STRONG — Autumn 2026

STRONG Strong business. Strong community. Strong region.

AUTUMN 2026

trophies Taking home the

Your 36th annual Business Award winners in each category, including Young Business Leader. p.06

INSIDE: Turning a love of the outdoors into a meaningful future Local news takes on a fresh new look | The power of partnership STRONG MAGAZINE

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What's Inside

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From the CEO

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Advocacy Overview

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Taking Home the Trophies

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Port Nelson

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Social Snaps

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Vibe Marketing: Seriously?

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Understanding Force Majeure

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ChamberWorks

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Mediaworks

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Communities at Heart

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Fresh Look for Local News

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Using Your Marketing Superpower

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5 Steps to Rolling Out AI

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Nelson's Air Connections

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Most Recommended Accounting Firm

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Become a Kaitiaki Whenua

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Mentoring for Business Success

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The Power of Partnership

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Upcoming Events

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A Space for Trailblazers

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Meet our Members

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Bowater Hyundai

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Member Discounts

For all enquiries, please contact: Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology 322 Hardy Street, Nelson PO Box 1121, Nelson 7040 03 548 1363 | www.commerce.org.nz Chamber Board: Chair: Venus Guy Deputy Chair: Manoli Aerakis Board Members: Peter Pattullo, Sharon McGuire, Lee Wood, Alfredo Puche, Richard Butler, and Danielle Martel.

Editor: Britt Coker Publication Design: Tizza Design

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Say hello to this year's Business Awards winners!

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What local really means: putting community first

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Mapua's newest space for the region's trailblazers

CORNERSTONE PARTNERS:

Kia ora FROM THE CEO

W hat a start to the year.

The 36th Nelson Pine Industries Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala Dinner was a great night. With 420 people in the room and 44 entries across a wide range of categories, it was a reminder of the depth, resilience and ambition within our business community.

The energy on the night was electric - a real celebration of innovation, grit and good old-fashioned hard work.

What struck me most wasn’t just the numbers. It was the confidence. Businesses are backing themselves.

They’re investing, growing, and telling their stories. In a year that continues to test many sectors, that level of engagement speaks volumes about where our region is heading. To everyone who entered, sponsored, attended and supported the event - thank you. It was a great night, and a credit to this community.

As we move further into an election year, one that

sits against a dynamic geo-political situation, the tempo is shifting.

Advocacy is ramping up, and rightly so. This is the time to ensure the voice of business is clear, consistent and impossible to ignore. We are engaging across the political spectrum, hosting meetings, facilitating conversations and working closely with our partners to make sure the priorities of our members are front and centre.

"This is the time to ensure the voice of business is clear, consistent, and impossible to ignore."

I’m also pleased to share that both Chamber Chair, Venus Guy, and I sit on the board of the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce.

We have a national strategy day coming up to focus on how we better leverage the power, scale and reach of the Chamber network - not

just across New Zealand, but internationally. There is significant opportunity in being part of a connected, influential network, and we intend to make the most of it for our region.

Elections matter. Policy settings matter. Strong regional economies don’t happen by accident - they happen when business has a seat at the table.

As always, we’ll keep the pressure on, speaking up and backing our business community every step of the way.

Ngã mihi,

Ali Boswijk

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce

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ADVOCACY OVERVIEW

We've got your back We recognise that the Chamber’s role as an advocate for Nelson Tasman businesses is very important and it’s one we take seriously. Our work continues to focus on practical outcomes for local business, forging strong central government relationships, and positioning Nelson Tasman for growth.

Here’s an overview of where we have been channelling our energies.

Support through disruption

Through the Bridge to Better programme, we are collaborating closely with NCC and key contractors to minimise the impact of infrastructure works on central city businesses.

Following a survey of Bridge Street operators, we are developing targeted support initiatives aligned with identified needs and we continue to advocate for practical, business-friendly solutions.

National policy engagement

Our CEO, Ali Boswijk’s representation in the Small Business Advisory Group ensures Nelson Tasman has a direct voice into central government policy.

Recent discussions in Wellington included employment law reform, updates from NZTE and MBIE, and structured input into the Government’s Going for Growth agenda across talent, business settings, trade and investment, innovation, and infrastructure.

We recently hosted Hon. Scott Simpson (Minister for ACC, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs) for a roundtable discussion with local business leaders, providing direct insight into regional issues and opportunities.

Image: Hon. Scott Simpson and Ali Boswijk.

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In early April, we will host the Prime Minister, further strengthening our connection to decision-makers and ensuring our region remains visible and influential at a national level.

"Our work continues to focus on practical outcomes for local business, forging strong government relationships and postioning Nelson Tasman for growth.""

Issue resolution & support

We continue to intervene where required to assist members navigating regulatory challenges.

Recent engagement with NCC regarding a compliance matter for one member has progressed constructively, with a pathway identified toward resolution.

Promoting confidence & investment

To counter negative economic sentiment and highlight private sector momentum, we held a Westpac Smarts – A Growing Nelson event.

This showcased the significant regional investment activity and reinforced business confidence ahead of the election cycle.

We are also working with Christchurch colleagues to coordinate a pre-election South Island business event, ensuring a strong, unified regional voice in the leadup to the general election. We’ll update you when everything is confirmed.

Is there a business concern that you think needs our attention? We're here to support you. Email ali@commerce.org.nz

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Another spectacular gala night in February revealed some brilliant local business stories and the winners of our 36th Nelson Pine Industries Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Our congratulations to all!

Here are the category winners and our judges' comments explaining the why.

trophies

Taking home the

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NELSON VETS Supreme Business Award Winner Medium Business Award Winner

Nelson Vets stood out to the judges as the business that delivered on every level - performance, innovation, culture, and impact. Since Brendan and Jacqui Hickman took ownership in 2015, Nelson Vets has grown from a local clinic into a thriving dual-site practice.

Supported by a 38-strong team, they’ve built something rare: world-class capability close to home. They were among the first in the South Island to introduce laparoscopic surgery, and they’ve kept pushing forward - investing in advanced orthopaedics, endoscopy, and AI-assisted technology to keep lifting what’s possible for pets and their owners in our region.

In a year of outstanding entries, Nelson Vets rose above because they don’t just run a great practice - they’ve built a national centre of excellence, raising the bar for veterinary care in New Zealand.

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Start-Up Business Award Winner

Clean Break Clean Break impressed the judges with a calm, peoplefirst approach to relationship property work - built to reduce confusion and stress when emotions are high. Their fixed-fee model brings certainty and trust, and their plainlanguage style helps clients feel informed and supported at every step. This is a legal service delivered with real care: clear, dignified, and human. Strong early growth shows how powerful this approach is.

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Small Business Award Winner

Digital Diligence Ltd (DDL) Digital Diligence stood out as a small business with big capability and real momentum. The judges were impressed by the ambition and clarity of the five-year plan, backed by deep platform expertise and strong partnership thinking. What really shone through was their ability to translate complex technology into practical outcomes clients can feel. Add in a culture that encourages creativity and shared input, and you have a team making Digital Diligence special.

Large Business Award Winner

Nelson Airport Nelson Airport presented an ambitious, future-focused vision that reaches well beyond aviation. The judges recognised an organisation actively enabling the region’s growth - strengthening connectivity, partnering to drive visitors, and helping unlock opportunity for Nelson Tasman. Their focus on customer experience was clear, alongside serious attention to sustainability and long-term resilience.

Add a strong internal culture and a genuine commitment to community contribution and Nelson Airport stands out as a regional asset confidently shaping what comes next.

Innovative Business Award Winner

Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures showed the judges what innovation looks like when it’s powered by courage. During Covid-19, while others retreated, this team invested in the future - committing to a major new-vessel project when purchasing wasn’t viable. They chose to design and build, creating a purposebuilt experience that strengthens comfort, capacity, and capability on the water. The judges commended the resilience and vision behind this decision: turning uncertainty into momentum and reinvention.

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Community Impact Award Winner

Te Mana Taki Hauora | Health Action Trust Te Mana Taki Hauora – Health Action Trust was recognised as a true “quiet achiever” - working steadily, often out of sight, yet making a profound difference in countless people’s lives. The judges were especially struck by the strength of their peer-support model: support grounded in lived experience, dignity, and hope. Their work spans advocacy, crisis support, and practical help in moments that matter most. This impact is deeply human and felt across individuals, whānau, and the wider community.

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Community Impact Award Winner

Ministry of Inspiration The Ministry of Inspiration impressed the judges with STEAM programmes that feel energetic, hands-on, and future-focused, building confidence, curiosity, and capability in young people. The scale is remarkable: thousands of students engaged locally and nationally, while still maintaining strong purpose and connection. Judges also valued the mentoring woven through their delivery, focused on leadership, teamwork, and real-world problem solving. This is the kind of work that lights a spark and keeps it burning long after the programme ends.

Young Business Leader Award Winner

Young Business Leader Award Winner

Mason Fitzgerald

Ella Sargent

Mason impressed the judges with inclusive, values-led leadership in a highly public-facing role - one that requires calm under pressure and exceptional stakeholder skill. He leads a complex operation at real scale, balancing community expectations, commercial realities, and day-to-day delivery with professionalism and composure. The judges saw maturity, strategic clarity, and an ability to bring people with him. Mason leads with substance building trust, lifting capability, and creating positive momentum for the organisation and the community he serves.

From the moment she entered the judging room, Ella stood out for her drive, focus, and infectious ambition. Her ability to spot a real need, build a strong offer and scale with pace is impressive. Ella has attracted the right people at the right moments and consistently turned vision into delivery.

The panel unanimously agreed: Ella’s trajectory is impressive already, and her future is even more exciting - she has the spark and the capability to keep building big.

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IT COULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT

Our partners...

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We're proud to facilitate regional prosperity and support our region's exporters through the Port Nelson Export Hub.

Find us onboard the Nelson Tasman edition of Monopoly!

8 Vickerman Street STRONG MAGAZINE | 13 03 548 2099 | info@portnelson.co.nz | www.portnelson.co.nz

Cheers!

Enjoying the Nelson Pine Industries Chamber of Commerce 36th Business Awards.

Photos provided by: Tim Cuff

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Vibe marketing.

Seriously?

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'm writing this on the last evening of the school holidays. Outside, my neighbour laughs over a summer barbecue. Inside, my son keeps emerging from his bedroom, obviously not ready for school night bedtime yet.

The point is: this writer is human. If you don’t believe that, I’m sorry, but I won’t select pictures of traffic lights or stairs to prove it—robots have become much better at that than I am.

They’ve also gotten much better at creating high-volume, high-production-value content.

And that is a problem.

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The Collins Dictionary crowned ‘vibe coding’ as its Word of the Year for 2025—celebrating how programmers now use AI to just ‘vibe’ together a program. Naturally, we now have a marketing equivalent: vibe marketing.

But before you get too excited about vibing your way to a year’s worth of content, consider Merriam-Webster’s choice for 2025: slop.

That’s ‘digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence.’

And that’s the trap… while ‘vibe marketing’ sounds cool and effortless, slop is often the

result. And don’t let the words ‘low quality’ in the definition deceive you: slop often looks exceedingly expensive and well-produced.

But it’s still slop. And your customers have an amazing BS detector slop detector.

Exhibit A: As a recovering user of the em dash, I’m pretty disappointed that the use of my second-favourite punctuation mark has become a telltale sign of AI-generated content.

Use an em dash, and you set off your readers’ slop detector. It’s like they’ve developed a sixth sense for it.

The sad solution? I now avoid using the em dash to look more human—and sound more like one, too.

Thanks to advanced image and video models, the exact same has now happened to polished visuals. I mean photos and videos that just look friggin’ perfect—the kind that would have cost $10k in studio hire a year ago. Now? They just look AI-generated.

If your content looks too pretty, you set off that alarm. When it does, it infects all of your customer communication. Suddenly, everything feels fake, and people lose trust in your messaging—and your brand.

So here is takeaway #1: just like the em-dash, ditch ‘pretty.’ Consumers scroll past content that feels high-production. It doesn’t matter if it amazes you that you can now create entire ads from your phone that were ‘too expensive to make’ only a year ago. If it looks perfect, it looks fake.

Instead, act as human as you are.

That’s takeaway #2: get real. I know I’m framing this as an AI discussion, but this advice hasn’t really changed since 2016.

Pull out your phone and record raw video.

Unscripted founder updates. Behind-the-

scenes footage. Anything that mimics the organic posts of friends. It worked then. It works even better now.

In fact, people are pining for the authentic content that worked so well back then.

You’ve probably seen influencers post their #2016 photos, too. That’s because TikTokers have decided 2016 was the golden age before slop, and they want a return to that time. A time when Collins crowned ‘Brexit’ as Word of the Year, and Merriam-Webster thought the time had come for ‘surreal.’ A time in which Oxford prematurely crowned ‘post-truth’— little did they know. Surreal indeed. But both truth and reality are still out there.

Outside, the neighbour I didn’t have in 2016 is cleaning his barbecue. Inside, my son—who wasn’t even born then—has finally gone to sleep. It’s 2026, and things are just as real as they ever were. Bring some of that reality into your content and you’ll be fine. Frankly, it beats the hell out of selecting traffic lights.

(And before you write in: In the spirit of the Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2025—rage bait—I absolutely used the em dash throughout this article.)

Mike Martel Co-Founder

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WHEN DETAILS MATTER MOST

UNDERSTANDING FORCE MAJEURE In the wake of recent global disruptions, pandemics and local weather events, "force majeure" clauses have transitioned from a standard cutand-paste (boilerplate) clause to a critical focus of legal dispute.

What is "force majeure?"

"Force majeure" (French for "superior force") is a contractual provision that frees parties from liability or obligation when an extraordinary, unforeseeable event beyond their control prevents them from fulfilling contract terms.

It acts as a safety net, allowing for delays, suspension, or termination of agreements without penalty.

Contractual drafting is paramount

Typically, a robust force majeure clause will: 1. define a "triggering event" (such as a natural disaster, war, or pandemic) and specify that the event must be unforeseeable and outside of the parties' control; 2. require that the “triggering event” is the direct cause of the non-performance; and 3. require that the party claiming “force majeure” took all "reasonable endeavours" to mitigate the impact of the event and continue performance where possible.

There is no statutory or common law definition of force majeure in New Zealand - it This generally results in a position whereby is entirely a "creature of contract." a party cannot invoke a force majeure clause simply because a contract has become more As such, a party's ability to seek relief depends expensive or less profitable; performance must entirely on whether or not the relevant generally be physically or legally impossible. agreement includes a force majeure clause, Of particular importance to understand, it and if so the precise wording of that clause. typically also results in a position whereby

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Force majeure: The contractual provision that frees parties from liability when an unforeseeable event such as a natural disaster occurs, preventing them from fulfiling contract terms.

force majeure cannot be used to avoid an obligation to pay money. So, if a storm damages all of your crops meaning you can’t afford to pay your rent, a standard force majeure clause is unlikely to be of assistance.

Force majeure vs frustration

Where a contract is silent on force majeure, parties may sometimes turn to the doctrine of frustration. However, frustration is a "blunt instrument" that automatically terminates the contract rather than merely suspending it. It is also notoriously difficult to prove, as the event must render the contractual obligations "radically different" from what was originally envisaged.

Final recommendation

The lesson from recent years is clear - do not rely on standard “boilerplate” clauses or general legal principles to protect you from the unexpected.

Ensure your force majeure clauses in particular are clearly drafted, explicitly cover the risks which you wish them to cover (and don’t cover the risks that you don’t want them to cover), and clearly outline the consequences — whether that be suspension, an extension of time, or eventual termination.

A well-drafted force majeure clause can prove to be a relatively cheap form of insurance should the unexpected occur.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice. It is important that you seek legal advice that is specific to your circumstances.

Geoff Caradus Partner | Pitt & Moore

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Discover ChamberWorks

We connect you with pre-screened, pre-qualified candidates, plus offer practical, free upskilling and support to help you hire, develop, and retain great people.

0800 543 543 | chamberworks@chamber.co.nz

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Stronger together.

WITH MEDIAWORKS NELSON

At MediaWorks, we’re more than just a media company - we’re your local marketing partner, dedicated to helping businesses across Nelson Tasman, New Zealand, and beyond grow and thrive.

Our team is committed to creating and delivering great content, experiences, and results for both our audiences and customers. We believe in being the best at connecting, enriching, and inspiring Kiwis every day - and that includes helping your business make a real impact.

With a deep understanding of the local market, we know what makes Nelson tick. We

live and work here, just like you, and we’re passionate about supporting local businesses.

Whether you're looking to build brand awareness, drive sales, or engage our audience, your clients and customers, we have the expertise, tools, and reach to make it happen.

From radio and digital marketing to outdoor advertising and creative campaigns, we offer tailored solutions that cut through the noise and deliver real results.

Our local knowledge, backed by the national strength of MediaWorks, gives you the best of both worlds - personalised service with big-brand impact.

Connecting Aotearoa: • AUDIO • DIGITAL • OUTDOOR

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BANKING THAT PUTS

Communities at heart What do the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, Kawatiri Group Riding for the Disabled, and Community Patrol have in common? They, along with hundreds of other organisations, each received support from NBS as part of their long-standing commitment to giving back to the regions it calls home.

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BS Chief Executive Gina Dellabarca has one message for NBS’ 21,400+ clients: their support makes this community investment possible.

our community, which is why – unlike other financial institutions – NBS shares a large percentage of our profit back into our regions.”

“NBS has never been just about financial services. It’s about people, relationships and place first and foremost,” she says.

Over the past decade, NBS has invested more than $8 million in South Island communities, including $1.198 million in the past financial year alone.

“Supporting our clients is at the heart of everything we do and a big part of that is giving back to the communities where they live, work and play. Their community is

“Every time you choose NBS

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for your personal, business or community banking, you help keep that cycle of giving going,” he says.

“Whether you’ve been with us for generations or just joined, your trust means we can continue to make a real difference.”

Howie highlights the Fifeshire Foundation—supported General Manager Commercial by NBS for more than 20 years—as an example of Banking, Howie Timms, encourages people to think of the meaningful impact the organisation helps enable.

NBS as a community asset.

This sentiment is shared across

NBS’ team of 100, who work with purpose to strengthen the regions they serve.

NBS’ people are central to this mission. Many have been with the organisation for decades, while others, such as General Manager Retail Banking and Client Experience Linda Sullivan and Regional Manager Tania Beckwith, bring fresh energy to the team.

Nelson Branch Manager Jen Low reflects proudly on NBS’ support for their clients over the last year...

“We’ve helped people into their first homes, supported

Being local isn't just about having branches." local businesses with lending and partnered with schools, charities and community groups to reinvest in our regions,” she says.

“As cost-of-living pressures intensified, we responded with compassion and flexibility, not just financial products. These are the moments when our values matter most.”

Jen also notes what sets NBS apart.

“We were built by the people, for the people. Our clients are our members."

"Being local isn’t just about having branches—it’s about the daily touchpoints and meaningful relationships that come with them.”

community day to volunteer for a cause of their choice.

Earlier in the year, Gina and Linda joined volunteers planting trees along the Te Mamaku Native Corridor near Tasman. To date, 35,000 native trees have been planted along 3.5 kilometres of highway.

As Gina reflects on her first year with NBS, she is struck by how deeply the organisation remains connected to its 162 year history.

“Being local means showing up for clients with good old fashioned service, reinvesting in our regions and being a trusted partner through all of life’s moments.”

Images: Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, Nayland College Climbing Wall, and Richmond Community Patrol with Dan Binion-Cooper (Richmond Branch Manager). *NBS is not a registered bank.

Each year, staff can take a

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Fresh new look for local news Local news has a fresh new look and a much bigger reach.

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ormerly known as Nelson App, Top South Now was rebranded in December to better reflect what it has become: the region’s leading digital hub for news, information and connection.

At a time when online feeds are increasingly crowded with misinformation and AI slop, Top South Now is seeing strong growth as readers seek out news they can trust.

Top South Now delivers daily coverage of news, sport, rural, business, lifestyle and community stories, along with comprehensive event listings.

“People are gravitating toward platforms they trust, especially when it comes to local news.

We’ve seen strong growth over the past year, and that creates a real opportunity for local businesses to connect with local customers in a meaningful way.”

With more than 80,000 unique users every When it launched in 2017, Nelson App was month and over one million page views, a smartphone-only service Top South Now is now the focused mainly on Nelson largest locally owned digital city. Fast forward to today news platform in the region and Top South Now is a fully – and a powerful channel for People are integrated app, website and gravitating toward businesses wanting to reach weekly email newsletter, engaged local audiences. platforms they trust, supported by a strong especially when it Managing Director Andrew and growing social media presence. Most importantly, it comes to local news. Board says the rebrand now serves the whole Nelson reflects both audience Tasman region. demand and advertiser opportunity.

Recent upgrades include a revitalised What’s On events section, a new Motoring section, an enhanced Business Directory, and an improved Funerals section that now includes photos of loved ones – features designed to better serve both readers and advertisers.

“At the same time, we’ve invested heavily in building a platform that’s easy to use for readers and delivers outstanding value for advertisers, something we pride ourselves on across all our publications.”

The platform is owned by Top South Media, a locally owned company with a strong To explore the new platform, visit topsouthnow. track record in regional publishing. Its stable co.nz or download the app. includes trusted titles such as Nelson Weekly, Waimea Weekly, Motueka Golden Bay Guardian, Nelson Magazine and Top South Farming.

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FEATUR

WHAT’S ON NELSON

ING

/ TASMA

GUIDE

N?

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Are you using your marketing superpower?

O

ne of the most powerful and often underestimated tools in marketing is emotion.

quick wins. What gets lost is the long term value created when emotion, creativity and consistency work together.

2025 research* analysed thousands of advertising campaigns to understand what actually drives effectiveness over time.

The findings were surprisingly simple. The most effective advertising consistently shared three characteristics: creativity, emotional connection and consistency.

Humans are hard-wired to respond to emotion.

The entertainment industry proves this every day. We don’t engage because something is rational or efficient; we engage because it makes us feel something. Marketing works the same way. Emotion builds memory, trust and preference. Logic may help justify a decision, but emotion is usually what triggers it.

It might sound obvious but in reality, most Nelson businesses struggle to achieve even one of these. As organisations grow, marketing often becomes more tactical and short term – chasing new messages, new looks or

The key is finding your brand’s emotional truth. This isn’t about forcing sentiment into your marketing. It’s about understanding what you genuinely stand for and expressing it clearly. Emotions such as reassurance, pride,

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optimism, nostalgia or belonging often stem directly from a brand’s values. When emotion is authentic, it resonates.

This is where story, colour, design and photography matter. These elements transform products and services from functional descriptions into living, breathing communication. They move marketing from the head to the heart, and that’s where real connection happens.

A recent example is our work on the Olive Estate Lifestyle Village brand. Rather than focusing the writing solely on features and amenities, the communication centres on what life at Olive Estate feels like. Warm, considered colour, elegant design and human centred photography work together to create a sense of lifestyle, calm and belonging.

It’s a practical demonstration of emotional marketing in action.

The research also highlights the importance of consistency. Familiarity builds trust. Brands that repeat and refine their emotional story over time see their effectiveness compound.

Strong brands don’t constantly reinvent themselves; they reinforce what already works.

Emotion is marketing’s superpower.

When paired with creativity and delivered consistently, it becomes a serious driver of long-term growth.

Images: No AI or stock photography here; Nelson families and Olive Estate residents were photographed enjoying the lifestyle that Olive Estate offers. Warm light and colours support the images of people sharing moments of joy and happiness that come from celebration, connection and family. Brand strategy and creative by Downing, photography by Lumiere.

Humans are hard-wired to respond to emotion. We don't engage because something is rational or efficient; we engage because it makes us feel something."

Tony Downing Owner | Downing

*Source: System1 “Compound Creativity” research, in partnership with the IPA Effectiveness Databank.

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Rolling out AI 5 STEPS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Practical guidance from CNX on introducing AI into your business and supporting smarter, safer technology.

A

I is becoming part of daily business operations, but for many Kiwi managers, it remains unfamiliar, exciting yet uncertain. At CNX, we view AI like any tool: valuable when implemented thoughtfully and risky if rushed.

Clean data makes AI adoption faster and more effective, just like finding tools easily in a tidy garage.

Here are five steps to help roll out AI successfully in your organisation:

Once your data is organised, ensure it is secure. AI works with whatever it can access, so it’s crucial to control that access:

Clean your data

1

Tidy the garage first

Smart decisions require clean, organised data.

Poor AI outcomes are often rooted in messy data. Before introducing AI, tidy up the data it will use: • Remove duplicates and outdated documents • Decide on a single “source of truth” for important information • Keep data in accessible locations, not scattered across desktops or personal folders

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2

Strengthen security Lock the garage door

• Limit information access to only what staff genuinely need • Store sensitive data in secure systems • Set clear boundaries on which data can be used with AI tools Basic security measures can prevent significant issues, much like locking up after tidying.

3

Start with real problems Not shiny tools

The strongest AI rollouts don’t begin with, “Which tool should we use?” they start

with, “Where are we losing time, money and efficiency?” AI often delivers early wins in: • • • •

Repetitive reporting Drafting proposals, emails, and documents Customer queries and initial support Manual data entry and administration

Choose one or two high-impact areas, start with a pilot, and then expand based on measured results.

4

Set light governance

Clarity beats complexity

You don’t need lengthy policy documents, but you do need clear guidelines. At minimum, specify: • Which AI tools are approved • What data is off limits • Who reviews and makes final decisions on AI outputs A simple one-page guide helps avoid confusion and keeps everyone confident and protected.

5

Train your team

People make the difference

Rolling out AI without training is like handing out company vehicles without driving lessons.

Equip your team with: • Understanding of AI capabilities and limitations • Guidance on effective prompt writing and relevant examples • Encouragement to experiment safely and responsibly

Where to start?

If you’re ready to trial AI, consider these questions: •

How can AI make or save my business money this year?

•

Where could AI remove operational bottlenecks?

•

How can AI reduce errors in financial workflows?

•

What opportunities could AI create for better leads or customer engagement?

•

How could my team work more efficiently using AI?

Confident, knowledgeable staff turn AI into a genuine advantage, not just another system to manage.

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LONG TERM PLANNING FOR

Nelson's air connections Nelson Airport has made significant progress over the past year towards confirming the planning framework needed for a future runway extension.

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N

elson Airport has made significant progress over the past year towards confirming the planning framework needed for a future runway extension.

Over the past six months the airport has successfully resolved all three appeals to the Environment Court over its plan change and notice of requirement.

The planning process has required a huge amount of staff time and effort over the past four years. With an end in sight for this stage of the work, Nelson Airport is now turning its attention to other aspects of its future planning.

Our 2050 Masterplan was published in 2022, providing a high-level spatial indication of future development areas – including a longer runway.

We now intend to further develop that masterplan to refine the spatial planning and provide a much greater level of detail about what the future out to 2050 looks like for the airport, including assessment of what the triggers and demand profile for various developments would be.

For example, we know we will need a longer runway in future to accommodate

activity growth and evolving airline fleets.

As we grow, the demand on our infrastructure, such as the road network, terminal and carparks, will increase and we need to forecast in greater detail when upgrades to those assets will be required.

An airport master plan is a critical future-proofing document which outlines the growth corridors for critical airport assets and protects space for their future growth.

It’s an exciting process to undertake and requires us to think critically about how the airport can best support the future needs of the Nelson Tasman community.

How do we ensure Nelson Airport is well-placed to support greater connectivity for our region, providing an attractive proposition for airlines to add capacity and routes? That’s a key question we’ll be asking through this process.

We look forward to sharing more information and updates from this work as it progresses.

Brendan Cook CE | Nelson Airport

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What drives Nelson's most recommended accounting firm?

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e talk a lot about strategy. About growth. About building better businesses. But if we’re honest, none of that matters without trust.

In our world, trust isn’t built through marketing.

It’s built in conversations. In tough calls.

In being available when something goes wrong. In telling a client what they need to hear and not just what they want to hear.

Over the past few years, something we’re incredibly proud of has happened quietly in the background: more and more of our new clients are coming through referrals and reviews. Business owners talking to other business owners.That means a lot to us.

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Logan Stewart from Site Wise Engineering talks about having advisors who genuinely understand his business and provide practical, proactive advice. In his words, we’re “always available to answer questions” and provide “clear direction when needed.” For us, that sums it up - being accessible, being commercial, and helping clients make confident decisions.

With SquareKicker, the journey has been about growth. From start-up through to international scale, they’ve spoken about how we helped them understand the “financial pillars of the company” and supported them through each stage.

High-growth businesses move fast — clarity around strategy, structure and cash is critical.

For Victus, it’s about commercial thinking. They’ve valued having accountants who look beyond compliance and focus on sustainable growth.

Their feedback reflects the importance of having a team that understands margin, profitability and long-term direction — not just year-end taxes.

We’re proud to hold a 5-star Google rating and to be one of the most reviewed accounting firms in the region. But more importantly, we’re proud of what those reviews represent - long-term relationships and businesses that continue to back us.

And for The Smoking Barrel, operating in the fast-paced hospitality sector, responsiveness matters. Their testimonial highlights how much they value having advisors who are easy to deal with, communicate clearly, and genuinely care about the success of the business.

As a locally owned firm, that matters. These aren’t just names on a client list. They’re businesses we see around town. At school events.

At cafés. On job sites. In our community.

Different businesses. Different challenges. Same foundation: trust.

Trust that advice will be practical. Trust that communication will be timely Trust that we understand the realities of running a business in Nelson Tasman.

Trust that we care about the outcome.

Managing Director Michael Parker, says, “Trust isn’t built in a single meeting. It’s built over years of doing what you say you’ll do — and doing it well. We don’t take that responsibility lightly.”

If being one of Nelson’s most recommended firms tells us anything, it’s this: when you focus on people first and numbers second, good things tend to follow.

And we’re just getting started.

Trust isn't built in a single meeting.

It's built over years of doing what you say you'll do — and doing it well. We don't take that

responsibility lightly."

MICHAEL PARKER, MANAGING DIRECTOR

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Become a Kaitiaki Whenua Learn Conservation

Starts July 2026 Kaitiaki Whenua – Trainee Ranger

Nationwide short courses delivered throughout the year.

APPLY NOW

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Turn a love of the outdoors INTO A FUTURE THAT MATTERS If you care about whenua, wildlife and protecting Aotearoa’s natural taonga, NMIT offers conservation programmes that go well beyond the classroom. This is learning that happens outdoors, in real environments, with real outcomes.

N

MIT’s conservation programmes give local communities practical skills to support and restore their environments. Through hands-on training, learners gain the confidence and capability to contribute immediately through employment, volunteering, iwi-led projects or community conservation. The focus: practical skills, applied learning and impact where it matters most.

A key pathway is the Kaitiaki Whenua – Trainee Ranger programme, which starts in July and has interviews in March. The programme prepares learners for frontline conservation roles across Aotearoa. Training blends field skills, environmental management, teamwork, and mātauranga Māori.

Graduates are work-ready from day one, and many move directly into roles supporting conservation projects nationwide after their summer industry placements. Missing the interview window means missing a real opportunity.

Alongside full programmes, NMIT’s Conservation Field Skills short courses are a powerful way for individuals and community groups to upskill quickly and meaningfully. NMIT partners with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to deliver

nationwide conservation field skills training. This alliance ensures training remains relevant, credible, and aligned with real-world conservation needs, while building local capability.

On 2 March in Richmond, the Five Minute Bird Count course is held as a one-day workshop. It teaches a nationally recognised bird monitoring method, enabling participants to contribute valuable data to local and national conservation efforts. From May in Nelson, Plant Identification equips learners with the skills to identify native and introduced species - essential knowledge for restoration projects and biodiversity work. In June in Nelson, the Predator Trapping Methods course is offered as a hands-on, two-day workshop. This course provides effective strategies in predator control, directly supporting local environmental protection and restoration goals.

These courses are ideal for landowners, volunteers, council staff, environmental groups, and anyone looking to make a difference locally. Apply now to gain practical, accessible, no-fluff skills you can use right away.

Whether you’re starting a new career, building community skills, or deepening your connection to the environment, NMIT’s conservation programmes empower you to take action. The environment needs skilled kaitiaki - locally and nationally. This is your chance to become one.

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Mentoring for

BUSINESS SUCCESS I wanted to get a third-party perspective from someone who's stratgically sharp."

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hen Michelle Dykstra set up Ethos Safety, last September - her health and safety consultancy business - she became a member of the Chamber straight away. Her first smart move.

The second was tapping into our Strong Business mentoring programme run by Stephen Broad-Paul.

“I wanted two things. I wanted to get a third-party perspective from someone who's strategically sharp and who's got the right business insight.

To ask, ‘Am I doing the right things for my stage of journey that I'm in?’

"The other thing was just not feeling alone on the journey. The first shift I really noticed within myself was that I went from being an employee in a team environment to going at it alone.”

In what areas of business were you seeking his expertise?

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“Strategic guidance and helping me with areas I knew I was weak in, particularly around prospecting for work.

In occupational health and safety, I can't expect work to come to me, so I was having to learn some skills quite quickly to be able to go out and engage with potential clients.

"And what Stephen did really well was, instead of giving me a prescriptive way to go about it, he gave me a framework to work with. And that just really has helped ground me; to know I'm approaching this in the right way.”

Michelle and Stephen have had two sessions together and as a result of how useful she has found them, and how much value Stephen has added to her business, Michelle says, “I don't actually see the relationship ending anytime soon.”

“My experience so far with Stephen is he's got the right tools for any given situation that kind of sheds light on the next stage of the journey.”

More about

Stephen Broad-Paul Stephen Broad-Paul brings decades of commercial experience across business ownership, governance and strategic leadership. His career has spanned senior leadership and governance roles, giving him broad insight across industries, strategy, operations, and growth planning.

Importantly, Stephen has also benefited from exceptional mentors throughout his own journey, shaping his belief that practical wisdom, clear frameworks, and steady guidance can significantly accelerate a business owner’s progress.

He now brings that same grounded, strategic perspective to the Strong Business mentoring programme, equipping business owners with clarity, confidence, and direction at every stage of their journey.

Member

NonMember

Free discovery session

Additonal free sessions

2 sessions

Extended mentoring support

$100 per session

$100 per session

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In a world facing complex challenges from climate change to food security - no organisation succeeds alone. Partnership is what's essential, Natalie Bird from Cawthron explains.

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T

his month, Cawthron Institute welcomed a delegation of researchers and diplomatic staff from South Korea to Nelson, following our own visit there late last year.

Over three days, our guests toured our Aquaculture Park, laboratories and research facilities, explored joint research

opportunities, and tested ideas around future collaboration.

Cawthron’s Science Impact Manager Dr Johan Svenson said the visit brought the value of personal connection into sharp focus.

“While the days were buzzing with scientific discussions,

they were also packed with laughter. In some ways it felt more like having friends over than an international science delegation, and that was no accident – at Cawthron we put a lot of emphasis on building professional relationships that are rooted in shared values.”

For Cawthron, those values include trust, deep care for people and environment, shared curiosity and long-term commitment.

At Cawthron, we see partnership operating at multiple levels.

Internationally, collaboration connects Nelson to global expertise, technology and funding opportunities. It strengthens New Zealand’s blue economy industries by opening pathways to new markets and research partnerships.

Each year, we host over one hundred groups from around the world, creating relationships that often evolve into joint projects, student exchanges and commercial opportunities. But our most valuable partnerships start at home.

Much of our work is grounded in collaboration with iwi, councils, industry and community groups.

From aquaculture innovation to freshwater restoration and marine biosecurity, enduring local partnerships ensure that science is aligned with regional

are not peripheral to the work.

They are the work.

Most of our achievements are the product of deep collaboration.

Partnership is how we bring our purpose to life. aspirations and values. They bring mātauranga Māori and western science together.

They ensure research translates into real-world outcomes for the economy, the environment and people.

Cawthron Institute’s research supports people and nature to thrive together, and for CEO Volker Kuntzsch, that purpose is inseparable from partnership.

“Most of our achievements are the product of deep collaboration with other researchers, iwi, industry, communities and global partners.

Partnership is how we bring our purpose to life.”

In a region like Nelson, where science, primary industries and environment are tightly interwoven, those relationships

International delegations are increasingly interested in meeting not only scientists, but industry partners and innovators operating in our region. Strong regional ecosystems are attractive to investors and collaborators alike.

If your organisation is interested in connecting with visiting delegations, exploring joint opportunities, or contributing to collaborative projects that span iwi, industry and international partners, we would welcome the conversation.

Because whether the partnership is local or global, the principle is the same: when we work together, we go further - and we create impact that none of us could achieve alone.

Natalie Bird Principal Adviser | Cawthron

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DEVELOPING NELSON TASMAN BRIEFING 5:00pm -O7:00pm SOLD UT! Saxton Oval Pavillion

March

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CASHFLOW MANAGEMENT WITH GO ACCOUNTING

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FIRE EXTINGUISHER TRAINING FOR BUSINESSES

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FINDEX BA5: HOSTED BY TRIPLE ONE CARE 5:00pm - 7:00pm SOLD OUT!

9:00am - 10:00am Mahitahi Tasman

8:00am - 10:00am Mahitahi Tasman

1 Tokomaru Place, Stoke

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05

JAS "WELCOME TO YOUR CHAMBER"

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HOW TO NETWORK SUCCESSFULLY

5:00pm - 7:00pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

5:00pm - 7:00pm Mahitahi Tasman

April

09

GO ACCOUNTING SPEAKER SERIES: CHRIS LUXTON 11:00am 1:00pm SOLD OUT!

Tides Hotel, 66 Trafalgar Street

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PORT NELSON EXPORT HUB: EXPORT READY

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AI IN MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

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KNOW YOUR NUMBERS WITH GO ACCOUNTING

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SEVEN WAYS TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS (NELSON)

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10:30am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

9:30am - 10:30am Mahitahi Colab Nelson

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9:00am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Tasman

9:30am - 10:30am Mahitahi Colab Nelson

May

June

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SALES STRATEGY & ENGAGEMENT ESSENTIALS

10

HEALTH & SAFETY ESSENTIALS

13

MARKETING FOUNDATIONS COURSE FOR SMEs

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BUILDING A SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE

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SEVEN WAYS TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS (MAPUA)

9:00am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Tasman

9:00am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

9:30am - 4:30pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

9:00am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

9:00am - 10:00am Mahitahi Tasman

RELATION 27 EMPLOYMENT SKILLS FOR SMEs 9:00am - 1:00pm Mahitahi Colab Nelson

Strong business.

Strong region.

JOIN NOW

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A space for our region's

trailblazers opportunity makers

I

had a quick chat with a partner last week, and that’s already led to two exciting new national connections, some amazing encouragement and guidance, and a lovely compliment on my website.”

Lauren Walker is an early adopter of the new Mahitahi Colab based in Māpua and has already experienced positive benefits from using it as her work base.

“I’ve only been working at Mahitahi Tasman for a month, but I can already see how great it is going to be for new connections and support.”

Tasman has the largest work-from-community in New Zealand (Figure.nz) with nearly a quarter of its workforce typically working from home.

The Colab is looking to build a destination space for those keen to broaden their social and collaborative opportunities.

Lauren’s positive experiences won’t be unique. The space is more than a collection of hot desks and meeting rooms, it’s a chance to learn and share.

For Lauren, it’s not just been the wider business network it provides, but she has also already learnt new skills and saved hours of time after connecting with a fellow collaborator to get a lesson on AI during a lunch break.

With flexible zones for everything from quiet, focused work to spontaneous watercooler connections, Mahitahi Colab adapts to how its community actually works. The facility features permanent and casual desk options, informal soft-furnished collaboration areas, quiet zones, a fully equipped event space, breakout areas, a boardroom, and small meeting rooms.

“I got AI to consolidate three, 28-page annual progress reports into one simple table. It's exactly what I needed and would have taken me over a day to create myself. All from one training session with Digital Tempo.”

The facility also addresses a crucial need in the Tasman region - providing the Mahitahi partners with a physical presence in Tasman, alongside supporting digital capabilities, start-ups, and entrepreneurship.

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Unlike many innovation spaces that rely on government funding, Mahitahi Tasman is forging its own path, free to experiment and support bespoke ideas that answer real regional needs.

"Everything starts with a conversation, and we'll be having lots of them to ensure we optimise potential and opportunities," says Russell Manning, Chair of Innovate Charitable Trust that operates as Mahitahi Colab.

Co-working Options: Full-time Collaborator

Fixed Plan: $549 +GST per month

Includes: permanent desk, 24/7 access, 40% off meeting rooms, fully-serviced kitchen, coffee, wifi, quiet pods, casual seating, printer, digital promotion, hosted events, lockers, and partner meet-ups. Casual and part-time plans also available from $180.

