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<title>infonews.co.nz New Zealand Business news</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/</link>
<description>New Zealand's local news community.</description>
<lastBuildDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 14:18:48 GMT</lastBuildDate>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Rebuild Visitors Encourage Growth In Niche Markets           </title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104046</link>
<author>Donna Miles</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=99" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">BUSINESS</a> - <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?l=51" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#000000;">CHRISTCHURCH</a> <p>The post-earthquake creative energy in Christchurch is not limited to gap-filler projects.<br />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&rsquo;s best-loved sandwiches.<br />She says the majority of sandvich&rsquo;s clients are either well-travelled locals or new professional arrivals into the city.<br />&ldquo;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&rdquo;.<br />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.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />&ldquo;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.&rdquo;<br />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.<br />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.<br />ENDS</p><p>Backgrounder:<br />sandvich offers 9 sandwiches; each named after an international city and each representing a unique and authentic flavour.<br />The most popular sandwich, as voted by sandvich&rsquo;s regular customers, is the Middle-Eastern &lsquo;Shiraz&rsquo;, a truly fresh sandwich of goat&rsquo;s feta, coriander, mint, walnuts and tomatoes.&nbsp; &lsquo;Hanoi&rsquo; is the popular Vietnamese Banh Mi and is filled with grilled pork, pickled daikon and carrots, coriander, fresh chilli and cucumber. If that hasn&rsquo;t made your mouth water yet; then consider &lsquo;Kingston&rsquo; -jerk chicken, pineapple salsa and spicy coleslaw or the amazing Argentinean steak sandwich &lsquo;Buenos Aires&rsquo; filled with skirt steak, saut&eacute;ed onions and chicmichurri sauce.&nbsp;<br />For the gluten-free, there is &lsquo;Lebanon&rsquo;-carrots and home-made hummus presented in a cute &lsquo;grab and go&rsquo; cup.<br />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.<br />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.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />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&nbsp; eat@sandvich.co.nz</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104046">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 06:13:41 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104046</guid>
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<title>Enterprise Motor Group Preferred First Option For Many Car Buyers</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104044</link>
<author>Pure SEO</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=99" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">BUSINESS</a> <p>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 <a href="http://www.enterprisecars.co.nz/finance-options/application-form/">car finance</a> 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, &ldquo;Very efficient, helpful with the Finance and payments which best suited us&rdquo;.&nbsp; And, from Mahina Williams, &ldquo;I come back because Enterprise makes sure the payments are affordable for me&rdquo;.&nbsp; Enterprise customers come back time and again because of the really special, one to one customer service offered which, as one happy customer says &ldquo;makes you feel as if someone cares&rdquo;.&nbsp; This really is the secret to their phenomenal success.</p><p>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.&nbsp; Everyone who visits the Enterprise Group car dealerships will benefit from the collective experience of their management team.&nbsp;</p><p>At Enterprise they specialise in affordable Japanese and <a href="http://www.enterprisecars.co.nz/">New Zealand quality used vehicles</a> 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&rsquo;s best Four Year Mechanical and Electrical Warranty.</p><p>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, &ldquo;Good service, helpful staff and I like the follow-up calls and info letters&rdquo;.</p><p>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.&nbsp; 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 <a href="http://www.enterprisecars.co.nz/your-community/">cars for sale</a> - Enterprise Motor Group.&nbsp;</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104044">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 02:42:22 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104044</guid>
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<title>Auckland-based FreemanX Supercars launches luxury self-drive tours in South Island</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104043</link>
