A business may successfully operate in Wellington and decide to expand into Auckland, Christchurch, or surrounding regions. However, simply adding a new service area to a website does not always communicate that change effectively to Google.

Without the right website structure and supporting signals, businesses can find themselves competing against companies that Google already understands as being relevant in those locations.

Google uses many different signals to understand a business, including what services it provides, where it operates and how information across its online presence connects together.

Website structure plays an important role in helping Google understand these relationships.

This is one of the topics that will be explored during an upcoming presentation for the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Attendees will see a real New Zealand case study demonstrating how a structured multi location strategy helped build search visibility across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, along with practical lessons that businesses can apply when expanding into new areas.

Business owners interested in attending can learn more about the workshop and register.

WHEN
Tuesday, 4 August 2026

TIME
3:00pm – 4:00pm

WHERE
Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce
15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt

PRESENTED BY
Clicks4Business

What legally makes a room a bedroom in New Zealand? We explain the minimum size, width, ceiling height, natural light and ventilation requirements—and why council-approved use matters when selling your home.

What Legally Counts as a Bedroom in New Zealand?

Many homeowners and buyers wonder what the legal definition of a bedroom actually is.

Does it need a wardrobe? Is putting a bed in the room enough? Can a study, rumpus room or converted garage be advertised as an extra bedroom?

The short answer is that there is no single feature that automatically makes a room a bedroom. Under New Zealand’s Housing Improvement Regulations, a bedroom is considered a habitable room and must meet minimum standards relating to its size, width, ceiling height, natural light and ventilation.

The basic bedroom requirements

Under the Housing Improvement Regulations 1947, a bedroom generally requires:

• A minimum floor area of 6 square metres.
• A minimum width of 1.8 metres.
• A qualifying ceiling height—generally 2.1 metres for an “existing house” as defined by the regulations and 2.4 metres for a “new house”.
• One or more windows in an external wall.
• Total window glass equal to at least 10% of the room’s floor area.
• Openable window area equal to at least 5% of the floor area.
• No cooking appliance within the bedroom.

Where a room has a sloping ceiling, areas below 1.5 metres high do not count towards its qualifying width or floor area.

Does a bedroom legally need a wardrobe?

No. A built-in wardrobe is not listed as a legal requirement.

A wardrobe can make the room more practical and attractive to buyers, but not having one does not automatically prevent the room from being a bedroom.

What about a very small bedroom?

There is a narrow exception for an “existing house”, which the regulations define as a house erected before the regulations were enacted in 1947.

In one of these older homes, a room between 4.5 and 6 square metres may be occupied as a bedroom by a child under 10. A room below 4.5 square metres cannot be occupied as a bedroom under these regulations.

Size alone does not settle the question

This is where things can become confusing—particularly when a study, rumpus room, basement or garage has been converted into sleeping accommodation.

A room might be large enough and have a window but still raise compliance questions if it was not constructed or approved as habitable space.

Before marketing a converted space as a bedroom, it is sensible to check:

The council property file and approved plans.
Any building consents and Code Compliance Certificates.
Whether the alterations were completed lawfully.
Whether the space meets the Building Code requirements relevant to the work.

Tenancy Services also advises that bedrooms should be at least 6 square metres, have adequate light and ventilation, and should not be advertised as bedrooms if they do not meet the applicable regulations.

Can you call it a bedroom when selling?

If the room meets the physical requirements and has been lawfully established as habitable space, it may be reasonable to market it as a bedroom.

However, if the council plans show it as a garage, storage room or other non-habitable area, further investigation may be needed before calling it one.

This matters because bedroom count can influence buyer expectations, lending, insurance, valuation and the eventual sale price. Clear disclosure at the beginning is far better than creating uncertainty during a buyer’s due diligence.

If you are preparing a North Shore property for sale and are unsure whether a room should be marketed as a bedroom, study, rumpus or utility room, I can help you review the available property information and decide on the clearest way to present it.

Drew Miller
Ray White Mairangi Bay & Milford
021 963 654

This article provides general information only and is not legal or building advice. Requirements can depend on the property’s age, the work completed and the applicable approvals. For a definitive assessment, contact the relevant council, a suitably qualified building professional or your lawyer.

When a computer starts slowing down, many people assume it's time to buy a replacement. Long startup times, poor battery life, overheating, or frequent crashes often feel like signs that a device has reached the end of its life.

In reality, that isn't always the case.