Casual Hot Desking Options $40 +GST per day

Everything starts with a conversation, and we'll be having lots of them to ensure we optimise potential and opportunities."

"We're providing a place for Tasman's talent to work, connect, and collaborate - creating business opportunities within a like-minded community where the sky truly isn't the limit."

It’s a successful formula that has operated for almost a decade at the Colab in Nelson.

Mahitahi Tasman welcomes trailblazers and opportunity makers. Enquiries for workshops and events are also welcome. For more information, contact: trina@mahitahicolab.nz

Includes: 9am–5 pm access, use of a hot desk, fully-serviced kitchen, Colab Coffee, wifi, and casual meeting areas.

Shared Spaces

Informal soft furnished seats to escape the desk and for watercooler connections. Network with co-workers, quiet zone options, fully-equipped event space, break-out space, board room, and small meeting rooms.

Meeting Rooms & Events

Full event space hire: $300+GST Boardroom: From $175 +GST half day Includes: flexible set up (theatre style, group workshop tables, etc), presentation screen, whiteboard, kitchen access, wifi, facilitation & catering available. Smaller meeting rooms $40-$50 per hour.

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Enriched Plumbing & Gas proudly serves the region with reliable, professional plumbing and gasfitting solutions. We value quality workmanship, clear communication, and practical results. We approach every job with care, treating each property as if it were our own. Whether it's maintenance, installing new systems, or responding to urgent issues, we aim to make the experience smooth and stress-free. Our mission is simple: we deliver service you can trust.

Horizon Solar is committed to making a positive environmental impact while empowering homes, families, and businesses to take control of their power bills. We provide tailored solutions, using quality components to cut costs and boost energy independence. Our vision is to generate renewable energy, reduce fossil-fuel reliance, and build a more sustainable future. Our purpose is to help customers gain resilience and enjoy long-term energy freedom.

admin@enrichedplumbing.co.nz (03) 545 7339 | enrichedplumbing.co.nz

info@horizonsolar.co.nz 021 085 42533 | horizonsolar.co.nz

Z Stoke and Z Rutherford St are part of our Fortuna Trading cluster of ten Z Energy sites across the Nelson Tasman, Marlborough and Wellington regions. More than just a place to fuel up, we are a local café and community hub, known for great coffee and food, top up groceries, our friendly team and welcoming atmosphere. Our Good In The Hood community donation programme is famous, and we are an important part of fuelling both Nelsonians, and their cars!

At Nelson Community Venues, we proudly partner with Nelson City Council to manage some of our region’s most valued spaces, including the Trafalgar Centre, Trafalgar Park, Community Halls, Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows and Saxton Field. Our focus is simple: we are here to support every hirer and provide an excellent experience. We take pride in helping events of all sizes thrive and ensuring our venues remain welcoming, well-run spaces for the whole community.

jamie@fortunatrading.co.nz 03 547 9098 | z.co.nz

mark@clmnz.co.nz 027 428 1334 | clmnz.co.nz

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Freeman Roofing is New Zealand’s largest family‑owned metal roofing manufacturer, proudly serving the Nelson/Tasman region for more than 60 years. Deeply connected to every place we operate, we support local groups, causes, and people.

We deliver exceptional service and quality roofing products, including long run roofing, rainwater goods, and accessories.

Founded in Nelson in 1956, we now operate 11 branches across New Zealand.

I’m Nish, the face of Wild Sea Creative! I help local New Zealand businesses show up properly online (and actually get results).

From slick, strategic websites to SEO, socials and content that feels real – not tokenistic or bland. I’m all about cutting the fluff, keeping it real, and doing marketing that works and looks good. If you want more eyeballs, more leads, and a brand you’re proud of – get in touch. Let’s help your brand make waves together!

nelson@freemanroofing.co.nz 03 544 3108 | freemanroofing.co.nz

contact@wildseacreative.co.nz 021 108 0370 | wildseacreative.co.nz

So, what do you do?

We are Busy Bees Cleaning Service.

We provide commercial and residential cleaning services. We have speciality departments for hard floor, carpet, and window cleaning services, as well as builders and one-off cleans. We started in Christchurch in 1993 and later expanded to Timaru, Ashburton, Auckland, Hamilton, Taupo, Wellington, Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.

25 June

If you're a new Chamber member, then we'll introduce you to the rest of our network.

Send your logo and 100 words about your business to: kim@commerce.org.nz.

info@busybees.co.nz 0800 287 923 | busybees.co.nz

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GBF is a privately-owned company with a 40 year history dedicated to the investment and finance market. We believe in the importance of relationships and the need to understand a local market, so we’ve been actively expanding our local footprint. This has meant putting experienced banking, business and investment representatives across the South Island. Despite doing many bank-like things, we’re a licensed Non Bank Deposit Taker regulated by the Reserve Bank.

Nelson Auto Glass Specialists is a locally owned business with over 25 years’ experience in automotive glazing. We provide expert windscreen repair and replacement services across the entire top of the south. Known for quality workmanship, reliable service and knowledge, our team works with all vehicle types and insurance companies, delivering compliant solutions backed by decades of hands-on expertise and strong local community relationships.

tony@gbf.co.nz 027 2434184 | goldbandfinance.co.nz

info@nelsonautoglass.co.nz 03 545 7139 | nelsonautoglass.co.nz

Work. Connect.

Collaborate.

Co-working | Hot Desking | Meeting Rooms Nelson & Māpua Hubs.

Step away from the kitchen table and into a space designed for connection, focus and growth.

Join a community of local professionals, remote workers and entrepreneurs collaborating, sharing networks and ideas.

SIGN UP

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Join today or book a meeting room. www.mahitahicolab.nz

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NEW TASMAN HUB

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Get access to your discounts on the go!

Unlock big nationwide discounts with your digital Chamber membership card.

Download the Stocard app here: Plus lots of great local discounts with member-to-member offers, including:

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