News

No comments

Categories: News, Rural

930 Monument Road (Lot 1), Mangatangi

Lot 1 on Monument Road is an exceptional lifestyle property in Mangatangi, offering 8000m² of prime rural land. This vacant residential section is ideally situated to provide a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to necessary amenities. The property is set in a picturesque rural landscape, characterised by its proximity to productive dairy farms and lifestyle blocks, ensuring a balance of seclusion and community. With one building site already consented, this property presents a great development opportunity. The flat contour and manageable size make it an excellent choice for building a bespoke rural home. The potential to create a unique and personalised living space in a tranquil environment is immense.

10 Miller Road (Lot 2), Mangatangi

Nestled in the serene rural setting of Mangatangi, Lot 2 on Miller Road offers an expansive 1.33-hectare vacant section perfect for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle property. This rear lot, accessed off Miller Road, boasts a mainly flat, irregularly shaped terrain, providing multiple potential building sites. The property already has one building site consented, making it a great development opportunity. The rural residential zoning ensures a peaceful environment surrounded by economic dairy units and grazing properties, interspersed with rural lifestyle blocks. The large size and irregular shape of the lot offer numerous possibilities for creative landscaping and building, allowing you to craft a truly bespoke rural retreat.

The market value for both of these sections is estimated at $630,000, inclusive of GST, reflecting the area’s desirable location and the growing interest in lifestyle properties. No convenant.

Key Location Highlights

Both properties are well-connected with essential services, including electricity and rural mail delivery, making them convenient choices for future homes. Their strategic locations offer easy access to local attractions and amenities:

– Miranda: 8 minutes

– Local School: 1 minute

– Thames: 40 minutes

– Coromandel: 1 hour 36 minutes

– Auckland: 1 hour

– Hamilton: 1 hour 5 minutes

Market Insights and Opportunities

The rural lifestyle property market in the Waikato District has seen steady demand, with lifestyle property sales showing resilience. According to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), lifestyle property sales have increased by 4.3% in the past three months compared to the previous period. This trend highlights the growing appeal of rural living, driven by the desire for space, tranquillity, and a closer connection to nature.

Both sections, with their competitive pricing and prime locations, are expected to attract significant interest. Whether you are looking to build a family home or invest in a valuable piece of real estate, these properties in Mangatangi offer a unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to secure a slice of the idyllic Waikato countryside and create a personalised haven tailored to your lifestyle needs.

Contact Phillip Quay

Media PA
027 458 7724

Renowned Hamilton-based Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram Calls For More Competition In the New Zealand Fertiliser Market

21 June 2024

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

No comments

Categories: Rural

For Immediate Release

Date: 21 June 2024

[Hamilton, New Zealand] – One of New Zealand’s most renowned experts in soil fertility, Dr Gordon Rajendram, today issued an urgent call for greater competition and innovation within New Zealand’s fertiliser industry to bring product prices down.

Dr Rajendram, who is a prominent speaker at rural industry forums throughout New Zealand, says his observations highlight a severe lack of competition leading to ongoing high fertiliser prices, stifled innovation, and a worrying lack of change in the fertiliser sector.

“The fertiliser market in New Zealand is dominated by a few key players, resulting in limited choices for consumers and consistently high prices,” says Dr Rajendram. “This monopoly-like situation sharpens awareness but also makes companies lazy, relying on their established market positions rather than striving for improvement. Many of these companies are selling the same products they did in the 1950s, with little to no innovation. Super phosphate, has done more for New Zealand’s economy than any politician ever has, but it’s time for change.”

The current market shows fertiliser prices still above pre-COVID levels, with super phosphate approximately at $425 per tonne and urea at $795 per tonne. Farmers are now starting to look for alternatives due to these high prices and question marks over environmental aspects of traditional fertiliser products.

