Looking for a unique and unforgettable Christmas gift? A gift voucher for Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs is the perfect way to treat someone special to an adventure they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a peaceful horseback ride through stunning landscapes or an exhilarating quad-biking experience, a gift voucher offers a chance to explore the beauty of the Cardrona Valley in a way that will create lasting memories. Personalise the voucher with a special message for your loved one, making it the ideal present for anyone seeking outdoor adventure these Christmas holidays.
As summer arrives in the Cardrona Valley, the region is transformed into a breathtaking alpine paradise. The horses are gleaming with their shiny summer coats, and the snow has melted away from the mountain peaks, leaving clear skies and long sunny days that stretch well into the evening. This makes it the perfect time to experience the Twilight Rides, which run from 4:30 pm to 7 pm. These rides offer the unique opportunity to capture stunning sunset photographs, with the soft light casting beautiful shadows across the mountains and valley below.
Summer also brings the enchanting wildflower season to Cardrona. The lupins are starting to bloom along the Cardrona River, their vibrant purple and pink flowers creating a striking contrast against the lush green landscape. This stunning display lasts only a few weeks each year, making it a must-see for nature lovers. It’s the perfect time to explore the trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the beauty of this fleeting natural wonder.
Kel, the owner of Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, says, “There’s something truly magical about this time of year. The combination of the glowing summer days, the stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to experience it all on horseback or an ATV makes for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking to gift someone something special or create lasting memories yourself, the Cardrona Valley never disappoints.”
Whether gifting an adventure or planning a summer outing, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs offer a chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Cardrona Valley. Book now to make the most of the season and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Summer heat can significantly impact soil health by disrupting the balance of soil microbes. These tiny organisms are essential for nutrient cycling, soil structure, and crop productivity. Dr Gordon Rajendram, a soil health expert, says, “Understanding how summer temperatures affect microbial populations is key to maintaining healthy soil and good yields.”
Warmer temperatures can initially boost microbial activity, as beneficial microbes thrive in heat. However, this can lead to faster depletion of organic matter, reducing long-term fertility. If the heat becomes extreme, the microbial community may shift, with harmful pathogens outcompeting beneficial microbes. A study in Nature Microbiology highlights that rising temperatures not only influence microbial abundance but also alter the composition of soil microbial communities, which can lead to imbalances that harm soil health (Zhang et al., 2023).
Dry conditions in summer present further challenges. Moisture is critical for microbial life, and dry soils can stress or even kill microbes reliant on water. According to Microbiometer, a lack of soil moisture can shrink microbial populations and reduce their diversity, hindering vital processes like nitrogen fixation and organic matter decomposition. This often results in poorer soil quality, reduced crop yields, and increased reliance on fertilisers.
Farmers can take practical steps to protect their soil microbes:
Mulch: Apply organic mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, creating a stable environment for microbes.
Add organic matter: Compost or cover crops can improve microbial diversity and soil structure, while cover crops also reduce soil heat absorption.
Use bioinoculants: These products introduce beneficial microbes to rebalance the soil and enhance fertility, particularly in stressed conditions.
“Fostering soil biodiversity is one of the best defences against the challenges of rising temperatures,” says Dr Rajendram. By adopting these sustainable practices as well as soil and pasture testing, farmers can protect their soil microbes, sustain crop productivity, and promote resilience for the future.
School visit to Apii Te Uki Ou Acclaimed author Karen McMillan recently brought the magic of her children’s book series, Elastic Island Adventures, to life for students of Apii Te Uki Ou. Hosted by Pacific Resort Rarotonga, McMillan captivated her audience during a lively reading session of her Rarotonga-inspired edition, sharing insights into her creative process and the inspiration behind her beloved characters.
McMillan emphasised the role of reading in developing writing skills: “If you want to be a writer, you’ve got to read. I don’t know any published author that doesn’t read books. So read, read, and read, and if you haven’t found the right books that you like, go and try some other books.”
The Rarotonga edition of Elastic Island Adventures is a thrilling tale where Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan travel with Blong the Cat and Heathcliff the Dog to beautiful Rarotonga. Expecting a relaxing escape, they quickly face challenges: a grumpy gecko named Mighty Moko who lives at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, and the theft of all the island’s black pearls in a daring heist. With the wise Mana Tiaki’s guidance, the children race to solve clues and save the pearls.
The series features four main characters, each inspired by aspects of McMillan’s own personality and imagination. “Kiri loves swimming and music, while Emma is dreamy and loves books. They’re a blend of my personality,” she explained, adding that the series’ settings are now expanding into real-life locations. “Rarotonga is the first, Fiji will be next, and then we’ll see where we go from there.”
McMillan’s book reading was part of her continued efforts to engage with young readers in the Cook Islands, helping to foster a love of reading and writing. The author’s visit to Apii Te Uki Ou was a memorable occasion, sparking the imaginations of many young minds.
“The enthusiasm of the children is just wonderful isn’t it? And I really hope that this inspires them with their own creative writing.”
About Karen McMillan Karen McMillan is a well-regarded author from New Zealand with an impressive range of books to her name, including both children’s fiction and adult non-fiction. She is best known for her Elastic Island Adventures series, which introduces readers to the magical world of the South Pacific.
NZ Business Connect is delighted to announce the appointment of Jujhar Singh Randhawa as its inaugural chairman. As a member of NZ Business Connect, Jujhar has experience in business leadership, community service, and governance, making him the ideal leader to guide NZBC into its new phase of growth and impact.
Jujhar Singh Randhawa
Jujhar’s journey is one of resilience and vision. He has built an extraordinary career since moving to New Zealand in 1998. Starting as a refrigeration engineer in Waikato, he founded JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning in 2000, in his garage. Today, he leads four successful companies in Waikato, including Zephyr Pure Air Ventilation, JSR Management, and Hillcrest Spinal Centre. Alongside his business success, Jujhar has mechanical and electrical engineering qualifications and is a Registered Assessor.
“I am deeply honoured to serve as Chairman of NZ Business Connect,” Jujhar says. “This network has been a cornerstone for business collaboration and innovation in our community, and I’m excited to contribute to its growth”.
NZ Business Connect is a dynamic networking group designed to empower and support small-to medium-sized businesses as well as large businesses across New Zealand, with branches in Hamilton and Tauranga. The group is focused on fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and providing valuable resources, serving as a vital hub for Kiwi entrepreneurs seeking growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact.
As Chairman, Jujhar will oversee exciting developments for NZ Business Connect, including its planned expansion to Taranaki, Rotorua, and Hawkes Bay in 2025. “Exciting times are ahead as NZBC branches out to Taranaki, Rotorua, and Hawkes Bay next year,” says Jujhar.
Reflecting on his goals, he adds, “My vision is to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs and enhance the network’s role in driving economic development.”
A unique aspect of NZ Business Connect is its strong ethos of social giving. The network believes that businesses can achieve more when they contribute to the well-being of their communities. This commitment to social responsibility is woven into the organisation, encouraging members to give back through various initiatives and community projects.
Jujhar’s dedication to community service shines through in his leadership roles with organisations such as the I AM HE(R) Charitable Trust and the Indian Cultural Society Waikato Inc. “Giving back is not just a responsibility; it’s a privilege,” says Jujhar, “I am a big supporter of social giving, which is a fundamental part of NZ Business Connect’s mission.”
Jujhar is also a Justice Of The Peace, winner of a Hamilton Civic Award and a lay member of the Medical Services Council.
With his extensive expertise and passion for leadership, Jujhar is poised to make a lasting impact as Chairman. “We are excited to see him excel in this role and lead NZ Business Connect toward a future of growth, innovation, and meaningful connection,” says NZ Business Connect CEO Phillip Quay.
Artificial Intelligence changes industries one after another, and small businesses are at an edge. AI tools can automate tasks, analyse data, and improve customer service – just about anything is possible. However, the process of implementation itself is not that easy. For most small businesses around the world, embracing AI would amount to more than just getting on to the moving bandwagon but for mere survival and growth in a highly competitive digital marketplace. The following article endeavours to relate five major points showing the challenges and advantages of using AI technology amongst small companies.
Financial Investment vs. ROI
The implementation of AI usually includes considerable financial investment, and for a small business, the return on this investment is a crucial factor. The prices for most AI solutions can be very high, especially in cases with involve analytics or automation, considering the capital constraint of a business. On the other hand, strategically implemented AI can yield long-term savings by optimising processes, reducing errors, and improving productivity. Customer support chatbots, for example, can answer simple questions at any time of day. This significantly reduces the need for a large support staff since an organisation will now be able to free up resources and invest them more diligently.
Enhanced Customer Experience through AI
Probably one of the most revolutionary influences of AI has to do with customer experience and support. AI helps small businesses to provide personalised experiences that largely are the domain of big enterprises. By availing themselves of predictive analytics, for instance, companies can be proactive in their anticipation of customer needs. Customer satisfaction thereby increases and ensures greater loyalty. AI chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support to customers, hence enabling smaller enterprises to compete with larger players by ensuring round-the-clock service. It would enable small businesses to strengthen customer relationships without necessarily increasing human resources, therefore giving them an edge over their competitors in customer service.
AI in Digital Marketing: Optimising Strategies
AI in digital marketing brings tools that enable small firms to compete on a relatively level playing field. AI-driven tools allow marketers to design better and more efficient campaigns more effortlessly and accurately, starting with audience segmentation and ad optimisation up to content creation and social media insights. While AI brings a wealth of data-driven insights to digital marketing, experienced agencies such as Four Dots are still crucial, especially for businesses needing tailored strategies. These agencies know the fine balance between human creativity and AI data a campaign requires to strike a chord with the target audience. Partnering with these agencies, small companies will maximise their digital presence while never losing that personal touch that’s often found with smaller brands.
Data Security and Privacy Concerns
AI systems are extremely data-intensive, and this very aspect creates insecurities in terms of security and privacy, especially where small businesses may not necessarily have special cybersecurity measures in place. As small companies begin embarking on AI into their functionality, there also comes a view on risks related to data breaches and compliance issues. Severe data handling obligations under the GDPR and CCPA come with considerable fines for non-compliance. Therefore, small firms need to invest in not just AI but also cybersecurity measures that are good enough to protect sensitive information. Whatever the case may be, this domain is pretty intricate, where failure will come up with repercussions on reputational damage and loss of finance.
Skills Gap and Training Needs
AI technology is as good as the people implementing and managing it. Most small businesses are influenced by a shortage of skilled AI knowledge, as this new breed of tool requires specialised knowledge to fully understand and harness. The introduction of solutions with AI might require training for existing personnel or even the hiring of new personnel, adding to operational expenses. Fortunately, this can be supplemented through online courses, webinars, and collaboration with technology providers in upskilling the employees of small companies. Besides bringing out the fullest use of AI for business, investment in staff training provides the vital thread for innovation and continuous learning that should permeate each organisation interested in long-term growth.
In conclusion, AI promises transformative potential for small businesses, yet it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is only when comprehension and resolutions of these key insights are grasped that small companies can confidently navigate the integration of AI and position themselves for sustainable growth in the tech-driven world.
Our new Possum Merino knitwear range is usually released in October or November. Why this time of year I hear you ask? The new colour and style launch is timed for the Christmas and Tourist season, so even though it’s getting warmer in New Zealand and Australia, the range is refreshed for the next 12 months.
The knitwear designs and colours are based on Northern Hemisphere knitwear trends. This year the new colours include Ginger, a warm colour similar to spiced pumpkin. And Violet which is a lovely deep purple, new Mist is a new blue-based green. Lily pink is already proving to be a top seller. Lily is a pretty but modern pink with a hint of mauve.
The latest trend for knit scarves is simplicity, and wider scarves with no tassels. These scarves can be worn by women or men depending on the colour choice.
Another knitwear trend is specifically targeting travel. The new travel scarves and beanies are lightweight but warm. They don’t weigh much and take up very little room in your luggage, handbag, or daypack.
The travel beanie is a fitting style covering your ears, and the travel scarf is lightweight but generous, allowing you to tie and twist into your own personal chic.
Loop scarves and neck-warmers are still an ongoing trend. This type of scarf requires no knot-tying skill to look great, and stays in place no matter how windy it is. A neck warmer fills that annoying gap at the top of your coat collar. This type of scarf is really good for bus or subway commuters who don’t want to lose a scarf in the rush of the crowd.
Fingerless hand-warmers for the ladies allow you to use your smartphone, while looking beautiful and staying warm.
The festive season is upon us, and while it’s a time for joy, connection, and indulgence, it can also bring a fair share of stress, particularly when it comes to planning and preparing meals. This year, skip the hassle of cooking and let Great Spice Otumoetai take care of your Christmas feast.
A Menu to Delight Every Palate Great Spice Otumoetai is renowned for its authentic Indian cuisine, crafted with passion and infused with flavour. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, succulent tandoori dishes, or delicate vegetarian options, the menu offers something for everyone. Each dish is prepared with high-quality ingredients and the perfect blend of spices to delight your taste buds.
Customisable Dining Options Whether you’re planning an intimate family gathering or a festive dinner with friends, Great Spice Otumoetai caters to all group sizes. Opt for a sit-down meal at the welcoming restaurant, where the warm ambience sets the perfect mood for your celebration. Alternatively, choose from their convenient takeaway or catering options, ensuring a hassle-free meal at your location of choice.
Relax and Celebrate The Great Spice team prides itself on delivering exceptional service, allowing you to relax and focus on the moments that matter most. By taking care of the cooking and cleaning, they let you enjoy quality time with loved ones without worrying about the details.
A Feast Full of Choices to Suit Every Taste
Whether you crave a traditional meal with an Indian twist or prefer to mix and match favourites, Great Spice has you covered with its extensive menu, offering everything from aromatic curries and flavourful biryanis to freshly baked naan and sizzling tandoori dishes, ensuring every guest finds something to love.
Let Great Spice Otumoetai turn your Christmas into a stress-free, flavour-filled celebration. Visit their website here to book your table or explore takeaway options, and make this holiday one to remember!
Celebrate this Christmas with less stress, more joy, and the irresistible taste of India.
When seeking medical care or supporting loved ones in a hospital, having convenient and comfortable accommodation nearby can make all the difference. Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites offers a welcoming retreat, ideally located near Auckland’s most trusted medical facilities.
Conveniently Close to Auckland’s Hospitals and Clinics Situated in the heart of Newmarket, the Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites is just minutes from some of Auckland’s top medical centres. Distances from the hotel include:
Auckland City Hospital: Approximately 4 km, a 10-minute drive.
Starship Children’s Hospital: Adjacent to Auckland City Hospital, also 4 km away.
Greenlane Clinical Centre: About 3 km, a 6-minute drive.
MercyAscot Hospital (Epsom): Only 3.5 km, a 10-minute drive at most, depending on traffic.
Ascot Hospital: Around 3.3 km, an 8-minute drive.
With these short distances, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites is a prime choice for patients attending appointments or families supporting loved ones during hospital stays.
Relaxation and Convenience After a busy day of appointments or hospital visits, you’ll find a peaceful and comfortable environment awaiting you. Rooms are equipped with plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and modern facilities to ensure a restful stay. Kitchenette units provide added convenience for longer visits, and secure on-site parking makes coming and going easy.
A Personal Touch At Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites, the staff are committed to creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. As one guest shared: “After a long day, the staff were amazing. We really loved it after caring for family in hospital. Thank you and will recommend to others.”
Book Your Stay Today Whether you’re visiting for a single night or an extended stay, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites is here to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Book your accommodation today and enjoy the convenience and care that so many others have appreciated during their time in Auckland.
We are pleased to introduce Kulvir Kankara, CEO and Director of Omega Financial Services, as the newest member of NZ Business Connect’s network. Based in Hamilton, Omega Financial Services has been empowering clients with tailored mortgagee and insurance solutions since its founding in March 2020.
Kulvir Kankara
With over eight years of experience in the financial sector, Kulvir founded Omega Financial Services to simplify financial journeys and provide peace of mind to families, first-time homebuyers, and property investors. Specialising in first-home loans, construction loans, refinancing, and comprehensive insurance coverage, Omega combines expertise with a personalised, client-first approach.
Omega Financial Services offers dual expertise in mortgages and insurance under one roof. Whether guiding clients through first-home purchases or crafting tailored life, private health, trauma, permanent disability, or income protection insurance policies, Kulvir and his team deliver comprehensive solutions with unwavering dedication. Their core values – integrity, transparency, and empowerment through education – are evident in every interaction.
Kulvir is passionate about helping clients turn their dreams into reality. As he often says, “Every client’s journey is unique, and we’re here to guide them with trust, expertise, and care.” Under his leadership, Omega has become a trusted name, earning accolades for customer satisfaction and building long-term relationships.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kulvir is an active member of the Hamilton community. A passionate sportsman, he enjoys playing cricket and badminton during his downtime, balancing his commitment to work with his love for staying active.
Joining NZ Business Connect’s network, Kulvir looks forward to collaborating with fellow members, sharing insights, and contributing to the community. Whether you’re a first-time buyer seeking guidance or a business owner interested in financial planning, Omega Financial Services is here to empower your journey.
Get in touch with Kulvir today to discuss how his team can support your goals and unlock financial freedom.
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.
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.
