Ashburton-based Agraforum: Unveiling Agricultural Excellence For the First Time at the Waimumu, Gore, Southern Field Days – One of NZs Largest Agricultural Events
In an exciting development for agricultural enthusiasts, Agraforum makes its debut as a first-time exhibitor at the Waimumu, Gore, Southern Field Days on the 14th to the 16th of February 2024, bringing forth a wealth of innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology to the heart of the farming community. The Southern Field Days, renowned for showcasing […]
Farm safety has always been a paramount concern in the agricultural sector, and as 2024 unfolds, it’s crucial for farmers to take a moment and reassess their safety protocols. Frustration often mounts when accidents or incidents occur, prompting the question: Is it time to review your farm policies? That’s what AgSafe NZ is here for! […]
Looking for a thrilling off-road adventure without the hassle of learning how to ride a horse or wrangle with a motorbike? Experience The Cardrona has the perfect solution – the Yamaha Viking 6-seater 4×4 Off-Road buggy. Let the scenic beauty of Cardrona valley unfold before your eyes as you enjoy being driven by one of […]
The Coromandel Peninsula, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, unveils another jewel in its crown – Waiau Kauri Grove. Situated 45 minutes from 1093 Tairua Whitianga Road, this hidden paradise offers a captivating blend of ancient forests, cultural richness, and thrilling escapades, providing a fresh and exciting alternative to the well-known Cathedral Cove and Hot Water […]
In 2012, Graham Roberts embarked on a pivotal journey when he joined Craigs Investment Partners, bringing with him a wealth of experience in Estate planning, Trust Management, and Employee Share Ownership Schemes from his diverse background in New Zealand and Jersey. The inspiration behind his move was rooted in a commitment to guiding clients through the complexities of equity investments and helping them achieve their financial goals.
Graham Roberts
Craigs Investment Partners, with almost 40 years of history, has evolved into New Zealand’s premier personal wealth investment advisory firm. As a locally-owned entity, the firm takes pride in assisting Kiwis in navigating the intricacies of investing, offering services that span KiwiSaver, Broking, and Managed Portfolios for private clients, family trusts, estates, and charitable organizations.
The firm’s key products and services revolve around managing investment portfolios for a diverse clientele. Whether through KiwiSaver, UK Pensions transfers, or tailored managed portfolios, Craigs Investment Partners caters to individuals seeking to diversify their wealth, with a focus on both growing and supporting it into retirement.
Beyond financial endeavours, Graham Roberts reveals a more personal side through his interests and hobbies, which include golf, badminton, and football. These activities provide a balance to his professional life, showcasing a well-rounded individual dedicated to both work and leisure.
Social giving is a core value embraced by Craigs Investment Partners, exemplified by their generous donation of $150,000 to charities nationwide during Christmas. This philanthropic effort extends beyond mere financial support, as the firm actively engages with charities connected to its employees throughout the year, fostering a sense of community involvement and shared responsibility.
Graham Roberts is not only a financial advisor but also a networker, actively participating in groups like The Networking Group. Through his involvement, he builds connections, shares insights, and contributes to the collective growth of the professional community.
In essence, Graham Roberts and Craigs Investment Partners embody a holistic approach to success, combining financial acumen with a commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and a passion for personal interests.
Annie loves collaborating with small businesses to create films that will help their company grow. Annie can assist medium to large companies with developing an effective staff education strategy.
She can also collaborate with you to design a cohesive monthly schedule of social media postings that will expand your following and help you build your digital marketing plan.
NZ Business Connect, the latest networking craze, has announced plans to expand to other parts of New Zealand in 2024.
Phillip Quay, founder of NZ Business Connect said the networking group will expand to Rotorua, Taupo, the Hawke’s Bay and New Plymouth in the first half of 2024 as the demand for this unique and powerful new wave of networking is growing fast throughout the country. It already has groups operating in Hamilton and Tauranga.
The networking group is launching a new app in 2024 for enhanced communication accessibility for registered members. This will be an extension of the Business Connect experience and allow a space for members to stay connected with each other 24/7.
NZ Business Connect also announced that it will extend itself into an e-commerce platform next year– becoming an industry-leading Business-to-consumer networking organisation. Giving a rare opportunity for members to sell their products to a global audience.
“NZ Business Connect is something really different. It’s a space for each one of its members to make their own and continue to foster these important relationships on your own,’’ says Phillip Quay.
NZ Business Connect, committed to empowering communities, hosted an unforgettable Christmas event at the enchanting Rua Resort in Temple View, Hamilton. This picturesque bed and breakfast was the backdrop for an evening of celebration, camaraderie, and goodwill.
Nestled in the rolling hills, Rua Resort provided the perfect setting for NZ Business Connect’s festive gathering. With its charming ambience and scenic surroundings, attendees were captivated by the spirit of the season as they mingled and forged new connections.
Venue sponsor Rua Resort
Phillip Quay, Business Connect Director, orchestrated an evening that expressed the essence of Business Connect and the Christmas spirit.
Phillip is self-motivated, adaptable and driven to succeed by a personal desire to see other people of all cultures grow in their lives. NZ Business Connect is his latest project and is the result of his desire to have a networking group with a major emphasis on telling the stories of businesses from the human-interest perspective and driving them into the world of digital marketing and awareness of social issues. This networking group will be leaders in digital education in such areas as artificial intelligence (AI).
Business Connect partnered with the Waikato Women’s Refuge charity to raise awareness and support for their crucial work in providing safety and support for women and children affected by domestic abuse.
As attendees indulged in the festive atmosphere and engaged in lively conversations, they also contributed generously to the Women’s Refuge charity. Gratitude and joy of giving were at the forefront of this event, reminding everyone of the true meaning of the holiday season.
In the spirit of gratitude, key members of Business Connect were asked to reflect and share what they were most appreciative of. Having sponsored the event once again, Ivan Bellaire of Plant Recycle shared his gratitude for Business Connect for coming together and collectively expressing compassion towards each other and honourable causes.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to Phillip for making these events possible – leading the way for new, empowering relationships and a bright future for us all” – Ivan Bellaire
Business Connect were thrilled to have Gorgeous Creatures as a sponsor, who are a unique home decor boutique. Specialising in transforming homes with extraordinary pieces of nature. Gorgeous Creatures bring the beauty of the natural world into your living space.
Event prize sponsor Gorgeous Creatures
Gorgeous Creatures prize winner Jenna Grbin of Bird Machine also brought Christmas cheer to the event with a beautiful live performance. Everyone in the room got up and danced the night away with Jenna.
Ricki Cotter, owner of Tauranga-based Topline Carpenters and Business Connect Bay of Plenty Regional Manager, also shared a few words on gratitude.
“It’s awesome to see everyone coming together and sharing their passions for what they do and how they are serving their communities” – Ricki Cotter
With social giving at the heart of Business Connect, attendees were introduced to women’s refuge and the amazing work they are doing. Phillip Quay, Business Connect Director, also introduced Here2Care and Lads Army, two causes dedicated to helping their communities grow stronger.
As the year draws to a close, many people are setting lofty goals for themselves, and companies are preparing for expansion and innovation. These New Year’s resolutions have resulted in a changing environment for the finance sector that is marked by a number of significant phenomena. The industry is poised for a truly revolutionary year. Let’s examine how the forthcoming developments in the banking business for 2024 will affect our approach to money management and investing.
Personal Finance Software Revolution
There will be a major increase in the use of personal finance software by 2024. The growing desire among people to take charge of their financial destinies is what is driving this trend. More and more individuals are looking for platforms and tools that help them make better investment decisions, simplify budgeting, and obtain real-time insights into their financial situation. These apps can automate processes like bill paying and spending tracking and provide customised advice thanks to developments in AI and machine learning algorithms. As a result, a wealth of feature-rich, user-friendly finance software has emerged, enabling people to make better financial decisions. Whether your goal is to pay off debt, save more, or invest sensibly, these software solutions will be your greatest ally in reaching your fiscal objectives.
The Rise of SMSF Trust Deeds
The deeds for SMSFs (self-managed superannuation funds) are about to change significantly. Because of their flexibility and control over retirement funds, SMSFs have become more and more popular. But in order to create an SMSF, a deed outlining the fund’s guidelines and governance structure needs to be drafted. This process can be complex and may require individuals to hire expert help for establishing a trust deed effectively. The generation of trust agreements will become more efficient with the use of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI). These developments will shorten the time and expense required to draft deeds, increasing the accessibility of SMSFs to a wider range of stakeholders. Furthermore, existing standards will be impacted by legal reforms intended to enhance accountability and transparency within SMSFs, requiring amendments to current deeds.
The Popularity of Sustainable Finance
Sustainable finance – also referred to as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing – will keep growing in the following years. This pattern shows that people are becoming more conscious of how their expenditures affect society and the environment. A growing number of investors are taking into account the ethical and sustainable aspects of their investments in addition to the financial gains. As a result, financial institutions are expanding their selection of sustainable investment options and incorporating ESG considerations into their decision-making procedures. To ensure more openness in the banking sector, governments and authorities are also speeding up their efforts to standardise ESG reporting and disclosure requirements. As a result, there will be more chances for both people and businesses to match their investments to their principles and help create a more sustainable future.
Digital Currencies and Decentralised Finance
Two major developments in the industry are digital currencies and decentralised finance (DeFi). Traditional fiscal systems have already been impacted by the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and this upheaval is only predicted to get stronger. Central banks around the world are investigating the idea of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), which have the potential to change how we store and conduct transactions. Meanwhile, by providing decentralised and permissionless financial services, DeFi platforms are upending traditional banking and lending institutions. These patterns point to a fundamental change in the financial world, making it more digital and networked. They do, however, also bring up issues with regulation, security, and the possibility of financial exclusion. It’s critical that people and organisations keep up with the changing environment and take into account the benefits and hazards associated with digital currencies and DeFi as they gain traction.
Conclusion
The finance sector is ready for a year of innovation and change as we approach 2024, from digital currencies and DeFi upending established banking to personal finance software changing the way people handle their money. Economic success in the years to come will depend on one’s ability to stay informed, adjust to change, and seek professional advice when necessary in this changing environment.
Exciting developments on the Horizon for Taupō and MAD Media!
MAD Media is very excited to launch a new digital billboard in Taupō, where they can get your messages up in lights.
While the team has worked effortlessly in Taupo to prepare for the launch, it has become evident that the town has so many incredible things to offer.
The area is preparing itself for a fantastic line-up of events that will leave locals and visitors alike thrilled.
The Boss – Bruce Springsteen Experience – 6th of October
Rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts, rejoice! ‘The Boss’ Bruce Springsteen Experience is coming to town, delivering a high-octane tribute to the iconic Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. With a full nine-piece line-up, this show is known for its electrifying performances and has garnered rave reviews worldwide.
Eclipse – The Music of Pink Floyd in Full Quadraphonic – 7th of October
Music lovers, get ready to celebrate 50 years of Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side of The Moon’ with Eclipse. This immersive concert experience features full quadraphonic sound and state-of-the-art lighting, transporting audiences into the world of Pink Floyd like never before.
Equifest Taupō 2023 – 13th – 15th of October
Horse enthusiasts, mark your calendars! This three-day equine festival promises a mix of educational seminars, industry experts, fierce competitions, and spectacular night shows. Plus, there’s plenty of shopping for horse-related products.
Taupo Ultramarathon – 14th – 15th of October
Calling all runners! Experience New Zealand’s most runnable Ultramarathon this October. The event offers various distances suitable for all fitness levels, all set against the breath-taking backdrop of Great Lake Taupō.
Laid Out at the Lake 2023 – 28th of October
Car enthusiasts don’t miss ‘Laid Out at the Lake’ in late October. This Minitruck and Lowrider show at the Great Lake Centre promises a visual feast of customized vehicles and a fun day out for the family.
Taupō is gearing up for an eventful season ahead. Whether you’re a lover of music, sports, or culture, these events have something special in store for you. MAD Media’s new digital billboard will ensure you won’t miss out on any of the action! The team at Mad Media are looking forward to serving the Taupō community to the best of their ability