NZ Business Connect

Business

Business, Members

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

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

Business

Spring into Comfort: The Perfect Time for Maintenance with JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

Spring has arrived, bringing longer days and warmer temperatures. It is also the perfect time to make sure your refrigeration and air conditioning systems are ready for the seasons ahead. At JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we know that a little spring maintenance now can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your systems are running at their best when you need them most. Why Schedule Spring Maintenance? Prepare for Warmer WeatherAs summer approaches, your cooling systems will soon be working harder. Servicing them in spring ensures they can cope with higher demand without unexpected failures. Improve EfficiencyWell-maintained units use less energy and keep your power bills under control. Cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring fans and coils are in top condition all help reduce unnecessary strain. Extend Equipment LifespanRegular servicing keeps your investment working for longer. Addressing small issues before they become bigger problems means you avoid expensive replacements sooner than necessary. Peace of MindKnowing your systems are safe, reliable, and running smoothly gives you one less thing to worry about as the busy summer season kicks off. What We Can Do for You This Spring At JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, our expert technicians can: Time for an Upgrade? Spring is also a smart time to consider a replacement if your current system is old, inefficient, or prone to breakdowns. Newer models are not only more energy efficient but also quieter, more reliable, and better for the environment. Our team can recommend and install systems tailored to your space and needs. Book Early and Beat the Summer Rush Don’t wait until the first hot day to discover your system is not up to the task. Book your spring maintenance or installation with JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning now, and enjoy a cool, comfortable, and worry-free summer. Get in touch with us today to schedule your service or request a quote. Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

Foley Douglas and NZ Business Connect Showcase AI and Community Growth

The latest NZ Business Connect (NZBC) event brought together local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members for an evening of networking, knowledge-sharing, and future-focused discussion. Hosted with the support of sponsors Foley Douglas, the event highlighted both the growth of the NZBC network and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in modern business. Keynote speaker Jamie Moore from Mosaic Partners, a seasoned technology entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, captivated the audience with an engaging presentation on the practical uses of AI. From drafting documents and summarising lengthy reports to generating realistic images and streamlining workflows, Jamie demonstrated how AI is reshaping industries and saving professionals valuable time. He also stressed the importance of using AI responsibly, treating it as a powerful tool that must be applied with safeguards, accuracy checks, and human judgment. The presentation resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom are already experimenting with AI in their businesses. Jamie encouraged companies to establish clear AI policies, choose secure platforms, and start small with internal use cases such as documentation or drafting before scaling to client-facing applications. “AI won’t replace people,” he noted, “but people using AI effectively will have the advantage.” Alongside the keynote, the event underscored NZBC’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections between local businesses. New members shared their stories of joining the network, often citing the group’s energy, sense of community, and focus on collaboration as key drawcards. Sponsors echoed this sentiment, highlighting the value of supporting such gatherings. Senior Associate Issac Whatnall from Foley Douglas reflected: “Being a sponsor of the NZBC AI event was a fantastic experience for Foley Douglas. As the second event we’ve hosted, it reinforced for us how valuable these occasions are in bringing the Waikato business community together. It allowed us to connect with a broad cross-section of members, showcase who we are, and contribute to an important conversation about technology and its place in our profession. What we value most about NZBC is its mix of professionalism and genuine community spirit. Supporting an event like this not only aligned with our values but also gave us the chance to deepen our relationships with members, both familiar faces and new contacts.” NZBC Board Chairman Jujhar Randhawa said: “NZ Business Connect is about more than business growth. It’s about building a community that looks after one another and gives back. Social giving is central to our ethos, and events like this show how powerful that mix of development and community spirit can be.” NZBC Founder Phillip Quay added: “NZ Business Connect is growing because people see the value of sharing knowledge and supporting each other. Technology like AI can spark innovation, but it’s the human connections that turn ideas into action. That balance is what we’re all about.” The evening closed with thanks to hosts, sponsors, and the dedicated NZBC team, who make each gathering a success. Looking ahead, members were invited to the next event on October 14th, where the focus will shift to exploring a firm’s journey to success. By combining cutting-edge insights with genuine community spirit, NZ Business Connect continues to prove itself as a hub where businesses not only grow but thrive together. Contact Foley Douglas (07) 929 4300 reception@foleydouglas.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, Members

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

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

Business, Members

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

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

Business

Meeanee Firewood Napier: Back in Action After Cyclone Gabrielle

Meeanee Firewood in Napier is officially back up and running after more than two and a half years of challenges and rebuilding following the devastating impact of Cyclone Gabrielle. The locally owned and operated business is once again supplying quality firewood to homes across Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North, proving that determination and community spirit can overcome even the toughest setbacks. A Tough Road to Recovery Cyclone Gabrielle left behind significant damage to the business, wiping out stock, equipment, and access to supply. For Hayden and the team, it was not just about repairing what was lost but also about rebuilding the business from the ground up. “There were times it felt impossible, but the support from our customers and the wider community kept us going,” says Hayden, owner of Meeanee Firewood. Now, after two and a half years of persistence, the business is fully operational and ready to supply homes with the firewood they need for warmth, cooking, and outdoor living. Quality Wood for Every Need Meeanee Firewood continues to offer a range of wood types to suit different needs: Our wood is carefully sourced and processed to ensure the best possible burn for customers. Looking Ahead With operations back in full swing, Meeanee Firewood is focused on supplying the community year round. Our team is committed to maintaining their high standards for quality, service, and reliability. Meeanee Firewood is more than just a supplier, it’s a story of resilience and local pride. After weathering the storm, we are here to stay, ready to keep homes warm and fires burning across Hawke’s Bay. Contact Meeanee FirewoodCall/Text 027 341 6592www.meeaneefirewood.co.nz

Business, Members

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

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

Business

Turning Blueprints into Reality: How Hamilton’s JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Designs and Delivers with Precision

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a sketch into a fully operational refrigeration or HVAC system? Welcome to the vibrant world of JSR’s Design & Project Management, where technical precision meets a healthy dose of Kiwi ingenuity. Everything starts with your idea. Whether you’re dreaming of commercial cold stores, retrofitting a heat pump, or setting up on-farm refrigeration, JSR begins the process with a thorough site inspection and detailed heat-load calculations. From there, their licensed engineers get to work developing compliant HVAC and refrigeration designs, complete with the all-important producer statements (PS1 to PS4). But it’s not just about ticking the compliance boxes. JSR tailors every design to suit your specific needs. Whether you’re installing a simple heat pump or coordinating a multi-site industrial refrigeration system, they consider every angle: layout, functionality, efficiency, and future-proofing. No job is too small or too complex. What makes JSR stand out is their end-to-end service. They don’t just hand over the plans and walk away. From concept and design through to installation and ongoing maintenance, their team stays hands-on. They even offer 24/7 emergency breakdown support, IQP compliance checks, and proactive maintenance to keep things running smoothly. Energy efficiency is a core part of JSR’s approach. Whether it’s ducted heat-pump systems, solar-assisted ventilation, or smart multi-zone setups, their designs focus on reducing energy use and lowering operational costs without compromising performance. Let’s be honest. Heating, cooling, and compliance might not sound like the most exciting topics. But JSR makes it all feel surprisingly engaging. With a clear, personable approach, they help clients feel informed, confident, and even a little bit enthusiastic about airflow and compressor curves. The bottom line? JSR’s Design & Project Management service is more than just technical know-how. It’s a complete journey from first idea to finished system, done professionally, efficiently, and with just the right touch of personality. Ready to warm up or cool down your project with confidence? JSR is ready to bring your vision to life. Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business, Members

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

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

Business, Members

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

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

Scroll to Top