Community

Saturday, 16 May 2026 Hamilton, Waikato — A powerful and heartfelt step toward reconciliation and cultural understanding wasachieved at a multi-community hui held at Trust Waikato meeting rooms this week, bringing togetherleaders from Māori, Indian, and wider South Asian communities. The hui was organised by the Indian Cultural Society Waikato Inc., led by its President and Director ofEvents, Jujhar Singh Randhawa JP, following constructive engagement aimed at turning recent challengesinto an opportunity for dialogue, learning, and unity. The evening opened with a warm welcome, shared kai, and traditional Indian chai, creating an atmosphereof openness and genuine connection. This was followed by meaningful kōrero and formal proceedingsgrounded in respect and shared purpose. Dr Sarkaw Randhawa, speaking on behalf of the Indian Cultural Society Waikato, delivered a deeplymoving opening address, including te reo Māori. Emphasising unity and collective strength, she remindedattendees: “E waka eke noa – we are all in this together… my strength is not that of an individual, but that of thecollective.” She spoke candidly about the recent incident that had caused hurt within the community, whileencouraging understanding and dialogue:“Let’s acknowledge the hurt caused and use it as a reminder of how important it is to understand andrespect each other’s cultures.” Dr Randhawa highlighted the shared values between Māori and South Asian communities — includingrespect for elders, strong family systems, and cultural traditions — and reinforced the importance ofworking together:“There’s no place for standing against each other. We’re stronger together.” Jujhar Singh Randhawa JP welcomed attendees and thanked all community leaders for coming together inthe spirit of goodwill and partnership, emphasising the importance of turning dialogue into long-termcollaboration. Che Wilson addressed the hui on behalf of his team, acknowledging the importance of the moment andreinforcing a commitment to open engagement and mutual respect. His message aligned with earlierdiscussions recognising that constructive dialogue can transform difficult moments into opportunities forstronger community relationships In a powerful gesture of reconciliation and unity, Che Wilson and his team presented a pounamu(greenstone) named Te Aroha to the South Asian and Indian community, received on their behalf byJujhar Singh Randhawa JP. In Māori tradition, this represents a tatau pounamu — a symbolic doorway tolasting peace and connection, grounded in aroha and mutual respect. Community leaders expressed their appreciation for the initiative, acknowledging the openness, humility,and leadership demonstrated by all involved. Particular recognition was given to Che Wilson and his teamfor engaging with sincerity and taking meaningful steps forward. The hui reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that differences are addressed through respectfulkōrero, and that communities continue to build stronger relationships through understanding andcollaboration. The evening concluded with a strong sense of optimism and a shared vision for the future — one wherecultures are celebrated, differences are respected, and communities stand united. Media Contact:Jujhar Singh Randhawa JPPresident & Director of EventsIndian Cultural Society Waikato Inc.Hamilton, WaikatoPh: 0275777221Email: president@icsw.org.nz

