article, I will focus on soil and plant-based tools that can be used alongside these management strategies to further reduce nitrate leaching. Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

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