“In the past, it was more about growing as much pasture as possible. Now, it’s also important to ensure whatever you apply doesn’t run off and leach, causing environmental issues,” adds Dr Rajendram. This shift in focus from merely growing pasture or crops to keeping nutrients in the soil requires more efficient, low phosphate, and slow-release fertilisers that are less water soluble.

“A prime example of the benefits of competition can be seen in the dairy industry, where the presence of multiple companies has led to significant advancements in product quality and efficiency.

“The fertiliser industry could learn a lot from this. Innovation is essential for addressing the evolving needs of modern agriculture, particularly in a country like New Zealand, where farming is a cornerstone of the economy, Dr Rajendram said.

“Currently, the focus seems to be on maintaining the status quo but Rajendram says that the agricultural sector requires fertilisers that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable. Without competition, there is little incentive for any company to move forward and innovate,” he said.

Dr Rajendram emphasises the need for urgent industry transformation to prevent it from becoming a sunset industry. “Competition sharpens everyone’s prices and forces companies to offer better products,” he says.

“In conclusion, the New Zealand fertiliser industry needs a shake-up. More competition will lead to better products, fairer prices, and ultimately, a stronger agricultural sector. It’s time for fertiliser companies to stop resting on their laurels and start driving the innovation that our farmers need,” Dr Rajendram says.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

About Dr Gordon Rajendram:

Dr Gordon Rajendram is a distinguished independent soil scientist with extensive experience in the agricultural sector. His work focuses on improving soil health and sustainability practices in farming, making him a respected voice in the industry.

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

Agraforum New Zealand Highlights EnviroCal for Soil Aeration and Compaction Solutions

19 June 2024

No comments

Categories: News, Rural

Agraforum New Zealand, a leader in agricultural innovation, today emphasised the benefits of EnviroCal over traditional mechanical aeration for soil compaction management. Soil compaction is a significant issue affecting crop productivity by limiting root growth, water infiltration, and nutrient absorption. Effective soil aeration is crucial for sustainable agriculture, as it enhances these essential processes. Agraforum’s research and development have led to the development of EnviroCal, a superior solution that addresses soil compaction through chemical means, offering a sustainable, efficient, and long-lasting improvement in soil health.

EnviroCal: The Non-Physical Solution

EnviroCal utilises free unbound calcium to create aeration, unlike bound calcium in lime and gypsum. This approach works quickly, showing results within 4-6 weeks, and offers long-lasting effects without the need for physical intervention. By improving soil structure and reducing compaction, EnviroCal enhances root growth, water infiltration, and nutrient absorption.

The Science Behind EnviroCal

EnviroCal leverages the unique properties of free unbound calcium ions. When applied to the soil, these calcium ions displace magnesium, potassium or sodium ions and bind with soil particles, promoting flocculation. This process helps to create larger soil aggregates, enhancing soil structure and porosity. Improved soil porosity allows for better air and water movement within the soil, which is crucial for healthy root development and efficient nutrient uptake. This scientific mechanism differentiates EnviroCal from traditional calcium sources like lime and gypsum, where calcium is bound and electrically neutralised and less effective in altering soil structure. By increasing available calcium, this also adjusts the electrical charge of soil colloids, promoting aggregation and improving soil health.

Allan Piercy, Directing Manager of Agraforum New Zealand, stated, “EnviroCal offers a non-physical, effective solution for soil compaction, ensuring sustainable soil health. Our focus is to provide farmers with efficient and environmentally friendly options for optimal soil management.”

Mechanical Aeration: A Labour-Intensive and Less Sustainable Approach

While mechanical aeration provides immediate results by physically creating small holes in the soil, it is temporary because you haven’t changed the under lying cause, is labour-intensive and requires frequent repetition, making it less sustainable. The method involves using tools like aerators or tillers to break up compacted soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate more effectively. However, the benefits are often short-lived, especially in soils prone to recurrent compaction where the problem is lack of the correct electrical polarity on the individual soil colloids.