    NZ Business Connect’s Social Giving Event, held on Tuesday, May 5, at The Cook Restaurant in Hamilton, brought together a large representation of the Waikato business community for an evening centred on connection, purpose, and impact in support of Waikato Women’s Refuge – Te Whakaruruhau. The event marked not only a successful fundraising effort, but also the official launch of NZ Business Connect’s new Social Giving App “Collective Kindness”, designed to make it easier for businesses and individuals to contribute to causes that matter. Hamilton Mayor Tim Macindoe, Hamilton West MP Tama Potaka, Hamilton City Councillor Rachel Koralus, Love The Centre General Manager Vanessa Williams and Former Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate were among the special guests in attendance. Guests heard from keynote speaker Ruahine ‘Roni’ Albert, CEO of Waikato Women’s Refuge, whose powerful address highlighted the realities of family violence in the region and the critical role Waikato Women’s Refuge plays in supporting those affected. Her message reinforced the importance of ongoing community support and the difference collective action can make. “There’s a whole heap of areas that businesses could contribute to and support, it doesn’t always necessarily need to be money”, said Roni. “It could be looking at sponsorship through your connections”. The evening was made possible thanks to the generosity of event sponsors. Drinks were generously sponsored by First Rate Finish – Monty McFarlane, with food platters sponsored by PJ and Pooja Goel of PJ Maccas (McDonald’s Frankton and Centre Place). A highlight of the night was the silent auction, with a wide range of items generously donated by local businesses and individuals. Contributions came from Waikato Women’s Refuge, Chris Rollitt (The Cook), Paulette Coombes (EleVate Beyond), Robyn Owen (Vital Balance), Gail Jones (Gails Floral Studio), Steve Moulden (Copier World), Neet Dhiman (Mortgage Supply), Simply Fire, All Ear Care (Erin Craig), Maisey Harris & Co, Tarun Kumar (Lodge), Sarkaw Randhawa (Hillcrest Spinal Centre), Janeen Walker (Pragma Homes), Foley Douglas, Monty McFarlane (First Rate Finish), Sunil Patil (LINK), Tony Snow (SHARED Workspaces), and business card draw, Trish Kilburn (Zoom Print), Sunil Patil and The Cook. In addition, Hamilton-based IT and website development company Enform NZ Limited made a significant donation to the Waikato Women’s Refuge. Thanks to the support of attendees and sponsors, funds raised from donations and the silent auction arrived at a total of over $4000 for Waikato Women’s Refuge, directly contributing to the continuation of essential frontline services. Beyond the funds raised, the evening reflected the strength of the NZBC network and its commitment to giving back. Events like this demonstrate how the business community can come together not just to connect, but to create meaningful, lasting change. The success of the evening is a reminder that building sustained support for organisations like Waikato Women’s Refuge Te Whakaruruhau is key to ensuring they can continue their vital work across the region.To get involved or support, visit Waikato Women’s Refuge here Details to make a donation: Account Name: Te Whakaruruhau 2013 Incorporated Branch: ASB Hamilton Number: 12-3122-0217463-00 Please make sure to add ‘NZBC’ to Particulars so they know it has come from this event. Get in touch with NZ Business Connect: phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz 027 458 7724 www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Ruahine ‘Roni’ Albert will take centre stage as keynote speaker at NZ Business Connect’s upcoming Social Giving Event on Tuesday, May 5, shining a light on the realities of family violence in the Waikato and the growing demand for support. The event, which will raise funds for Waikato Women’s Refuge – Te Whakaruruhau, brings the business community together in support of one of the region’s most vital frontline services. For nearly 40 years, Women’s Refuge Waikato has provided a lifeline for those escaping family violence. The foundation of Te Whakaruruhau was a collective effort led by many local women, including Hinewirangi Kohu, Roma Balzer, Ariana Simpson, and Ruahine ‘Roni’ Albert. Today, that legacy continues through Roni’s ongoing leadership, helping shape and strengthen the largest refuge in the country. Since opening in 1986, the organisation has supported more than 150,000 women and children, with up to 5,000 people seeking help each year. Yet, as Roni explains, the reality behind those numbers is often misunderstood. “People think the Police will come, make an arrest, and everything will be fine,” she says. “But that’s not always the case.” Much of the harm women experience is not just physical, but psychological. Patterns of control, degradation, and manipulation can slowly erode confidence and independence, creating invisible barriers that make leaving incredibly difficult. “Over time, they start to believe what they’re being told about themselves,” Roni says. Demand for support across the Waikato is rising, driven by the cost of living and a lack of accessible housing. Women and children are staying longer in safe houses, often with nowhere permanent to go. For many, even basic necessities are out of reach. “Some of these families are choosing between feeding their children or themselves,” she says. Despite the scale of need, Women’s Refuge’s work is not fully funded, relying heavily on community and business support to provide essential services such as food, legal assistance, and safe housing. At the upcoming NZBC Social Giving Event, Roni hopes to shift perspectives and inspire action. “There is so much harm in our community that people will never see,” she says. “If you see something, do something. That one action could change a life.” With the event just around the corner, her message is simple: consistent, collective support can make a real difference. Contact the Waikato Women’s Refuge 07 855 1569

