Discover New Caledonia with IATA Accredited Travel Agency Champion Travel: Your Next Tropical Escape Awaits!

New Caledonia is open, and there’s no better time to plan your tropical escape with Champion Travel! This South Pacific gem, just a short flight from New Zealand, combines French sophistication with Melanesian warmth, offering Kiwi travellers a unique paradise to explore. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, New Caledonia is the perfect destination to fulfil your travel dreams.

Picture yourself strolling along white sandy beaches, snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons, and indulging in gourmet French cuisine with a tropical twist. New Caledonia boasts one of the world’s largest lagoons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with vibrant marine life. Dive into this underwater wonderland or simply soak up the sun on secluded islets. By working with Champion Travel, you can unlock exclusive deals to make your journey seamless and unforgettable. With over 49 years of industry experience, you are in good hands with Maxwell Burns, owner of Champion Travel.

For adventurers, the island’s rugged mountains and lush forests beckon. Hike through verdant trails, uncover hidden waterfalls, and marvel at panoramic views of the Pacific. Culture enthusiasts will delight in Nouméa, the cosmopolitan capital, where French bakeries line the streets, and local markets brim with traditional crafts. Explore the rich history and traditions of the Kanak people, whose vibrant culture adds depth to this idyllic destination.

At Champion Travel, they understand that New Zealanders crave stress-free getaways, which is why they offer curated packages tailored to your needs. Whether it’s a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, their team ensures every detail is taken care of—from flights and accommodation to unique experiences like lagoon cruises or cultural tours.

Now is the time to make your dream holiday a reality. Let Champion Travel guide you to New Caledonia, where tropical beauty and French flair converge. Contact Maxwell Burns today, and let’s create the perfect itinerary for your next adventure. Don’t wait—paradise is calling!

Click here to learn more about the situation in New Caledonia.

Contact Maxwell Burns at Champion Travel

021 022 02220

info@championtravel.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Group Lunches at Award-winning Indian Restaurant Great Spice Otumoetai: Bringing People Together

Great Spice Otumoetai is the go-to destination for group lunches, offering authentic Indian cuisine, warm hospitality, and over 20 years of culinary expertise. With a strong reputation built over six years, this local gem has become a favourite spot for gatherings of all kinds.

The lunch menu features a variety of dishes to please every palate, from hearty curries and fragrant biryanis to lighter options like wraps and salads. Whether it’s a workplace meeting, a social club get-together, or a casual catch-up with friends, Great Spice ensures a satisfying meal for everyone. The team is also happy to cater to dietary preferences, ensuring no guest is left out.

Owner Khem Chandra, who leads the team with decades of experience, takes pride in creating exceptional dining experiences. “At Great Spice Otumoetai, we don’t just serve food; we bring people together with flavours they’ll love in a welcoming atmosphere,” says Khem. “It’s a privilege to share my passion for authentic Indian cuisine with the community.”

With a modern and inviting interior, Great Spice creates the perfect setting for group lunches. Clean lines, tasteful décor, and soft lighting combine to create a comfortable yet vibrant space. The seating arrangements are thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups of varying sizes, making it easy to enjoy the meal and conversation without feeling cramped. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between lively energy and relaxation, making it an ideal place to gather with friends, family, or colleagues.

Convenient parking is another reason why Great Spice Otumoetai stands out as an easy choice for group lunches. With plenty of spaces available, diners can focus on enjoying their meal without the hassle of finding a spot.

While group lunches are a highlight, Great Spice Otumoetai also welcomes dinner bookings, offering an equally delightful experience in the evening.

For a group lunch that combines exceptional food, a welcoming atmosphere, and seamless service, book your table at Great Spice Otumoetai today. Call now and discover why this local favourite continues to impress!

Contact Great Spice:

07-570 2244

info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz

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

https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

AI and the Event Planning Industry: A Game-Changer in 5 Key Areas

UK Correspondent: Peter Minkoff

Artificial intelligence has transformed the event planning industry. From streamlining logistics to creating experiences for guests, AI has become indispensable for professionals. Its ability to automate processes, analyse data, and create personalised experiences is reshaping how events are planned and executed. This article explores five key ways AI is revolutionising the event planning sector, highlighting both its advantages and the considerations it brings.

  1. Streamlining Event Management

AI-powered tools are making event management much easier by automating repetitive tasks and further optimising workflows. Today, AI can handle everything from registrations to automated reminders and even manage schedules with ease for event organisers. For example, chatbots respond instantly to every attendee inquiry, saving event staff time. Predictive analytics lets planners anticipate any challenges that might arise and make proactive adjustments for seamless execution. These technologies not only save time but also reduce the margin for human error, making event management more efficient than ever.