<author>Southern Public Relations</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=165" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">MOTORING</a> - <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?l=61" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#000000;">QUEENSTOWN</a> <p>Auckland-based FreemanX Supercars today (Friday 24 May 2013) launches Queenstown&rsquo;s first luxury self-drive scenic tour offering people the chance to get behind the wheel of some of the world&rsquo;s finest automobiles.</p><p>Believed to be a &lsquo;first&rsquo; in the Wakatipu area, the new tour enables people to be a &lsquo;millionaire&rsquo; for the day and experience the ultimate thrill and prestige of driving a choice of two luxury vehicles during each trip.<br />With a fleet of four &lsquo;supercars&rsquo; to choose from --&nbsp; a Lamborghini Murci&eacute;lago, Ferrari F430 Spyder, Porsche 911 Turbo or&nbsp; Lotus Sports Racer -- drivers can enjoy the freedom of getting behind the wheel&nbsp; of one of these magnificent vehicles while taking in the sights and sounds of Central Otago.</p><p>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.</p><p>Inbuilt GPS systems ensure drivers don&rsquo;t get lost on the way and make it to their destination safely and on time.</p><p>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&rsquo;s seven luxury supercars.<br />FreemanX Supercars owner and New Zealand land speed recorder holder Eddie Freeman said the South Island launch was a direct result of the company&rsquo;s success in Auckland and offered people a &ldquo;once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drive these amazing vehicles&rdquo;.</p><p>&ldquo;People just love the feeling of jumping into the driver&rsquo;s seat of a Lotus or a Lamborghini for the first time.</p><p>There&rsquo;s no better thrill than being the master of your very own supercar for the day,&rdquo; said Mr Freeman.</p><p>&ldquo;The tour routes we&rsquo;ve chosen offer some of the country&rsquo;s finest driving roads, and there is no doubt the scenery is amongst the world&rsquo;s best.</p><p>&ldquo;I can&rsquo;t think of a better way to sightsee in Queenstown than at the wheel of one of these amazing machines.&rdquo;</p><p>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.</p><p>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 &ldquo;perfect road terrain for luxury vehicles such as these&rdquo;.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>&ldquo;The longer trips enable drivers to really get to grips with what these cars can do,&rdquo; said Mr Freeman.<br />Self-drive packages and driving days can be tailored for corporate and incentive groups for up to 100+ guests.</p><p>&ldquo;While New Zealand road rules do apply, there&rsquo;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.</p><p>&ldquo;It&rsquo;s surely on everyone&rsquo;s bucket list!&rdquo;</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104043">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 01:21:43 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104043</guid>
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<title>Pacific Rendezvous Unique Wedding and Honeymoon Destination</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104041</link>
<author>Pure SEO</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=180" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">ACCOMMODATION</a> <p>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.&nbsp; 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.</p><p>The Pacific Rendezvous resort is a unique destination in itself with well-spaced <a href="http://www.pacificrendezvous.co.nz/">self-contained motel</a> units,&nbsp; swimming pool and two spa pools, one of which is private and spacious ten hectare park-like grounds with spectacular views of both the <a href="http://www.pacificrendezvous.co.nz/information.html">Tutukaka Harbour</a> 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!</p><p>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.</p><p>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.&nbsp; 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.</p><p>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 <a href="http://www.pacificrendezvous.co.nz/information.html">Northland Accommodation</a> - Pacific Rendezvous.</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104041">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 00:19:30 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104041</guid>
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<title>Rebrand of Plume Restaurant One of Many Keys to Culinary Excellence</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104040</link>
