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.

Click here to book directly

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

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

reservations@pacificresort.com

Contact Media PA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

www.mediapa.co.nz

Like most Hotels and Resorts, the back of house at our resorts often takes a back seat to the public spaces that the guests see. In this behind-the-scenes look, we are happy to share changes to the loading bay at Pacific Resort Rarotonga. A space frequented daily by staff and often seen by suppliers and tradespeople.  This area has undergone a stunning transformation, captivating the attention of staff and visitors alike.

Rejuvenating the Loading Bay

The loading bay, while always clean, lacked vibrancy. Recognising the need for a refreshing change, Regional Manager Ani Thompson commissioned Kaia Dearlove for the task. Kaia is a prodigious young artist with deep familial ties to Pacific Resort Hotel Group. What began as a modest endeavour quickly evolved into an ambitious project, driven by Kaia’s boundless talent and unwavering dedication.

The Importance of Colour

Adding colour to the environment was essential.  University of Pennsylvania research highlights that positive emotions and attitudes at work are linked to better job performance, increased creativity, stronger teamwork, higher job engagement, also improved job satisfaction and organisational commitment.

Choosing Orange and Midnight (Mana Blue)

Orange, chosen based on insights from ‘Inspired Spaces,’ radiates warmth and happiness, combining the energy of red with the cheerfulness of yellow. Focussing minds on physical comfort, known for its optimistic and uplifting qualities. Midnight, or Mana Blue, is a key colour in Pacific Resort Hotel Group and Pacific Resort Rarotonga branding, framing the loading bay, and creating a visual effect that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.

Birds of Paradise and Pareu Prints

Kaia needed to incorporate Birds of Paradise from the company logos into the floral design. She carefully studied the logos for Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Te Manava Luxury Villa’s and Spa, and Pacific Resort Hotel Group, seamlessly integrating them into her artwork. The result beautifully captures the brand’s essence, creating a visually stunning and meaningful mural. Additionally, Pareu prints reflect an integral part of Polynesian culture. Replicated on the wall, this brings cultural heritage and visual interest.

About the Artist: Kaia Dearlove

Kaia Dearlove, a well-known local artist, was the ideal choice for this project. Her grandfather, Neil Dearlove, supplied coffee beans to Pacific Resort Rarotonga for over a decade. And her grandmother, Janet, was renowned for her wedding cakes. Kaia’s artistic journey began with henna tattoos at local markets, becoming one of the most renowned young artists in Rarotonga.

As the owner of Henna Raro, Kaia worked on the mural during the afternoons when the loading bay was less busy. Asked to incorporate elements of the Birds of Paradise from the company logos into her floral design, Kaia seamlessly integrated these elements into her artwork, beautifully capturing the brand’s essence. Her paintings and prints are available at the coffee shop. Kaia has a studio in Rarotonga, located in Matavera across from Kaps store. Follow her on Instagram @kopi_art.studio.

Bringing the Project to Life

Throughout the project, staff members, suppliers, and visitors frequently stopped to chat with Kaia about her art. She enjoyed the experience and was impressed with the positive interactions she had with the team. Kaia’s beautiful contribution to the space is greatly appreciated. It brings a vibrant, welcoming, and culturally resonant atmosphere to the Pacific Resort Rarotonga loading bay.

The Pacific Resort Rarotonga loading bay project is a testament to the power of creativity and the impact of thoughtful design on everyday spaces.

Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group

reservations@pacificresort.com

At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, we offer a culinary journey reflecting the rich traditions and flavours of the Cook Islands. Our menus are crafted with fresh, local produce and Polynesian flair, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Here, we share the recipe for Ika Mata, along with other popular dishes and their wine pairings from our resorts.

Ika Mata: A Polynesian Delight

Ika Mata, a traditional Cook Islands delicacy, translates to “raw fish” in Cook Island Maori. This refreshing fish salad features freshly squeezed coconut cream, finely chopped vegetables, and raw fish. The coconut, often called the “tree of life,” plays a crucial role in this dish, from the milk to the grated garnish.