  1. Enhancing Guest Experiences

Personalisation has become a hallmark of successful events, and AI plays a major role in delivering personalised experiences. Machine learning algorithms analyse attendee data to make personalised recommendations on everything from seating arrangements and activity suggestions to meal preferences. AI-driven applications further allow real-time updates and navigation during events, hence making the experience seamless for your guests. By understanding attendee behavior, AI empowers event planners to curate events that resonate on a personal level, fostering deeper engagement and satisfaction.

  1. Imaging and Visual Content

AI has taken the creation of visual content to a different level by providing tools for generating high-quality, customised images for event promotion and branding. With the ability driven by AI, platforms can offer outstanding visuals, mockups, and themes that align with an event perfectly in terms of tone and style. While AI imaging tools are valuable, no machine can replace nuanced artistry and the human touch a photographer brings into this profession. For the moments that truly matter, it’s still important to hire a professional event photographer for your occasion so the memories are captured authentically. The collaboration between AI-generated imaging and skilled photographers strikes the perfect balance between efficiency and quality, enhancing the visual storytelling of events.

  1. Data-Driven Decision-Making

AI is great at parsing large datasets for actionable insights to drive decision-making in event planning. From attendee feedback to social media sentiment analysis, AI tools process complex information to identify trends and preferences. This data will drive decisions on venue selection, marketing strategies, and event themes. For instance, sentiment analysis can reveal which elements of an event are likely to resonate most with the audience, guiding planners to focus their efforts on areas with the highest impact. This approach not only maximises ROI but also ensures that events are both relevant and impactful.

  1. Transforming Post-Event Analysis

Post-event analysis has become more sophisticated with AI’s capabilities. AI helps planners analyse the success of an event with precision by collecting and analysing attendee feedback. With AI tools, detailed reports can be created that show areas of improvement and successes, which provide valuable insights for future planning. In addition, AI can track metrics such as social media engagement, ticket sales, and on-site interactions, providing a comprehensive overview of the event’s performance. This level of insight will make sure that every event is a learning lesson and an opportunity to get better and refine the strategies.

In conclusion AI is now shaping event planning, from improving efficiency to helping in making informed decisions. While integrating AI into such events presents unparalleled advantages, it equally highlights human expertise in key areas, such as creative direction. The future of event planning will depend on the effective leveraging of AI as a collaborative partner. As the field continues to evolve, innovation will not cease to surprise this industry with further transformations, where events will not only be memorable but also carried out meticulously.

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

The Why Marketing Celebrates 5 Years with a Bold New Look

Tauranga, New Zealand—The Why Marketing, a leading provider of tailored marketing solutions for small businesses, solopreneurs, and non-profits, is proud to celebrate its 5th anniversary with the launch of a new logo. This milestone reflects a journey of growth, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to empowering clients with accessible, ethical, and impactful marketing strategies.

Founded in 2019, The Why Marketing was born from a desire to simplify marketing for businesses that felt overwhelmed and excluded from traditional approaches. Over the past five years, the company has grown into a trusted partner for clients across New Zealand, offering innovative solutions that turn confusion into clarity and hesitation into confident action.

A Logo That Reflects Our Journey and Values

The newly unveiled logo is inspired by the art of balancing stones, symbolising the harmony, precision, and growth that define The Why Marketing’s approach. The careful arrangement of the stones represents stability and creativity, while the vibrant green and orange colours highlight trust, growth, passion, and energy—core values that guide the company’s work.

“Our new logo isn’t just a design; it’s a celebration of our journey and the relationships we’ve built with our clients,” said Geoffrey Campbell, Founder and Director of The Why Marketing. “It embodies our commitment to turning marketing challenges into opportunities and helping businesses thrive with balance and purpose.”

Five Years of Growth and Innovation

From its origins as a boutique consultancy, The Why Marketing has expanded its services to
meet the diverse needs of its clients, including:

  • Virtual Marketing Officer (VMO): Offering expert, scalable marketing support that seamlessly integrates into clients’ teams.
  • SME Marketing Coaching: Empowering small business owners with actionable strategies to build confidence and clarity.
  • Branded Promotional Merchandise: Providing customised, high-quality products that leave lasting impressions for businesses of all sizes.

