APRIL 2025 VOLUME 9: ISSUE 4
MILK, MONEY AND MEMORIES
Is there really such a thing as a free lunch for Kiwi kids? David Porter reports
TAURANGA’S KEY TOPICS
Page 4 A LITTLE FROM THE FRINGE
Mayor Mahé Drysdale calls for feedback on annual plan Page 7
Will FBT changes add up? Deloitte advises caution with tax calculations Page 8
> By RICHARD RENNIE
Cows, kiwifruit and cruise liners are all contributing to a surge in confidence and returns for the twin regions of Waikato and Bay of Plenty as export focused sectors are starting to build momentum after a tough couple of years.
Coast to coast, the two regions capture almost 20 per cent of the country’s export revenue with two of the country’s biggest earners, dairying and kiwifruit. Both of these industries are poised to enjoy one of their best years yet, buoyed by strong market demand, a weaker dollar, compliant weather and lower
interest rates.
This news comes on the back of confirmation that New Zealand enjoyed a slight lift in GDP over the December 2024 quarter, up 0.7%.
Although small, this increase is significant after the 1.1% decline in the September 2024 quarter.
Green light for kiwifruit
In February, Zespri released its final forecast for the 2024-25 season. It exceeded its longstanding global revenue target of $4.5 billion and follows strengthened tray returns for a record 190 million tray crop. > Continuedonpage5
Featuring a veritable cornucopia of culinary treats, Flavours of Plenty has been in full swing as this issue of BOPBN went to print.
Just one of many highlights setting tongues wagging and tastebuds
dancing, the Plates of Plenty Challenge has been showcasing the skills of chefs at local eateries. Each entrant was required to create a dish using at least three of nine locally produced ingredients.
Flavours of Plenty Festival director Rae Baker says she has been blown away by the quality and creativity of this year’s entries.
“It’s amazing how the super talented staff at 24 of our region’s top eateries can take a box of goodies and turn it into such an array of absolutely scrumptious dishes.
“I’d like to encourage discerning
diners to travel around and sample as many as they can.”
Overseen by Tourism Bay of Plenty, the festival and the challenge are intended to help bring locals and local businesses together.
“We always enjoy sparking new connections between growers, producers, and hospitality venues via the Plates of Plenty Challenge,” says Oscar Nathan from Tourism Bay of Plenty. “The ultimate goal is to inspire these venues to keep utilising these food and beverage suppliers in the future, to ensure the positive impact the annual festival generates continues well after the final event date.”
Participating restaurants were
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given a head start to develop their creations prior to the launch of the festival on March 27. Diners and judges have already started voting for their favourites before the competition closes on April 13. Prizes are on the line for the best dishes with awards for Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice.
What’s more (as if 24 dishes wasn’t enough!), diners who vote for their favourite meal will enter the draw to win one of three $100 vouchers, which can be redeemed at any participating eatery.
To view a complete menu of this year’s dishes and more details visit www.flavoursofplentyfestival.com.
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Bay of Plenty Business News has a circulation of 8000, distributed throughout Bay of Plenty between Waihī and Opotiki including Rotorua and Whakatane, and to a subscription base.
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In case you missed last month’s
A monthly update on the business world from leading writer David Porter
Recent discussions about government provision of school lunches have spurred memories of my own schooldays.
At primary school, I experienced a Labour government’s, reportedly, world-first initiative to improve school children’s health by supplying milk. To the best of my recollection, it was kept on a bench outside a classroom and tended to be rather past its drinkable best by the time it reached us. Begun in 1937, the scheme was discontinued in 1967.
A food and agricultural report summary notes that school food in New Zealand consists of a free lunch programme, which began in 2019 for primary and intermediate-aged students in disadvantaged communities. It provides lunches to students in 40 per cent of our schools. Ineligible students bring (or are supposed to bring) packed lunches.
Around the world, options for feeding school children vary from full provision
of lunches to everyone to no standard system at all. According to an RNZ report, Australia, Canada and Denmark are among the only high income countries that do not provide school meals.
Absenteeism – the real crisis
Former Labour Party minister and ACT Party leader, Richard Prebble, said:
“Free school lunches are an example of Parkinson’s law of triviality. We worry about [them] while ignoring the real crisis in education, absenteeism. Free school lunches are a solution looking for a problem.”
I don’t, in any way, doubt that many families in New Zealand are struggling, but I’m puzzled that free school lunches are being perceived by some as the solution.
My family wasn’t anywhere near well off when I grew up. I was part of a post Second World War generation entering what promised to be a more rewarding era,
although it was yet to show many signs of this. I certainly wouldn’t have classed my own, or my friends’, lifestyles as those of the rich and famous.
My mother worked in factories, finishing around 3pm so she could be home when her children returned from school. My father trudged off daily to catch a train and work in an office in Wellington. He seemed to spend most of his spare time growing food and painstakingly adding a couple of rooms to our very small house to shelter his growing family.
My mother assembled sandwiches each morning
and, if we were lucky, a bit of fruit. Our packed lunches were, generally, eaten quickly, items were traded for others thought more appetising and some went uneaten.
The New Zealand government recently proposed a full redesign of the school lunch programme. According to an RNZ report, slightly fewer than 1000 schools participate in the programme, accounting for 40% of schools and 27% of all students. Proposed menu changes include options for hot dishes, fruit, muesli bars and sandwiches.
Prebble, wisely I think, recommends paying the estimated $3 daily food subsidy, per student, directly to schools to disburse as appropriate and practical. We certainly shouldn’t transport hot meals due to the extra expense it entails. He also recommends reimbursement only for the number of eligible children who actually attend school, given that New Zealand has a very high level of absenteeism.
(1) With thanks to the late songwriter, Lionel Bart
Zespri’s CEO, Jason Te Brake, confirmed it had been a very positive season benefitting from a solid lift in crop volumes after the previous year’s reduced volume – he expects the company will break its $4.5 billion target set in 2015.
“There is a strong sense of confidence within the industry with the successful industry discussion on expanding Zespri Global Supply (ZGS) at the end of 2024 showcasing our ability to make strategic decisions together,” he said.
The ZGS decision enables Zespri to significantly boost the volume of crops grown off shore to secure and maintain shelf space year round. Looking at this season’s harvest, Te Brake was equally upbeat.
“Growth conditions have been largely positive for most growers, with a total crop of more than 200 million trays, and our focus will be starting the season strongly with a good supply of high quality fruit.”
Estimates are this year’s harvest, of which 80% is from the Bay of Plenty, will crack the $3 billion export value mark for the first time, equalling earnings made from lamb exports.
Waikato’s big dairy engine is revving again after a tough couple of years grappling with surging on-farm costs and a lower milk solid payouts.
Between them, the Bay of Plenty and Waikato account for almost 30% of the country’s $24 billion dairy exports. However, in the past two years dairy farm operating costs soared 30%, including stinging interest rate rises that had the average dairy farm debt cost soar from $187,000 a year in 2019 to $246,000 in 2024.
In a fortunate turnaround, strengthened commodity returns, falling interest rates and a lower NZ dollar have pushed the expected dairy payout for 2024-25 to more than $10 per kilogram of milk solids.
“Fonterra’s earnings and the forecast farm gate milk price
have both benefitted from solid demand for our high value ingredients products and our sales book is well contracted for the season,” the dairy co-operative’s CEO Miles Hurrell said.
For the average Waikato or Bay of Plenty dairy farm facing operating costs of $8.32 per kg of milk solids, the $10 plus per kilogram pay out represents a healthy margin with which farmers can quit debt or reinvest back into their businesses with capital purchases.
It’s not only on land where one of these regions is experiencing a boom in returns.
In line with the rest of the country, Bay of Plenty has enjoyed higher spending by international visitors. This has helped offset a tough domestic market.
The 2024-25 summer season has resulted in a full-blown return of the cruise ship tourism sector to Bay of Plenty with almost 90 ships scheduled to arrive up until its official end on May 27.
Many visitors have been coming from Australia and delivering
a welcome injection to the region’s tourist sites and retail trade, both of which have seen some tough going in recent months.
Oscar Nathan, general manager of Tourism Bay of Plenty, said spending by international visitors this summer is up 22% on January last year.
“This has contributed to a 3% increase in tourism jobs in our region across these timeframes. The most significant job gains were in travel and tour services with a 47% year-on-year increase in the Western Bay of Plenty, a 23% increase in Tauranga City and a 20% increase in the Whakatāne District.”
These increases come despite a slight drop in cruise ship visits, totalling almost 90, 14% less than last year.
As the main tourist season fades into autumn, the fourth Plenty of Flavours food festival kicked off from March 27 with multiple events sold out in advance.
New campaigns and promotions are getting underway with the government’s $3 million regional tourism boost fund focusing on two markets – Australia and North America – that do well with NZ’s exchange rate,
The word ‘growth’ is also featuring in conversations with business owners in Rotorua, The latest, biannual Rotorua Business Pulse report indicates growing confidence among the city’s business leaders. It reveals that 52% have been using ‘growth’ and ‘recovery’ in their survey responses.
Confidence in Rotorua’s tourism sector was also given a valuable boost with a mid-March announcement of a new 197 guest room lakeside hotel project. After decades of discussion about such a project, the hotel will add to Rotorua’s growing reputation as a health and wellness destination.
While feeling more optimistic about the coming year, business leaders are also tempering their views with one eye on international events and the emergence of a volatile world trade environment.
We have had a particularly rough road in New Zealand with prospects a full-blown recovery unlikely until later in the year, Craigs Investment Partners investment director, Mark Lister, told attendees at a recent PMG investment seminar.
And yet, he remained confident that interest rates here will continue to track down and that business confidence, in general, was on the up.
“Positivity is a leading indicator and it is now close to a 10 year high,” he said.
New Zealand is now enjoying a flat inflation period compared to the likes of Japan, USA, Europe and the United Kingdom where the three-month trend has been upward in nature.
“A large proportion of people have opted for short term rates, so a lowering of the OCR will see lower mortgage rates having a much quicker effect,” Lister said.
Kiwibank data shows 81% of mortgages with New Zealand’s five major banks are for durations of less than one year fixed term at present.
The strong commodity prices that have revealed themselves during the past few months bode well for shoring up the economies in the twin regions. This was supported by a recent Priority One economic update that highlighted the value of kiwifruit’s contribution against a relatively moribund construction sector.
Looking abroad, Lister said it was tough to disseminate Donald Trump’s tariff tactics between bluff and reality, but clients were well advised to look outside USA when investing at present.
“That includes looking at Japan, the European Union and emerging markets,” he added.
Lister did take heart from New Zealand’s relatively small trade surplus with the United States compared to larger trade partners, including Canada, which were drawing the president’s attention.
“We are not in the direct firing line,” Lister advised. “But the USA does take 13% of our exports, number two after China.”
075783494 pmgfunds.co.nz
Known for their personal and honest approach, Tall Poppy is also New Zealand’s most tech-forward real estate company and their latest initiative on real estate marketing sets a new standard. Their Ignite marketing package, which comes free as part of the listing agreement, now includes market-leading digital and social advertising at a level that is not offered anywhere else.
“We believe great marketing goes beyond simply listing on portals; it’s about strategic, precision-targeted exposure that captivates serious buyers and awakens the interest of those who haven’t even realised they’re in the market yet,” say Tauranga’s Tall Poppy franchise owners Susan Northey and Janet O’Shea.
The smart use of technology, and the ongoing drive to keep on top of the latest developments in the digital space, is a major point
of difference for Tall Poppy. It’s an area where they outshine and outpace other real estate brands.
“Our new marketing packages are a testament to Tall Poppy’s forward-thinking approach. Built on data-driven strategy and outsidethe-box content, they are designed to cut through the noise and leave
a lasting impact. The results are conclusive,” Janet says.
The power of visual content is undeniable, and video production is a crucial tool for marketing as it influences decision-making like never before. In real estate, the phrase “a picture paints a thousand words” is especially true. That’s why visual storytelling with social reels and targeted advertising is a key part of Tall Poppy’s digital marketing approach.
“Photos are expected as part of listings, but hero video, exciting social reels and interactive floor plans can build a fuller experience for your leads. It gives a more in-depth perspective on the property,” Susan says.
“For sellers that list their prop-
erty with us, we will create an immersive digital experience that goes far beyond standard photography and video. It’s hard to think of a better way to make your home stand out.”
For higher-end properties that will benefit from the most exposure, Tall Poppy offers an affordable, comprehensive and resultsbased upgrade plan. This includes everything that’s available in the free marketing package and ads extra interactive components that put the property head and shoulders above the rest.
“It’s dynamic and responsive, which means vendors will get more reach, more interest, and more buyer enquiries,” Janet explains.
Susan and Janet’s teams at
Tall Poppy Tauranga Central and Tauranga South understand what works and can deliver a smart, targeted approach that delivers the best results. The full package is based on crystal-clear pricing, meticulous attention to detail, industry-leading processes as well as cutting-edge marketing, all to make sure that sellers get the best possible return.
This approach embodies the Kiwi mindset of ingenuity and innovation as it’s about solving problems with clever solutions. Susan and Janet can’t wait to show the people in Tauranga who are ready to sell their house exactly how it works.
Janet O’Shea and Susan Northey are Franchise owners at Tall Poppy Real Estate, Tauranga. They can be contacted: Janet O’Shea - 021 872 072 janet.oshea@tallpoppy.co.nz
Susan Northey - 027 576 0499 susan.northey@tallpoppy.co.nz
A new hotel is expected to deliver ‘unparalleled luxury and authentic Māori culture’ while becoming a landmark on the Rotorua lakefront.
All going to plan, the Noho Lakeside Hotel will feature almost 200 guest rooms with hospitality, functions and conference space, a gym, pool and rooftop bar.
To be situated on a 11,000 square metre site, the hotel will provide ‘premium accommodation’, a statement from developers, Pukeroa Lakefront Holdings, asserts.
“The hotel will sit alongside and complement the award-winning Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, enhancing Rotorua’s appeal as a tourism, hospitality and wellness hotspot.
Noho Lakeside Hotel not only promises luxury and prime location, but also seamlessly
> By MAH É DRYSDALE, M ayor of Tauranga
This month, Tauranga businesspeople have an opportunity to provide feedback about two key topics – Tauranga City Council’s draft 2025/26 Annual Plan and how we manage our future water, wastewater and stormwater services.
The annual plan sets our budget and work programme for the next financial year and, while most of the key projects in this year’s budget are in progress, council elected members are keen to hear a wide range of views on the city’s needs and priorities for the future.
For most people, the proposed rate charges for the year are an important subject and, understandably, the early indication of a likely 12.5 per cent average rate rise has generated some media interest and messages of concern from our community.
There are a few points to consider here, however. Firstly, council’s financial situation has changed significantly since last year. This council has chosen prudent financial management and decided to balance the budget rather than run at a loss. This
requires funding of depreciation, while dealing with lower than anticipated growth-related revenue and general increases in the cost of the goods and services we have to buy.
To balance the budget, we’ve had to cut $30 million from our operating expenditure and we’re committed to continuing the search for savings which could reduce rates costs further. Had
wewantto hear fromyou.
OurMayorandCouncillors willbeoutandaboutin Aprilandwouldloveto chatwithyouabouttwo importanttopics:
Thebudgetfor2025/26
Thefutureofwater servicesdelivery
Comeandspeakwithusin personatacommunityevent nearyou.
There are no simple or cost free solutions but we’re determined to get this right and deliver affordable progress.
Meanwhile, as part of central government’s Local Water Done Well programme, councils are required to consult with their communities and decide on a preferred future delivery model for their water services.
For Tauranga, the options include retaining a council-run operation or establishing a council-controlled organisation to do the job, either on a standalone basis or jointly with other part ner councils.
organisation would also provide access to preferential borrowing, which would help us make the future investments needed to cope with demand growth and implement necessary new technology.
Submissions on both the draft annual plan and our Local Water Done Well delivery plan close on April 28. Visit www.letstalk. tauranga.govt.nz to have your say and help us shape the future of our city. Alternatively, call in to one of the engagement events
we not taken the initiative, we would have been looking at an average rates increase of more than 20%.
Our focus continues to be on ensuring ratepayers receive value for money from council spending while we continue to address past underinvestment in infrastructure and community facilities –which Tauranga needs to become the best city in New Zealand.
→ Tuesday 1 April
7pm-8:30pm
ǀ MatuaBowlsClub CrGlenCrowtherand MayorMahéDrysdale Presentation
→ Wednesday 2 April
5pm-7pm
ǀ MountSurfClub DeputyMayorJenScoular andMayorMahéDrysdale Presentation
→ Thursday 3 April
7:30am-9am
ǀ BoscoatTheLakes CrMartenRozeboom Drop-insession
4:30pm-6:30pm
ǀ WelcomeBayBaptist ChurchHall CrHautapuBaker Drop-insession
5pm-8:30pm
ǀ PāpāmoaPonyClub CrSteveMorris Drop-insession
→ Friday 4 April
9am-10am
ǀ BethlehemHall CrKevinSchuler Drop-insession
We’ve assessed all of our options through a business case process and we think the best long term solution is to move to a joint council controlled organi sation in partnership with other councils. This would allow us to achieve efficiency benefits based on scale and size while effec tively retaining ownership of our waters assets. I would also allow us to appoint directors with the expertise needed to deliver high quality water and wastewater services and push for further efficiencies.
A council-controlled
→ Saturday 5 April
10:30am-12:30pm
ǀ CustomerServiceCentre -HePunaManawa,21 DevonportRd CrRodTaylor Drop-insession
10:30am-12:30pm ǀ Baywave CrRickCurach Drop-insession
→ Tuesday 8 April
5pm-7pm ǀ MountGolfClub DeputyMayorJenScoular Presentation
4:30pm-6:30pm
ǀ TheAtriumConference Centre CrGlenCrowther Drop-insession
→ Wednesday 9 April
4:30pm-6:30pm
ǀ PāpāmoaSurfClub CrSteveMorrisand MayorMahéDrysdale Presentation
4:30pm-6:30pm
ǀ BethlehemTownCentre, outsideWoolworths CrKevinSchuler Drop-insession
Foreventinformationandmoreonthe Annual Plan and LocalWaterDoneWell, headonlineto: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz
→ Thursday 10 April
4:30pm-6:30pm ǀ AratakiCommunityCentre CrRickCurach Drop-insession
5:30pm-7pm ǀ WaikatoUniversity,L2Lecture Hall,101DurhamSt MayorMahéDrysdale Publicmeeting
→ Saturday 12 April 10am-2pm ǀ TheCrossing,outside 2Degrees CrMartenRozeboom Drop-insession
10am-12:30pm ǀ QueenElizabethYouthCentre CrRodTaylor Drop-insession
→ Wednesday 16 April
11am-2pm ǀ Pippy’sPantry,WaipunaPark CrHautapuBaker Drop-insession
→ Saturday 26 April
9am-2pm ǀ PāpāmoaPonyClub CrSteveMorris Drop-insession
The personal tax rate threshold changes, in effect since July 31 last year, have a flow-on effect to this year’s annual Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) calculations.
Employers who provide fringe benefits have until May 31 to file their March quarter FBT returns or their annual return if applicable. So now is the time to be on top of the changes to ensure your FBT calculation is correct and maximise fourth quarter FBT savings.
The final quarter calculation reduces an employer’s FBT liability by utilising the alternate rate calculation. This aligns the FBT rate payable for benefits provided to your employees with the right remuneration band for their total taxable pay for the year.
The FBT rates range from 11.73% to 63.93%. If employers do not apply the alternate rate calculation, all benefits must have FBT paid at the top rate of 63.93%, so there’s a big financial incentive to make these calculations!
While it is possible to take care of these calculations yourself, having large amounts of employees or benefits can make this complex. If you use an Excel spreadsheet or bespoke software for the alternate rate calculation, you
will need to update this to account for the threshold changes. But beware as there is also a formula change to be included for the 2025 year. So investing in specific FBT software or outsourcing the March quarter calculation will be money well spent.
Our key tips for paying the right amount of FBT are to review your benefits and ensure you are calculating these correctly and then applying all available exemptions. Here are some common issues we encounter:
• Some things employers treat as subject to FBT are actually subject to PAYE. The rules to work out which legislation applies are complicated and not necessarily obvious, but it is important to get this distinction right.
• If you are treating vehicles as exempt from FBT because private use has been restricted, make sure you have appropriate documentation in place and that you’re comfortable the employee is in compliance with this restriction. Similarly,
BY ANDREA SCATCHARD
for any exempt days that are being claimed, ensure the supporting reasons are well documented.
• If you keep vehicles subject to FBT for more than five years, you may be able to change to the tax book value method for calculating FBT, which can be a real cost saver.
• The catch-all unclassified benefit category captures a lot of benefits, including Christmas and long service gifts, noncash performance rewards and numerous wellness-type benefits. The key is to identify all of these and if you are applying the de minimis threshold, make sure you track this carefully.
While we are still waiting to see the results of last year’s FBT review published, we are hope-
ful it will bring some welcome changes to reduce compliance costs.
Until then, Inland Revenue has been publishing a range of statements in the employment tax space. These include FBT and home to work travel, employee share schemes, and some interesting commentary about vouchers provided to employees and when these are subject to PAYE or FBT.
Some guidance is also on its way about how far the Health and Safety FBT exemption extends. For assistance with your FBT return, or to catch up on developments, please reach out to your accountant or tax adviser.
Andrea Scatchard is a Tax Partner at Deloitte, based in the Bay of Plenty. She can be contacted on ascatchard@deloitte.co.nz
Confidence is building across the commercial real estate sector. While economic challenges persist, momentum is shifting and well positioned investors stand to benefit from improving conditions.
At PMG, we saw this sentiment echoed at our recent Outlook 2025 events across New Zealand. We were able to glean some great insights on this shifting landscape and the trends that will drive economic growth in 2025 and beyond with economists and industry experts indicating a landscape where proactive strategies can yield significant rewards.
Monetary policy remains a key driver of market activity. Inflation is moderating and with the Official Cash Rate (OCR) forecasted to decline from its current 4.25 per cent to around 3.00% by year end, borrowing conditions will likely improve.
We are already seeing some green shoots arise from this with many investors reassessing their portfolios, moving from cash holdings into assets with stronger return potential. However, the global economic picture
BY SCOTT MCKENZIE
remains somewhat complex. In the US, policy shifts under the new Trump administration are expected to cast ripples across the global economy – time will tell the outcome of this uncertainty.
Rising sovereign debt levels and ongoing geopolitical tensions add further uncertainty. The consensus coming out of our Outlook 2025 panels was that New Zealand will need to maintain a diversified trade strategy to ensure resilience amid changing global conditions.
Market cycles create windows of opportunity and, for commercial property, that window is now open. With the commercial real estate market considered to be at, or around, the bottom of its cycle, there remains opportunity to invest at good value before the next upswing.
High quality prime, premium and A-grade commercial real estate remains in limited supply. As business confidence rebounds in 2025, the demand for these undersupplied assets are expected to grow, driving rental income and property values upward. This trend can position commercial property funds for stronger performance in 2025 and beyond.
Challenging conditions have put pressure on passive landlords and undercapitalised owners. Savvy investors are taking advan-
tage of this, acquiring assets at attractive pricing and implementing value-add strategies.
Enhancements – such as targeted refurbishments, energy efficiency upgrades, and asset repositioning – are unlocking higher rental yields and long term value.
Commercial real estate is evolving and investment in technology and sustainability are no longer optional considerations but fundamental investment drivers.
Smart building technologies are enhancing operational efficiencies, reducing costs and improving tenant experience. Sustainability initiatives – ranging from energy performance upgrades to carbon reduction strategies – are
now critical to reducing operating costs and maintaining asset competitiveness.
Properties that meet these higher expectations will continue to attract premium tenants and command stronger returns.
Market shifts create opportunities but timing is key. With borrowing conditions set to improve and demand for quality space intensifying, the current phase presents a compelling case for investors prepared to move early and decisively, while taking a long term investment view.
Scott McKenzie is CEO and Director at PMG Funds. He can be reached on scott@pmgfunds.co.nz
In a rapidly evolving job market, the demand for industry experience is increasing. Employers are seeking graduates who not only have theoretical knowledge but also practical, hands-on experience.
To meet these changing education needs, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology is working closely with local businesses and industries to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real world application.
Our partnerships with businesses across our rohe (region) are crucial in providing real experience and career opportunities for our ākonga (students). These collaborations ensure graduates are well prepared to enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields. By integrating industry experience into our learning, we are equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
Some of the key initiatives supporting our efforts can be seen in the construction industry. Our academic leaders work closely with employers to support their new employees when gaining their qualifications while
working full time. Alternatively, employers will approach us if they have an opportunity for our ākonga.
Architectural diploma students were recently given the opportunity to apply for a summer structural drafting internship. Our kaiako (tutors) supported interested students through the application process enabling one ākonga to successfully obtain the internship.
We also have great working relationships with civil construction organisations, enabling ākonga to access graduate programmes. Just one example saw a company, based in an area where there is no local civil engineering programme, reach out to Toi Ohomai. We customised a remote delivery option to support this organisation. This option is on a part time basis and in balance with on-the-job training and study. As well as providing external
> Our dedicated student support teams are continually looking for ways to provide holistic support to ensure learning on campus is backed up when a - konga are transitioning into work experience, internships and careers.
opportunities for ākonga, Toi Ohomai supports them with high quality pastoral support. Our dedicated student support teams are continually looking for ways to provide holistic support to ensure learning on campus is backed up when ākonga are transitioning into work experience, internships and careers.
One such initiative was our inaugural wāhine-focused Tuakana – Teina mentoring pro-
BY DAN TAYLOR
gramme, which began in 2024. This programme paired ngā ākonga wāhine Māori (female Māori students) with ngā kaimahi wāhine Māori (female Māori staff) for tailored support, helping them build confidence and develop leadership skills. By fostering a supportive learning environment, we enable students to unlock their potential and pursue their career goals.
Through the Tuakana – Teina programme, one ākonga wāhine secured an internship with Fruition Horticulture. This internship involved projects to digitise training content and develop interactive, gamified assessments. This
experience not only enhanced the student’s technical skills, but she also gained a permanent position.
As we explore how to best serve our communities, we look forward to expanding our network of industry partners. By working together, we can create more internship opportunities that benefit our students and the local economy. These partnerships are essential in preparing our graduates to meet the demands of the modern workforce and drive innovation in their respective fields.
With strong domestic enrolments for 2025, we are excited about the future and the positive impact our graduates will have on the Bay of Plenty community and beyond. By bridging the gap between education and industry, we are not only enhancing learning experiences for our students but also contributing to the growth and development of our local business community.
Dan Taylor is Head of Partnerships and Pathways for Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology. www.toiohomai.ac.nz 0800 86 46 46
For many businesses, vehicles are essential tools of the trade. However, the way companies acquire and manage their fleets can have a significant impact on cash flow, efficiency and long term financial health. For this reason, smart businesses are realising that leasing can offer many advantages.
Amid the current economic uncertainty, businesses need to tighten budgets and control costs, so knowing your spend with regards to vehicles is key.
Many businesses continue to sink capital into vehicle ownership, a decision that often leaves them with depreciating and older assets as well as rising maintenance expenses.
Owning a fleet is more complex than it first appears. A vehicle purchased today begins to lose value the moment it leaves the dealership and within three or four years it may often be worth half (or less) of its purchase price.
This leaves businesses with aging vehicles that are expensive to maintain and difficult to resell.
In addition, purchasing vehicles involves the ongoing burden of servicing, repairs, compliance and time consuming administration tasks, all of which add to the real total cost of vehicle ownership for businesses.
Leasing, by contrast, provides access to modern, reliable vehicles without the burden of upfront capital expenditure. Instead of a large, upfront cash outlay, loans that tie up credit or with a large balloon payment, leasing allows companies to pay for their fleet through a single monthly payment.
At FleetPartners, our fully maintained operating leases bundle most running costs into one payment including exclusive use of vehicles, registrations, servic-
BY CLAYTON COE
ing, maintenance, tyres and even roadside assistance and accident management.
This option reduces financial surprises while keeping vehicles in top condition.
For many businesses, the appeal of leasing goes beyond cost alone. Outsourcing the hassle of vehicle admin – such as annual registrations, servicing, maintenance and driver support – is another advantage.
Businesses also need to look at the opportunity cost of capital as every dollar invested in buying vehicles outright is a dollar that isn’t available for growth.
Leasing frees up capital that
can be used in more productive areas such as hiring staff, investing in new technology or equipment, or expanding operations.
Ownership comes with extra admin, risk and responsibility when compared to leasing, from the cost to manage vehicles by your team internally, taking risk on fluctuating resale values, and paying for unexpected repair and maintenance costs.
Leasing shifts this risk to us, ensuring businesses are not left exposed to market downturns while we help provide safe and compliant vehicles for your drivers.
Leasing is proving to be the smart choice for businesses that want to stay competitive. Instead of being tied down by aging assets, leasing keeps businesses agile, financially sound and always on the move.
FleetPartners helps businesses take the hassle out of managing vehicles – to find out how leasing can work for your business, visit fleetpartners.co.nz.
Clayton Coe is the Regional Sales Manager, Customer Relationships & HCV at FleetPartners. He can be contacted on 0272 718 758 or at clayton.coe@fleetpartners.co.nz
Sunair has set its sights on new horizons expanding services to include direct return flights ilton to Gisborne, Whangarei and Napier. Since then, the region has seen the airport supporting eco-
Chief executive, MarkMorgan, WaikatoRegional Airport
Ibecome aware of the cost and time commitment to recover rent, when tenants have defaulted, from guarantors who have little or no assets.
Often, guarantors have exhausted resources to keep their businesses operating as long as possible. Attempting to recover rental arrears from guarantors in such circumstances often has little to no chance of success. So, what should a landlord ask for, a bank bond or a guarantee?
bank bond
Bank bonds offer a compelling security alternative to traditional personal guarantees and they have several strategic advantages:
• Enhanced security reliability: bank bonds eliminate concerns about guarantor creditworthiness. While the financial stability of tenants and guarantors can deteriorate over time, bonds from a registered trading bank maintain their value regardless of the tenant or guarantor’s circumstances.
• Immediate liquidity access:
immediately when a tenant defaults without proving lease breaches. This provides landlords with rapid access to funds without lengthy legal-based recovery processes.
• Administrative efficiency: bank bonds eliminate the need to pursue guarantors through the courts, substantially reducing collection and legal costs while providing certainty of recovery.
Despite their advantages, bank bonds require careful administration regarding:
• Expiration management: as bonds have defined expiration dates, they require careful monitoring. Landlords must implement robust systems to track renewal dates and ensure continuous coverage.
• Value adjustment: bond values typically align with rental obligations, necessitating updates as a result of rent reviews. Failure to adjust bond amounts when rent obligations
have increased can create security gaps.
• Execution discipline: improperly making demand on a bond can expose landlords to substantial tenant claims. Financial institutions typically recover called amounts from tenants or the tenant will have a facility drawn that relates to the bond amount. Precise demand processes are essential.
Bank bonds generally impose higher costs on tenants than the provision of a personal guarantee.
A tenant may require access to liq-
Fast-track approval will ensure continued investment by OceanaGold in the western Bay of Plenty, the company’s president, Gerard Bond, expects.
The Canada-based company lodged an application through the Fast-track Approvals Act for its Waihi North Project at Wharekirauponga recently
“Continued growth of Wharekirauponga through drilling and exploring for further discoveries in the district in 2025 is one of the best investments we can make and we look forward to the potential to continue to grow the resource,” Bond says.
“It is a significant milestone for us and a testament to years of hard work, preparation and studies that have gone into this submission. We are excited to now be one step closer to advancing this great project and look forward to unlocking the value of Wharekirauponga for all of our stakeholders.”
OceanaGold’s drilling has revealed profitable, high-grade mineral deposits at the site. Visit www.oceanagold.com for detailed results.
BY SCOTT RATUKI & JASON BYWATER-LUTMAN
For sophisticated landlords seeking to minimise default exposure, bank bonds present a compelling security option that benefits both parties. While landlords receive enhanced payment security, financially sound tenants gain access to properties that might otherwise require more substantial personal guarantees.
uid assets to support a bank bond or they will need to draw a facility with their bank that is equal to the bank bond amount. This may affect tenant availability generally and impact tenancy negotiations.
The choice between personal guarantees and bank bonds should reflect a landlord’s portfolio strategy and risk tolerance. Bank bonds offer superior security and administrative efficiency, which is particularly valuable during economic downturns when guarantor solvency becomes questionable.
By implementing robust bond management systems and clear lease provisions, commercial landlords can effectively mitigate default risk. At the same time, they can expand their potential tenant pool to include otherwise marginal applicants, which is a significant advantage in competitive leasing markets.
Scott Ratuki and Jason BywaterLutman are partners at Tompkins Wake. They can be contacted: Scott Ratuki – Hamilton scott.ratuki@tompkinswake.co.nz Jason Bywater-Lutman– Tauranga jason.bywater-lutman@ tompkinswake.co.nz
Four University of Waikato (Tauranga campus) students have secured Acorn Foundation scholarships. Funded by the foundation’s donors and trustees of TECT (Tauranga Energy Community Trust) the scholarships were presented at the university recently.
Scholarships are keys that open the gateways to further education, the University of Waikato’s Joseph Macfarlane said. “We are in awe of this cohort of scholarship recipients, and we are grateful to both the Acorn Foundation and TECT for the generosity of support.”
Awarded to Aria Gibson, the Beverly Perszyk Scholarship is intended for students who are the first in their families to go on to tertiary study and complete at least one year at university. Gibson is in her second year of a Bachelor of Science, majoring in marine science.
“Attending university was a massive step for me as it marked the beginning of my journey into adulthood and gaining independence,” Aria said. “My parents have always advocated for choice in regard to the journey after high school and are incredibly proud.”
Intended for adult learners (aged 40 years or more) during any stage of their study at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus, the Kenneth Perszyk Sr Adult Learner Scholarship was presented to Simon McGillivray.
The Te Puke High School deputy principal is completing a Diploma in Te Tohu Paetahi, an immersion Māori language programme.
“I would like to think it’s never too late to learn, improve learning outcomes, provide opportunities for Māori students and inspire new Te Reo Māori learners,” Simon said.
> “I would like to think it’s never too late to learn, improve learning outcomes, provide opportunities for Ma - ori students and inspire new Te Reo Ma - ori learners.”
– Simon McGillivray
Approximately 45 per cent of the student population of Te Puke High School is Māori. Simon expects his course will assist him to demonstrate the cultural significance and important taonga of Te Reo Māori in education and society.
A new inclusion, the Bruce Longmore Scholarship was awarded to Bella Muir, in her third year of a Bachelor of Science, majoring in marine science. The scholarship is for students in undergraduate or postgraduate education with at least two years study in marine science, environmental science, or ecology and biodiversity.
Te Puke’s Louisa Westerlund was awarded the Eva Trowbridge Scholarship. Launched in 2007, it has now assisted 18 adult students aged 25 years and older to undertake studies through the University of Waikato Tauranga campus. A volunteer at Bay Finan-
cial Mentors and other non-profit organisations, Louisa is studying for a Bachelor of Laws.
Acorn Foundation CEO, Lori Luke, said it was a pleasure to attend the award ceremony.
“The students were so enthusiastic about studying at the University of Waikato Tauranga campus and were really grateful for the support they have received this year,” she said. “It is a real pleasure to assist our donors to meet their giving goals through these scholarships.”
In addition, eleven students granted TECT First-in-Family awards, for those who have no family members previously
enrolled in tertiary study, and ten awarded TECT Returning Student scholarships, for second or thirdyear students to continue their studies.
TECT CEO, Wayne Werder, highlighted the importance of these scholarships.
“With the current struggles many are facing relating to cost of living, being able to support students is an important way to take some pressure off them, to enable them to focus on their studies,” he said. “It is great to see another cohort of first in family recipients who, as the name suggests, are the first in their family to embark on a university journey.”
Many mighty oaks have been growing thanks to Acorn. Recently, the Acorn Foundation surpassed the $20 million mark in total distributions to the Western Bay of Plenty community since its founding in 2003.
The generosity of more than 700 local donors has contributed to the Acorn Foundation’s lasting legacy in the BOP region, with $3.2 million donated in 2024 alone.
“Small acts of giving can make a big difference,” Acorn’s CEO Lori Luke confirms. “The Acorn Foundation is living proof of that. Our donors’ contributions have ranged from $10 to substantial estates, and we value each and every donation. Through our foundation, these donors enable meaningful, collective impact that is transforming our community.”
Donations are invested with the returns distributed annually to community causes.
“This multi-generational approach truly has a lasting impact. Donors can address the needs of today while also supporting the community of tomorrow.”
Donors can either establish endowments in their wills or sup-
AcornTeam(L-R)ShannonDsouza,LoriLuke,CampbellHiggins,SarahJohnson,FrancesMoleandJoWilsonknowthat smallactsofgivingcanmakeabigdifference.
network. This fund has now distributed more than the original gift amount while growing its capital base by nearly 50 per cent, Luke confirms.
“Edna’s fund supports medical treatment or conditions that affect locals in our region. It has supported improved wellbeing in the region, reaching 14 organisations.”
Supporting hundreds of charitable organisations, funds have been vital to the region’s wellbeing, addressing food security, elder care, youth development, environmental preservation, cultural heritage and more, Luke adds.
“Acorn’s ability to support this region is thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our donors. We welcome anyone who would like to join this growing community of givers who are helping build a stronger Western Bay of Plenty.”
To become a donor visit www. acornfoundation.org.nz.
How much kiwifruit could a robot pack if a robot could pack fruit? As it turns out, it’s quite a lot!
At Seeka Kiwi Kool Packhouse (KKP) in Te Puke, the Electrostack robot is delivering an impressive performance. Locally built and programed, it has already shown it can stack eight boxes per minute, resulting in savings of labour, time and costs.
Trialled on a slower manual infeed, the Electrostack robot will be picking up the pace even further, Seeka regional manager, Jarrad Bates, confirms.
“It will be good to see it running at max-capacity,” he says. “The fact it can stack and de-stack different pallets at the same time is great.
“The scanning system provides the traceability we need and being able to move it around easily is certainly beneficial.”
As Seeka’s packhouse is highly automated it is the perfect place to trial the new robotic stacker.
Designed by Sean Carey, Electrostack is a lightweight machine
with a small footprint, suitable for smaller production facilities, while utilising locally sourced materials.
All going well, the robot will become an essential part of Seeka’s workforce, the company’s
CEO, Michael Franks, expects.
“At Seeka, we apply leading-edge technology along with our expertise to lift productivity, add new revenue streams and deliver financial performance to our growers and shareholders.”
They may seem like humble fruit to most, but SunGold kiwifruit can be worth their weight in gold to orchardists.
Officially underway from early March, the season has seen pickers pitch in at orchards across the regions.
Seeka is set to pick a winner should all go well, the company’s CEO, Michael Franks, expects.
“We are pleased that orchards are returning to normal production following the devastation caused by
Cyclone Gabrielle. We wish them a safe and successful harvest.”
While Gisborne and Hawkes Bay orchards were among the first to become packed with pickers, other regions are following suit.
“These early clearances, along with the RubyRed kiwifruit clearances, provide a good start up for our facilities which are ready to roll with the capacity and labour to efficiently pick, pack and load fruit for our valued growers.”
An industry giant, Yamaha, has acquired locally based company, Robotics Plus.
Developing robotic technology to solve some of the world’s biggest agriculture challenges, Robotics Plus will now form part of a new, US-based company, Yamaha Agriculture.
“This acquisition is a testament to the strong partnership we’ve built with Yamaha over the years, driven by a shared vision and commitment to empowering large scale growers,” co-founder and CEO of Robotics Plus, Steve Saunders, says.
“Innovations such as Prospr are at the heart of Yamaha Agri culture’s global strategy, enabling a data-driven approach to preci sion agriculture. With Yamaha’s support, we are poised to accel erate our robotics innovations, significantly scale our hardware manufacturing, and expand fur ther into key markets such as the US, and beyond.”
Based in Te Puna, the com pany specialises in developing automation solutions for agriculture, combining expertise in robotics, automation, sensing and data analytics.
Examples of the business’ ingenuity include Prospr, a system capable of multiple activities including spraying and weed control with addi tional attachments such as mowing in development.
Robotics Plus’ also launched the Aporo Fruit Packer, which automates fruit packing, and a robotic log scaler to automate log measurement for trucks and trains.
Meaningful change has required the team thinks big, Saunders’ fellow co-founder and chief engineering officer, Dr Alistair Scarfe contends.
“We need to think big and tackle globally scalable challenges. This mindset has allowed Robotics Plus to build a world class team of specialists across agriculture, technology, and engineering, delivering best-in-class
> With Yamaha’s support, we are poised to accelerate our robotics innovations, significantly scale our hardware manufacturing, and expand further into key markets such as the US, and beyond.”
“Over the years, we’ve greatly benefited from Yamaha Motors’ deep industry expertise and we’re excited to take our innovations even further with Yamaha Agriculture.”
Group CEO of Yamaha Agriculture, Nolan Paul, expects close cooperation with growers and industry partners will be crucial.
“Guided by our mission to ensure growers are sustainable, profitable, and resilient, Yamaha Agriculture recognises that the challenges facing specialty crop growers require thoughtful solutions that will take time to develop,” he says.
“The capabilities of Robotics Plus in robotics and automation will be an important building block in addressing these challenges along with AI-powered data analytics.”
The atmosphere during the ANZ Premiership is about to become a little more electric than usual. Partnering with Farmer Autovillage, the Waikato BOP Magic has become the first team in New Zealand’s premier netball competition to adopt a 100 per cent electric vehicle fleet.
“The team truly appreciates having these vehicles for the season,” Magic captain, Ameliaranne Ekenasio, says. “Using electric cars allows us to do our part for the environment by reducing fuel consumption and embracing more sustainable travel. In this tough economic climate, this support means even more.
“Farmer Autovillage is a true whānau business, and their generosity and commitment to our
team has been amazing.”
While the players will be driving the MG Electric Excite, which features a 64 kilowatt battery, their coach, Mary Jane Araroa, will also receive the MG ZS Hybrid Essence.
The partnership is intended to strengthen local ties and represent a forward-thinking step for both organisations.
The team at Mount Maunganui based Farmer Autovillage is proud to support the Magic on and off the court, the company’s group managing director, Mike Farmer, adds.
“We are passionately enthusiastic about supporting the dynamic Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic for the 2025 season. It is a privilege to be involved.”
Recently appointed as general manager of the Geyser Community Foundation, Rosie Riggir is thrilled and deeply honoured to take on a challenging role.
Foundation chair, Helene Phillips, con firms trustees are confident Rosie has the skills and experience to grow Geyser’s pro file. She will lead the foundation into the second phase of development, extending its activities and growing its donor base so more funds can flow to a broader group of recipients.
