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Business

English Cherry Tree Manor Brings Timeless Charm and Unique Hospitality New Member of NZ Business Connect Hamilton

A passion for hospitality, culture, and creating memorable guest experiences has helped English Cherry Tree Manor become a unique accommodation destination in the Waikato, with the business now joining the NZ Business Connect Hamilton network. Operating since 2017, English Cherry Tree Manor was created from a desire to share a stunning five-acre English-style garden and charming 1930s character home with visitors from around the world. The owners were inspired not only by the beauty of the property itself, but also by the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, backgrounds, and nationalities while creating a welcoming environment where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy meaningful experiences. Located within peaceful countryside surroundings, the business offers accommodation in both its historic manor house and luxury glamping dome, giving guests the opportunity to experience nature, tranquillity, and unique European-inspired charm in one setting. The property caters to a wide range of visitors, including international tourists, domestic travellers, couples seeking romantic getaways, garden enthusiasts, families, and small groups looking for a memorable escape. One of the property’s most distinctive features is its magnificent English-style garden, which has been developed over more than 30 years. The grounds were formerly home to the New Zealand Cherry Blossom Festival, an event that once attracted more than 30,000 visitors and became well known for its beautiful seasonal displays. Adding to the experience is the warm hospitality provided by Anne Cao Oulton, whose background in hospitality and journalism helps create a personalised and welcoming stay for every guest. Her passion for helping people, supporting the community, and connecting with individuals from diverse cultures has become a defining part of the business and contributes to the strong reputation the accommodation has built with travellers from New Zealand and overseas. Anne is also currently standing for election to the WEL Energy Trust, reflecting her ongoing commitment to supporting the wider Waikato community. She is a community committee member for Tamahere, Matangi and Hamilton Combined Community Trust. Voting for the election is currently open, with voting closing on the 26th of June 2026. The business has consistently received outstanding guest feedback, including a 9.1/10 rating on Booking.com and a 4.85/5 rating on Airbnb, reflecting its commitment to delivering high-quality guest experiences. At the heart of English Cherry Tree Manor is a belief that every guest should feel comfortable, welcome, and at home. Their focus on genuine hospitality, inclusiveness, and creating memorable experiences aligns strongly with the values of NZ Business Connect and its commitment to supporting businesses that bring people together. Contact English Cherry Tree Manor Anne Cao https://www.fantess.com admin@fantess.com https://www.facebook.com/EnglishCherryTreeManor +64 7-854 9277 Contact NZ Business Connect Phillip Quay027 458 7724phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Community

GreenHorn NZ Celebrates the Glamour and Confidence of Miss New Zealand & Miss Teenager Universe New Zealand 2026

Auckland’s North Shore lit up on Saturday evening as the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna played host to one of New Zealand’s most dazzling pageant events of the year, the combined Miss New Zealand 2026 and Miss Teenager Universe New Zealand 2026 Grand Finals, with GreenHorn NZ proud to be among the sponsors. The spectacular back-to-back event began with a glamorous Red Carpet Experience from 3pm to 5pm, before the Grand Finals got underway at 5pm and ran through to 9:30pm. But beyond the glamour, the evening had real purpose, with the contestants collectively raising over $9,000 for the Shine Bright Charitable Trust, a New Zealand organisation dedicated to nurturing creativity and potential within communities, empowering young people, Māori, Polynesian, and those in need, to foster greater wellbeing, cultural pride, and community cohesion through accessible training, mentorship, and opportunities in the creative arts. From stunning evening gowns to powerful Q&A moments, the night was a celebration of ambition, culture, and leadership, reflecting the event’s theme of Beauty with a Purpose – a philosophy that signals a powerful shift in what modern pageantry represents, no longer defined solely by appearance, but by self-belief, personal growth, and the ability to inspire others. Perhaps most striking of all was the powerful sense of women supporting women that carried through every moment of the night, on stage and off, with competitors championing one another as much as they competed. GreenHorn NZ was among the event’s sponsors, supporting the competition as a platform for confidence, wellbeing, leadership, and the importance of making positive everyday choices. At the end of a thrilling night, Chloe Robinson was crowned Miss New Zealand 2026, while Helena Hou was named Miss Teenager Universe New Zealand, both earning the honour of representing Aotearoa on the international pageant stage. GreenHorn NZ congratulates Chloe, Helena, and all of the contestants and newly crowned titleholders, and looks forward to seeing them carry the values of Beauty with a Purpose as they represent Aotearoa on the world stage. Contact Green Horn NZ Ravinder Singh https://greenhorn.club/pages/contact +642774 7337 info@dmgroupglobal.com Contact MediaPA Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Community

One Decision Can Change Everything: EleVate Beyond’s Discover 3 Keys Workshop Delivers Real Transformation

Some weekends you rest. Some weekends you reset. This past weekend, sixteen people in Rototuna, Hamilton chose the latter and nothing will quite look the same for them again. Paulette Coombes, founder of EleVate Beyond, hosted her powerful Discover 3 Keys workshop, an immersive experience designed to cut through the noise, dismantle the patterns keeping people stuck, and reconnect attendees to the vision they truly want for their lives. Through two years of intensive work, Paulette has built a reputation for helping people move beyond fear, uncertainty, and limiting beliefs so they can create stronger futures aligned with their values and goals. This wasn’t a motivational talk. This was transformation. “You are capable of far more than you know.” That belief sat at the heart of everything. Paulette guided the group through the hidden blocks silently affecting the areas that matter most: health, relationships, confidence, money, and purpose. The kind of blocks that explain why, despite trying harder, something always seems to hold us back. And where do those blocks often come from? The workshop explored a profound truth: our goals and dreams are often born out of the challenges we face. Two signals point the way toward growth, longing and discontent. Not as enemies, but as messengers worth listening to. Attendees didn’t just gain insight, they left with powerful breakthrough exercises, real-life strategies they could apply immediately, and transformational tools to create results that last. Breakthroughs happened. Clarity landed. In a warm, supportive in-person environment, sixteen people gave themselves permission to want more and to believe it’s possible. Paulette’s work through EleVate Beyond is built on a simple truth: the life you want isn’t out of reach, it’s blocked. And blocks can be removed. If you missed this one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Paulette directly to find out about upcoming opportunities. Your clarity, confidence, freedom, and momentum are waiting. Follow EleVate Beyond and stay connected. The room is for you. Contact Paulette Coombes 021 222 9114  paulette@elevatebeyond.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

SHARED Hamilton Hot Desks: A Professional Work Space in the Centre of It All

Hamilton is fast becoming a key meeting point for business across the Waikato and upper North Island. Ideally situated between Auckland and Tauranga, Hamilton is increasingly a place where people connect, collaborate, and get work done. After all Hamilton is New Zealand’s fastest growing That is where SHARED Workspaces at 71 London St in Hamilton comes to the forefront Shared is where time, people, and space are designed to work better together. Where the return on commute is worth it and where Work fits life – n ot the other other way around! Located in the heart of the CBD, SHARED’s hot desks offer a practical solution for professionals who need a flexible, functional workspace without committing to a permanent office. Whether you are travelling from around the country for meetings, or simply looking for a better place to work locally, SHARED provides a perfect space designed for focus, productivity and momentum. Instead of working from noisy cafés, hotel rooms, or makeshift setups between appointments, visitors can step into a professional environment with reliable internet, monitors, meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, and everything needed for a productive day. The flexibility is part of the appeal. Some people use SHARED Hamilton for a few focused hours between meetings. Others settle in for a full workday to escape the distractions of home or the limitations of remote work on the road, and others use a few days a week without the expense of a full time office or workspace! The real value, however, goes beyond convenience. At SHARED, the environment is intentionally designed to support how people actually work. There is focus without isolation, community without forced networking, and professionalism without the corporate stiffness. The energy of the room matters. Research continues to show that the environment, and belonging directly impacts concentration, productivity, stress levels, and motivation. Working around other focused people naturally helps create accountability and forward momentum throughout the day. For freelancers, remote workers, business owners, travelling professionals, and growing teams, hot desks offer something increasingly valuable: flexibility without compromise. No unnecessary overheads. No wasted space. Just access to a workspace that works when you need it. As Hamilton continues to grow as a business hub, flexible, coworking spaces like SHARED are becoming more important than ever. Not just as places to work, but as places where people can connect, focus, and move forward. SHARED workspaces are precision spaces designed for focus, connection and belonging. Because sometimes the right workspace changes the entire workday and Better workdays begin nearby. Contact SHARED today: https://shared.nz/ hello@shared.nz To make a visit or for more information contact: Phillip Quay (Manager) 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business

Heavenly Services – Simplifying Property Care with a People-First Approach Joins NZ Business Connect

NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome Heavenly Services, a growing New Zealand business delivering convenient, all-in-one property maintenance solutions while creating meaningful employment opportunities within the community. Founded in 2018 by David Shayo, Heavenly Services began with just three clients and a simple vision: to provide reliable, high-quality care across cleaning, car grooming, lawns, and gardening. Built from a passion for aesthetics, attention to detail, and creating healthier environments, the business recognised a growing need for a service that could make property maintenance easier and more efficient for busy New Zealanders. Today, Heavenly Services operates with a unique 3-in-1 service model that combines property cleaning, lawn mowing and gardening, and car grooming into one streamlined solution. Customers can access services individually, through bundled packages, or via subscription plans tailored to suit their lifestyle and needs. By having one coordinated team complete multiple services in a single visit, clients save time, reduce stress, and avoid the hassle of dealing with multiple contractors. The business supports a wide range of customers, including busy professionals, families, elderly homeowners, landlords, property investors, and business owners maintaining commercial spaces. At the heart of the company is a commitment to helping people reclaim their time so they can focus on what matters most. Beyond the services themselves, Heavenly Services stands out through its strong focus on people, diversity, and community support. The business actively creates opportunities for those seeking employment, offering training, hands-on experience, and pathways into long-term careers, even for individuals with no prior industry experience. This people-first mindset has helped build a supportive workplace culture centred on growth, inclusiveness, and teamwork. Supported by a team with experience across the board of what they offer, Heavenly Services has successfully developed a trusted reputation for reliability, convenience, and customer-focused service delivery. Their focus on convenience, healthy environments, inclusiveness, and community impact aligns strongly with the values of NZ Business Connect and its commitment to supporting businesses making a positive difference across New Zealand. Contact Heavenly Services Heavenly Services Website info@heavenlyservices.co.nz  0800 428 659 Contact NZ Business Connect Phillip Quay027 458 7724phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Travel

Why The Cardrona Horse Treks & ATV Adventures and Cardrona Valley Should Be on Every South Island Winter Bucket List

When it comes to unforgettable South Island winter escapes, The Cardrona Horse Treks & ATV Adventures offers the perfect way to experience the beauty of Cardrona Valley. Located between Wanaka and Queenstown, The Cardrona has built its reputation around small-group alpine adventures, stunning mountain scenery, and authentic high-country experiences. Here’s why Cardrona Valley deserves a place on every winter bucket list this season. Enjoy the Best of Autumn and Winter Together Early winter in Cardrona Valley is one of the most scenic times of year. Visitors can still enjoy the last of the golden autumn colours while fresh snow begins dusting the surrounding mountain ranges. Take in spectacular views across: The combination of colourful valleys and snow-covered peaks creates an unforgettable alpine landscape. Drive New Zealand’s Highest Sealed Highway The journey into Cardrona Valley is part of the experience itself. The famous Crown Range Road is New Zealand’s highest sealed highway and delivers breathtaking views around every corner. Winter conditions can make the road challenging at times, so visitors should drive carefully and allow extra time to enjoy the scenery safely. Escape the Winter Fog One of Cardrona Valley’s best-kept secrets is its elevation. During early winter, low inversion cloud often settles heavily over Wanaka and Queenstown, leaving the towns grey and foggy. Cardrona Valley frequently sits above the cloud layer, enjoying: It is the perfect escape from the gloomy conditions below. Avoid the Busy Ski Holiday Crowds Early winter is also the ideal time to explore before the school holiday rush begins. With fewer visitors around, guests can enjoy: The Cardrona Horse Treks & ATV Adventures is well known for its small or private group experiences, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the incredible alpine environment. Must-Visit Cardrona Valley Attractions While exploring the valley, make time to visit some of the region’s iconic destinations: Whether you are chasing snow, sunshine, adventure, or simply a peaceful alpine getaway, The Cardrona Horse Treks & ATV Adventures and the wider Cardrona Valley offer a winter experience unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. Contact The Cardrona info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 Contact Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz

Health

GreenHorn NZ: Confidence Starts from Within – Miss New Zealand 2026 & Miss Teenager Universe NZ 2026

As a proud sponsor of Miss New Zealand 2026 and Miss Teenager Universe NZ 2026, GreenHorn NZ is supporting more than a stage competition. It is supporting confidence, wellbeing, leadership, and the importance of making positive everyday choices. This year’s theme, Beauty with a Purpose, reflects a powerful shift in what modern pageantry represents. It is no longer defined only by appearance or performance on stage. Instead, it is increasingly centred around self-belief, personal growth, community impact, and the ability to inspire others. Confidence and Wellbeing Go Hand in Hand Confidence is deeply connected to how people feel internally. Energy levels, mindset, and overall wellbeing all play a role in how individuals show up in their daily lives. For contestants in Miss New Zealand 2026 and Miss Teenager Universe NZ 2026, confidence is built through preparation, discipline, resilience, and a commitment to personal wellbeing. It is a process shaped over time, not a single moment on stage. This same principle applies more broadly across New Zealand, where there is a growing focus on balanced, sustainable lifestyles that support both physical and mental wellbeing. A Shift Towards Authentic Wellness Wellness today is defined by authenticity, balance, and intention. Consumers are increasingly conscious of what they consume and how it fits into their everyday lives, choosing products that support energy, clarity, and overall wellbeing. This shift highlights the importance of transparency and real ingredients, as people look for options that align with active, purpose-driven lifestyles. GreenHorn NZ’s involvement in Miss New Zealand 2026 and Miss Teenager Universe NZ 2026 reflects this broader movement toward confidence through conscious choices and authentic wellbeing. More Than External Appearance Modern pageantry continues to evolve into a platform that empowers young women to lead, advocate, and create meaningful impact within their communities. While presentation remains part of the experience, it is character, mindset, and purpose that leave a lasting impression. This aligns strongly with the values behind Beauty with a Purpose, where influence is measured not only by visibility, but by contribution and positive change. Confidence Starts With Everyday Choices Confidence is built through consistency and the small decisions made each day. From prioritising wellbeing and staying active to making mindful lifestyle choices, these habits shape how people feel and how they present themselves to the world. As GreenHorn NZ continues to grow, its support of Miss New Zealand 2026 and Miss Teenager Universe NZ 2026 reflects a shared belief in one simple idea: confidence starts from within. Contact Green Horn NZ https://greenhorn.club/pages/contact +642774 7337 info@dmgroupglobal.com Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Health

4 Hours That Could Change Everything: EleVate Beyond’s Paulette Coombes Brings Transformational Immersion to Hamilton

What if one decision could shift the direction of your health, relationships, confidence, finances, or purpose? That is the question Paulette Coombes, founder of EleVate Beyond, is inviting people to consider ahead of her upcoming 4-Hour Immersion event in Hamilton on June 6. Held at Rototuna Library, the immersive live experience has been designed for people who feel stuck in repeating the same patterns and are ready to create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. Paulette says the event is about far more than temporary inspiration or surface-level motivation. “This isn’t another motivational event. This is deep transformational work designed to create lasting change.” Throughout the four-hour immersion, attendees will uncover hidden beliefs and subconscious blocks that may be impacting their results across areas such as health, relationships, confidence, money, business, and personal fulfilment. At the same time, participants will gain practical strategies and tools to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose. The event will include powerful breakthrough exercises, real-life strategies that can be applied immediately, and transformational work designed to help people reconnect with the vision they truly want for their future. Guests can expect: Through EleVate Beyond, Paulette Coombes has built a reputation for helping people move beyond fear, uncertainty, and limiting beliefs so they can create stronger futures aligned with their values and goals. Her upcoming Hamilton event reflects her passion for helping people create momentum and lasting personal transformation. “If you’re ready for more confidence, freedom, momentum, and fulfilment, this room is for you,” Paulette says. With limited tickets available, registrations will close once seats are filled. For those ready to stop feeling stuck and start creating a different future, this event could be the breakthrough they have been waiting for. The 4-Hour Immersion takes place on Friday, June 6, at Rototuna Library in Hamilton. To learn more or secure your place, contact Paulette Coombes through EleVate Beyond. Book your spot here Contact Paulette Coombes 021 222 9114  paulette@elevatebeyond.co.nz https://elevatebeyond.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Travel

