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Many Marched Against Monsanto In Whangarei In Spite Of Bad Weather

Clare Swinney — Sat, 25 May 2013 07:41:34 GMT

A march was held in Whangarei this afternoon as one of numerous marches held around the world on May the 25th, 2013 to say 'No To Monsanto.' Although it was raining quite heavily throughout the protest, many locals, including children, braved the bad weather in order to make their thoughts known.

This short video shows some photos that were taken during the march.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=MnRjJ_3tNhA

(Source)

TripAdvisor names Southern Discoveries one of world's best activities

Southern Public Relations — Sat, 25 May 2013 02:07:39 GMT

TOURISM - QUEENSTOWN

Premier South Island tourism operator Southern Discoveries has cemented its position as one of the country’s best tourism operators with two prestigious accolades from the world’s largest travel community TripAdvisor.

In TripAdvisor’s ‘Who’s Who’ of the global travel industry, it awarded Southern Discoveries’ Milford Sound Cruises a Certificate of Excellence for the third year in a row.

The hat trick puts Southern Discoveries in the top-performing 10% of all businesses worldwide on TripAdvisor, and is only given to those that consistently earn high ratings from the website’s community of savvy travellers and reviewers.

Southern Discoveries’ Queenstown Lake Cruise, which only launched in 2011, has also been awarded a Certificate of Excellence for the second year running.

The tour has made a great impression with visitors receiving rave reviews on the site’s all-important online rankings.

The recognition follows three years of solid growth for the company which has expanded and enhanced operations in Queenstown, Milford Sound and Te Anau.

Southern Discoveries General Manager John Robson said the accolades were once again an indication that the company was providing “great products that ticked all the boxes for visitors”.

“We’re delighted with the awards. It makes such a difference that they’re based on unbiased feedback from guests who’ve actually experienced the trips and enjoyed them so much they had to tell others,” he said.

“While we continue to actively expand our business to incorporate complementary offerings, it’s vitally important to us to maintain the highest standards on all our tours, never forgetting that the customer comes first, and provide people with experiences they’ll never forget.”

Later this year the company will launch Queenstown’s newest water-based activity, a multi-million dollar catamaran and nature experience on Lake Wakatipu. The purpose-built 26m high-speed catamaran, to be known as Spirit of Queenstown, will launch for the start of the 2013/14 summer season.

Spirit will carry up to 150 passengers from Queenstown across the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu to the normally inaccessible Mt Nicholas Station for an authentic and nature-based experience.

Activities on offer at the station will include day walks, cycling and musterer safari trips into the high country for a truly authentic experience. A woolshed on the shores of Lake Wakatipu will be transformed into the heart of this family-friendly experience.

Mr Robson said the new catamaran was shaping up to be a “fantastic” addition to activity options already available and would be unique to Southern Discoveries.

“With our history of operating award-winning cruises in Milford Sound and Queenstown, I’d like to think that this time next year we’ll be up for receiving our first Certificate of Excellence for the Spirit of Queenstown,” he said.

(Source)

When is bankruptcy a good option?

Andersen Accountants Limited — Fri, 24 May 2013 22:56:19 GMT

FINANCE

Should you declare bankruptcy? People should pay their debts, however, sometimes people find themselves in situations beyond their control and paying debt becomes unrealistic. This can happen because of a business failure, relationship breakdown, unemployment, tax or student loan debts that have grown unmanageably large, or credit card debts that seem to increase not matter how much you try to pay back.

Bankruptcy usually lasts for 3 years, and it normally stays on a person’s credit record for 7 years (indefinitely if you have had more than one bankruptcy). This means that for 3 years you will be unable to leave New Zealand without permission, and you will face other significant restrictions. For at least 7 years you may be unable to borrow money.

If you become bankrupt you cannot usually be self employed and you may not be able to work in some professions. Other professions are unaffected. There are sometimes ways to restructure a self employment situation that effectively allows a person to keep on working in their usual job while bankrupt. Some people lose their homes; others are allowed to keep them.

If you have large debts what is the best option for you? Obviously if you have a $300,000 student loan debt and other debts that you struggle to pay, the reality is that you are unlikely to ever repay them. They will hang over you and cause you stress forever if you don’t do something about it. In that situation it may be best to take control of your life and go bankrupt.

Bankruptcy can also be the best answer in situations of much smaller debts. If, for example, you earn $50,000 a year, but after living expenses and tax you are left with $2,000 a year, if you have debts greater than $14,000 (7 years times $2,000 per year), you may be better off, in the long run, declaring bankruptcy. Not only will bankruptcy stop creditors harassing you, it means that when you are discharged your debts disappear (in most cases). The effect on any assets that you own, possible inheritances, your ability to work during the bankruptcy period, and financial dealings prior to bankruptcy are all factors that need to be carefully considered prior to making a decision to become bankrupt, however, it is clear that for some people bankruptcy is the best way to start afresh. The possibility of bankruptcy is often a useful bargaining chip in seeking to negotiate a resolution of tax or other debts.

We often advise people on the pros and cons of bankruptcy in their particular situation and provide advice on bankruptcy planning. For $150 you can ensure that you are fully advised on whether bankruptcy is a good option for you. Please talk to us in confidence if you would like advice on your situation.

Andersen Accountants Limited
Telephone: 09 3695198
Email: Kristina@andersen.co.nz
Website: www.andersen.co.nz

(Source)

Rebuild Visitors Encourage Growth In Niche Markets

Donna Miles — Fri, 24 May 2013 06:13:41 GMT

BUSINESS - CHRISTCHURCH

The post-earthquake creative energy in Christchurch is not limited to gap-filler projects.
A number of small businesses are using their talent and creativity to respond to the needs of the re-build arrivals and locals alike, says Donna Miles the owner of sandvich, a Christchurch-based business re-creating some of the world’s best-loved sandwiches.
She says the majority of sandvich’s clients are either well-travelled locals or new professional arrivals into the city.
“We have had a phenomenal response from day 1; 100% growth in sandwich sales in our first outlets in two local supermarkets. One of our customers, a local Engineering firm, has recently had three new employees from the U.K, U.S. and Spain; they are all very happy to have healthy and exciting takeout lunch options available to them nearby”.
Miles says there has been an equally strong response from local residents and local schools too. She says she has always believed there should be healthier lunch options available to schools.
“Shortly after our launch, one of the mums told me that she had been waiting for 17-years for quality sandwiches like those available in sandwich bars all over Europe, and was very pleased to see our sandwiches available in her local supermarket as well as the local school.”
Donna Miles says small cities can limit demand which in turn hampers creativity and variety. The Christchurch rebuild has and will continue to attract more people to the city and she says this will give businesses an added confidence and impetus to cater to niche markets which in turn will support small local suppliers and create more jobs locally so everyone will benefit.
Miles knows of at least 2 other local businesses catering to the demand of the increasingly sophisticated shoppers; one is selling exclusive cashmere clothing for Men and Women and the other is supplying outdoor marble tables.
ENDS

Backgrounder:
sandvich offers 9 sandwiches; each named after an international city and each representing a unique and authentic flavour.
The most popular sandwich, as voted by sandvich’s regular customers, is the Middle-Eastern ‘Shiraz’, a truly fresh sandwich of goat’s feta, coriander, mint, walnuts and tomatoes. ‘Hanoi’ is the popular Vietnamese Banh Mi and is filled with grilled pork, pickled daikon and carrots, coriander, fresh chilli and cucumber. If that hasn’t made your mouth water yet; then consider ‘Kingston’ -jerk chicken, pineapple salsa and spicy coleslaw or the amazing Argentinean steak sandwich ‘Buenos Aires’ filled with skirt steak, sautéed onions and chicmichurri sauce.
For the gluten-free, there is ‘Lebanon’-carrots and home-made hummus presented in a cute ‘grab and go’ cup.
sandvich launched in February and has been supplying its gourmet sandwiches to Elmwood Normal School, Merivale Fresh Choice, Holmwood Rd Dairy and Raeward Fresh in Tower Junction. The company plans to expand to other schools and outlets around Christchurch.
Sandvich is an on-line ordering and delivery sandwich shop with a number of physical outlets around Christchurch. We use only fresh, quality ingredients and supply our gourmet sandwiches directly to organisations and schools.
Further information about this new business can be found at www.sandvich.co.nz .To speak with the owner or to schedule an interview, please call Donna Miles at 021722419 or email eat@sandvich.co.nz

(Source)

Fire in Queenstown

Peter Hodge — Fri, 24 May 2013 05:34:27 GMT

FIRE - QUEENSTOWN

Firefighters are battling a large fire in central Queenstown this afternoon. The four-storey building at 27 Shotover St is in flames. Firefighters are trying to stop the fire from spreading to adjoining buildings. Police officers are keeping more than 500 spectators away from the area and have closed roads around Shotover St. The burning building contains Fat Badgers Pizza and The World Bar.

(Source)

Enterprise Motor Group Preferred First Option For Many Car Buyers

Pure SEO — Fri, 24 May 2013 02:42:22 GMT

BUSINESS

The Enterprise Motor Group are now so firmly entrenched in the New Zealand psyche that they are the preferred first option for many people, as is borne out by the testimonials on their website from their many satisfied customers. These customers are particularly impressed with the Enterprise way of offering competitive car finance and insurance all under one roof. At Enterprise they believe in rapid finance approval and they have a full range of financial options available. Idele Davies says, “Very efficient, helpful with the Finance and payments which best suited us”. And, from Mahina Williams, “I come back because Enterprise makes sure the payments are affordable for me”. Enterprise customers come back time and again because of the really special, one to one customer service offered which, as one happy customer says “makes you feel as if someone cares”. This really is the secret to their phenomenal success.

The Enterprise Motor Group are leaders in a very competitive industry and this has been achieved by their setting the standards and services which others seek to follow. Everyone who visits the Enterprise Group car dealerships will benefit from the collective experience of their management team.

At Enterprise they specialise in affordable Japanese and New Zealand quality used vehicles with over 600 in stock at the yards and quick access to freshly imported vehicles. All of these vehicles are checked, complied and odometer certified and all vehicles also qualify for New Zealand’s best Four Year Mechanical and Electrical Warranty.

Every car purchased from Enterprise Motor Group comes with a brand new Warrant of Fitness and Registration and also comes with their unique Customer Care Service. This free service includes timely reminders for Warrant of Fitness, Insurance and Warranty renewals, car servicing and much more. Enterprise has a dedicated team who ensure that customers are kept happy with the follow-up service, as Peter Watson testifies, “Good service, helpful staff and I like the follow-up calls and info letters”.

It is no wonder, then, that the Enterprise Motor Group has grown from small beginnings in Gisborne in 1973, to be a leader in the Motor Vehicle industry in New Zealand, with branches now in Hamilton, New Lynn and Manukau. As well as the fantastic service they give their customers, Enterprise are known for their quality cars, and the fact that they offer very competitive finance on all vehicles purchased and car insurance, all under one roof. For more information on all of these services please go to their website at cars for sale - Enterprise Motor Group.

(Source)

Auckland-based FreemanX Supercars launches luxury self-drive tours in South Island

Southern Public Relations — Fri, 24 May 2013 01:21:43 GMT

MOTORING - QUEENSTOWN

Auckland-based FreemanX Supercars today (Friday 24 May 2013) launches Queenstown’s first luxury self-drive scenic tour offering people the chance to get behind the wheel of some of the world’s finest automobiles.

Believed to be a ‘first’ in the Wakatipu area, the new tour enables people to be a ‘millionaire’ for the day and experience the ultimate thrill and prestige of driving a choice of two luxury vehicles during each trip.
With a fleet of four ‘supercars’ to choose from -- a Lamborghini Murciélago, Ferrari F430 Spyder, Porsche 911 Turbo or Lotus Sports Racer -- drivers can enjoy the freedom of getting behind the wheel of one of these magnificent vehicles while taking in the sights and sounds of Central Otago.

A chaperone accompanies drivers in a separate vehicle and escorts them as they navigate their way through the region, making scheduled stops along the way to change cars.

Inbuilt GPS systems ensure drivers don’t get lost on the way and make it to their destination safely and on time.

FreemanX Supercars is no stranger to the luxury car business. As well as operating a similar self-drive experience in Auckland for more than three and half years, FreemanX Supercars also runs track drives at Hampton Downs race track where people can take control of one of the company’s seven luxury supercars.
FreemanX Supercars owner and New Zealand land speed recorder holder Eddie Freeman said the South Island launch was a direct result of the company’s success in Auckland and offered people a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drive these amazing vehicles”.

“People just love the feeling of jumping into the driver’s seat of a Lotus or a Lamborghini for the first time.

There’s no better thrill than being the master of your very own supercar for the day,” said Mr Freeman.

“The tour routes we’ve chosen offer some of the country’s finest driving roads, and there is no doubt the scenery is amongst the world’s best.

“I can’t think of a better way to sightsee in Queenstown than at the wheel of one of these amazing machines.”

Initially the company will offer three tour options, all starting at its Frankton base, and has unveiled introductory prices to encourage people to take up the experience.

The two-hour tour takes drivers along State Highway 6 to Kingston stopping at a lookout point en route to change cars. The road to Kingston offers a mixture of bends and straights and according to Mr Freeman is “perfect road terrain for luxury vehicles such as these”.

Tours leave daily at 8.30am, 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm with an introductory price of $199 per person driving the Porsche and Lotus, and $299 for the Lamborghini and Ferrari.

Those who crave longer in the driving seat can opt for half or full day tours to Cromwell or Wanaka, both of which take in Arrowtown along the way. Those tours start from $799 per person for the half day and $1,399 for the full day experience, and include a gourmet lunch or morning/afternoon tea and stop off points along the way.

“The longer trips enable drivers to really get to grips with what these cars can do,” said Mr Freeman.
Self-drive packages and driving days can be tailored for corporate and incentive groups for up to 100+ guests.

“While New Zealand road rules do apply, there’s nothing quite like taking to the open road in one of these supercars and literally being spellbound by the beauty this region has on offer.

“It’s surely on everyone’s bucket list!”

(Source)

Pacific Rendezvous Unique Wedding and Honeymoon Destination

Pure SEO — Fri, 24 May 2013 00:19:30 GMT

ACCOMMODATION

What better venue for a wedding than at the stunningly situated Pacific Rendezvous resort, perched high on the promontory overlooking the Poor Knights Islands with million-dollar views on three sides? Well, none actually, this is a venue that is hard to beat for any occasion. Easily accessible from both Auckland and Whangarei, this really is the perfect destination for a wedding party as it not only has the beautiful views as described, but is close to fabulous white sand beaches, secluded spots for sunbathing and great surf breaks for those so inclined. There is something for everyone in this beautiful part of the world and the wedding party and guests alike will enjoy the picturesque setting, out on the point, perfect for the wedding ceremony.

The Pacific Rendezvous resort is a unique destination in itself with well-spaced self-contained motel units, swimming pool and two spa pools, one of which is private and spacious ten hectare park-like grounds with spectacular views of both the Tutukaka Harbour and the ocean, stretching out to the world famous Poor Knights Islands. This is an ideal venue for a wedding and honeymoon and it might prove difficult to move the guests on when the time comes!

As well as being the perfect location for a wedding and afterwards, the perfect honeymoon spot, Pacific Rendezvous is also the ideal base from which to explore the many features of Northland, including the local unique Tutukaka coastline with its many beaches and walking opportunities and of course the world-renowned scuba diving opportunities off the Poor Knights Islands. There are also fishing and boating trips and numerous other water-based activities.

For when the weather is not so clement such as during the winter months, being based at the Pacific Rendezvous resort is the perfect jumping off spot for some wonderful day trips, such as a trip to the Kauri trees at the Waipoua Forest or a day spent in and around the thriving port city of Whangarei. With an early start it is also possible to spend a great day out exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands and its environs. In other words, the resort at Pacific Rendezvous has everything needed for a great weekend away, a wonderful wedding and honeymoon or a longer holiday with the family.

Keeping in mind its accessibility to Auckland, and to Auckland International Airport, Pacific Rendezvous resort offers a very unique holiday experience and a destination in itself. For further information regarding the resort, please visit their website at Northland Accommodation - Pacific Rendezvous.

(Source)

Rebrand of Plume Restaurant One of Many Keys to Culinary Excellence

Pure SEO — Thu, 23 May 2013 23:46:32 GMT

WINE

Superbly situated in its spectacular vineyard location in the grape-growing region of Matakana, just north of Auckland, Plume restaurant offers glorious 180-degree views of vineyards, fields, valleys and mountains. Plume is all about fabulous local New Zealand wine and produce and how, together, they can celebrate culinary diversity. Matakana is just an hour’s drive from Auckland or Whangarei and is a ‘must visit’ destination on any Matakana wine or food journey.

At Plume they believe a great meal is not just about the food and wine, it is a complete sensory experience and to that end they are intent on employing a number of sustainable strategies. The team at Plume are as passionate about sustainability as they are about their food so they have built an energy efficient, north-facing New Zealand villa-type building design with a low carbon floor print. They have created a building that incorporates the use of as many recycled materials as possible and also a solar energy system to power the kitchen’s hot water. They are also composting and recycling all of their waste and they are utilising ‘rain gardens’ to aid in the uptake of storm water run-off and water conservation.

Formerly known as ‘Heron’s Flight’, the restaurant was rebranded as Plume on October 16 2010 with a completely revamped interior décor, landscaping and management. What was once fondly regarded as a destination servicing fine Italian fare and inspired Italian style wine, has now evolved into an exciting taste experience, thanks to the inclusion of French inspired wine from the Runner Duck Estate and Farida’s (Plume’s restaurant manager) passion for global cuisine.

Offering both indoor and patio dining, Plume is open for Wine Tasting and lunch Wednesday to Sundays (Lunch 11am to 3pm, Wine Tastings 10am to 40m Wednesday to Friday 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday), Dinner: 6pm onwards on Friday and Saturday. Plume is closed Christmas and New Year’s Day. For groups who would like to go for dinner on any other night, the staff at Plumes ask that they contact them and they will happily open by special arrangement. The same goes for weddings. Plume is the perfect wedding venue with its beautiful vineyard views and tranquillity and the main restaurant area which opens on to the outside covered patio. There is also the Rengarenga room which opens out onto the ‘Nest’, a cosy covered area which could be used for the wedding ceremony. Bookings are recommended and for more information please view their website at http://www.plumerestaurant.co.nz/

(Source)

Girls growing in confidence through Bluelight Canterbury initiative

Alexander Communications — Thu, 23 May 2013 23:39:04 GMT

NEWS

Eight local girls are each sporting a new outfit thanks to Bluelight Canterbury and The Palms Shopping Centre. Bluelight Canterbury works with young people, and each year runs Wahine Toa, a camp for girls aged between 11 and 16 who are survivors of abuse.

The free three-day camp was held at Hanmer Springs in early May and run by the Bluelight Canterbury committee and police.

En route to the camp, the eight girls attending were treated to a surprise trip to The Palms, where they were invited to select a new outfit. The Palms matched the Bluelight Canterbury committee by contributing $40 towards each girl’s shopping experience at the centre.

The Palms Shopping Centre manager Simon Carter says he is happy the centre could get behind the programme and support the girls.

“The Palms has been contributing to the Wahine Toa camp for several years now. We recognize the value of a camp and larger service such as this and are glad we can support Bluelight Canterbury as it works with local girls in a safe and supportive environment.”

Leanne Buchan, Bluelight Canterbury support person of Wahine Toa, says the outfits were worn to a special event on the final night of the camp.

“It was a great night for the girls, who had spent the afternoon having a makeover, followed by an evening of canapés and mocktails served to them by police officers. The main aim of the camp is to raise the self-esteem and confidence of the girls and to help encourage the growth of trust and motivation in a supportive environment where they feel safe and secure.”

Further information on Bluelight Canterbury can be found on the website: www.bluelightcanterbury.co.nz

(Source)

Imports rise in April

Statistics New Zealand — Thu, 23 May 2013 23:15:09 GMT

TRADE

The value of imported goods rose $263 million (7.4 percent) to $3.8 billion in April 2013, compared with April 2012, Statistics New Zealand said today.

Petroleum and products led the increase in imports, up $235 million, due to crude oil and diesel. Vehicles, parts, and accessories recorded the second-largest increase, up $68 million.

"The value of goods imported rose on the back of petroleum imports, which can fluctuate depending on the timing of shipments," industry and labour statistics manager Louise Holmes-Oliver said. "The trade surplus has reduced compared with the previous four April months."

Exported goods rose $83 million (2.2 percent) to $4.0 billion. Meat and edible offal led the rise, followed by petroleum and products.

The trade balance for April 2013 was a surplus of $157 million (4.0 percent of exports). April months have been in surplus since 2009.

After removing seasonal effects, exports decreased 8.6 percent in April 2013, compared with March 2013. Crude oil (which is not seasonally adjusted) led this decrease. Seasonally adjusted imports rose 1.5 percent in April 2013.

Overseas merchandise trade statistics remain provisional for the first three months after data is first released. For more information, see Why overseas merchandise trade data can change.

(Source)

Snow guns crank into action for Mt Hutt and Coronet Peak 2013 winter season

NZSki — Thu, 23 May 2013 23:08:23 GMT

BUSINESS - QUEENSTOWN

The start of snowmaking today (Thursday May 23) at Mt Hutt in Methven and early this morning at Coronet Peak in Queenstown signals the impending opening of two of New Zealand’s most popular ski fields.

Ski area staff from Coronet Peak and Mt Hutt have been closely monitoring systems this week to ensure snowmakers were ready when temperatures dropped to optimal snowmaking levels.

Mt Hutt also received 8cm of snow overnight as a cold front passed up the country.

Mt Hutt Ski Area Manager James McKenzie said that with recent forecasts, the snowmaking team had been on standby.

“As the temperatures have been dropping, the team has been checking systems and following weather predictions,” he said.

“We’ve been amped, and are stoked to start firing today.”

Mt Hutt’s season opening is always subject to conditions as ground and air temperatures have to be right.

“Thanks to a cool autumn with two snow falls, the mountain has maintained snow coverage but we needed to establish a good base at altitudes below 1800m ahead of our scheduled opening day,” said Mr McKenzie.

“We’ve had eight guns making snow in the base area today with two more making snow at the top of the Quad chair.”

A total of 87 guns are available for initial snowmaking on three main runs including Highway 72, Broadway and Morning Glory, as well as around the base area and on International.

Mr McKenzie said this would ensure that a range of beginner to intermediate trails would be available for opening day.

In Queenstown, 20 of Coronet Peak’s 213 snow guns last night automatically switched on as temperature and weather conditions were at optimal levels between 5am and 11am.

Coronet Peak ski area manager Ross Copland was confident that over the coming weeks conditions would enable regular top ups to ensure a good base.

Both Mt Hutt and Coronet Peak staff have been finalising other operational logistics ahead of opening, including completion of summer maintenance and employment of seasonal staff.

“All of this happens behind the scenes, so when we start making snow it’s the sign that the season is upon us which creates a real sense of excitement,” said Mr Copland.

“That’s when the buzz and excitement starts, and when businesses in Queenstown and Methven start to gear up for the season.”

Mt Hutt ski area is scheduled to open on June 15, subject to conditions, while Coronet Peak is scheduled to open on June 8. For more information go to www.nzski.com

(Source)