Now responsible for the foundation’s day-to-day operations, Rosie is also attract ing and engaging with donors in the sup port of their community. She says she will draw on years of experience in her new role.
“Over the past 20 plus years, I have enjoyed an exciting and dynamic career in the arts and cultural sectors in Aotearoa, Europe and Australia,” she says. “I can’t wait to share in the joy of our vibrant community.”
Beginning in the music industry, Rosie produced the very first Fly My Pretties pro duction. In 2014, she produced the inau gural Northland Youth Summit, which ignited her passion for philanthropy.
“By providing funding and resources, our small team of two empowered 100 young people from Te Tai Tokerau to drive meaningful change in their communities,” she says.
“Since then, I have worked with leading cultural institutions and received invaluable mentorship from Australia’s most influential fundraisers, including Nick Mitzevich, director of the National Gallery of Austra lia, and Kenneth Watkins, philanthropy director at
the Australian Ballet.”
Rosie moved to Rotorua three years ago although her local roots run deeper.
“My mother’s family originates from
Recently appointed as Rotorua Business Chamber’s CEO, Melanie Short brings extensive leadership experience to the table, the chamber has confirmed.
With expertise in business management, communications and community engagement, Melanie has previously held key roles at Scion, Rotorua Trust and Sport Bay of Plenty. In addition to her corporate and non-profit experience, Melanie is a successful business owner, co-owning Velocity Valley Adventure Park with her husband Simon.
She also has strong governance understanding under her belt garnered from positions including a
As an associate in Holland Beckett’s corporate and finance practice, Matt Mazenier brings a wealth of experience to bear.
Recently returned to New Zealand following six years in two leading international firms in London, Matt specialised in leveraged finance and private lending transactions, Sam Tabak, a partner at Holland Beckett confirms.
recent appointment to the board of Rotorua Community Hospice.
Melanie’s deep connection to Rotorua’s business community, combined with her strategic leadership skills, positions her well to drive growth, collaboration and innovation in the region, the chamber expects.
“Matt has been advising financiers and borrowers on domestic and cross-border transactions covering a range of financing products across all levels of the capital structure. We are very fortunate to be further expanding our finance team with a lawyer of Matt’s calibre and experience,”
Strange as it may sound, giving remote access to some of Aotearoa’s most famous attractions anywhere in the world will help attract people from all over the world to Aotearoa.
Rotorua’s Te Puia – a place steeped in nature, history and culture – has taken a giant leap into the future by featuring in new Minecraft Aotearoa New Zealand DLC (downloadable content). Minecraft now immortalises Rotorua and other tourism hotspots as parts of an iconic and enchanting, playable world freely accessible worldwide.
After experiencing New Zealand through the game, players should be inspired to visit Rotorua and other popular sites, Rotorua NZ CEO, Andrew Wilson, expects.
“This is an incredible opportunity to showcase Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape and rich Māori culture to a global audience. With millions of Minecraft players exploring Te Puia and the wonders of the Whakarewarewa Valley in the game, we anticipate this will spark curiosity and inspire real world travel to Rotorua.”
With more than 300 million copies sold, Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time and continues to grow after nearly 15 years since the game was first launched.
The collaboration between Minecraft, Warner Bros, and Tourism New Zealand is a ‘game-changer’, cementing Rotorua’s position as a ‘must visit’ destination, Wilson explains.
“Increased visitation has a direct economic benefit for our local businesses, accommodation providers, and tourism operators. By blending digital storytelling with real-world experiences, this collaboration has the potential to drive long-term tourism growth and economic impact for our region.”
In addition to Rotorua, other famed New Zealand locations include Waitomo Caves (Waikato), Kapiti Island (Wellington), Abel Tasman (Nelson/Tasman), Tekapo (Mackenzie) and Doubtful Sound (Fiordland).
Through the new content players can take a photo of Pōhutu Geyser erupting, explore Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley and discover New Zealand Māori
Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) carvings all set within a geo-mapped Te Puia.
“It grows general awareness of our beautiful country and destination, which we hope will translate into manuhiri visiting,” Sean Marsh from Te Puia is expecting. “Most importantly, the DLC may be the place that a potential tauira (student) becomes aware of what the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Insti tute does and why.”
Created to mark the release of craft Movie to be as realistic as possible.
“The contours of the natural envi ronment are as true to life as you could imagine – Te Puia is the only place that is fully geo-mapped, so it is a highly accu rate representation,” says Marsh. “We hope players feel inspired to connect with something that is rare, beautiful, power ful, and real.”
Cast as filmmakers, players are tasked with completing a variety of challenges culminating in a 30 sec ond movie of each play er’s exploration and achievements. Players are welcomed with a karanga by NZ Māori Tourism’s Dame
Pania Tyson-Nathan before setting out on their quest. They then meet various characters including kaumātua (elders), who provide guidance
PōhutuGeyserasdepictedinMinecraft’snewcontent.
and cultural context along the way.
Thankfully, the game isn’t so good that people need not be inspired to travel to Rotorua as there’s nothing quite as good as the real thing, Marsh adds.
“What they can’t get from the DLC is
talented locals played their part, called in to ensure the game would capture much of the cultural and natural significance.
NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute’s GM Eraia Kiel and artist, Tipene Oneroa, worked closely with Hamilton-based Piki Studios who brought the content to life.
“This was a first for me and I loved the process. I’ve always wanted to expand my art into digital design so this was the perfect opportunity,” Oneroa says. “As a Minecraft player myself and knowing how popular it is with our rangatahi, I was very excited to play a part in creating a representation of our culture in that world. I hope that players are sparked with curiosity to know more.”
The Minecraft content ties in with an official 100% Pure Minecraft Itinerary. Prospective manuhiri (visitors) can craft a real-life adventure as a bookable trip to New Zealand.
In partnership with A Minecraft Movie, the official 100% Pure Minecraft Itinerary transcends the virtual quest, allowing prospective manuhiri (visitors) to craft their real-life adventure as a bookable trip to Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Inspiring Minecraft players to play for real in New Zealand is the aim of the game, René de Monchy from Tourism New Zealand adds.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for Tourism New Zealand to reach a massive audience and to be able to incorporate our unique Māori culture into this environment was a natural way for us to showcase Aotearoa New Zealand in Minecraft.”
OtherareasofAotearoaalsofeatureinthegame.
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