Ingredients:

• 400g fresh yellowfin tuna, cubed
• 200ml thick coconut cream
• 80g red bell pepper, diced
• 80g cucumber, diced
• 60g carrot, diced
• 60g tomatoes, chopped
• 20g chives, chopped
• 70g red onion, diced
• 50ml lime juice
• 2 tablespoons sea salt

Instructions:

1. Make a “sea water bath” by adding 1½ tablespoons of sea salt to 600ml of cold water; soak the cubed tuna in this salt water bath for 30 minutes.
2. Drain the tuna.
3. Place the tuna in a glass or ceramic mixing bowl, add all the other ingredients except lime juice, and gently combine well.
4. Add the lime juice and mix gently.
5. Optionally, adjust salt and lime juice to taste. Serve in coconut shell bowls garnished with fresh lime slices.

Wine Pairing:

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc with bright acidity and citrus notes enhances the flavours of Ika Mata.

Omakase Sushi and Sashimi at Pacific Resort Aitutaki

Start your holiday at Pacific Resort Aitutaki with the Omakase Sushi and Sashimi platter, featuring fresh fish and vegetable rolls, wakame seaweed salad, wasabi, pickled ginger, and tamari soy sauce.

Wine Pairing:

A dry Riesling’s crisp acidity and mineral notes complement the sushi and sashimi, balancing the wasabi’s heat and the pickled ginger’s tanginess.

Pacific Sizzler at Pacific Resort Rarotonga:

The Pacific Sizzler at Pacific Resort Rarotonga features locally caught fish on a sizzling platter with sautéed vegetables, drizzled with coconut lime sauce.

Wine Pairing:

A vibrant Chardonnay with creamy texture and tropical fruit notes enhances the coconut lime sauce and balances the fish’s oils and vegetables.

Lemon & Fennel Braised Pork Belly at Little Polynesian Resort

At Little Polynesian Resort, the Lemon & Fennel Braised Pork Belly is a standout. Served with avocado puree, chilli onion jam, popcorn crackle, and tamarind glaze, it offers a complex blend of flavours and textures.

Wine Pairing:

A full-bodied Shiraz with bold flavours and spicy undertones complements the pork belly’s richness and the tamarind glaze’s tanginess.

At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, we take pride in sharing our Cook Island cuisine and local produce with our visitors. Enjoy these delightful dishes and their perfect wine pairings at our resorts, where every meal celebrates the Cook Islands’ vibrant culinary heritage.

Find our Sharing a Little Paradise magazine at this link: Click Here

View our Menus here: Click Here

Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group

reservations@pacificresort.com

Wedding bands are much more than mere pieces of jewellery; they symbolise the unbreakable bond and eternal commitment between two people. At Centennial House Taupo, choosing a special wedding band can add profound meaning to your marriage and serve as a constant reminder of your love and vows.

Firstly, the process of selecting or designing a unique wedding band allows couples to reflect on their relationship and personal tastes. Customisation options are virtually endless, from selecting the type of metal, such as platinum, gold, or silver, and combination metals like rose gold and white gold, to incorporating precious gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds. Engraving personal messages, significant dates, or even fingerprints on the inside of the band adds an intimate touch that makes the ring truly one-of-a-kind.

Moreover, special wedding bands can incorporate cultural or family traditions, enhancing their sentimental value. For instance, Celtic knots, Claddagh symbols, or ancestral stones can be integrated into the design, creating a connection between past, present, and future generations. This not only honours heritage but also adds layers of significance to the band.

At Centennial House Taupo, there the opportunity to have custom wedding bands, and engagements rings, made by renowned jeweller John Elliot. Known for his exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, John works closely with couples to create bespoke rings that perfectly capture their love story and personal style. This special service adds a unique and memorable touch to the wedding experience at Centennial House Taupo.

 The emotional resonance of a specially designed wedding band extends beyond the couple. It becomes a tangible symbol of their love story, shared with friends and family. The uniqueness of the ring often sparks conversations and reminiscing, serving as a beautiful reminder of the wedding day and the journey the couple has embarked upon together.

In conclusion, special wedding bands are far more than decorative accessories. They encapsulate the essence of a couple’s relationship, commemorate significant moments, and carry forward traditions and personal meanings. Investing in a unique wedding band, especially through the exclusive service at Centennial House Taupo, is investing in a lifetime of memories, making it a cherished keepsake for generations to come.

Contact Centennial House Taupo

www.centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

021 912 743

info@centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

www.facebook.com/Centennialhousetaupo

 Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Centennial House Taupo is pleased to feature the works of owner John Elliot, a skilled jeweller with a rich history in the craft. John’s journey began at Eton Jewellery in Hatton Garden, London, where he served his apprenticeship. During this time, he worked on various pieces, from simple diamond engagement rings and earrings to more significant creations, including a sapphire and diamond necklace for Princess Diana, commissioned by Garrard of London, the Queen’s jewellers.