At Advanced Computers, technicians regularly inspect desktops and laptops that customers believe are beyond saving. After a thorough diagnosis, many turn out to need only targeted repairs or upgrades rather than a completely new computer. In many cases, replacing a failing component can restore years of reliable performance while costing far less than purchasing a new device.

Why Computers Slow Down

Computer performance usually declines gradually rather than failing overnight. Storage drives wear over time, batteries lose capacity, cooling systems become clogged with dust, and software accumulates unnecessary files and background processes. Individually these issues may seem minor, but together they can make even a well-built computer feel outdated.

Many older computers still have processors capable of handling everyday workloads. The real bottlenecks are often components that can be repaired or upgraded without replacing the entire machine.

The Value of a Professional Diagnosis

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming the most obvious symptom is the actual problem.

A laptop that runs slowly may have a failing storage drive rather than an ageing processor. A computer that unexpectedly shuts down could simply require a battery replacement or cooling system repair. Even machines that refuse to start can often be restored after diagnosing faulty components.

Advanced Computers begins every repair with a detailed inspection to identify the underlying cause before recommending a solution. If a repair or upgrade offers better value than replacement, that's the recommendation customers receive.

This repair-first approach helps customers avoid unnecessary spending while extending the usable life of their devices.

Upgrades That Often Deliver the Biggest Improvements

Some of the most noticeable performance improvements come from replacing ageing hardware.

Installing a solid-state drive (SSD) in place of an older mechanical hard drive can dramatically reduce startup times, improve application loading, and make the entire system feel more responsive. Increasing memory (RAM) can improve multitasking and help older computers handle modern software more comfortably.

Software optimisation also plays an important role. Removing unnecessary startup programs, cleaning temporary files, updating operating systems, and resolving software conflicts can often restore performance without replacing any hardware.

For laptops, battery replacement is another upgrade that frequently extends the life of a computer. A worn battery doesn't necessarily mean the laptop itself has reached the end of its useful life. Replacing it can restore portability and everyday usability for years to come.

Experience Across Windows PCs and Apple Devices

Advanced Computers repairs both Windows PCs and Apple devices, with technicians working on everything from desktop computers to MacBooks used for business, study, and creative work.

The company is also a certified Mac repair specialist, with every Mac technician individually Apple-certified. Those certifications extend across Apple's product ecosystem, including Mac, iPhone, and iPad repairs, giving customers confidence that their devices are being handled by technicians trained to Apple standards.

"Many computers we see are still perfectly capable machines," says Nancy Zhang, Owner of Advanced Computers. "Often, a simple SSD upgrade or additional memory is enough to give customers several more years of reliable use."

Real Repairs That Changed the Outcome

One customer arrived with a Windows laptop that seemed ready for replacement. The screen was cracked, the battery barely held a charge, and the computer had become frustratingly slow.

After replacing the display, installing a new SSD, increasing the memory, and fitting a replacement battery, the laptop delivered dramatically improved performance and remained suitable for everyday use.

"At another repair shop I was convinced I needed a new laptop," says customer Neill. "But after the repairs and upgrades done at Advanced Computers, it feels faster than ever and saved me hundreds of dollars."

Another customer was preparing to retire an older MacBook because it struggled to keep up with modern applications. Following a detailed assessment, the technicians identified several upgrades that significantly improved performance without replacing the computer. The customer was able to continue using the MacBook instead of investing in a new device.

Cases like these are common reminders that age alone doesn't determine whether a computer is worth keeping.

Repairing Computers Also Reduces Electronic Waste

Repairing a computer isn't only a financial decision. It also helps reduce electronic waste.

New Zealand generates an estimated 99,000 tonnes of e-waste each year, according to the Ministry for the Environment. Extending the life of computers through repairs, refurbishment, and upgrades reduces the number of devices entering the waste stream while making better use of the materials already built into existing hardware.

For households, students, and small businesses, repairing a computer instead of replacing it can also free up budget for other priorities without sacrificing performance.

When Is Replacement the Better Choice?

Not every computer should be repaired.

If replacement parts are no longer available, repair costs exceed the value of the device, or the hardware can no longer support the software needed for everyday work, investing in a newer computer may be the better option.

A professional assessment helps determine which path offers the best long-term value.

For many people, the answer isn't replacing a computer—it is understanding what the computer actually needs.