Advantages of EnviroCal:

1. Quick Results: Effective within 4-6 weeks.

2. Sustained Aeration: Long-lasting improvement without the need for repeated physical interventions.

3. Soil Health: Promotes a healthy, well-aerated soil structure which is essential for root growth, nutrient absorption and microbial activity.

4. Environmental Benefits: Reduces the need for frequent mechanical disruption, preserving soil integrity and promoting ecological balance.

Dr Gordon Rajendram, soil scientist, adds, “Understanding the importance of free unbound calcium in soil aeration is key. EnviroCal stands out as a superior solution for long-term soil health and productivity. Unlike mechanical aeration, EnviroCal provides a more enduring solution that supports continuous soil improvement and reduces the need for constant intervention.”

About Agraforum New Zealand

By promoting the use of EnviroCal, Agraforum aims to equip farmers with the best tools and knowledge to improve soil management practices. This commitment to sustainable agriculture ensures that New Zealand’s farmers can achieve higher productivity while maintaining environmental integrity.

To find out more, give Allan a call and he can discuss the benefits of EnviroCal and how it can enhance your farming operation.

Contact Agraforum

Mobile: 0274 485 159
Email: allan@Agraforum.co.nz

www.Agraforum.co.nz

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

Profile Fertilisers New Zealand, Highlights the Power of Fertilisers for Soil Microbiology Health

19 June 2024

No comments

Categories: News, Rural

New Zealand – June 18th, 2024 – Profile Fertilisers, at the forefront of the agricultural revolution with their innovative products underscores the critical role of alternative fertilisers in maintaining and enhancing soil microbiology, essential for sustainable agriculture. Their product, Elevate, exemplifies how alternative fertiliser solutions can benefit soil health and crop productivity.

“Alternative fertilisers like Elevate are vital for sustainable soil management, enhancing microbial health and ensuring long-term soil fertility,” says Don Henderson, Director of Profile Fertilisers.

Understanding Soil Microbiology:

Soil is teeming with life, housing billions of microorganisms per gram. These include bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, and protozoa, all playing vital roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant health. Healthy microbial populations are essential for converting organic matter into nutrients that plants can readily absorb, thus maintaining soil fertility and structure.

Key Benefits of Elevate:

1. Enhancing Soil Microbiology:

– Elevate fosters a diverse and active microbial community, crucial for nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition.

2. pH Enhancement and Aluminium Reduction:

– By raising soil pH and reducing aluminium toxicity, Elevate creates a more favourable environment for microbial life and plant growth.

3. Consistent Nutrient Supply:

– Elevate provides a reliable supply of nutrients, supporting both plants and microbes over time. This continuous nutrient availability is vital for sustaining robust microbial populations and ensuring efficient nutrient cycling.

4. Improved Soil Structure:

– Enhanced microbial activity leads to better soil structure, increased water retention, aeration, and root penetration, creating an ideal environment for plant growth.

Dr Gordon Rajendram, a renowned soil scientist, adds, “Elevate’s ability to balance soil pH and foster microbial activity marks a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture. Healthy soil microbiology is the cornerstone of resilient and productive farming systems.”

Conclusion:

Profile Fertilisers’ Elevate demonstrates the importance of the role that lime based products have in promoting healthy soil microbiology. By adopting such innovative solutions, farmers can achieve healthier soils and more resilient crops, contributing to a more sustainable future for agriculture.

For more information, visit Profile Fertilisers or give Don or the factory a call and the team can teach you more about the benefits of their products.

About Profile Fertilisers:

Profile Fertilisers is dedicated to providing innovative, sustainable solutions for modern agriculture, focusing on enhancing soil health and crop productivity through advanced fertiliser technologies.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory:027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

Warm Sheepskin Pet Rugs for the Fur Baby in Your Life

17 June 2024

Contact Gorgeous Creatures

No comments

Categories: News, Retail

Sheepskin pet rugs have gained popularity among pet owners due to their warmth, comfort and natural properties. These warm beds are made from genuine sheepskin, which provides a soft, plush surface that pets love to snuggle into. The unique qualities of sheepskin make it an excellent choice for pet bedding, offering a range of benefits that cater to the comfort and health of pets.

One of the primary advantages of sheepskin pet beds is their exceptional softness and warmth. The natural wool fibers create a cushioned surface that supports pets’ bodies, relieving pressure points and providing a cozy resting place.

If your pet is recovering from an injury or surgery, a comfortable and supportive bed is very important. This can be particularly beneficial for older pets or those with arthritis and joint issues, as the gentle support can alleviate discomfort and promote better healing sleep.

Add a sheepskin rug on top of an existing pet bed for extra padding and warmth, or use it inside a pet crate. These pet beds are hand or machine-washable with the Gorgeous Creatures woolskin wash. And protect your furniture from muddy paws and scratchy claws.

Sheepskin is also naturally temperature-regulating, keeping pets warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This adaptability ensures that pets remain comfortable regardless of the season, making sheepskin beds a versatile option for year-round use.

And sheepskin has moisture-wicking properties, which helps keep the bed dry and prevents the buildup of odours. This can be especially useful for pets prone to sweating or drooling, ensuring that the bed remains fresh and hygienic.

Durability is another strong point for sheepskin pet beds. High-quality sheepskin is resilient and can withstand regular use and washing while maintaining its softness and shape. This longevity makes sheepskin beds a worthwhile investment, as they provide lasting comfort for pets over time.

Pets are such an important member of our family. We want to give them the best life in the most comfortable pet beds.

Ph 027 222 6230

showroom@gorgeouscreatures.co.nz

https://www.gorgeouscreatures.co.nz

www.facebook.com/Gorgeous.Creatures.NZ

Celebrate the Taupo Winter Festival with Centennial House Taupo

14 June 2024

Click here to book directly

No comments

Categories: News, Travel

Centennial House Taupo is excited to experience the magic of winter at the Taupo Winter Festival, an event that transforms the stunning landscape of Lake Taupo into a winter wonderland from 5th to 21st July. This much-anticipated festival promises an array of family-friendly activities, live performances, and mesmerising displays that highlight the beauty and vibrancy of winter in Taupo.

The Taupo Winter Festival is packed with exciting activities for all ages. Visitors can glide on the spectacular ice rink, race down thrilling ice slides, and marvel at creative art installations. The festival’s food stalls offer a variety of delicious treats, perfect for warming up on a crisp winter day. In the evenings, captivating light shows illuminate the surroundings, creating a magical atmosphere. Interactive workshops provide opportunities to learn new skills, while live music and theatre performances add to the vibrant cultural experience.

One of the festival’s highlights is the Mercury Light Hub, an enchanting spectacle located at Tongariro North Domain. This hub features an array of illuminated installations and light displays, transforming the night into a luminous wonderland. With creative displays designed by talented artists, the Mercury Light Hub provides a visual feast that captivates visitors of all ages. It’s an experience that combines art, light, and imagination, creating a perfect setting for memorable moments and stunning photographs.

Special Winter Deal

As visitors plan their trip to the festival, Centennial House Taupo offers a convenient and comfortable accommodation option. Located just a short drive from the heart of the festival, Centennial House provides a cosy retreat after a day of winter fun. They are currently offering a special winter deal: book two nights and receive an extra night for free, or book four nights and enjoy two additional nights on them. This offer is valid until the 31^st of August.

Centennial House’s newly restyled rooms offer modern comfort, and their new outdoor furniture creates a charming setting to enjoy the crisp winter air and beautiful garden views.

Don’t miss out on the Taupo Winter Festival’s enchanting experience. Book your stay at Centennial House Taupo today and take advantage of their fantastic winter deals, ensuring your festival visit is both enjoyable and affordable. The team at Centennial House looks forward to welcoming guests and making their winter escape truly unforgettable.

Contact Centennial House:

021 912 743

info@centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

www.centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

www.facebook.com/Centennialhousetaupo

Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

The Benefits of Indian Cuisine at Great Spice Otumoetai, Tandoori Indian Restaurant

14 June 2024

info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz

No comments

Categories: Food, News

Indian cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant flavours and diverse dishes, offers numerous health benefits, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both taste and nutrition. Great Spice Otumoetai brings the best of Indian culinary traditions to the table, ensuring every dish is a blend of rich flavours and healthful ingredients.

Health-Boosting Spices:

Indian cuisine is renowned for its use of spices, each adding unique health benefits. For instance, turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger aids digestion and boosts immunity, while cumin and coriander improve digestion and are rich in essential nutrients. Dishes like the “Lamb Vindaloo” and “Chicken Korma” incorporate these beneficial spices, enhancing both flavour and health.

Nutritional Balance:

The dishes at Great Spice Otumoetai are designed to provide balanced nutrition. Lentils and legumes, such as those found in “Dal Tadka,” are excellent sources of protein and fibre, essential for muscle repair and digestive health. Whole grains, like the basmati rice served with many dishes, provide necessary carbohydrates, while moderate use of ghee and oils supplies healthy fats.

Vegetarian Delights:

Indian cuisine at Great Spice Otumoetai offers a wide array of vegetarian options, making it easy to enjoy a plant-based diet. Dishes like “Palak Paneer” (spinach and cottage cheese) are packed with vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health.

Probiotics for Gut Health:

Fermented foods like yoghurt, used in many Indian dishes, are rich in probiotics, supporting gut health. These probiotics help in maintaining a healthy digestive system and boosting immunity. “Raita,” a yoghurt-based side dish, is a great example of this benefit.

Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients:

The menu features many antioxidant-rich ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and green chillies, which help combat free radicals in the body. Dishes such as “Lamb Rogan Josh” are not only flavourful but also beneficial in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Great Spice Otumoetai takes pride in preparing each dish with care, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure a memorable dining experience. Whether diners enjoy a spicy curry or a soothing dal, they can rest assured that their meal is as healthful as it is delicious. Guests are invited to visit and savour the myriad benefits of authentic Indian cuisine today.

Order Online Here

Contact Great Spice:

07-570 2244

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

Understanding the Science Behind Slow-Release Fertilisers by Profile Fertilisers, New Zealand

7 June 2024

No comments

Categories: News, Rural

In the ever-evolving field of agriculture, slow-release fertilisers have become a game-changer for farmers seeking sustainable and efficient nutrient management. Profile Fertilisers, based in New Zealand, offers an innovative range of slow-release fertilisers that differ significantly from conventional options. Understanding what sets these fertilisers apart can help farmers make informed decisions for their crops.

Traditional fertilisers often release nutrients rapidly upon application, leading to a quick but short-lived nutrient surge in the soil. This can result in nutrient leaching, where excess nutrients wash away into water systems, causing environmental issues and reducing the efficiency of fertiliser use. In contrast, slow-release fertilisers are designed to release nutrients gradually, matching the natural uptake patterns of plants.

Key Components of Slow-Release Fertilisers:

1. Coating Materials: One of the primary features of slow-release fertilisers is the use of coating materials that control the rate at which nutrients are released. These coatings can be made from natural or synthetic materials such as sulphur, polymer, or resin. The coating acts as a barrier, allowing water to penetrate slowly and dissolve the nutrients at a controlled pace.

2. Encapsulation Technology: Advanced encapsulation technology is employed to encase the fertiliser granules. This technology ensures that nutrients are released over an extended period, typically ranging from several weeks to months. The rate of release can be precisely tailored based on the crop’s nutrient needs and environmental conditions.

3. Controlled Solubility: The solubility of the fertiliser components is another critical factor. Slow-release fertilisers are formulated with nutrient compounds that dissolve slowly in water. This controlled solubility prevents the rapid depletion of nutrients and ensures a consistent supply to the plants.

4. Microbial Decomposition: Some slow-release fertilisers incorporate organic materials that require microbial decomposition to release nutrients. This natural process not only provides a steady nutrient flow but also enhances soil health by promoting beneficial microbial activity.

Profile Fertilisers’ commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in their range of slow-release fertilisers. These products are designed not only to meet the nutritional needs of crops but also to align with the principles of sustainable agriculture. By understanding the science behind slow-release fertilisers, farmers can better appreciate their benefits and make choices that support both their productivity and the environment.

In conclusion, slow-release fertilisers from Profile Fertilisers offer a sophisticated solution to the challenges of modern agriculture. With advanced coating technologies, controlled solubility, and microbial decomposition, these fertilisers provide a steady and efficient nutrient supply, fostering sustainable farming practices in New Zealand and beyond.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory: 027 222 7698
donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

027 458 7724

Celebrating World Ocean Day on June 8th with Pacific Resort Hotel Group

7 June 2024

reservations@pacificresort.com

No comments

Categories: News, Travel

On 8th June 2024, the world will unite to celebrate World Ocean Day, a global initiative dedicated to honouring and protecting our oceans. Pacific Resort Hotel Group is embracing this opportunity by organising and participating in various activities across their locations, significantly contributing to environmental well-being.

Rarotonga Initiatives

In Rarotonga, the Pacific Resort Hotel Group, including Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa, and Little Polynesian Resort, will launch their own initiative on Friday, 7th June. All departments will take part in the “Clean Beach Initiative,” focusing on Muri Beach and Enua Manea’s Beach. This effort underscores their commitment to maintaining the beauty and cleanliness of the environment. Guests are invited to join in, offering a hands-on experience that contributes to environmental health and provides a unique connection to the local community and the natural beauty of Rarotonga.

Aitutaki Efforts

At Pacific Resort Aitutaki, the ongoing coral restoration project exemplifies their daily commitment to ocean health. This initiative involves planting and restoring corals to rejuvenate the reefs around Aitutaki. Guests can participate, learning about the importance of coral ecosystems and contributing to their preservation. Additionally, the team annually cleans up the beachfront and roadside of Amuri, further demonstrating their dedication to the environment.

Activities Supporting World Ocean Day

In line with the 2024 theme, “Catalysing Action for our Ocean & Climate,” Cook Islands Tourism has organised several activities around the Pacific Islands to support World Ocean Day, including:

Walk the Trash Beach Clean-Up: On Friday, 7th June, gather a team, bring your own sacks, and spend an hour cleaning up the beach. This simple yet impactful activity helps remove rubbish and debris from the shores.
Korero O Te Orau Beach Clean-Up & Operation Taramea: Join volunteers in collecting crown-of-thorns starfish, which are then buried to provide valuable nutrients for the soil. This initiative aims to protect coral reefs and enhance marine biodiversity.
Pacific Divers Ocean Clean-Up: Certified scuba divers and free-divers can participate in cleaning up Avarua Harbour. This activity focuses on removing debris washed into the harbour, helping to restore and protect the marine environment.
Dive Rarotonga Staff Ocean & Coral Frames Clean-Up: The team at Dive Rarotonga will scuba dive outside the reef to collect debris and clean coral frames, ensuring the continued health and safety of the ocean.

Pacific Resort Hotel Group is proud to be part of these efforts and encourages guests to participate. By joining hands, they can make a significant impact on the environment, preserving the natural beauty of the oceans for future generations.

Explore more about these initiatives and join us in celebrating World Ocean Day 2024:

Learn about World Ocean Day Activities 2024
Discover our Coral Restoration Projects at Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Explore our Commitment to Sustainability

Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group

Pacific Resort Hotel Group

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz