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What Would it Take to Compete with Trademe?

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

TradeMe has long held a dominant position in New Zealand’s online marketplace, offering a platform where buyers and sellers can transact with ease. However, the rise of new technologies and evolving consumer preferences suggest that it is possible for a new competitor to challenge TradeMe’s dominance. But what exactly would it take to compete with such an established player? Here are six critical areas where a new entrant would need to focus.

1. Solving the Network Effect Problem
One of the most formidable challenges any new marketplace faces is the network effect. This effect means that the value of a service increases as more people use it. TradeMe has capitalised on this phenomenon for years, creating a robust ecosystem that continually attracts more users. To break into this market, a new platform must find a way to quickly build a critical mass of users.

Innovative approaches like offering early adopters significant incentives, such as discounts or exclusive deals, can help jumpstart user acquisition. Additionally, targeting niche markets initially, rather than trying to appeal to everyone at once, can help build a dedicated user base. By excelling in specific areas underserved by TradeMe, a new platform can gradually expand its reach and begin to leverage its own network effect.

2. Not a TradeMe 2.0
History has shown that simply replicating TradeMe’s features is not enough to succeed. Platforms like Wheedle, Ferrit, Sella, and Allgoods attempted to compete with TradeMe but ultimately failed. These platforms did not provide sufficient additional value to incentivise users to switch. Without offering a compelling reason for users to move away from an established platform, these services struggled to gain traction.

A new platform must differentiate itself by offering unique features or significant improvements over TradeMe. Whether it’s through innovative technology, superior user experience, lineal integration or distinct market focus, the key is to provide clear, tangible benefits that TradeMe does not offer. Understanding why these previous attempts failed is crucial to developing a strategy that avoids the same pitfalls.

3. Understanding the Needs of Buyers
Any new competitor must prioritise the buyer experience. Buyers are looking for a seamless, enjoyable shopping experience, and any new platform must exceed the expectations set by TradeMe. This starts with an intuitive, user-friendly interface that makes browsing and purchasing straightforward and enjoyable.

Security is paramount. Buyers need assurance that their transactions are safe and that their personal information is protected. A new platform should implement top-tier security measures, including secure payment gateways and comprehensive buyer protection policies. Additionally, a strong mobile presence is essential, as more consumers are using their smartphones to shop. A well-designed app can significantly enhance the shopping experience.

Personalisation is another key factor. Advanced search functionalities, personalised recommendations, and detailed product descriptions can help buyers find exactly what they want quickly. By leveraging data analytics to tailor the shopping experience to individual preferences, a new platform can create a more engaging and satisfying user experience.

4. Understanding the Needs of Sellers
Attracting sellers requires a focus on their profitability and ease of use. Sellers are primarily concerned with reaching a broad audience and minimising costs. Offering lower fees than TradeMe can be a compelling reason for sellers to switch to a new platform. Beyond financial incentives, providing comprehensive tools for managing listings, tracking sales, and analysing performance can make a significant difference.

Customer support is another crucial area. Sellers need reliable and responsive support to resolve issues quickly. Offering personalised support and resources can help sellers navigate the platform more efficiently. Moreover, allowing sellers to create customised store pages can help them build their brand and stand out in the marketplace.

Marketing support is also vital. By providing sellers with advertising options and promotional tools, a new platform can help them increase visibility and drive sales. Special features like bulk listing tools and automated inventory management can further streamline the selling process, making it more attractive for sellers to switch platforms.

5. Leveraging New Technologies
Incorporating cutting-edge technologies can provide a significant competitive advantage. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) can transform the user experience on a new platform. For instance, AI-powered recommendation engines can offer highly personalised shopping suggestions, while ML algorithms can improve search results by learning from user behavior over time.

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are another critical asset. By integrating with various APIs, a new platform can offer a range of enhanced services. For example, leveraging AI APIs can facilitate sophisticated chatbots for customer service, providing instant and accurate responses to user queries, thus improving customer satisfaction.

Open banking presents another opportunity. By integrating open banking APIs, a new platform can offer streamlined payment solutions, making transactions faster and more secure. This can also enable innovative financial services, such as instant credit assessments for buyers and sellers, thereby enhancing trust and convenience.

Moreover, blockchain technology can be utilised to ensure transparency and security in transactions. Smart contracts can automate processes such as payment releases upon successful delivery, reducing fraud and building trust among users.

6. Not Being Everything to Everyone
One of the most common mistakes new platforms make is trying to be everything to everyone. This approach can dilute focus and resources, leading to a mediocre offering across the board. Instead, a new entrant should identify its core strengths and focus on excelling in those areas.