A properly diagnosed repair or carefully chosen upgrade can restore performance, extend the life of the device, and delay an expensive purchase for years. Before assuming your computer has reached the end of its life, it's worth finding out whether a practical repair could keep it running longer.

Think Your Computer Has Reached the End of Its Life?

Before investing in a new computer, have it professionally assessed and repaired. Advanced Computers provides expert repairs with certified technicians who focuses on practical, cost-effective solutions that help customers get the most from their devices.

Whether your computer is running slowly, has a failing battery, damaged screen, or simply needs a performance upgrade, Advanced Computers can help you determine whether repairing it is the smarter choice.

Contact Advanced Computers today to book a professional assessment or visit their computer repair page.

Auckland Mac owners can now have their computers professionally inspected free of charge by Apple-certified technicians under a new limited-time initiative from Advanced Computers, available at its Penrose and Rosedale service centres.

Normally valued at $80 (GST inclusive), the Mac Health Check is conducted by Apple-certified technicians and is available to anyone who owns a Mac. There is no obligation to proceed with repairs after the inspection, and every customer receives a detailed Mac Health Check Report outlining the condition of their device.

The complimentary Mac Health Check includes:

Hardware health inspection
Internal dust and cleanliness check
Battery status and condition assessment
A comprehensive Mac Health Check Report with findings and recommendations

If a customer chooses to proceed with any recommended repairs, the standard $80 inspection fee is credited towards the final repair cost. During this promotion, however, the inspection is completely free. If no repair is required, customers simply receive their report and expert advice at no cost.

Unlike many general computer repair providers, every technician at Advanced Computers holds individual Apple certifications covering the diagnosis and repair of Apple devices, including Macs, iPhones and iPads. This ensures customers receive assessments from technicians trained specifically to work on Apple's hardware.

"Many people don't realise there's a problem until their Mac becomes noticeably slow, starts overheating, or refuses to turn on," said Nancy Zhang, Owner of Advanced Computers.

"Most issues don't happen overnight. Batteries gradually lose capacity, cooling systems collect dust over time, and components naturally wear with age. A professional health check helps identify those issues early, giving Mac owners a clear understanding of their device's condition before a minor issue turns into an expensive repair."

Apple states that MacBook batteries are designed to retain up to 80% of their original capacity after approximately 1,000 charge cycles. As Macs age, batteries, cooling systems and other hardware components naturally experience wear, making periodic inspections a practical way to identify developing issues before they affect reliability or performance.

Customers receive a written Mac Health Check Report that explains the findings in clear, easy-to-understand language, along with practical recommendations where appropriate. Whether the Mac is performing perfectly or requires attention, customers leave with a better understanding of its overall condition.

The promotion is available for a limited time, with appointments offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the hands-on nature of each inspection, booking availability is limited.

Mac owners can book their complimentary Mac Health Check at Advanced Computers' Mac repair page https://www.advancedcomputers.co.nz/mac-repair/. This offer is available for all Mac models, including iMac, Mac Pro, Mac Mini, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and the new MacBook Neo.

About Advanced Computers

Advanced Computers is an Auckland-based Apple repair specialist with service centres in Penrose and Rosedale. Every technician is individually Apple-certified across Apple's product range, including Macs, iPhones and iPads, providing professional diagnostics, repairs and technical support for consumers and businesses throughout Auckland. The company specialises exclusively in Apple devices and is committed to helping customers extend the lifespan of their technology through accurate diagnostics, transparent advice and quality workmanship.

Media Contact

Nancy Zhang
Owner
Advanced Computers
enquiries@advancedcomputers.co.nz

TRT is pleased to announce a new partnership with XCMG, one of the world's leading construction and lifting equipment manufacturers. The partnership expands TRT's crane and lifting equipment offering across New Zealand and Australia.

The partnership brings together two companies that share a commitment to engineering excellence, innovation, quality and continuous improvement, with a focus on developing the next generation of lifting solutions.

The agreement sees TRT represent XCMG across a range of products, including All Terrain Cranes, Rough Terrain Cranes, Crawler Cranes, Tower Cranes, Truck Cranes and Port Handling Equipment. This gives customers greater choice and access to a broader range of lifting solutions across New Zealand and Australia.

For almost 60 years, TRT has supplied equipment that performs in demanding conditions, backed by the parts, service and technical expertise customers rely on. Partnering with XCMG builds on that legacy, expanding TRT's lifting portfolio while maintaining the commitment to quality and reliability that defines the business.