Hamilton’s central city is on the move and I mean that literally! Every time I zip through the central city in my Suzuki Fronx, I am reminded just how much is happening right now. Cranes are up, buildings are rising, and the shape of our city centre is shifting in ways that are exciting, energising and reflective of New Zealand’s fastest growing city. From the Ferrybank Regatta development to the Hamilton Central Library, Perry’s development, Garden Place’s Pascoes Building, the fourth building of Union Square and the upcoming Anglesea Medical precinct, our central city is not just growing, it is evolving. What excites me most is that this transformation is about so much more than bricks and mortar. Yes, business remains at the heart of it all, but we are also moving toward a more experience-led central city, one that welcomes more people, more services, and more reasons to come in, stay longer, and rediscover the central city all over again. Let me take you on a little tour of what’s got underway, because the list is fabulous! The Barton Street corner redevelopment is bringing a dynamic mix of hospitality, retail and office space to the city, due for completion in 2026. Nearby, Hinemoa Apartments will deliver 42 much-needed entry-level one and two-bedroom units also due in 2026, adding to the growing residential community right in the heart of the city. Union Square Building B, the fourth of six planned buildings, is on track for completion in Q4 2026, welcoming major tenants Tetra Pak and Aecom into the precinct. Over on Victoria Street, the 500 Victoria Street office building is getting a full transformation, including an external reclad and end-of-trip facilities, similarly, Norris Ward McKinnon House, the impressive seven-storied landmark, is being redeveloped with end-of-trip facilities and a fresh new lease on life, both to be completed in 2026. The Pascoes Building on the corner of Garden Place and Victoria Street is another exciting retail and office development to be completed in 2026 and featuring some beautiful historic touches, it will reinstate itself as a landmark building in the area. Works are also underway to improve the Hamilton Central Library with a new fascia creating a positive impact in Garden Place. And for those who love a bit of luxury, Hamilton’s tallest building soon to be home to the Pullman Hotel, is going to be an absolute game-changer, a 4.5-star development with 200+ rooms, on track to be opened at the end of 2026. North Bloc is another development being watched with interest as it changes the landscape, with three levels fully occupied by Fonterra to be finished in 2026 and also in the Stark Properties portfolio the former Federated Farmers Block has development plans in progress promising an exciting future for the area! On the health and wellbeing front, 121 Anglesea Street is bringing a new orthopaedic medical facility to the CBD in 2026, and the 19 Knox Street extension to Anglesea Hospital, featuring day surgery and operating rooms, is set for completion in 2028. It is awesome to see world-class medical services planting firm roots in our central city. It truly is an exciting time to witness how our central city is evolving to accommodate more people, more businesses, and more experiences. Every time I drive through, I spot something new, something progressing, something that makes me proud of what we are building together here in Hamilton. As always, head to lovethecentre.co.nz for all the latest happenings – Love the Centre – Driven by Winger Motors Hamilton. Vanessa Williams General Manager Hamilton Central Business Association Phone 07 838 3905 Mobile 0224 140 780 hamiltoncentral.co.nz

The Frankton McDonald’s Colour Run/Walk is set to bring a burst of energy, colour, and community spirit to Innes Common at Hamilton Lake on Sunday, 15 February 2026, from 10 am. Designed as a celebration of health, wellbeing, and togetherness, the event is expected to draw around 2,000 participants of all ages and fitness levels. With food trucks, music, activities, and plenty of bright, joy-filled moments, it promises to be one of Hamilton’s most uplifting community gatherings of the year. More than a fun day out, the Colour Run/Walk proudly supports Ronald McDonald House Charities, an organisation that helps families stay close to their children while they receive hospital care. Every ticket purchased and every donation made contribute directly to this meaningful cause, providing comfort and support when families need it most. Participants will begin their journey at Innes Common before following the track around Hamilton Lake (just under 4km). Along the way, they will pass through a series of Colour Stations, each sponsored by a local business. Volunteers will be ready with colour powder to add a vibrant splash to every runner’s experience. It’s a simple concept that creates unforgettable memories and spectacular energy. Beyond the course itself, the event features several dedicated zones to keep the excitement flowing. The Warm-Up Zone will get everyone moving before the start, while the Fun Zone offers activities and games for kids. You do not have to run or walk. Those wanting a breather can make the most of the Chill Zone, a relaxed space to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere. The finish area will be alive with activity, complete with food trucks, music, entertainment, and an MC to keep the energy high long after the run ends. Tickets can be bought by visiting the website www.HamiltonColourRun.co.nz. If you cannot attend the event, we encourage everyone to make a donation by visiting the website. Local businesses can also get involved by hosting a Mufti Day at their workplace and collecting donations to support the event. Whether you join the run, volunteer, donate, or simply cheer from the sidelines, it’s the perfect opportunity to come together for a brilliant cause. McDonald’s Frankton   Contact  – Pooja Goel E colourrun@pjmaccas.co.nz P 0225036001 https://www.hamiltoncolourrun.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/mcdonaldsfrankton https://www.instagram.com/franktonmcdonalds

Debt, sustainability, iwi partnerships, and community wellbeing set the tone in this year’s race. Hamilton’s 2025 mayoral race is shaping up as a test of priorities for the business sector, with four leading candidates offering sharply different approaches to debt, growth, and community wellbeing. At a recent Waikato Chamber of Commerce business forum, contenders were pressed on how they would tackle rising debt, high rates, and a struggling CBD. The city’s debt has climbed toward $1 billion, with $63 million paid in interest alone last year – a reality weighing heavily on ratepayers and business owners. Maria Huata, Deputy Chair of the Economic Development Committee, highlights Hamilton’s partnership with Waikato Tainui, “the second wealthiest iwi in the country with an asset base worth approximately $2.4 billion.” She believes stronger iwi–business collaboration is key to unlocking local opportunities. Her top priorities include partnering with Tainui Group Holdings to create employment pathways, prioritising local procurement through council contracts, and establishing a citywide think tank to unite business networks, iwi, and research entities. “To power the aspirations of our city, a strong economic base is essential,” Huata says. Sarah Thomson, Chair of the Strategic Growth Committee, argues Hamilton must “make every ratepayer dollar count, while building a strong future for our city.” She champions regional collaboration, noting Hamilton already saves over $3 million annually through joint procurement and water testing. “Partnering with Waikato District Council on three waters will save tens of millions on major infrastructure projects. It’s time to expand this collaboration,” she says. Thomson also wants to bring more work back in-house to reduce consultant costs and strengthen expertise. As chair, she has led efforts to address the city’s shortage of industrial land and supports co-funding for the Eastern Transport Corridor, expected to deliver $1 billion in annual productivity benefits once complete. Rachel Karalus, a lawyer and governance professional, is running on a platform of accountability and prudent financial management. “Now is the time to rebuild trust, rein in spending, reduce debt, and bring council back to basics,” she says. Karalus believes Hamilton’s financial challenges require disciplined leadership and transparent decision-making. “Ratepayers are not ATMs,” she adds, pledging to ensure council lives within its means. She also emphasises fostering innovation, supporting local businesses through fair procurement, and maintaining core services while reducing unnecessary costs. Tim Macindoe, a former MP and current councillor, says the city’s escalating debt poses a serious threat to future growth. “We cannot continue spending money we do not have,” he warns, noting, “our debt has tripled in the last six years, including by more than 25% in the past 18 months.” Macindoe’s campaign centres on restoring financial stability, focusing on infrastructure, and lowering the burden on ratepayers. He has called for a leaner council, reduced bureaucracy, and targeted spending on essential services. “Every dollar we save is a dollar that can be reinvested in the city’s long-term prosperity,” he says. For Hamilton’s business community, the choice is clear: bold partnerships, regional collaboration, strict fiscal discipline, or urgent debt control. The outcome will shape not only council budgets but also how the city grows, innovates, and competes in the decade ahead.

The Indian Cultural Society (Waikato) Inc is proud to announce the 35th Waikato Diwali Mela, set to take place on Saturday, 18 October 2025 at Innes Common, Hamilton Lake. Running from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, this much-loved annual event is expected to draw more than 10,000 people, making it one of the Waikato region’s largest cultural gatherings. The Diwali Mela will feature a wide variety of cultural performances, including traditional regional dances, music, and storytelling. A highlight of the evening will be the ceremonial lighting of the ‘Diya’, a symbolic tradition representing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Known worldwide as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, each with their own traditions. For Hindus, it commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. For Sikhs, it marks the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment, while for Jains, it signifies the spiritual enlightenment of Lord Mahavira. Despite these different origins, Diwali universally represents hope, renewal, and unity. Visitors will also enjoy a vibrant selection of food stalls, offering authentic Indian cuisine from savoury street food such as samosas and pakoras to sweet favourites including jalebi and gulab jamun. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over Hamilton Lake, creating a stunning reflection across the water and providing a memorable finale for families and friends. For more than three decades, the Indian Cultural Society (Waikato) Inc has brought communities together through the Waikato Diwali Mela. This 35th anniversary celebration promises to be one of the most memorable yet, showcasing the beauty of Diwali while uniting people of all backgrounds. Event Details:Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PMLocation: Innes Common, Hamilton Lake, Hamilton 3204Anticipated Attendance: Over 10,000 Watch last years highlights: https://youtu.be/-s8jqEWKLXA Contact Information: – Jujhar Singh (Jay) Randhawa JP (President & Head of Events) Mobile: 0275777221 – Jeevan Mathews (Secretary & Event Team) Mobile: 0211895389 – Email: indiancswi@gmail.com – Website: https://icsw.org.nz/ Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

By Frank Craig, Ace High Motor Inn, Napier It’s time to ask some hard questions. When was the last time your community actually improved thanks to the actions of an elected politician? Too often, major projects are sold to the public as “good for everyone,” yet when the numbers are broken down, the economic sense is far less convincing. Take, for instance, the Harapaki Wind Farm — a $395 million project touted as a sustainable investment set to power 70,000 households. On the surface, this sounds impressive. But let’s dig a little deeper. If the average electricity bill per household is around $100 per month, that’s $1,200 a year. Multiply that by 70,000 households, and you get $8.4 million in energy consumption per annum. Now, divide the $395 million cost of the wind farm by $8.4 million — which represents the annual return if the power offset equals bill savings — and it would take over 47 years to recover the initial investment. Is this what we call an economically sound project? What’s more, Meridian Energy — the company behind the Harapaki Wind Farm — is 51% government-owned. That means taxpayers effectively contributed approximately $200 million to this project. One must ask: could that money have been better spent elsewhere? Take Napier, for example. Ask any local, and they’d likely say a $200 million investment into a much-needed hospital would be a far more beneficial and visible improvement to their lives. The need for better healthcare, housing, and local infrastructure remains glaring — yet funding is funneled into high-cost projects that may not return true value to the community for decades, if ever. It’s not that renewable energy is a bad idea — far from it. But when politicians and government-owned entities push projects without proper economic scrutiny or public consultation, we must wonder: who is this really serving? It’s time the public demanded transparency, accountability, and smarter spending. We deserve better. Contact Ace High Motor Inn https://www.acehigh.co.nz Contact MediaPA phillip@mediapa.co.nz

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

By Phillip Quay Such was the success of this year’s Diwali event in Hamilton that organisers are already anticipating an even larger-scale community event next year. “This year’s Diwali event in Hamilton drew an outstanding crowd of more than 11,000 people which easily surpassed last year’s numbers and well and truly exceeded our expectations,” said Hamilton Diwali head of events Jujhar Randhawa. “Despite a few showers at the start the turnout remained incredibly strong which was a testament to the community’s enthusiasm and dedication to the event,” he said. “The event was a resounding success featuring beautiful and powerful performances, a wide variety of food stalls and many multi-ethnic attendees who enjoyed every minute. The fireworks display at the end was breath-taking and truly the icing on the cake of a wonderful evening of entertainment,” Mr Randhawa said. “It was our 34th Hamilton Diwali Mela and the second at an outdoor venue and it marked a significant achievement by all of those concerned. It has now become the largest Indian event in the region and is ranked one of the largest Indian events in New Zealand.” Mr Randhawa said the continued growth of the Mela highlighted the importance of the community especially given the large number of new families who have migrated to the Waikato region in recent years. “This family friendly event has become a beloved tradition with the outdoor picnic style set up enhancing the experience for everyone. “Being the second biggest Diwali event in New Zealand signifies more than just scale. It underscores the vibrant cultural tapestry of our community and its welcoming spirit. The event fosters a sense of unity and pride among attendees from diverse backgrounds. It’s not just a platform for cultural exchange but also a means to foster community spirit. New families, especially those who have recently migrated, find in it a welcoming tradition that helps them feel at home,” he said. Mr Randhawa acknowledged the importance of sponsors in the event’s success. “This year we were fortunate to have a robust number of sponsors who supported us both financially and through their services. Phoenix Decorations Hire adorned our stage beautifully and their marquees showcased the event. Green Gorillas managed waste services efficiently and Quality Traffic Management ensured smooth traffic flow.  MediaPA facilitated sponsor interviews while JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning supplied essential chiller services while Cloud Media kept our website updated,” he said. Mr Randhawa calculated he invested 800 hours of his own time into the Waikato Diwali Mela 2024 but it was worth every minute. Looking ahead to next year Mr Randhawa is predicting an even bigger and better 35th Waikato Diwali Mela. “We expect more sponsorship, greater involvement from the community and enhanced awareness of the Diwali event among non-Indians. The continued growth of this celebration reflects its vital role in our region’s cultural fabric and we are excited about what the future holds,” he said. Contact Media PA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz