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Business

Green Horn NZ’s Mango Blast Launches in New Zealand with a Fresh Take on Flavour and Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Green Horn NZ is taking New Zealand by storm with its latest release, Mango Blast. Already generating buzz among consumers, this bold and refreshing beverage has quickly captured hearts with its vibrant tropical mango flavour and health conscious approach. Loved by families, business people and young consumers alike, Mango Blast is fast becoming the drink everyone is talking about. Crafted by DM Group, Mango Blast is a premium soda inspired by the natural taste of tropical mango. Designed specifically for the Kiwi palate, the drink offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and crispness, making it a standout option for consumers seeking something both enjoyable and mindful. At the heart of Mango Blast is a commitment to quality ingredients. The beverage highlights natural flavour profiles without the artificial aftertaste often associated with traditional soft drinks, while also delivering the added benefit of Vitamin C. This supports a growing shift in consumer behaviour, where more people are actively choosing products that align with healthier lifestyles while still delivering on taste. Recent consumer engagement has already demonstrated strong market interest. Activations at major events, including CreatorCon and The Food Show, generated high levels of interaction and product sampling, helping to build early awareness and positive feedback. These events reinforced the product’s appeal across a wide audience, including younger consumers and families. Green Horn NZ has also aligned with major national platforms, including the Miss New Zealand World and Miss Teenager Universe New Zealand 2026 events. These partnerships provide an opportunity to showcase Mango Blast to engaged and influential audiences, strengthening the brand’s presence within lifestyle and consumer spaces. The launch strategy combines both digital and in person engagement, focusing on building genuine connections with consumers. Through a mix of experiential activity and social amplification, the brand aims to grow awareness organically while encouraging interaction and ongoing engagement. Mango Blast is positioned as more than just a beverage. It reflects a broader movement towards better choices, offering a product that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles while delivering a satisfying and refreshing experience. With continued marketing activity and upcoming events planned, Green Horn NZ Mango Blast is set to establish itself as a go to option for New Zealand consumers looking for a drink that brings together flavour, quality, and a feel good factor. Contact Green Horn NZ https://greenhorn.club/pages/contact +642774 7337 info@dmgroupglobal.com Contact MediaPA Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Business

NZ Business Connect Introduces New Member Hetul Majmundar – Commercial Property Specialist with NAI Harcourts

NZ Business Connect is pleased to introduce new member Hetul Majmundar, a commercial real estate salesperson with NAI Harcourts, focused on helping clients navigate property opportunities with confidence and clarity. Starting his real estate career in early 2026, Hetul entered the commercial property sector with a strong interest in property, investment, and long-term wealth creation. His approach is driven by a genuine desire to understand client goals and connect them with the right opportunities, whether that is securing a premises, growing a portfolio, or making strategic investment decisions. Hetul specialises in commercial property sales and leasing, working across retail and office spaces as well as investment opportunities. He also supports landlords and tenants with tailored property solutions, ensuring both parties achieve outcomes that align with their objectives. By working closely with business owners, investors, developers, and franchise operators, he is building a strong network within the commercial property space. While in the early stages of his career, Hetul is backed by the experienced team at NAI Harcourts, giving his clients access to established market knowledge, proven systems, and industry expertise. This combination of fresh perspective and strong organisational support allows him to deliver a professional and reliable service from the outset. A key focus for Hetul is building genuine, long-term relationships. Rather than approaching property as a transaction, he prioritises clear communication, personalised service, and understanding the full picture behind each client’s goals. This relationship-driven approach ensures clients feel supported throughout the process and confident in their decisions. His core values of integrity, professionalism, and commitment underpin every interaction, along with a strong growth mindset as he continues to develop his skills and industry knowledge. As he establishes himself in the commercial property market, Hetul Majmundar reflects the forward-thinking and relationship-focused values of NZ Business Connect, bringing energy, dedication, and a client-first approach to the network. Contact Hetul today! hetul.majmundar@naiharcourts.co.nz 022 850 3691 Website Contact NZ Business Connect Phillip Quay info@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz 027 458 7724 www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business

NZ Business Connect Welcomes New Member Hamish Paton from Waikato Assembly & Handyman – Reliable Help for Everyday Jobs

NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome new member Waikato Assembly & Handyman, a locally operated service focused on helping people tackle everyday tasks around the home and workplace. Founded in March 2026 by Hamish Paton, the business was created with a simple goal in mind: to provide practical, reliable help at a fair and reasonable price. Recognising that many people either do not have the time, tools, or support to complete smaller jobs, Hamish set out to offer a service that makes those tasks easier and stress-free. Waikato Assembly & Handyman specialises in assembling kitset furniture, from household items through to office setups. In addition to assembly work, the business also provides general maintenance, small repairs, and rubbish removal, offering a flexible service that can adapt to a wide range of client needs. Whether it is putting together new furniture, completing minor fixes, or helping tidy up a space, the focus is on getting the job done efficiently and to a high standard. Working with both residential and small business clients, Hamish supports customers who value reliability and straightforward service. His approach is especially helpful for those who may have limited support, ensuring no job is overlooked simply because it seems too small. As a sole trader, Waikato Assembly & Handyman offers a personalised experience without the added costs often associated with larger companies. Clients deal directly with Hamish from start to finish, creating clear communication and consistent results. The business is built on strong core values, including reliability, doing the job right the first time, fair and transparent pricing, and leaving every space better than it was found. Just as importantly, Hamish prides himself on being easy to deal with, making the process simple and stress-free for every client. With a practical, honest approach and a commitment to helping others, Waikato Assembly & Handyman reflects the down-to-earth, solution-focused values of NZ Business Connect. Contact Hamish today! hamishpaton@waikatoassemblyandhandyman.com 021 0233 4007 Facebook Contact NZ Business Connect Phillip Quay info@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz 027 458 7724 www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Rural

Leading Hamilton Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram Urges Smarter Soil Science By New Zealand Farmers To Offset Spike In Global Fertiliser Costs

An escalation in global fertiliser prices due to the Iran war will force New Zealand farmers to rethink traditional input-heavy systems, according to one of New Zealand’s leading soil scientists, Dr Gordon Rajendram of Hamilton (pictured) “The solution is a combination of using less fertiliser and also using better science to apply only what is truly needed,” Dr Rajendram said today. A crucial starting point is soil and pasture testing. Dr Rajendram consistently emphasises that without accurate data, fertiliser programmes become guesswork. “Comprehensive testing identifies nutrient deficiencies, soil pH, and retention capacity, allowing farmers to apply inputs precisely rather than broadly,” he says. “This avoids over-application, which not only wastes money but can also lead to nutrient losses through leaching. In fact, testing is considered one of the most cost-effective steps in nutrient management, often representing a very small proportion of overall fertiliser spend while delivering significant savings,” Dr Rajendram said. Beyond testing, there is growing evidence that many farms are applying more nutrients than required, particularly phosphate. Dr Rajendram notes that some New Zealand soils can retain phosphate for several years, meaning annual applications are not always necessary. Shifting away from routine fertiliser programmes to a needs-based approach can significantly cut costs without impacting production. “Nitrogen use is another area where efficiency gains can be substantial” he says. “Rather than relying heavily on granular applications, more farmers are adopting targeted methods such as foliar spraying. This approach delivers nutrients directly to the plant, improving uptake and reducing the total amount required. Trials have shown that significantly lower nitrogen rates can achieve comparable pasture growth when applied in this way, highlighting a clear opportunity to reduce input costs.” Soil condition itself also plays a major role. Maintaining optimal pH through liming improves nutrient availability and root development, meaning plants can access more of the nutrients already in the soil. Poor pH, on the other hand, limits growth and reduces fertiliser efficiency, effectively increasing the cost per unit of production. While reducing synthetic inputs is important, Dr Rajendram also advocates for strengthening biological systems within the pasture. Clover remains a critical component, naturally fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and reducing reliance on purchased fertiliser. However, he stresses that clover should be part of a broader, balanced system that includes diverse pasture species and well-managed soils. Excessive nitrogen use can actually suppress clover’s ability to fix nitrogen, reinforcing the need for moderation and balance. “Ultimately, the shift is about moving from a fertiliser-driven system to a soil-driven one,” Dr Rajendram said. As Dr Rajendram states: “Farmers are increasingly recognising that they may not need as much fertiliser as once thought. By combining accurate testing, targeted application, improved soil management, and biological inputs like clover, farmers can reduce costs, maintain productivity, and build more resilient farming systems in the face of ongoing global price pressures.” About Dr Gordon Rajendram: With more than three decades of experience in soil fertility, Dr Rajendram’s approach centres on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and unlocking the natural potential already present in the soil. For more information, please contact: Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466077 rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact Media PA phillip@mediapa.co.nz 027 458 7724

Accommodation

Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites Is a Reliable Choice for the Easter School Holidays in Auckland

Right Where You Want to Be The Easter school holidays should feel easy, not overplanned. Staying at Best Western Newmarket Inn puts you right in the middle of Newmarket, so you can step out and find something to do without turning it into a full day mission. It is the kind of location that makes everything feel just that little bit more relaxed. Built-In Entertainment (Yes, Really) One of the best parts of staying here is how close you are to Westfield Newmarket. During the school holidays, it is packed with activities that make keeping the kids entertained surprisingly easy. There are interactive zones like LEGO building stations, creative craft areas, and themed experiences that change each holiday period. Add in arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and the cinema showing the latest family films, and you have a mix of options that can fill an afternoon or an entire day without anyone getting bored. Keeping It Simple for Everyone We all know holidays with kids can go either way. The difference is having options close by. Whether it is a quick snack, a proper family meal, or somewhere for the kids to burn off energy, it is all within reach. No long drives, no complicated plans, just easy choices when you need them. A Space to Come Back To After a busy day out, having somewhere comfortable to land makes all the difference. The rooms are spacious and set up so you can properly relax. There is space for everyone, which means fewer squabbles and more time to unwind. Slow Mornings Made Easy Mornings feel a lot smoother when breakfast is already sorted. With options available on site, you can take your time, get everyone fed, and ease into the day without rushing around looking for somewhere to eat. When You Feel Like Exploring If you do feel like venturing out, you are only minutes from some of Auckland’s favourites. Auckland Domain is perfect for a run around, the Auckland War Memorial Museum adds a bit of learning into the mix, and the Auckland CBD is close enough for a change of pace. The Kind of Stay That Feels Easy At the end of the day, it is about having a place that makes the holidays feel simple and enjoyable. Best Western Newmarket Inn does exactly that. Less stress, more fun, and plenty of little moments that make the Easter break one to remember. Contact Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites info@abf.net.nz 0508 899 699 https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Travel

Easter at The Cardrona, A School Holiday Adventure Like No Other

When it comes to keeping the kids entertained, off screens, and genuinely excited to get outdoors, finding the right activity can be a challenge. That’s where The Cardrona stands out. Set in the heart of the stunning Cardrona Valley, this is more than just an activity, it’s a full experience that ticks every box for families, groups, and visiting travellers. 1. Adventure That Actually Suits Everyone One of the biggest wins for families is flexibility. Whether it’s: There’s something for different ages, confidence levels, and interests. It means families can share the same adventure without anyone feeling left out or overwhelmed. 2. Real High Country Access You Don’t Get Anywhere Else This isn’t a theme park or a controlled track. You’re out on genuine high country farmland. Think: It feels authentic, spacious, and uniquely New Zealand, which is exactly what visitors are looking for. See tour options here; www.thecardrona.co.nz/family 3. It’s Guided, Safe, and Genuinely Easy to Enjoy School holiday activities need to be fun, but also stress free for parents. The Cardrona nails this with: Even if it’s your first time on a horse or quad bike, you’re set up to feel confident from the start. See “The Gold Discovery Trail” here; www.cardronahorses.co.nz 4. It Gets Kids Outdoors (Without Them Complaining) Instead of forcing a “family day out”, this is one they’ll actually talk about afterwards: It’s active, engaging, and memorable without trying too hard. See; www.thecardrona.co.nz/off-road-buggy 5. Autumn in April Takes It to Another Level While The Cardrona is a year round destination, the Easter school holidays in April are something special. Autumn in the Cardrona Valley brings: The landscape shifts into warm tones of gold and amber, creating a completely different feel to the bright greens of summer or the snow covered winter months. I The Takeaway If you’re looking for a school holiday activity that blends adventure, scenery and ease, The Cardrona delivers. During the Easter autumn period, the mix of colour, calm and experience is hard to beat, especially for families visiting near Wānaka or Queenstown. Contact The Cardrona info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 Contact Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz

Health

Fit IQ A Part NZ Business Connect – A Destination for Innovation, Health, and Movement

NZ Business Connect is proud to have Fit IQ as part of its network. Based in Hamilton, Fit IQ is redefining health and wellness through smart, immersive gym solutions. Established in 2009 by Richard Harris, Fit IQ has grown over many years, drawing on Richard’s 30 years of experience in sports and exercise. From early involvement in not-for-profit sports development to witnessing the rapid expansion of commercial fitness in the 2010s, Richard has experienced the industry’s trends and innovations firsthand. Fit IQ’s marquee offering, the Imbody Digital Gym, was inspired by a collaboration with Canadian company Fitstats Technologies in 2015. This partnership brought a scientific approach to tracking workload and recovery, forming the foundation of Fit IQ’s personalised fitness philosophy. The platform is designed to make exercise accessible, engaging, and effective for all, whether at home, in corporate environments, or within aged care facilities. The Imbody Digital Gym features an immersive 43” screen, over 140 classes and 300 movements, a 100-kilo bi-lateral weight system, and requires less than 1sqm of space. This footprint-efficient, “no excuses” solution allows individuals and families to prioritise regular movement and health. Fit IQ also champions social impact through its Together We Move platform, encouraging more activity with friends and family. Fit IQ’s target market includes health practitioners such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists, corporate wellness programmes, homeowners aged 35+ with incomes above $120k, property developers, and aged care providers. The business combines industry experience, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on wellness, culture, and engagement to remove barriers to exercise. Richard Harris believes health starts at home, and that small, consistent routines make a meaningful difference. Fit IQ’s philosophy is simple: you control your health through the choices you make, and a smart gym is an investment in your wellbeing. Users like former All Black and amateur boxer Liam Messam demonstrate the platform’s flexibility, allowing even the busiest individuals to maintain fitness. NZ Business Connect is pleased to have Fit IQ as part of its network and looks forward to seeing their ongoing impact on health, movement, and wellness in New Zealand. Contact Fit IQ:801 Victoria Street, Hamilton 3210, New Zealand +64 021852772Email: richard@fitiq.info https://fitiq.nz Contact NZ Business Connect 027 458 7724 phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Business, IT Department, Members

NZ Business Connect Welcomes Offsite Admin – Hamilton-Based Virtual Assistant Agency Supporting Busy Business Owners – Duplicate – [#4860]

NZ Business Connect is pleased to welcome new member Offsite Admin, a Hamilton-based virtual assistant agency helping small businesses stay organised, efficient, and in control of their operations. Founded five years ago by Ruby McPhail, Offsite Admin was built from a desire to create flexibility while still delivering meaningful value to business owners. After having her second child, Ruby set out to build a business that allowed her to be present for family life while using her skills to support others. Recognising that many business owners are highly skilled in their trade but stretched thin when it comes to administration, she saw an opportunity to step in and make a real difference. Today, Offsite Admin specialises in bookkeeping and business administration, with a strong focus on trades. Their services include Xero management, bank reconciliations, invoicing, and bill preparation, alongside operational support such as inbox management, site scheduling, and job management software. By working across both the numbers and the day-to-day operations, the team provides clients with a clearer understanding of how their business is performing while freeing up valuable time. The business supports a wide range of clients, including builders, tradespeople, property developers, farmers, and professional service providers. Many clients rely on Offsite Admin to streamline their processes and reduce the administrative load that often builds up behind the scenes. A key point of difference is their boutique structure. With a small, consistent team, clients work with the same people who understand their business, systems, and goals. This leads to more accurate work, faster turnaround times, and advice that is tailored rather than generic. The team is led by Ruby McPhail, supported by Monique Gamble, who specialises in bookkeeping for the building and construction sector, and Michelle Reed, who brings extensive experience in accounts and administration. Offsite Admin focuses on helping business owners reclaim their time, reduce stress, and gain clarity over their operations, aligning closely with the practical, relationship-driven values of NZ Business Connect. Contact Offsite Admin ruby@offsiteadmin.co.nz 021 022 87901 https://www.offsiteadmin.co.nz/contact Contact NZ Business Connect Phillip Quay027 458 7724phillip@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Accommodation

Ace High Motor Inn Guide: What’s On in Hawke’s Bay (April to June)

Autumn and early winter are a fantastic time to visit Hawke’s Bay, with a steady line-up of events across Napier and the wider region. Whether you’re after live entertainment, markets, or cultural experiences, there is always something happening within easy reach of Ace High Motor Inn. April: Festivals, Exhibitions and Live Entertainment April kicks off with some of the region’s most popular annual events: April offers a strong mix of outdoor events and indoor entertainment, ideal for both families and couples. May: Markets, Music and Local Experiences May brings a slightly slower pace, with a focus on lifestyle and community events: These events offer visitors a chance to experience Hawke’s Bay like a local. June: Live Shows and Winter Culture As winter sets in, June still delivers standout events and indoor experiences: June is perfect for those looking to enjoy Hawke’s Bay’s arts and culture scene at a slower pace. Stay Close to It All From major events like The Extravaganza Fair and the Michael Jackson tribute show to markets, exhibitions, and live performances, Hawke’s Bay offers something for everyone this season. Ace High Motor Inn provides a convenient and comfortable base, with easy access to Napier, Hastings, and all the events happening across the region. 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

Community

The Changing Shape of Hamilton’s Central City

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

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