After completing his apprenticeship, John pursued a self-employed career and joined Bellingham & Epstein, a company known for creating fine jewellery and objets d’art. Their work included reproductions of Fabergé pieces and luxury items like diamond-encrusted rock crystal caviar bowls. It was here that John met two New Zealanders who later encouraged him to move to New Zealand, where he currently resides and works.

 John continued his career with a group of jewellers in a workshop on Greville Street, near Hatton Garden, making fine antique reproduction jewellery. Some pieces were commissioned for the Sultan of Brunei. This experience led to an opportunity at Graff Diamonds, a well-respected name in jewellery manufacturing in Hatton Garden. At Graff, John worked with remarkable gems and honed his skills further.

 As John’s reputation grew, he received offers from various renowned jewellers in London’s West End. He ultimately joined David Morris International, attracted by their bold designs and large, beautiful gems.

 John has lived in New Zealand for the past 28 years and founded Elliot & Co., where he continues to create finely crafted jewellery. His dedication to quality and detail has earned him a respected place in the industry. At Centennial House, Taupo, visitors can view John’s work and appreciate his craftsmanship. Additionally, John offers bespoke wedding ring creation services, ideal for those planning their special day in Taupo. Wedding guests can commission unique, handcrafted rings that symbolise their enduring love and commitment.

Contact Centennial House Taupo:

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

Facebook: facebook.com/nzbusinessconnect

By Fiona Stephen
The history of Bethells Beach and its community is not just a story of early settlers but also a testament to the ongoing commitment of the Bethell family and their extended community. This legacy of care and support for local initiatives continues with the significant contributions made by Trude Bethell and her family towards the local surf life saving club, a cornerstone of community safety and engagement.

In the 1960s, Trude’s father and brother, along with herself, this year, became honorary life members of the club, a recognition of their substantial support since the club’s inception. This deep connection was solidified when Mrs Shirley and Mr John Bethell gifted the first clubhouse to the club in the 1960s, marking the beginning of a long-standing relationship between the Bethell family and the surf lifesaving community.

Christine Bethell was deeply committed in her work for the surf club through her years of committee work and dedication. Her happy and giving personality inspired many.

The relationship deepened in 1970 when the Bethell family expressed their intention to gift half an acre of land to the club, a gesture documented in a letter that highlights the family’s dedication to supporting local endeavours. This gift was planned to be instrumental in supporting the club’s activities and growth. However to this day the club lease land for the clubhouse.

Moreover, the wider Bethell family, including members of the Worley and Gardner families, have been involved from the outset, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to the club. Trude’s parents played a crucial role in supporting the clubhouse’s relocation to its current location, further aiding the club in expanding its reach and effectiveness.

In addition to these contributions, Trude and her husband John organised a fundraiser at the Bethells Beach Cottages that successfully raised $2,500 for the club’s gear room, exemplifying their ongoing commitment to nurturing and supporting local community initiatives.

This rich history of support and engagement by the Bethell family and their extended kin not only underscores their commitment to community welfare but also enriches the heritage of Bethells Beach, making it a place where history and community spirit thrive hand in hand.

Te Koinga Cottage, Turehu Cottage, Wairua Apartment and Wedding & Events Pavilion

Bethells Beach                Waitakere                  Auckland                     New Zealand

Contact Bethells Beach Cottages

+64 9 810 9581

info@bethellsbeach.com

www.bethellsbeach.com

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz

Rua Resort in Temple View offers a picturesque setting that makes it an ideal venue for weddings across various cultures and styles. The resort’s scenic vistas of Mount Pirongia and beautifully decorated interiors provide a romantic and inviting atmosphere for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.

The venue prides itself on its versatility, catering to a broad range of wedding styles, from traditional to contemporary. The resort’s expansive grounds are perfect for custom setups, allowing each couple to create a unique experience that reflects their cultural heritage and personal tastes.

The resort’s communal spaces, such as the large kitchen and shared dining areas, can be beautifully transformed to cater to the specific needs of a wedding reception. These spaces allow for personal touches in decoration and setup, ensuring that each couple can bring their vision to life. Whether it’s a buffet-style meal prepared in the open kitchen or a formal sit-down dinner, the facilities at Rua Resort are equipped to handle all arrangements with ease.

Additionally, the warm hospitality of the hosts at Rua Resort ensures that every detail is taken care of, making guests feel at home. The inn’s ability to provide a cozy and friendly atmosphere can make your special day feel even more personal and enjoyable. The host’s attentiveness and dedication to guest comfort are evident in their provision of customised services, including beautifully coordinated décor and a home-cooked breakfast, tailored to the preferences of the wedding party.

With its stunning backdrop, versatile spaces, and exceptional service, Rua Resort represents a charming choice for couples looking to celebrate their union in a way that honours both their shared future and their individual traditions.

Contact Rua Resort

(021) 617 003

(+64) 7 847 0407

ruaresort@gmail.com

https://www.ruaresort.com

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

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s stunning North Island, Centennial House Taupo offers more than just a comfortable stay; it promises an entertainment-packed getaway ideal for families, friends, and corporate retreats alike. From indoor activities to relaxing leisure options, this lodge ensures every moment is filled with enjoyment.

For motor enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers, the lodge has a racing car simulator. This high-tech attraction offers guests the thrill of high-speed racing without leaving the comfort of the lodge. The experience is immersive and is sure to get your pulse racing.

For those who prefer a more strategic and intellectual challenge, the lodge features facilities like a projector and whiteboard for both business and entertainment use. Guests can host movie nights, presentations, or brainstorming sessions, making it perfect for both corporate retreats and family gatherings.

Outdoor activities at Centennial House are plentiful and cater to a variety of interests. Golf aficionados can enjoy a 3-hole pitch and putt golf course, beautifully integrated into the lush surroundings of the lodge. This course is perfect for both beginners and experienced golfers looking to practice their short game in a picturesque setting.

For guests who enjoy traditional lawn games, there is no shortage of options. You can engage in a friendly match of lawn bowls, croquet, or pétanque, or try your hand at quoits. Each game offers a relaxed yet engaging way to spend the day and is perfect for all ages.

Lastly, the on-site table tennis facilities provide a fast-paced and fun activity that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. Whether you are competing fiercely or just playing for fun, it’s a fantastic way to stay active during your stay.

Centennial House Taupo truly offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal choice for your next holiday destination.

Contact Centennial House:

021 912 743

info@centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

www.centennialhousetaupo.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay:

Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Mobile: 027 458 7724

Website: www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz

Profile Fertilisers, a leader in agricultural solutions, emphasises the importance of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphate, and sulphur in soil health and plant growth. Understanding the roles and interactions of these nutrients can significantly enhance crop yields and sustainability.

Nitrogen is fundamental to plant life, acting as a primary building block for proteins, nucleic acids, and chlorophyll. In agriculture, nitrogen supports the growth of leaves and stems, playing a critical role in photosynthesis and, consequently, energy production. However, its availability in soil can be limited, and excessive use can lead to environmental issues, such as waterway eutrophication. Profile Fertilisers advocates for balanced nitrogen management to maximise crop production while minimising environmental impact.

Phosphate is another crucial nutrient, vital for energy transfer within plants. It aids in the transformation of solar energy into chemical energy, fuels the development of roots, and enhances flower and fruit production. Phosphate availability can often be fixed in soil particles and unavailable to plants, making proper management essential for maintaining soil health and crop productivity.

Sulphur, often overlooked, is equally vital. It is a component of essential amino acids and proteins, significantly contributing to enzyme activities and overall plant vigour. Sulphur deficiency in soil can lead to stunted growth, pale-coloured leaves, and reduced crop yields. With industrial emissions reductions leading to decreased atmospheric sulphur deposits, the role of additives like those provided by Profile Fertilisers has become increasingly crucial.

Profile Fertilisers’ product, Enforcer, which is specially formulated to provide balanced amounts of nitrogen, phosphate, and sulphur, can be particularly beneficial at this time of year, subject to availability. By integrating Profile Fertilisers products into their fertilisation practices, farmers can address the critical needs for these nutrients effectively and efficiently, ensuring that soils are fertile and productive for the long term. This holistic approach underpins the success of agricultural endeavours and contributes to a more sustainable future.

Contact Profile Fertilisers

Don Henderson: 021 643 698

Factory: 027 222 7698

donh@profilefert.co.nz

www.profilefert.co.nz

Contact Phillip Quay

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

www.mediapa.co.nz