Experience Winter Deco Weekend in Napier with Ace High Motor Inn in Hawke’s Bay

Winter in Hawke’s Bay comes alive with glamour, jazz, vintage fashion, and unforgettable experiences during the annual Winter Deco Weekend in Napier. Held from 17–19 July 2026, this boutique celebration brings the spirit of the Art Deco era back to the streets of Napier, giving visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the elegance and excitement of the 1930s. From dazzling cocktail evenings and live jazz performances to vintage car displays and themed dining experiences, Winter Deco offers something for everyone. Visitors can wander through Napier’s famous Art Deco streets dressed in fur wraps, hats, suspenders, and pearls while soaking up the atmosphere that makes Hawke’s Bay one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations. Napier is internationally recognised for its stunning Art Deco architecture, rebuilt after the devastating 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake. Today, the city is considered the Art Deco capital of New Zealand and attracts visitors from around the world who come to experience its timeless charm and heritage celebrations. The festival is more than just an event. It is a chance to slow down, enjoy great food and wine, discover local culture, and experience the warmth and hospitality Hawke’s Bay is known for. Online discussions from recent festivals highlight the incredible atmosphere, with visitors praising the vintage fashion, classic cars, live entertainment, and the vibrant energy throughout the city. For those planning a winter escape, Ace High Motor Inn is the perfect base for your Winter Deco getaway. Conveniently located close to Napier’s city centre and festival attractions, Ace High Motor Inn offers comfortable accommodation where guests can relax after a day of festivities. Whether you are attending themed events, exploring Hawke’s Bay wineries, or simply enjoying the vintage atmosphere of the city, staying nearby makes the entire experience even more enjoyable. Winter Deco Weekend is one of Hawke’s Bay’s most stylish winter events and the perfect excuse for a memorable mid-year escape. Contact Us: +64 6 843 3109 0800 270 361 www.acehigh.co.nz info@acehigh.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Rural

Dr Gordon Rajendram: Canterbury’s Leaching Season and the Hidden Losses Below Ground

As Canterbury moves into autumn and winter, farms are entering the main leaching season. The period between April and October is when nutrient losses below the root zone are at their highest risk. During winter, soil temperatures drop, and pasture growth slows significantly. Once soil temperatures fall below around 6 °C, ryegrass growth becomes limited, meaning plants are not taking up nutrients efficiently. At the same time, rainfall continues moving water through the soil profile. When soils become saturated, drainage increases, carrying soluble nutrients deeper into the ground. Canterbury presents a unique challenge compared to many other farming regions in New Zealand. Naturally, much of the region only receives around 600–900mm of annual rainfall. However, once irrigation is added to farming systems, soil moisture levels become similar to much wetter regions of the country. When heavy winter rainfall occurs, nutrients can be flushed below the pasture root zone before plants can utilise them. Most farmers associate leaching with nitrate nitrogen, and rightly so. Nitrate is highly soluble and easily moves with water through the soil. However, nitrogen is not the only nutrient being lost during winter drainage. Important nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and sulphur, can also be leached from the soil profile. These nutrients are essential for both pasture growth and animal health. Research I was involved in showed that intensive grazing systems can lose significant quantities of magnesium and calcium annually through leaching. In some situations, approximately 30kg of magnesium per hectare per year was being lost below the root zone. If these nutrients are not adequately replaced, soil fertility gradually declines over time, which is what the Ministry of Agriculture found was occurring in the 1980’s and 1990’s. These losses equate to a large sum in terms of dollar value. One of the key lessons for farmers during the leaching season is to be careful with highly soluble fertilisers during periods when soils are cold, wet, and pasture growth is limited. If soluble nitrogen and sulphur fertilisers are applied when there is little plant uptake occurring, there is a much greater chance that nutrients will move beyond the root zone during drainage events. Timing fertiliser applications closer to active pasture growth periods can improve nutrient efficiency and reduce unnecessary losses. Soil texture, structure, and drainage pathways also influence leaching risk. Lighter soils and free-draining profiles allow faster movement of water and nutrients compared to heavier, more retentive soils. Healthy soils with good structure, balanced fertility and efficient irrigation management are better at holding nutrients and supporting plant uptake. Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466077 rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact Media PA phillip@mediapa.co.nz 027 458 7724

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