"At TRT, we're committed to supplying equipment that delivers real value over its entire working life," said Bruce Carden, Managing Director of TRT.

"Choosing the right OEM partner is about more than the product itself. It's about confidence in the engineering, a shared commitment to innovation, supplying value to the customer and the ability to support those customers for years to come. We believe XCMG is a strong fit for TRT because both companies are focused on developing better solutions for the industries we serve."

As one of the world's largest construction machinery manufacturers, XCMG has established a global reputation for engineering excellence, manufacturing capability and continued investment in research and development. With equipment operating across major infrastructure, construction, mining and industrial projects worldwide, XCMG brings proven global capability to TRT's expanding lifting portfolio.

Backed By Industry-Leading Support

While the new partnership expands TRT's product offering, the company's focus remains unchanged: supporting customers throughout the life of their equipment.

TRT will provide comprehensive product support across Queensland & down the East coast of Australia, building on its proven customer support model. The company will continue expanding its support network by training and appointing additional service dealers, ensuring customers have access to expert support wherever they operate.

"Our customers don't just buy equipment, they invest in uptime, reliability and the people standing behind it," Bruce said.

"That's where TRT has always differentiated itself. We'll be supporting the XCMG range with the same commitment to sales, parts, and service that has defined TRT for almost 60 years. Customers can expect responsive technical support, genuine parts availability and experienced people who understand the equipment."

“What really impressed both Neil Webb (GM TRT Australia) & I was the attention to detail, when we visited the various XCMG Crane & Port Handling factories recently. The engineers were engaged & they really wanted our input with the build of the product. Neil mentioned a couple of improvements, these were noted & implemented during the trip”. Bruce said.

Distribution Across New Zealand and Australia

Under the new arrangement:

• TRT is the authorised XCMG dealer throughout New Zealand for the Crane & Port Handling equipment range.
• In Queensland, TRT operates as a sub-dealer of Baden Davis Crane Connection for XCMG crane products.
• For Tower Cranes and Port Handling Equipment, TRT is the authorised XCMG distributor across Australia's east coast.

This distribution network combines regional expertise with comprehensive sales, service and technical support, reinforcing TRT's commitment to delivering world-class lifting solutions backed by local knowledge and long-term customer support.

About TRT

Founded in 1967, TRT is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of heavy transport and lifting solutions across New Zealand and Australia. Alongside manufacturing TRT trailers and TIDD Pick & Carry Cranes, the company represents a range of globally recognised equipment brands supported by dedicated parts, service and technical teams.

For more information, visit their website: www.trt.co.nz

This August, Savour St Heliers invites Aucklanders to dine, discover and connect during Restaurant Month
Just 15 minutes from Auckland’s CBD, the Bays offer a slice of coastal paradise—and this August, St Heliers is inviting locals and visitors alike to slow down, explore and experience the village through flavour.
As part of Auckland Restaurant Month, Savour St Heliers celebrates food, community and connection, bringing together a diverse line-up of local eateries for a month-long programme of dining experiences, special menus, and exclusive offers.
At the heart of the campaign is a simple invitation: purchase a $50 dining voucher for just $35 and enjoy it across participating St Heliers restaurants and bars—an easy way to revisit favourites or discover something new.
A village built on flavour and connection
From beachfront dining to hidden local gems, St Heliers’ hospitality scene reflects a growing appetite for authentic, high-quality and community-driven dining experiences.
This year’s participating venues include a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafés and takeaway favourites such as La Vista Restaurant, Cliff Grill, Chim Chim Thai Kitchen, and Koru Oceans Fish & Chips, alongside Annabelles, Porch, Moretons, Scallinis, Semplice, St Heliers Bay Bistro and Waterboy.
Restaurant highlights
Participating businesses are using Restaurant Month as an opportunity to showcase signature dishes, connect with the community and introduce new dining experiences.
 
At La Vista, the team will offer a special curated menu paired with mulled wine, alongside customer favourites such as beef Wellington, slow-cooked lamb shank and house-made strawberry and peach sangria. The restaurant will also feature traditional Ukrainian dishes including honey cake and borshch, reflecting its cultural influences and warm, homestyle approach to dining.
Cliff Grill continues to build a loyal following with its authentic charcoal-grilled takeaway offering. Known for its BBQ sharing boxes, ribs, burgers and chicken, the family-run business says Restaurant Month is an opportunity to highlight its focus on generous portions, consistency and convenient, high-quality comfort food.
Chim Chim Thai Kitchen will present a “Taste of Thailand” three-course experience, designed to bring people together through shared dining and bold flavours. The team says the venue is focused on creating connection at the table, alongside signature cocktails such as its popular spicy Bangkok drink. The restaurant was recently highly commended in the Ōrākei Local Board Business Awards and continues to evolve its modern Thai dining concept.
Koru Oceans Fish & Chips will showcase a limited-time menu featuring New Zealand seafood chowder, snapper and chips, sweet and sour pork, and its popular Wagyu beef burger. The business reports strong customer loyalty, with 70 of 84 recent UberEATS orders coming from repeat customers, reflecting growing demand for fresh, reliable comfort food with a twist.
St Heliers Bay Bistro will celebrate Restaurant Month with a special signature dish and cocktail created exclusively for the event. Located on the waterfront in the heart of St Heliers Village, the family-owned, fully licensed bistro offers panoramic views across the Waitematā Harbour and a relaxed beachside dining experience from breakfast through to dinner. Open seven days a week, the venue showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients, an expertly curated wine list, local beers and handcrafted cocktails. The team says Restaurant Month is an opportunity to welcome both locals and visitors, showcase everything that makes the bistro unique, and celebrate the vibrant hospitality scene that continues to make St Heliers one of Auckland's premier waterfront dining destinations.
More than a dining month
Savour St Heliers is designed to be more than a promotion—it is an invitation to experience the village differently.
 
“Restaurant Month is a chance to slow down, come together and really experience what makes St Heliers special,” organisers say. “It’s about discovering new favourites, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the people behind the food.”
Looking ahead, the St Heliers dining calendar continues with a progressive dinner event on 9 September, promising another unique opportunity for locals and visitors to explore the village’s culinary offering.
To buy vouchers, and for more information, visit: stheliers.com

CityFitness has appointed independent Auckland public relations agency Impact PR to lead a national communications and media relations programme supporting the continued growth of New Zealand’s largest gym chain.

The appointment will help strengthen the CityFitness brand profile and expand its contribution to public discussion around physical activity, exercise access, strength training, preventative health and wellbeing.

CityFitness operates 66 fitness clubs across New Zealand, providing members with gym access, group fitness, personal training and digital fitness services.

As CityFitness continues to grow its national network, Impact PR will provide strategic public relations, corporate communications, media relations, thought leadership and brand communications support.

CityFitness to Expand Health and Fitness Commentary

The communications programme will position CityFitness experts to provide practical and informed commentary on health and fitness issues affecting New Zealanders.

This will include the importance of regular physical activity, barriers to exercise, strength training, healthy ageing, preventative health and the role accessible gyms can play in helping people establish sustainable fitness routines.

Impact PR managing director Mark Devlin says CityFitness has a strong national footprint and a growing opportunity to contribute to public conversations around exercise, strength training and wellbeing.

“CityFitness is one of New Zealand’s most visible fitness brands and plays an important role in helping more people access exercise, strength training and healthier routines.

“As public discussion around physical inactivity, preventative health and long-term wellbeing continues to grow, there is a significant opportunity for CityFitness to contribute informed, practical and credible commentary.

“We’re delighted to be working with CityFitness and supporting the next stage of its communications strategy through strategic public relations, thought leadership and high-quality media engagement.”

Communications Programme to Support CityFitness Growth

CityFitness chief operating officer Doug Hatten said the company selected Impact PR because of its experience communicating health, lifestyle and business issues to mainstream and industry audiences.

“Impact PR demonstrated a strong understanding of the role CityFitness plays in New Zealand communities and the wider conversation around health, exercise and wellbeing.

“The agency has a proven ability to communicate important issues in a way that is clear, relevant and accessible. That made Impact PR a strong fit as CityFitness continues to grow its national profile and engage with New Zealanders through the media.”

The CityFitness appointment extends Impact PR’s work across the health, fitness, wellbeing and consumer sectors.

Impact PR advises New Zealand and international organisations on strategic communications, media relations, corporate communications, reputation management and executive thought leadership.

The independent New Zealand PR agency also works across healthcare, technology, financial services, manufacturing, infrastructure, property and professional services.

Impact PR was founded by Mark Devlin and Fleur Revell and provides communications programmes designed to build brand awareness, establish expert authority and support long-term organisational growth.