<author>Pure SEO</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=186" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">WINE</a> <p>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 <a href="http://www.plumerestaurant.co.nz/the-wines.html">New Zealand wine</a> and produce and how, together, they can celebrate culinary diversity. Matakana is just an hour&rsquo;s drive from Auckland or Whangarei and is a &lsquo;must visit&rsquo; destination on any Matakana wine or food journey.</p><p><br />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&rsquo;s hot water.&nbsp; They are also composting and recycling all of their waste and they are utilising &lsquo;rain gardens&rsquo; to aid in the uptake of storm water run-off and water conservation.</p><p><br />Formerly known as &lsquo;Heron&rsquo;s Flight&rsquo;, the restaurant was rebranded as Plume on October 16 2010 with a completely revamped interior d&eacute;cor, 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&rsquo;s (Plume&rsquo;s restaurant manager) passion for global cuisine.</p><p><br />Offering both indoor and patio dining, Plume is open for <a href="http://www.plumerestaurant.co.nz/reservations.html">Wine Tasting</a> 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&rsquo;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.&nbsp; Plume is the perfect <a href="http://www.plumerestaurant.co.nz/">wedding venue</a> 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 &lsquo;Nest&rsquo;, 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/</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104040">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 23:46:32 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104040</guid>
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<title>Imports rise in April</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104038</link>
<author>Statistics New Zealand</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=141" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">TRADE</a> <p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>&quot;The value of goods imported rose on the back of petroleum imports, which can fluctuate depending on the timing of shipments,&quot; industry and <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="2616815201586c3924136a0c969cae6a53886f50" grtype="null" id="GRmark_2616815201586c3924136a0c969cae6a53886f50_labour:0">labour</span> statistics manager Louise Holmes-Oliver said. &quot;The trade surplus has reduced compared with the previous four April months.&quot;</p><p>Exported goods rose $83 million (2.2 percent) to $4.0 billion. Meat and edible offal led the rise, followed by petroleum and products.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>Overseas merchandise trade statistics remain provisional for the first three months after <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="1372d6324d7c6ea019232aa390fca55a4dad5b7b" grtype="null" id="GRmark_1372d6324d7c6ea019232aa390fca55a4dad5b7b_data:0">data</span> <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="1372d6324d7c6ea019232aa390fca55a4dad5b7b" grtype="null" id="GRmark_1372d6324d7c6ea019232aa390fca55a4dad5b7b_is first released:1">is first released</span>. For more information, see <a href="http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/industry_sectors/imports_and_exports/overseas-merchandise-trade/why-OMT-data-can-change.aspx">Why overseas merchandise trade data can change.</a></p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104038">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 23:15:09 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104038</guid>
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<title>Snow guns crank into action for Mt Hutt and Coronet Peak 2013 winter season</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104037</link>
<author>NZSki</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=99" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">BUSINESS</a> - <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?l=61" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#000000;">QUEENSTOWN</a> <p>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&rsquo;s most popular ski fields.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Mt Hutt also received 8cm of snow overnight as a cold front passed up the country.<br /><br />Mt Hutt Ski Area Manager James McKenzie said that with recent forecasts, the snowmaking team had been on standby.<br /><br />&ldquo;As the temperatures have been dropping, the team has been checking systems and following weather predictions,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been amped, and are stoked to start firing today.&rdquo;<br /><br />Mt Hutt&rsquo;s season opening is always subject to conditions as ground and air temperatures have to be right.<br /><br />&ldquo;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,&rdquo; said Mr McKenzie.<br /><br />&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve had eight guns making snow in the base area today with two more making snow at the top of the Quad chair.&rdquo;<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Mr McKenzie said this would ensure that a range of beginner to intermediate trails would be available for opening day.<br /><br />In Queenstown, 20 of Coronet Peak&rsquo;s 213 snow guns last night automatically switched on as temperature and weather conditions were at optimal levels between 5am and 11am.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />&ldquo;All of this happens behind the scenes, so when we start making snow it&rsquo;s the sign that the season is upon us which creates a real sense of excitement,&rdquo; said Mr Copland.<br /><br />&ldquo;That&rsquo;s when the buzz and excitement starts, and when businesses in Queenstown and Methven start to gear up for the season.&rdquo;<br /><br />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 <a href="http://www.nzski.com/">www.nzski.com</a></p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104037">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 23:08:23 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104037</guid>
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<title>Exports to China back on track</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104036</link>
<author>Federated Farmers of New Zealand</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=149" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">EXPORT</a> <p>Federated Farmers is hugely relieved the meat export impasse in China has been resolved, but believes New Zealand and the Ministry <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="0eea5d56babaa414067696d11ae02d4f69d99254" grtype="null" id="GRmark_0eea5d56babaa414067696d11ae02d4f69d99254_for:0">for</span> Primary Industries (MPI) need to take a hard look in the mirror.<br /><br />&ldquo;Can we say thank you to the Minister, our trade officials and the Chinese authorities for solving a big problem,&rdquo; says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President and its trade spokesperson.<br /><br />&ldquo;China is our largest market for lamb by volume and in the first quarter of 2013, surpassed Britain in terms of value for the first time ever.&nbsp; This is what was at stake so it is embarrassing to discover the fault lay here in New Zealand.<br /><br />&ldquo;It feels as if we have been ankle-tapped by a member of our own team.<br /><br />&ldquo;Hiccups like this are not a good look when we live by trade.&nbsp; Having been around New Zealand for provincial meetings, I picked up frustration among farmers about how long the delay had been allowed to go on for.<br /><br />&ldquo;As for those who voiced unwarranted and uninformed &lsquo;theories,&rsquo; they need to seriously look at themselves.&nbsp; China is a market we value, as the trebling of New Zealand&rsquo;s exports there since 2008 demonstrates.<br /><br />&ldquo;We want to be a good friend to that market and it was the Chinese who thankfully helped to untangle a bureaucratic morass at our end.<br /><br />&ldquo;We thank Minister Guy for grabbing the nettle behind the scenes to get this sorted out.&nbsp; He has genuine cause to feel let down by the MPI as farmers will.<br /><br />&ldquo;We cannot afford a repeat and I am certain the MPI has got that message.&nbsp; It now needs to prove that it has understood it,&rdquo; Mr Wills concluded.</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104036">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 23:02:07 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104036</guid>
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<title>Working Capital's Belief in New Zealand Business Enhances Service</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104035</link>
<author>Pure SEO</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=133" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">FINANCE</a> <p>New Zealand is known for its innovation and originality in business, and it is also well known that 90% of New Zealand businesses turn over less than one million dollars and employ fewer than five people. Unfortunately, what is not so well known is that these small businesses are generally overlooked by traditional finance companies and banks. The good news is that there is a company specialising in small businesses and debtor finance. Working Capital Solutions is a locally owned business financier based in Auckland. They are a specialist invoice financier offering the full suite of invoice finance products from the purchase of single invoices to large undisclosed <a href="http://www.workingcapital.co.nz/what-is-invoice-finance/">invoice finance</a> facilities.</p><p><br />The management team at Working Capital Solutions believe in New Zealand companies and have had considerable experience in the area of <a href="http://www.workingcapital.co.nz/">debtor finance</a>. They are dedicated to the continual supply of their professional and dynamic invoice finance products in the support of New Zealand companies. They have developed cutting edge invoice finance software and platforms which are currently unmatched in New Zealand. Their systems allow them to effectively manage their clients&rsquo; needs, creating transparency through their electronic reporting regime and online client interface.</p><p><br />The team at Working Capital Solutions have realistic expectations and realise they need to keep the finance process a simple one for small businesses. They focus on invoices and stress that a company does not need to own property for them to be able to access finance. If all information is available, Working Capital Solutions can usually provide funding within 48 hours of receiving the application and as they are privately owned and managed they can provide realistic solutions without the usual red tape.</p><p><br />At Working Capital Solutions they are justifiably proud of the service they provide and their core business is assisting small enterprise with its funding requirements.&nbsp; Kimberley Hill Management is a good example of the type of client they are assisting. As Kimberley says, &ldquo;Working Capital Solutions have become a key partner to Kimberley Hill Management. We operate in an industry with little financial certainty and prolonged payment terms sometimes exceeding 90 plus days. Factoring with Working Capital Solutions has provided <a href="http://www.workingcapital.co.nz/why-choose-us/">cash flow liquidity</a> which has enabled us to pay our valued Models and Talent in faster succession than most others. Edward and the team have been a pleasure to work with and I would gladly recommend their services.&rdquo;</p><p><br />For more information on Working Capital Solutions and the services they offer, please go to their website at http://www.workingcapitalsolutions.co.nz.</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104035">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 22:38:36 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104035</guid>
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<title>Pure SEO - 'Need to Know' Workshop</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104030</link>
<author>Alexander Communications</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=99" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">BUSINESS</a> <p>Search engine optimisation (SEO), a long-time fixture in the daily operations of CIOs and IT managers, has finally broken through to New Zealand CEOs, who are embracing the business practice as the way forward for online promotion.</p><p>At the front of the SEO drive is Richard Conway, founder and manager of <a href="http://www.pureseo.co.nz/">Pure SEO</a>, the firm established by the web optimization specialist in 2009 after he emigrated with his wife from the United Kingdom.</p><br /><p>The recent trend in uptake among CEOs, has not escaped Richard&rsquo;s attention. &ldquo;There is always an initial wave of early adopters - CIOs, CMOs, marketing and IT managers along with the people who live and breathe technology.</p><p>&ldquo;What is happening now is that the benefits of search engine optimisation and being a Google top-ranked website have become apparent to CEOs and business owners who are looking for a greater return on their investment in online marketing.&rdquo;</p><p>Growth in online marketing is predicted to continue, with data from the Interactive Advertising Bureau of New Zealand (IABNZ) showing that interactive advertising spending totalled $94.02 million in Q3 2012, an increase of 3% from Q2 2012 and a 5% increase year-on-year. Roy Morgan research shows that in the 12 months to October 2012, $5.6 billion was spent on online shopping and 68% of smartphone owners accessed the internet via mobile phone.</p><p>Explaining the ins and outs of SEO to those that aren&rsquo;t familiar isn&rsquo;t straightforward, but Richard is leading the way by presenting an SEO workshop for the <a href="http://www.marketing.org.nz/MainMenu">Marketing Association</a> (Thursday 30 May).</p><p>The half-day course will include an introduction to SEO, link building and webmaster tools. With a practical session, Richard will explain the influence of keywords on search engine results and how stepping into the mind of a customer will reveal the best keywords for improved SEO - useful to marketing professionals and business owners/managers looking to make an impression online. Attendees should expect to complete the course with knowledge of some of the jargon and software used by SEO professionals and a clear idea of &ldquo;black hat&rdquo; techniques to avoid.</p><p>The Pure SEO &lsquo;SEO - Need to know&rsquo; workshop will be run through the Marketing Association. Further information is available at <a href="http://www.marketing.org.nz/Category?Action=View&amp;Category_id=2618">http://www.marketing.org.nz/Category?Action=View&amp;Category_id=2618</a></p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104030">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 00:02:34 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104030</guid>
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<title>Gables Lakefront Motel And Taupo i-SITE Plays Vital Role In The Taupo Event Industry</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104026</link>
