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Sweet Success and Community Spirit – Izzy Hughes from The Girl On The Swing Joins NZ Business Connect

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We’re excited to welcome Izzy Hughes, owner of The Girl On The Swing, to the NZ Business Connect network. A familiar name in Hamilton, The Girl On The Swing is a cake shop known for its stunning custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies and personalised treats that add a special touch to any occasion. From corporate gifts and weddings to school fundraisers and community events, Izzy and his team deliver with care and creativity. Izzy took over the business two and a half years ago, building on its strong legacy and expanding its offerings. What was once focused mainly on buttercream cakes has grown into a hub of cake artistry, now including detailed fondant and royal icing designs. With Fernando, a highly skilled cake decorator with nearly 20 years’ experience, by his side, Izzy has elevated the standard of custom cakes in the Waikato. Community is at the heart of everything The Girl On The Swing does. Izzy is a strong believer in giving back, regularly supporting local schools, charities and events. From judging school bake sales and speaking to food tech classes to donating cupcakes for charity fundraisers, he shows time and again that his business is about more than profit. Looking ahead, Izzy is launching a new section of the website to offer cake decorating supplies to customers across New Zealand. He’s also planning to grow the business by offering wholesale options to other cake shops and home bakers, with a vision to create a thriving online store and eventually refit the shop for even better customer experience. The Girl On The Swing has become a trusted choice for a wide range of customers, from busy mums and engaged couples to home bakers and corporate clients looking to treat their teams or impress stakeholders. Whether you’re after a show-stopping cake, branded cupcakes for a business event, or thoughtful treats delivered across Hamilton, Izzy and his team bring creativity, care, and a personal touch to every order. To place an order or find out more, visit thegirlontheswing.co.nz or contact Izzy through the website. 07 855 4107 Info@thegirlontheswing.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business

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

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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

Accommodation

Find Your Perfect Stay: 3 Unique Room Experiences at Best Western Newmarket, Auckland Accommodation

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Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites, located in Auckland’s vibrant Newmarket–Epsom precinct, offers a diverse range of 66 modern rooms across four buildings. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, there’s a room type tailored to suit your needs. Here’s a closer look at three standout options: Standard Room (1 King Bed, Kitchenette)Ideal for couples or solo travellers, the Standard Room features a plush king-size bed and a handy kitchenette complete with microwave, mini-fridge, and tea-making facilities. With air conditioning, a tiled bathroom, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, this room delivers modern comfort and excellent value. Guests consistently praise the quiet ambience and high-quality bedding. Executive Room (1 King + 1 Single Bed, Kitchenette)Perfect for small families or business colleagues, the Executive Room provides an additional single bed alongside a king bed. With its own kitchenette, separate sleeping areas, and cable TV, this option offers a practical and spacious layout. Visitors often highlight the thoughtful room design and the sense of homely comfort. Split-Level Apartment (1 King + 4 Singles, Kitchen & Two Bathrooms)Great for larger groups or families, the Split-Level Apartment combines urban convenience with the comfort of home. This spacious two-storey layout features a full kitchen, two bathrooms, and separate living and sleeping zones, with a king bed upstairs and twin beds below. It’s the perfect option for guests wanting more space and autonomy during their stay. Why These Rooms Stand Out Whether you’re here for work, leisure, or a little of both, Best Western Newmarket delivers a tailored stay that meets your travel needs with comfort and ease. Contact Best Western Newmarket info@abf.net.nz 0508 899 699 https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz Contact Media PA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Accommodation

Why Guests Keep Coming Back to Ace High Motor Inn, Napier: Accommodation Review

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When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Hawke’s Bay, Ace High Motor Inn stands out for its exceptional service, cleanliness, and genuine hospitality, a combination that has turned many first-time guests into loyal regulars. Tamlyn Williams recently spent over two weeks at the motel with her children and was blown away by the experience. “I can’t fault Ace High at all,” she wrote. “My kids and I absolutely love this place. The owner and reception staff are amazing to approach, and the cleaners were something I have never seen before, and I’ve stayed in many motels. They always made sure we had EVERYTHING daily. The room was absolutely spotless upon arrival.” Tamlyn’s heartfelt thanks reflect the deep appreciation many guests feel after staying here. Another frequent guest, known online as The Sports Shed, has made Ace High his go-to accommodation whenever he visits the region. “I’ve stayed at Ace High Motor Inn many times now and absolutely love it,” he said. “It’s the only place I stay when I go to Hawke’s Bay. Frank and the team are lovely and caring and make sure you have the best stay. Highly recommend.” Dan Mischefski also stayed for two weeks and praised the motel for being both “very spacious and cosy.” He particularly appreciated the level of service: “Frank, his family and the staff were absolutely fantastic for the duration of my stay. I especially loved the daily servicing of the room, which many hotel/motels no longer offer as standard. Highly recommended for short or long stays.” Peter Cartwright summed it up nicely: “Great place to stay and good value, awesome people running this place.” It’s clear that Ace High Motor Inn isn’t just another place to rest your head, it’s a well-loved home away from home. With spotless rooms, thoughtful daily service, and a team that goes the extra mile to ensure every guest feels welcome, it’s no surprise that so many return time and time again. If you’re heading to Hawke’s Bay, Ace High Motor Inn deserves a spot at the top of your list. Contact Us: +64 6 843 3109 0800 270 361 www.acehigh.co.nz info@acehigh.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz #petfriendly #accommodation #napier #hawkesbay

Business, Members

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

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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

Food

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

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

Travel

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

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

Rural

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

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

Accommodation

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

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

Business, Members

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

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NZ Business Connect is proud to announce one of our new members: Stephen Hatfield, a Chartered Accountant operating out of the Bay of Plenty with over 30 years of experience in the wider world of accounting. Since 2012, Stephen has been offering his clients a different kind of accounting service to the one that you might have come to expect. Hatfield is what Stephen calls a “boutique agency” — he and his team target small and medium size businesses with a model built on three prongs: business planning and development, traditional accounting services, and tax. Hatfield not only helps you to understand your past and present finances— the traditional accounting services that they offer — but also where you can go in the future with their business planning and development services. The company will help you plan for your future prosperity, and keep you accountable on implementing the strategies needed to reach your success. Success comes in many forms for Hatfield. It could be a dutiful compliance to tax regulation that keeps you out of trouble with the IRD, or helping you reach that aforementioned prosperity. It’s also an adherence to the values of the company, namely: ● Being proactive in communication, not just at the end of the financial year ● Ensuring clarity in communication, and avoiding “Accountanese” ● Maintaining a positive and conscientious attitude ● Being forward thinking and solutions focused; a fixer instead of only an alarm bell ● A good work/life balance for their team Stephen is a man who likes numbers and formulas. That’s why he became an accountant. Over the years he’s developed his own formula: good information allows for better decisions, and better decisions = mind, time, and financial freedom. He thinks you’ll like the outcome it provides when applied to your business. Next time you’re considering an accountant, be it when in dire straits, or so wealthy that you need someone to help you count the bills by the 1000, give Hatfield a call. They’re sure to pick up, and Stephen is sure that you’ll leave knowledgeable and satisfied. Contact Stephen Hatfield: 07 579 6022 Stephen@hatfield.co.nz https://hatfield.co.nz Contact NZ Business Connect: 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

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