These services have helped businesses across industries connect with their audiences, achieve sustainable growth, and build meaningful relationships.

Looking Ahead

As The Why Marketing celebrates this milestone, the company is already planning for the future.
Key goals for the next chapter include:

  • Expanding the reach of VMO services to support more businesses at every stage of growth.
  • Enhancing coaching programs to empower even more SMEs and non-profits.
  • Innovating branded merchandise offerings to help businesses of all sizes strengthen their visibility and build loyalty.

“This milestone is a reflection of the trust our clients have placed in us,” Campbell said. “We’re excited to continue innovating and building partnerships that empower businesses to succeed with confidence and creativity.”

About The Why Marketing

The Why Marketing was founded in 2019 with a mission to make marketing accessible, ethical, and impactful for small businesses, solopreneurs, and non-profits. Based in Tauranga, New Zealand, the company offers a range of services designed to meet the unique needs of its clients, including Virtual Marketing Officer support, SME coaching, and branded promotional merchandise. Guided by core values of honesty, trust, and passion, The Why Marketing helps businesses achieve balance and sustainable success.

For Media Inquiries:
Geoffrey Campbell
geoffrey@thewhy.nz
022 058 7214

Follow The Why Marketing:
Website: www.thewhy.nz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-why-marketing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhymarketing/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWhyMarketing

NZ Business Connect Kicks off the Holiday Spirit at Rua Resort for the 2024 Annual Hamilton Christmas Party

NZ Business Connect welcomed the festive season in style with its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Hamilton Christmas Party at the beautiful Rua Resort in Temple View. Members and guests gathered on December 3rd for an evening of celebration, networking, and holiday cheer.

Photo Credit to Maruchelle Snyman from Shootography Za

The evening was filled with highlights, starting with homemade catering lovingly prepared by Colleen and her team from Rua Resort, whose warm hospitality set the perfect tone for the night. Newly appointed Chairman Jujhar Singh Randhawa delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his gratitude to the NZ Business Connect community and sharing his vision for NZ Business Connect’s future.

NZ Business Connect team member, Fiona, added a musical touch to the festivities, with a stunning saxophone performance and led a delightful ukulele carol sing-along that had everyone join in and spread holiday cheer.

The evening also featured a Secret Santa gift exchange, which brought plenty of laughter and surprises. Members also came together in the spirit of giving by donating to NZ Business Connect’s chosen social giving charity, Women’s Refuge, making a meaningful impact on those in need during the holiday season, thank you.

Excitement was high for the evening’s competitions, with Lawrenson Group vouchers generously provided by MediaPA. Richard Harris from Body IQ NZ won a voucher from the Business Card Draw, Paul Tierney from Here 2 Care Charitable Trust won Best Hat/Accessory for his customised “Paul” Santa hat, and Isaac Whatnall from IClaw was the lucky recipient of a re-drawn Best Dressed prize, also earning a voucher and wine.

As the evening wound down, the room buzzed with gratitude and excitement for the year ahead. NZ Business Connect extends its heartfelt thanks to Colleen for hosting and catering for this joyous occasion and for all who made the event such a success. Here’s to a relaxing holiday season and a prosperous New Year – see you all in 2025!

Contact NZ Business Connect

027 458 7724

phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Season’s Greetings from Pacific Resort Hotel Group

Embrace the spirit of Kia Orana this holiday season

As the holiday season approaches, we extend our warmest Kia Orana from the Cook Islands to you and your loved ones. Here in paradise, we celebrate the spirit of togetherness and relaxation, embracing the warmth of the season under our endless blue skies and amidst the turquoise lagoons that make our islands a dream destination. This is a time to unwind, reconnect, and bask in the simple joys that life offers..

Sharing Our Little Paradise with You

We invite you to explore the culture and traditions of the Cook Islands with our Sharing Our Little Paradise e-magazine. This magazine has been curated to provide an insight on some of our favourite things.

Inside, you’ll discover the story of Mana Tiaki, our guiding philosophy of guardianship, which shapes how we care for our land, sea, and communities. This philosophy is embedded in everything we do, from our eco-friendly practices to supporting local artisans. You’ll also find practical tips for embracing a sustainable holiday, like using reef-safe sunscreen and respecting the natural beauty that surrounds you.

To help you connect further with our island, we’ve included a guide to simple Kuki Airani (Cook Islands Maori) phrases. Learn greetings like Kia Orana (“Hello”) and Ka Kite (“Goodbye”), or express your gratitude with Meitaki (“Thank you”). These words add an extra layer of meaning to your time here, bringing you closer to the heart of our culture.

Indulge in the tastes of the Cook Islands with recipes like the refreshing Ika Mata and our signature Pacific-inspired cocktails. These dishes are perfect for recreating the flavours of the islands and sharing them with loved ones during your festive celebrations.

As you plan your holiday, let Sharing Our Paradise with You inspire your perfect island escape. We wish you health, happiness, and the spirit of Kia Manuia this festive season. Whether you’re joining us in person or enjoying the magic of our paradise through our e-magazine, we are honoured to share the beauty of the Cook Islands with you.

Get inspired by our magazine – read it here! 

Click here to see our special offers and start planning your next escape to paradise with us.

Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group

Pacific Resort Hotel Group

reservations@pacificresort.com

Contact MediaPA
027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Bethells Beach Cottages, Auckland: Resilience, Renewal, and Sustainability in Challenging Times

Bethells Beach Cottages, a tranquil sunset retreat on the west coast, just 40 minutes from Auckland’s bustling city centre and airports, has weathered a series of significant challenges over the past five years. From the huge disruptions of COVID-19 lockdowns for us and all communities and businesses throughout NZ to 3 extensive cyclone-damaged road closures and the pressures of a recession, the journey has been far from straightforward. Yet, owners Trude Bethell and John Paice remain unwavering in their commitment to sustain- ability, community, and wellness.

Reflecting on the journey, Trude shared, “Both in business and personally, we must believe in ourselves and support our communities wherever possible. These uncertain times have taught us to focus on positive energy, take each day as it comes, and prioritise wellness. This mindset has been vital for navigating the challenges we’ve encountered.”

Sustainability, guest support and environment friendly have always been cornerstones of Bethells Beach Cottages’ ethos. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, energised by the healing salt breeze, and nurtured by abundant gardens, sublime views and sunsets, the cottages provide a sanctuary for guests seeking rest and rejuvenation. 

The commitment to preserving this environment has also been a source of inspiration and strength for the team. “Nature has a grounding and relaxing energy we all need when taking time out from our busy lives,” Trude added. “Taking time to reflect and refocus during these turbulent years has been transformative. It’s allowed us to grow and reignite our passion for offering guests a space to heal and reconnect with themselves and the natural world.”

Conveniently located within easy reach of Auckland, Bethells Beach Cottages offers a serene escape from urban life without venturing far from home. Visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing rhythms of nature, enjoy the sustainably tended gardens, and experience this uplifting deep energy of the coast.
Looking ahead, Trude and John are optimistic about the future. “We’re excited for what’s to come,” says Trude. “Our goal is to continue providing a space that fosters wellness, sustainability, and connection, leaving our guests feeling truly refreshed.”

For more information and great images on our cottages, weddings and events or to book your stay, please visit Bethells Beach Cottages www.bethellsbeach.com.

Contact Bethells Beach Cottages

+64 9 810 9581

info@bethellsbeach.com

www.bethellsbeach.com

Contact Phillip Quay

Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

The Perfect Christmas Gift: An Adventure in Cardrona Valley with The Cardrona Horse Treks & 4×4 ATVs

Looking for a unique and unforgettable Christmas gift? A gift voucher for Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs is the perfect way to treat someone special to an adventure they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a peaceful horseback ride through stunning landscapes or an exhilarating quad-biking experience, a gift voucher offers a chance to explore the beauty of the Cardrona Valley in a way that will create lasting memories. Personalise the voucher with a special message for your loved one, making it the ideal present for anyone seeking outdoor adventure these Christmas holidays.

As summer arrives in the Cardrona Valley, the region is transformed into a breathtaking alpine paradise. The horses are gleaming with their shiny summer coats, and the snow has melted away from the mountain peaks, leaving clear skies and long sunny days that stretch well into the evening. This makes it the perfect time to experience the Twilight Rides, which run from 4:30 pm to 7 pm. These rides offer the unique opportunity to capture stunning sunset photographs, with the soft light casting beautiful shadows across the mountains and valley below.

Summer also brings the enchanting wildflower season to Cardrona. The lupins are starting to bloom along the Cardrona River, their vibrant purple and pink flowers creating a striking contrast against the lush green landscape. This stunning display lasts only a few weeks each year, making it a must-see for nature lovers. It’s the perfect time to explore the trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the beauty of this fleeting natural wonder.

Kel, the owner of Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, says, “There’s something truly magical about this time of year. The combination of the glowing summer days, the stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to experience it all on horseback or an ATV makes for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking to gift someone something special or create lasting memories yourself, the Cardrona Valley never disappoints.”

Whether gifting an adventure or planning a summer outing, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs offer a chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Cardrona Valley. Book now to make the most of the season and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact Experience The Cardrona

+64 3 443 1228

info@thecardrona.co.nz

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

Summer’s Impact on Soil Microbiology: What Farmers Need to Know – Insights from Dr Gordon Rajendram

Summer heat can significantly impact soil health by disrupting the balance of soil microbes. These tiny organisms are essential for nutrient cycling, soil structure, and crop productivity. Dr Gordon Rajendram, a soil health expert, says, “Understanding how summer temperatures affect microbial populations is key to maintaining healthy soil and good yields.”

Warmer temperatures can initially boost microbial activity, as beneficial microbes thrive in heat. However, this can lead to faster depletion of organic matter, reducing long-term fertility. If the heat becomes extreme, the microbial community may shift, with harmful pathogens outcompeting beneficial microbes. A study in Nature Microbiology highlights that rising temperatures not only influence microbial abundance but also alter the composition of soil microbial communities, which can lead to imbalances that harm soil health (Zhang et al., 2023).

Dry conditions in summer present further challenges. Moisture is critical for microbial life, and dry soils can stress or even kill microbes reliant on water. According to Microbiometer, a lack of soil moisture can shrink microbial populations and reduce their diversity, hindering vital processes like nitrogen fixation and organic matter decomposition. This often results in poorer soil quality, reduced crop yields, and increased reliance on fertilisers.

Farmers can take practical steps to protect their soil microbes:

  • Mulch: Apply organic mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, creating a stable environment for microbes.
  • Add organic matter: Compost or cover crops can improve microbial diversity and soil structure, while cover crops also reduce soil heat absorption.
  • Irrigate regularly: Maintaining consistent moisture levels prevents microbial stress and supports essential microbial functions.
  • Use bioinoculants: These products introduce beneficial microbes to rebalance the soil and enhance fertility, particularly in stressed conditions.

“Fostering soil biodiversity is one of the best defences against the challenges of rising temperatures,” says Dr Rajendram. By adopting these sustainable practices as well as soil and pasture testing, farmers can protect their soil microbes, sustain crop productivity, and promote resilience for the future.

References:

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Karen McMillan Brings Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga to Life at Apii Te Uki Ou

School visit to Apii Te Uki Ou
Acclaimed author Karen McMillan recently brought the magic of her children’s book series, Elastic Island Adventures, to life for students of Apii Te Uki Ou. Hosted by Pacific Resort Rarotonga, McMillan captivated her audience during a lively reading session of her Rarotonga-inspired edition, sharing insights into her creative process and the inspiration behind her beloved characters.

McMillan emphasised the role of reading in developing writing skills: “If you want to be a writer, you’ve got to read. I don’t know any published author that doesn’t read books. So read, read, and read, and if you haven’t found the right books that you like, go and try some other books.”

The Rarotonga edition of Elastic Island Adventures is a thrilling tale where Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan travel with Blong the Cat and Heathcliff the Dog to beautiful Rarotonga. Expecting a relaxing escape, they quickly face challenges: a grumpy gecko named Mighty Moko who lives at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, and the theft of all the island’s black pearls in a daring heist. With the wise Mana Tiaki’s guidance, the children race to solve clues and save the pearls.

The series features four main characters, each inspired by aspects of McMillan’s own personality and imagination. “Kiri loves swimming and music, while Emma is dreamy and loves books. They’re a blend of my personality,” she explained, adding that the series’ settings are now expanding into real-life locations. “Rarotonga is the first, Fiji will be next, and then we’ll see where we go from there.”

McMillan’s book reading was part of her continued efforts to engage with young readers in the Cook Islands, helping to foster a love of reading and writing. The author’s visit to Apii Te Uki Ou was a memorable occasion, sparking the imaginations of many young minds.

“The enthusiasm of the children is just wonderful isn’t it? And I really hope that this inspires them with their own creative writing.”

For more information on Elastic Island Adventures, or to grab your own copy, visit https://www.karenm.co.nz/rarotonga.

About Karen McMillan
Karen McMillan is a well-regarded author from New Zealand with an impressive range of books to her name, including both children’s fiction and adult non-fiction. She is best known for her Elastic Island Adventures series, which introduces readers to the magical world of the South Pacific.

Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group

reservations@pacificresort.com

Contact MediaPA
027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz