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Meet the Chef: Khem Chandra Aryal’s Journey from India to Great Spice Otumoetai

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Tucked away in the heart of Otumoetai, Great Spice isn’t just another Indian restaurant, it’s the result of over 20 years of culinary passion brought to life by owner and chef Khem Aryal. Together with his partner Ganga, Khem has created a welcoming space where authentic Indian flavours meet Kiwi hospitality. We sat down with Khem to learn more about his journey, his philosophy on food, and what keeps customers coming back for more. Q: What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your 20+ years of experience?A: Authenticity and care are everything. Cooking with passion, respecting tradition, and putting the customer first has shaped everything we do. Listening to feedback and working as a team are also key. At Great Spice, we focus on creating an experience where every guest feels welcome and gets a true taste of India. Q: What brought you to New Zealand, and what inspired you to open Great Spice Otumoetai?A: I came to New Zealand for a fresh start, carrying my love for Indian cooking. The warmth of the Kiwi community inspired me to share real Indian flavours. Opening Great Spice Otumoetai with my partner Ganga allowed us to create a space that feels like home, serving food made with care and celebrating our culture. Q: Do you have a signature dish or customer favourite you’d recommend?A: Definitely! For starters, our Honey Cauliflower, Chicken Lollipop, and Chicken Momo Dumplings are always popular. In the mains, the Great Spice Sizzling Dish, Chicken Lababdar, Rara Goat, and Samundri Bahar showcase the best of our kitchen. Paired with our Delhi Butter Naan or Laccha Paratha, they’re a perfect introduction to real Indian cuisine. With his deep respect for tradition, commitment to quality, and genuine love for sharing Indian cuisine, Khem Aryal has turned Great Spice Otumoetai into a beloved dining destination. Whether you’re a long-time fan or visiting for the first time, you’ll find more than just a meal, you’ll experience a slice of culture, care, and culinary excellence. Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Travel

Snow, Scenery and Winter Magic – Your Perfect Off-Slope Adventure with The Cardrona Horse Treks, 4×4 ATVs & Motorbikes

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Ski bunnies, when you’re ready for a day off the slopes but still want to soak up the snowy magic, The Cardrona has the perfect adventure waiting for you. With a fresh blanket of snow across the valley, it’s all about scenery, snowmen, and snow-capped peaks – and you can explore it on four legs or four wheels. Our snow horse treks offer a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the mountains. Ride through frosty trails surrounded by stunning alpine views, with our well-loved horses sporting their thick shaggy winter coats. Whether you’re an experienced rider or giving it a go for the first time, we’ll match you with the right horse and guide you every step of the way. After something a little more thrilling? Our 4×4 quad and ATV tours let you pick up the pace, with snowy ridgelines and wide open views that stretch for miles. Zip through icy tracks, crunch across frozen terrain, and breathe in the fresh alpine air, no ski pass needed. We’re just down the road from the Cardrona ski field, making it easy to switch things up for the day. Swap your skis for reins or handlebars and discover a new way to enjoy the snow. It’s the ultimate way to rest the legs while still keeping the adventure alive. The mountains are looking incredible right now, think powdery snow, icy branches and postcard-perfect backdrops everywhere you look. Don’t miss your chance to experience it from a different perspective. Book now at thecardrona.co.nz and make your winter holiday even more memorable. Whether you’re keen to ride amongst the snow or cruise on a quad, your snowy escape starts here. “We’re having a good run with lots of fantastic snowy rides with both the horses & quads at the moment… It’s cold but beautiful.” Kel fromThe Cardrona Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 https://thecardrona.co.nz Contact Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Rural

What Your Leaves Are Trying to Tell You: A Practical Guide to Smarter Soil and Foliar Nutrition by Dr Gordon Rajendram

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When it comes to growing healthy, productive crops, your plants often reveal what they need — you just have to know where to look. According to soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, leaves are one of the best indicators of nutrient deficiencies. Subtle changes in colour, shape, or spotting can highlight underlying issues before they affect your yield. Yellowing between the veins may indicate a magnesium deficiency, while stunted or distorted leaves often point to problems with boron or calcium. Left untreated, these issues can progress quickly. The good news? Foliar feeding offers a fast, effective solution. Unlike traditional root-based fertilisers, foliar sprays deliver nutrients directly to the plant’s leaves. This allows for quicker uptake and immediate correction of deficiencies, particularly during peak growth periods or when soil conditions are poor. It’s a practical way to support plant health and boost performance — without waiting for the soil to catch up. But foliar nutrition is just one part of a wider conversation: what should you really be putting on your land? Too often, fertiliser decisions are made based on habit rather than evidence. While it’s tempting to stick with what’s worked in the past, every season brings new challenges. Weather patterns shift, nutrient levels change, and crop demands evolve. Applying nutrients without soil data risks overuse, waste, and environmental harm. A smarter approach involves testing your soil regularly, understanding what your crops need at each growth stage, and tailoring your inputs accordingly. That might include slow-release fertilisers, biological amendments, or timely foliar applications. Finally, it’s important to move beyond the mindset of soil testing as a “spring-only” task. Nutrient availability isn’t static — it fluctuates year-round with rainfall, plant uptake, and microbial activity. Monitoring your soil throughout the year provides valuable insights and helps prevent problems before they start. As Dr Gordon Rajendram advises, tuning into what your plants and soil are telling you — and responding with targeted, informed action — is the key to growing stronger crops, protecting your land, and improving your bottom line. Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Accommodation

Travelling with Kids in Winter? Here’s How We Make it Easy at Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites, Auckland

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Travelling with kids during the winter months can be a challenge, from keeping them warm and entertained to finding the right accommodation that suits the whole family. At Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites, we understand what families need for a smooth and stress-free stay, especially when the temperatures drop. Our spacious, family-friendly suites offer the ideal base for your Auckland adventure. With options that include kitchenettes and multiple beds, you’ll have the flexibility to prepare meals, store snacks, and create a cosy space that feels like home. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, we’ve thought of the little details that help make things easier for parents. Winter days are perfect for exploring Auckland’s attractions, many of which are just a short drive away, but when it’s time to wind down, our on-site café offers the perfect spot to relax. Grab a warm drink while the kids enjoy a hot chocolate and settle in front of the café’s big screen. We regularly screen family-friendly movies and popular kids’ shows, creating a fun and relaxed space where the whole family can recharge. We also offer free parking and easy access to public transport, so you can leave the car behind and explore the city without the hassle. Auckland’s museums, indoor play centres, and shopping precincts are all within easy reach, making it simple to plan a fun-filled itinerary regardless of the weather. Most importantly, our friendly team is always on hand to offer tips, local recommendations, and that extra helping hand when you need it. So if you’re heading to Auckland this winter with little ones in tow, make Best Western Newmarket your home away from home. We’ve got the warm rooms, welcoming service, and winter-friendly facilities to make your family’s stay a breeze. Contact Best Western Newmarket info@abf.net.nz 0508 899 699 https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz Contact Media PA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

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

Travel

The Tree of Life: Honouring the Coconut Tree’s Sacred Place in the Cook Islands Culture

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ou’ve seen it in nearly every photo of our little paradise — the iconic coconut tree. It’s the unmistakable symbol of tropical life, a mark that you’ve arrived somewhere truly special. But in the Cook Islands, the coconut is more than just a picture-perfect backdrop. Known as the “Tree of Life,” it plays a central role in island culture, offering nourishment, healing, and shelter. Its water refreshes, its flesh enriches local cuisine, and its oils soothe both body and soul. From mats and baskets woven from its fronds to jewellery and fuel crafted from its husks, the coconut is woven into the very fabric of island life. At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, we celebrate the spirit of the coconut through spa treatments, island-inspired cuisine, and cultural experiences that immerse you in the heart of the Cook Islands. Traditional Flavours: The Role of Coconut in Cook Islands Cuisine Coconut is a cornerstone of Cook Islands cuisine, adding rich flavour, texture, and depth to many traditional dishes. The beloved Ika Mata — fresh fish marinated in coconut cream, lime, and vegetables — is one of the most iconic, and you can savour this island classic at Sandals Restaurant at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Little Polynesian Resturant or Rapae Bay Restaurant at Pacific Resort Aitutaki. Additonal local dishes using coconut include poke, a comforting dish made with pumpkin or banana cooked with arrowroot and coconut cream, is often served as a side dish in place of bread or potato but is equally delicious as a dessert. Rukau, made from taro leaves cooked slowly in coconut cream, is a beloved local favourite — and features in various dishes across our resort restaurants. For those looking to recreate island flavours at home, Cook Islanders traditionally make their own coconut cream (Tai) by harvesting mature brown coconuts, grating the flesh using a ka‘ara (grater stool), and hand-squeezing it through a thin cloth. The first press yields a rich, velvety cream, perfect for dishes like Ika Mata, curries, and coconut-based desserts. Discover our Ika Mata recipe and other culinary delights here. The Coconut’s Role in Cook Islands History: A Tree of Many Uses The coconut tree has been integral to island life for centuries, providing essential materials for shelter, tools, and ceremonial uses. Its fronds were woven into homes and mats, while the husk created ropes and fishing nets. Coconut shells were used to craft utensils and jewellery, and the tree’s wood was fashioned into canoes. The coconut’s oil was crucial in island medicine, used to protect skin from the sun, treat burns, and promote healing. The milk and meat provided vital nourishment, ensuring sustainability for the community. This versatile tree continues to be a symbol of resourcefulness and resilience in the Cook Islands. Coconut Oil: Nature’s Luxury for Skin and Soul In the Cook Islands, coconut oil has long been treasured not only as a culinary staple but also as a natural remedy for skin and wellbeing. At Pacific Resort Aitutaki’s Tiare Spa, Te Manava Spa, and the Pacific Lounge at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, we honour this tradition through indulgent spa experiences. Selected treatments feature locally crafted Te Tika Skincare products, made with pure Cook Islands coconut oil. Known for its deep moisturising, anti-inflammatory, and skin-rejuvenating properties, this oil is the perfect remedy for sun-kissed skin, helping to soothe, protect, and nourish while leaving you with a healthy tropical glow. Whether it’s a relaxing massage, a hydrating body scrub, or a soothing facial, you’ll feel the restorative power of the islands in every treatment. Many of these products are also available to take home, allowing you to bring a little piece of paradise with you. Click here to discover more about our spa and beauty offerings at Pacific Resort Hotel Group. The Spirit of the Coconut: Embrace the Cook Islands Connection The coconut tree represents resilience, sustainability, and the deep connection between the people and their environment. It’s been vital to the Cook Islands for centuries, offering shelter, sustenance, and cultural significance. At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, we invite you to experience the enduring legacy of the coconut through our culinary experiences, spa treatments, and cultural celebrations. The spirit of the “Tree of Life” is woven into every aspect of your stay, allowing you to connect with the Cook Islands in meaningful ways. Book your escape today – and discover a paradise where nature, tradition, and luxury come together beautifully. Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group reservations@pacificresort.com Contact Media PA027 458 7724 – phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

Hamilton’s Own JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Partners with Carrier & Toshiba to Offer Unmatched 10-Year Warranty on Heat Pumps

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JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning has secured a significant new partnership with AHI Carrier New Zealand, allowing them to offer a market-leading 10-year residential warranty on selected Carrier and Toshiba air conditioning systems. Effective from 1 June 2025, this initiative sets a new benchmark in the New Zealand HVAC industry, where the standard warranty on most heat pumps is just five years—with only two other providers offering up to six. This exclusive warranty includes five years of full parts and labour cover, followed by an additional five years of parts-only support. It represents a major value-added benefit for homeowners, providing long-term peace of mind and reinforcing the quality and reliability of Carrier and Toshiba products. To qualify for the 10-year warranty, units must be installed in a residential property by a qualified installer, commissioned in accordance with best practice guidelines, and registered within 90 days of installation. JSR will oversee the full process to ensure each installation meets the requirements for coverage. This development opens the door for compelling promotional campaigns, with JSR planning to spotlight Carrier and Toshiba systems under the banner of the “Power of Ten”. These promotions will highlight the extended warranty as a key differentiator for customers seeking long-lasting climate control solutions. By aligning with two globally recognised brands and their commitment to durability, JSR continues to deliver excellence across its range of heating and cooling services. This partnership not only enhances JSR’s product offering but positions the company as a leader in customer assurance within the New Zealand market. For homeowners considering a new heat pump system, there has never been a better time to invest. With JSR, customers can now enjoy premium comfort backed by the longest residential warranty available in the country. “This partnership with Carrier and Toshiba is a proud moment for JSR. Offering a 10-year warranty isn’t just about setting a new standard—it’s about giving our customers genuine peace of mind. We stand behind the quality of our work and the products we install, and now we have a warranty to match.”— Jujhar Randhawa, CEO of JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Rural

Effluent Management in New Zealand: What to Do Right – and What Can Go Wrong with Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram

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Effluent is not waste – it’s a nutrient-rich fertiliser source. When used properly, it can save money on synthetic fertiliser and support healthy soils. But when mismanaged, effluent can contaminate waterways, harm stock health and result in large fines. Here’s what farmers need to know. The Right Way to Manage Effluent What Can Go Wrong – and the Cost Case Study 1: Waimana, Bay of Plenty (2023)Two farms were fined a total of $77,000 for discharging effluent into a stream. A travelling irrigator had operated too close to a drain in damp conditions, with no soil moisture checks or documented system. Result: obvious ponding and discoloured stream water. Case Study 2: Waverley, Taranaki (2018)A faulty oxidation pond led to raw effluent entering the Moumahaki Stream. The farmer was fined $54,000. In a separate incident, ponded effluent ran off land into a creek – a $45,000 fine followed. Poor maintenance and storage management were to blame. Final Word Effluent is an asset – if managed correctly. Use industry calculators (like DairyNZ’s Effluent Spreading and Storage Tools), regularly maintain systems, and apply with care. The environment, your pasture, and your wallet will thank you. Want tailored advice for your farm?Get in touch with Dr Gordon Rajendram today to ensure your effluent management is safe, compliant, and working for your soil. Visit www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz or contact him directly for a personalised consultation. Sources: Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Accommodation

Discover Napier’s Dog-Friendly Delights from Ace High Motor Inn

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Planning a trip to Napier with your four-legged friend? Look no further than Ace High Motor Inn, located in the welcoming suburb of Pirimai. Offering clean, comfortable, and pet-friendly accommodation, Ace High is perfectly positioned for exploring the best of Hawke’s Bay with your dog by your side. The motel provides spacious, well-equipped rooms and grassy outdoor areas ideal for dogs to stretch their legs. From this central location, you’re just minutes from a range of fantastic dog-friendly parks, reserves, and beaches. For off-leash fun, Pakowhai Regional Park is a local favourite, featuring a large area where dogs can run free. Another excellent spot is Park Island, which includes agility equipment, water access, and a scenic 1km loop walk. Anderson Park in nearby Greenmeadows offers a 2.3km loop track and plenty of open space, perfect for a relaxed morning stroll. If you prefer a quieter spot, Dolbel Reserve and Prebensen Drive Reserve both allow dogs on-lead and are ideal for a quick leg-stretch. Dog-friendly walking trails are in abundance here, too. The Ahuriri Estuary Walking Track is a peaceful route for on-lead adventures, offering views of wetlands and local birdlife. Or, explore sections of the expansive Hawke’s Bay Trails, with many dog-friendly paths stretching across coastlines, rivers, and farmland. When it comes to beach time, you’ll find several dog-welcoming options nearby. Napier Beach allows dogs on-leash and is popular for its long stretches and sea breeze. A short drive south brings you to Central Hawke’s Bay beaches like Kairakau, where dogs are free to enjoy the sand and surf. Westshore Beach, closer to town, also offers designated off-leash areas. With its handy location, warm hospitality, and easy access to so many scenic spots, Ace High Motor Inn is the ideal base for a paw-some getaway in Napier. Come stay, explore, and enjoy everything Hawke’s Bay has to offer — tail wags guaranteed! 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

Business

SimplyFire Ignites Engagement at NZ Business Connect Event, Hamilton, 18th June

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SimplyFire brought spark and safety to the latest NZ Business Connect event on Wednesday evening at their Hamilton headquarters, sponsoring an evening filled with inspiration, education, and networking. The event featured guest speaker Nick Funnell from Nothing but Everything, whose powerful storytelling captivated the audience. Adding a practical twist to the night, SimplyFire donated two car fire extinguishers as business card prize draws—an everyday safety tool that resonated with attendees. Safety Meets Community Based in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato, SimplyFire specialises in comprehensive fire protection solutions. Their team services the Bay of Plenty, South Auckland, and the wider Waikato regions, specialising in electronic fire alarm systems and pacifier protection. They also offer fire extinguisher supply and maintenance, compliance certification, fire safety training, and tailored advice for homes, businesses, and vehicles. Their mission is clear: to protect people, property, and livelihoods by making fire safety simple, accessible, and actionable. By sponsoring the NZ Business Connect event, SimplyFire once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local business communities and championing everyday safety. “We believe safety should be simple, practical, and integrated into daily life,” said Lindsay Duffy, General Manager of SimplyFire. “Giving away car fire extinguishers is a great way to start that conversation and empower people to take control of their safety on the road.” Guest Speaker Highlights: Nick Funnell, Lloyd Te Ruki & Kaleo Benavides The headline speaker for the evening was Nick Funnell, founder of Nothing but Everything. With a focus on mindset, storytelling, and unlocking clarity, Nick’s presentation struck a chord with attendees who are navigating both business growth and personal development. His talk encouraged attendees to reflect on the deeper ‘why’ behind their business journey. In addition to Nick’s keynote, SimplyFire also welcomed two guest speakers of their own: These additional speakers brought real-world depth to the evening, reinforcing SimplyFire’s holistic approach to business—not just focusing on products and services, but also education, community, and empowerment. Driving Value Through Sponsorship NZ Business Connect is proud to host events that combine practical takeaways with meaningful business relationships. SimplyFire’s involvement helped elevate the Hamilton event, not only through valuable giveaways but also by spotlighting important conversations around workplace and personal safety. “Support from sponsors like SimplyFire is what allows us to keep creating value for our members,” said Phillip Quay, CEO of NZ Business Connect. “It’s great to see businesses stepping forward with purpose and care—not just for their brand, but for their wider community.” Lighting the Way Forward With safety at its core and community at its heart, SimplyFire continues to demonstrate that small, thoughtful actions—like gifting a fire extinguisher—can lead to safer outcomes and lasting conversations. Their involvement in the NZ Business Connect Hamilton event is a powerful example of how safety, connection, and innovation can come together to build a better business environment. Contact SimplyFire 021 195 8535 https://www.simplyfire.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

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