-ENDS-

About CityFitness

CityFitness is New Zealand’s largest gym chain, operating 66 fitness clubs nationwide.

CityFitness provides accessible gym facilities, group fitness, personal training and digital fitness support to members throughout New Zealand. The company is focused on helping more New Zealanders participate in regular exercise, build healthier routines and improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

About Impact PR

Impact PR is an independent New Zealand public relations agency specialising in strategic communications, media relations, corporate communications, brand communications, reputation management and thought leadership.

The agency works with organisations throughout New Zealand and internationally across health, fitness, technology, financial services, manufacturing, infrastructure, property and professional services.

International fiduciary services provider Southpac Group has appointed Impact PR to lead a new global communications programme supporting the company’s continued growth across New Zealand, North America and other international markets.

The appointment will see Impact PR provide Southpac Group with strategic communications, media relations, corporate communications, reputation management, issues management and thought leadership support.

Southpac Group specialises in international trusts, asset protection, wealth structuring, succession planning and corporate services. The company administers more than NZ$6.8 billion in assets through international trust and corporate structures and serves clients from 51 countries.

The communications programme will focus on strengthening Southpac Group’s international profile and increasing understanding of the legal, financial and succession planning issues affecting professionals, business owners and families.

Southpac Group Builds on Four Decades of International Growth

Southpac Group has operated in the international fiduciary services sector for more than 40 years and has established more than 4,000 international trust structures during that period.

The company has teams in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Nevis and the Philippines and provides international asset protection, trust administration, wealth structuring and corporate services to clients around the world.

Approximately 85 per cent of Southpac Group’s client base is now located in the United States, where the company has experienced sustained demand for specialist international trust and asset protection services.

Impact PR will support Southpac Group by developing expert commentary, media opportunities and thought leadership covering asset protection, international trusts, succession planning, wealth structuring and fiduciary services.

Impact PR managing director Mark Devlin said the appointment reflected the corporate communication agency’s experience helping organisations communicate complex issues through credible, evidence-based public relations.

“Southpac Group has built an impressive international business over more than 40 years and is recognised as a leader in international asset protection and fiduciary services.

“As demand for informed commentary around asset protection, succession planning and international wealth structuring continues to grow, there is a significant opportunity to further strengthen Southpac Group’s profile through strategic public relations, thought leadership and high-quality media engagement.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Southpac Group and supporting the next stage of its communications strategy.”

Communications Programme to Support International Expansion

Southpac Group chief executive officer Mike Arand said the company selected Impact PR because of its experience working with organisations operating in complex and highly regulated sectors.

“Impact PR demonstrated a strong understanding of our industry and how to communicate technical subject matter in a way that is credible, balanced and accessible.

“The agency has an excellent reputation for developing thought leadership programmes and communicating complex issues to mainstream and business audiences. That made Impact PR a natural choice as Southpac Group continues to expand its profile in New Zealand and internationally.”

The appointment adds to Impact PR’s growing portfolio of clients in the financial services and professional services sectors.

The Auckland public relations agency works with organisations across wealth management, financial technology, healthcare, manufacturing, property, infrastructure and technology.

Impact PR was founded by Mark Devlin and Fleur Revell and provides strategic communications, media relations, corporate communications, crisis communications, reputation management and thought leadership services to New Zealand and international organisations.

-Ends-

About Southpac Group

Southpac Group is an international fiduciary services provider specialising in international trusts, asset protection, wealth structuring, succession planning and corporate services.

Established more than 40 years ago, Southpac Group has created more than 4,000 international trust structures and serves clients from 51 countries. The company administers more than NZ$6.8 billion in assets through international trust and corporate structures and supports a predominantly North American client base through teams in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Nevis and the Philippines.

About Impact PR

Impact PR is an independent New Zealand public relations agency specialising in strategic communications, media relations, corporate communications, crisis communications, reputation management and thought leadership.

The agency works with organisations throughout New Zealand and internationally across financial services, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, infrastructure, property and professional services.

Most New Zealand investing content assumes you already know what an ETF is, what dollar-cost averaging means, and why a P/E ratio matters. If you are starting from zero — no finance background, no family history of investing, just a vague sense that you should probably do something with your savings — this is for you.

The thing nobody tells you about getting started

You do not need to be rich. You do not need to understand the share market. You do not need to pick stocks. You need three things: a platform, a regular amount you can afford to set aside, and the willingness to leave it alone for a long time.

The minimum to get started on most NZ investing platforms is either zero or very low. Sharesies lets you start with as little as one cent — though $5 or $50 is more practical if you want to buy into a diversified fund. Hatch and Stake have minimums that vary by what you buy, but $50 is a realistic starting point for either.

The barrier was never the money. It was always the confidence.

What you are actually buying

When you invest through one of these platforms, you are almost always buying into a fund — a bundle of assets managed by a professional fund manager. The two main types you will encounter:

**Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)** are the most common option for beginners. An ETF tracks an index, like the S&P 500 (the 500 largest US companies) or the NZX 50 (New Zealand's 50 largest listed companies). When you buy a unit of an S&P 500 ETF, you own a tiny slice of Apple, Microsoft, Tesla, and 497 others in one transaction. You are not betting on any single company — you are betting on the overall direction of the market.

**Managed funds** are similar, but are actively managed by a fund manager who picks investments rather than tracking an index. They typically charge higher fees and, over long periods, most do not beat the index they are benchmarked against. For a beginner, a low-cost index-tracking ETF is almost always the better starting point.

Dollar-cost averaging — the boring superpower

The single most powerful concept in beginner investing is dollar-cost averaging, and it is painfully simple. Instead of trying to time the market — buying when you think prices are low and selling when they are high — you invest the same amount on the same schedule, every time, regardless of what the market is doing.

Here is why it works. When prices are low, your $50 buys more units. When prices are high, your $50 buys fewer units. Over time, you naturally buy more when things are cheap and less when they are expensive, without ever having to make a prediction. You remove emotion, timing, and guesswork from the equation entirely.

Set up an automatic payment. $50 a week, $100 a fortnight, $200 a month — whatever you can sustain without noticing. Then do not touch it. For years.

How the numbers actually play out

Say you invest $50 a week — $2,600 a year. Over 20 years, that is $52,000 of your own money. At a 7% average annual return (roughly the long-term average for global share markets after inflation), your balance after 20 years would be about $115,000. The extra $63,000 is compound growth — money your money made, which then made more money, which then made more money.

The critical variable is time. Start at 25 instead of 35, and that same $50 a week could mean a difference of well over $100,000 by retirement. Start at 45, and you need to contribute significantly more to catch up. The best day to start investing was 20 years ago. The second-best day is today.

What to look for in a platform

Most NZ platforms charge a mix of fees: a monthly subscription, a per-transaction fee, or a percentage of your balance. For a small, regular investor, the fee structure matters more than the feature list. A $3 monthly subscription on a $500 balance is effectively a 7.2% annual fee — worse than almost any fund fee out there. The same $3 on a $50,000 balance is negligible.

Look for a platform with no monthly fee (or one that is very low), access to low-cost index ETFs, and an auto-invest feature that lets you set up a recurring payment and forget about it.

ValueHub's investing comparison pages break down every major NZ platform — Sharesies, Hatch, Stake, Kernel, InvestNow, and more — side by side, with fee comparisons, feature breakdowns, and pros and cons for different investor types. Use the compound interest calculator to model your own scenario and see exactly what regular investing looks like over 10, 20, or 30 years.

Finance:. NZ dollar was steady over the week but remains a very weak currency. The reserve Bank lifted the OCR 2.5 points to 2.5% while the Brent Crude increased to $77.52/barrel but is currently $76.03/barrel as the Gulf War ramps up again.

Wool: The wool prices continue to firm with growing optimism in the coarse wools.

Beef, Sheep & Venison schedules: The meat schedules remain strong with most categories showing increases. All meat schedules remain firm as demand continues to grow for red meats internationally.

Dairy Prices. The g/DT fell 4.9% with an increased offering. There have been similar falls at the corresponding auction in recent years. WMP fell4.4% to $US3425/tn, SMP dropped 7% and cheddar was down 12.3%

There has been an outbreak of Strangles in the Equine industry in the Waikato, Screwworm in the USA, and Bird Flue has been found in Australia. Johnes is a problem in New Zealand. All farmers must remain vigilant for the many exotic disease outbreak and know the symptoms and reporting processes. Our country relies on the rural sector for its financial wellbeing!!!

Quote: “ Tears shed for another person are not a sign of weakness. They are a sign of a pure heart.”

Need Help. If at any time you just want to talk & need someone to talk to, just call - Male Support Services (Waikato) 0800-677-289, or Rural Support Trust 0800-787-245. Crisis TXT – HELP (4357). A shared problem can be a problem solved!!

 

Every farm, orchard, and rural property deals with animal waste at some point: carcasses, offal, soft tissue and other organic residues that would otherwise be buried, burned, or trucked away at cost. For many landowners, this material is seen purely as a disposal problem. But according to Dr Gordon Rajendram, a growing body of research points to a better answer: composting.

Far from being a waste-management afterthought, properly composted animal waste becomes a stable, nutrient-rich soil amendment capable of genuinely reducing a farm's reliance on bought-in fertiliser.

The science behind this is well established. Sustained thermophilic temperatures above 55°C for several consecutive days denature residual protein and destroy the great majority of pathogens, a finding confirmed by peer-reviewed composting trials published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and elsewhere. What goes in as raw animal tissue comes out as a biologically stable, humus-like product, with nothing recognisable as "waste" remaining.

Field research backs this up. In Hungary, composted animal processing waste applied at 20 to 50 tonnes per hectare improved yield and quality in maize, mustard and triticale crops, with benefits still measurable three to four years later. In India, recycled animal waste has even out-performed synthetic diammonium phosphate fertiliser in tomato field trials, supplying nitrogen as effectively as a manufactured product.

There is also a practical volume benefit. Composting typically reduces the initial mass of mixed waste and bulking agent by around 30 percent through moisture loss and organic breakdown, meaning significantly less material is left sitting on-site awaiting disposal at any given time.

The result is a genuine win-win: less waste accumulation, lower disposal costs, and a valuable soil conditioner supplying nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and organic matter. Applied at agronomic nitrogen rates and to appropriate land, composted animal waste can replace or supplement synthetic fertiliser inputs.

For farmers, processors and rural advisors alike, the message is clear: composting animal waste is not a compromise or a stopgap. When done correctly, with proper temperature management and appropriate carbon-rich bulking agents, it is good agronomy, and a practical, evidence-based pathway that turns a disposal challenge into a productive on-farm resource.

For more information, please contact:

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

Since its launch in 2021, NZ Business Connect has established a presence in Hamilton and Tauranga, creating opportunities for business owners, professionals and community leaders to connect through regular networking events. With plans to expand into Auckland, the organisation is also seeing growing interest from businesses looking to align with its events and audience.

This year, one of NZ Business Connect's events was sponsored by the Hamilton franchise of McDonald's, reflecting the increasing profile of the network and the audiences its events attract. Upcoming events will see sponsorship from Bank of New Zealand on 28 July and Lodge Real Estate on 8 September, with the latter event taking place at Te Awa Lakes in Hamilton.

The University of Waikato has also joined the list of organisations supporting NZ Business Connect events, alongside previous key sponsors including Pragma, Simply Fire, First Rate Finish and JSR Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.

While the organisations involved represent different industries, they share a common interest in supporting local business communities and engaging directly with professionals, entrepreneurs and decision-makers.

Founded by former journalist Phillip Quay, NZ Business Connect was created to provide a modern approach to business networking, bringing together businesses of different sizes and stages of growth. Since then, the network has expanded across multiple centres and continues to attract new members, event attendees and sponsors.

Founder and CEO Phillip Quay says the growing support from sponsors reflects the value businesses see in building genuine connections within their local communities.

"When NZ Business Connect started, the goal was to create an environment where people could build meaningful business relationships. The level of support we're now receiving from organisations across a range of industries shows there is a real appetite for face-to-face networking and community engagement."

Quay says sponsorship provides businesses with an opportunity to do more than simply increase brand visibility.

"Our sponsors play an important role in helping us bring people together. They are supporting an environment where business owners, professionals and community leaders can connect, collaborate and create opportunities that benefit the wider community."

The increasing level of sponsor support reflects the role business networking continues to play in helping organisations build relationships, raise their profile and connect with local communities. For sponsors, events provide an opportunity to engage directly with attendees in a professional environment while supporting initiatives that encourage collaboration across the business sector.

As NZ Business Connect continues its expansion into new regions, sponsorship opportunities remain available for businesses interested in becoming involved.

Businesses interested in sponsoring future NZ Business Connect events can contact the team to discuss upcoming opportunities in Hamilton, Tauranga and future Auckland events.

For further details and to secure your sponsorship, please contact us at info@nzbusinessconnect.co.nz or 027 458 7724.

NZ Business Connect – Connecting Businesses and Charities To Change The World

www.nzbusinessconnect.co.nz