<author>Media PA</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=180" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">ACCOMMODATION</a> - <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?l=52" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#000000;">TAUPO</a> <p>First-class accommodation &ndash; like that provided by Gables Lakefront Motel -&nbsp; is an important factor in attracting major events to Lake Taupo.</p><p>Recently rated No 9 on Trip Advisor, Gables Lakefront Motel is supporting the booming events industry with i-SITE Taupo by providing such high-quality accommodation.</p><p>&ldquo;Events are extremely important to the Taupo region,&rdquo; says Gail Henderson who is the manager of the Taupo i-SITE.</p><p>&ldquo;First class accommodation such as Gables Lakefront Motel is very important for both Taupo events and the Taupo region.&nbsp; By providing high quality accommodation, they are the foundation for the events industry,&rdquo; says Gail Henderson.</p><p>The i-SITE Visitor Information Centres is the first stop for anyone visiting or seeking information about Taupo. Visitors can enjoy the re-assurance of dealing with a real person who is also a local with first-hand experience.</p><p>&ldquo;Events put Taupo on the map, Taupo is fast becoming the events Capital of New Zealand,&rdquo; says Gail.</p><p>Big events attract a large number of visitors to Taupo. On November 30 the Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge takes place in Taupo. &ldquo;The Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is New Zealand&rsquo;s largest cycling event and the world&rsquo;s largest cycling relay,&rdquo; says Gail.</p><p>One of Taupo&#39;s iconic events, organised by the Taupo Half Marathon, is the Mizuno Half Marathon and this is held on August 4, 2013. &ldquo;It is New Zealand&#39;s largest stand-alone half marathon,&rdquo; says Gail. With its fantastic views of the mountains and Lake Taupo the Mizuno Half Marathon is popular with runners of all abilities.</p><p>&ldquo;The Taupo Symposium 2013 Fabric Arts Festival will be held from July 18-23 2013 and will be another fun and unique event for the Great Lake Centre,&rdquo; says Gail.&nbsp; This promises to be a massive event for Taupo. The Symposium will be held over 5 days with 250 workshops.&nbsp;</p><p>The Gables Lakefront Motel is well situated for everyone looking to stay in Taupo during these events.</p><p>It is the perfect escape from the bustle of everyday life.&nbsp; With a number of room options available, Gables Lakefront Motel has something for everyone. The Gables Lakefront Motel apartments all come with kitchen facilities and satellite TV. Each unit includes a tea and coffee maker and a seating area. Most rooms also have a private hot pool and views of the gorgeous Lake Taupo.</p><p><br />Taupo i-SITE - Tongariro Street in Taupo<br />Ph: +64 7 376 0027 or 0800 LAKE TAUPO (0800 525 382)<br />Email: taupovc@greatlaketaupo.com</p><p>Contact Gables Lakefront Motel for your next visit to Taupo.<br />Address: 130 Lake Terrace, Taupo, New Zealand<br />Phone: +64 7 378 8030<br />Email: info@gableslakefrontmotel.co.nz</p><p>Contact&nbsp; Media PA to see how they can help you with press releases:<br />Phone: 0274 587 724<br />Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz<br />Website: www.mediapa.co.nz</p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104026">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2013 22:17:00 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104026</guid>
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<title>Queenstown's Swordfox takes AJ Hackett International to the world</title>
<link>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104025</link>
<author>Southern Public Relations</author>
<description><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?t=99" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#9C4012;">BUSINESS</a> - <a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/default.cfm?l=61" style="text-decoration:none;font-size:80%;font-weight:bold;color:#000000;">QUEENSTOWN</a> <p>Queenstown-based design, branding and web agency Swordfox has launched itself into the international spotlight with its redesign of the global web and social media presence for AJ Hackett International.<br /><br />The adventure company was founded by AJ Hackett, renowned the world over as the <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="783ca8af0621880d87dd4aa15f6dcc71b626f67a" grtype="null" id="GRmark_783ca8af0621880d87dd4aa15f6dcc71b626f67a_bungy:0">bungy</span> jump entrepreneur.<br /><br />The team at Swordfox was tasked with creating a visually impactful and engaging website, incorporating six sites from France to Australia, covering the locations where AJ Hackett International has <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="0dbe1760347ae4dd416b7d358ead6f8d41f8211b" grtype="null" id="GRmark_0dbe1760347ae4dd416b7d358ead6f8d41f8211b_bungy:0">bungy</span>, swing bridge, flying fox, <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="0dbe1760347ae4dd416b7d358ead6f8d41f8211b" grtype="null" id="GRmark_0dbe1760347ae4dd416b7d358ead6f8d41f8211b_luge:1">luge</span> and sky bridge attractions.<br /><br /><span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="fbfd5fb231e515d86fcda18a407d43692e78638c" grtype="null" id="GRmark_fbfd5fb231e515d86fcda18a407d43692e78638c_Swordfox:0">Swordfox</span> Director Graham McLellan said the company was &ldquo;delighted&rdquo; to showcase its work on the world stage.<br /><br />&quot;It&#39;s a big responsibility when you&#39;re asked to work on such a large scale, international project,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />&ldquo;We were privileged to take on the challenge and we&rsquo;re very proud of the outcome.</p><p>&ldquo;The site reflects the energy and culture of the brand, as well as its international reach.&rdquo;<br /><br />Australia-based AJ Hackett International Group Marketing Director Nigel Hobbs said that with AJ Hackett International located in six countries, the company had reviewed web developers from around the world.<br /><br />&quot;Many of these businesses had impressive portfolio and industry recommendations, but in the end it was Swordfox from Queenstown that was able to rise to the challenge of providing an impressive result for our international operation.&quot;</p><p>The new Swordfox-designed home page www.ajhackett.com is a global portal incorporating six international sites that were previously separately managed. Users can visit France, Germany, Russia, China, Singapore and Australia sites within one click, accessing information specific to each area.<br /><br />Mr McLellan said the single domain had numerous benefits for the company such as improved search engine marketing and integrated merchandise sales, but at the same time it threw up some challenges.<br /><br />&ldquo;We had to custom-build a content management system with multilingual support for some of the locations, for example combined French/English under the French section,&rdquo; he said.<br /><br />&ldquo;All the while the day-to-day admin usage of the site was not to be compromised.<br /><br />&ldquo;It&rsquo;s now set up so that as <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="93a380cf1da76af7556e38cbd09ad8ea4addcbab" grtype="null" id="GRmark_93a380cf1da76af7556e38cbd09ad8ea4addcbab_AJ Hackett International:0">AJ Hackett International</span> grows, we will grow the web&rsquo;s capability with their business.&rdquo;</p><p>Features of the website include image-driven and engaging navigation that advances the usual drop-down menus, a new AJ Hackett timeline (from 1986 to present), and YouTube integration. <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40" grtype="null" id="GRmark_3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40_Geolocation:0">Geolocation</span> detection redirects visitors to their nearest <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40" grtype="null" id="GRmark_3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40_bungy:1">bungy</span> location (depending on proximity) and an integrated secure booking and <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40" grtype="null" id="GRmark_3074f9e4304cd18a8b0697b64cfc38d93c7dab40_gift voucher system:2">gift voucher system</span> is available for locations that don&#39;t have an existing provider, such as China.<br /><br />The <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="b08ca47021144b677c2a10b5a2e74cf039697662" grtype="null" id="GRmark_b08ca47021144b677c2a10b5a2e74cf039697662_jQuery:0">jQuery</span> library for animation and effects not only alleviates the need for Adobe Flash but is also compatible with all mobile and web devices.<br /><br />There is a trimmed-down mobile version of the entire site which features the most important aspects of the site needed when users are out and about, such as <span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="f6a612837cfff852d51c37474f4e5ce5ad610f79" grtype="null" id="GRmark_f6a612837cfff852d51c37474f4e5ce5ad610f79_activity:0">activity</span> information, video, images, booking, how to find the nearest activity and contact details.<br /><br /><span class="GRcorrect" grphrase="62e2dd9f4cb0ef33087dcd8efe5ff8a8ce2aa831" grtype="null" id="GRmark_62e2dd9f4cb0ef33087dcd8efe5ff8a8ce2aa831_Swordfox:0">Swordfox</span> also designed all AJ Hackett International&rsquo;s digital presence including Facebook cover photos and avatar, Twitter backgrounds, YouTube background and email signatures.<br /><br />To visit the new AJ Hackett International website go to <a href="http://www.ajhackett.com/">www.ajhackett.com</a><br /><br />For more information about Swordfox go to <a href="http://www.swordfoxdesign.co.nz/">www.swordfoxdesign.co.nz</a></p><br />(<a href="http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104025">Source</a>)<br /><br /> ]]></description>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2013 22:15:34 GMT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=104025</guid>
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