Specialisation can be a powerful differentiator. Whether it’s focusing on household items, second hand goods, or a particular demographic, targeting specific niches can help a new platform build a strong reputation and loyal user base. By curating a selection of products that cater to particular buyer segments, a new platform can offer a unique value proposition that sets it apart from TradeMe to gain initial momentum.

Competing with TradeMe is no small feat. It requires a strategic approach that addresses the network effect, learns from past failures, understands and caters to the needs of both buyers and sellers, leverages new technologies, and maintains a clear focus on core strengths. With these strategies, a new platform can carve out its own space in the market and begin to challenge the dominance of TradeMe.

Find out more about how SellWise aim to disrupt this area at www.sellwise.nz

Media Release 6 June 2024.

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MIL OSI

New Identity for Glam Camping

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

Glam Camping At Castaways, one of New Zealand’s first couples glamping venues and one-of-a-kind premium conference, retreats and events venue, has changed its name to ‘Cliffside – Conferences, Retreats and Events’.

“The change comes after a desire to realign the business name and vision to its environment – offering memorable experiences by connecting people with the outdoors, in a luxury off-grid fashion”, says Jasmine Shine, owner of Cliffside.

A dream turned to reality for local sisters, Serena and Jasmine Shine, the two took ownership of the initial Glam Camping At Castaways business after Serena and father, Gavin, turned overgrown farmland in to the ornate, rustic oasis it is today.

“Still a family-run business, while our name may be changing, everything else remains the same – our location, our dedicated team, our luxurious experience, and our 5-star service”, explains Serena.

“This is a step forward for our company and a chance to reflect our name, with our unique and diverse Venue that is located on the cliffsides of Karioitahi beach in South West Auckland”, she says.

To celebrate their new identity, Cliffside is giving away a two-night glam camping experience (including the meal package, beer, wine and snacks) – an incredible giveaway valued at over $1,100!

Simply visit ‘@Cliffside Auckland’ on either Facebook or Instagram and visit their pinned rebrand post to follow the steps to enter.

The competition will be drawn on the 1st August 2024 at 5pm.

Media Release 6 June 2024.

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MIL OSI

Launch of Simon Lucas Mitsubishi Service Centre in Silverdale

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Source: Press Release Service

Simon Lucas Mitsubishi Unveils its Advanced Service and Parts Centre in Silverdale
The name Simon Lucas has become synonymous with Mitsubishi’s expertise in Auckland. The dealership located in Wairau Valley on Auckland’s North Shore has set the benchmark for its award-winning service, expert knowledge, and genuine care for its customers both before and after the sales journey. As a result, they have grown a loyal fanbase – one that they are looking to extend with the announcement of the grand opening of its new Service and Parts Centre in Silverdale, located at 62 Forge Road. This state-of-the-art facility is set to open its doors on June 10, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing unparalleled service and customer satisfaction.

Simon Lucas understands that a major part of great, sustainable customer service is convenience. This is why the new Simon Lucas Service and Parts Center is strategically situated just 1km away from the Silverdale motorway, Hibiscus Coast Park and Ride, and major thoroughfares – making it the perfect location for both new and existing Mitsubishi customers living in and around Silverdale and the wider northern Auckland area.

Customer-Centric Design and Advanced Technology
The new Service Centre embodies Simon Lucas Mitsubishi’s dedication to their stellar reputation for customer service and innovation. Designed with customer convenience in mind, the facility boasts a comfortable waiting lounge, late model courtesy vehicles, and is fitted out with the latest technology and equipment. This investment in advanced technology and facilities aims to save customers time and money, enhancing their overall vehicle ownership experience.

As they prepare to open the doors, Simon Lucas weighed in on the experience watching the pieces come together for their new service centre: “I’m super proud of the team for putting together what I feel is an award-winning service centre. It’s been a tremendous professional growth opportunity for everyone involved in this effort, and I’m so excited to provide our Hibiscus Coast customers with a truly state-of-the-art service centre in their neighbourhood.”

Award-Winning Service You Can Trust
Simon Lucas Mitsubishi’s Wairau Service Centre provided the perfect blueprint for the Silverdale Centre. The Wairau Centre has an undisputed track record for customer service, winner of the esteemed Diamond Rewards Programme, a national Mitsubishi after-sales award recognising the best Service and Parts departments within the network for an unprecedented two years running. The new Simon Lucas Mitsubishi Service and Parts Centre aims to replicate the same high standards of excellence that have earned the company unparalleled acclaim. The centre’s highly trained Mitsubishi specialists are committed to delivering an industry-leading service experience, underscored by the dealership’s recognition in the National Mitsubishi After-Sales Competition.

Local Benefits and Enhanced Ownership Experience
For the local community, the opening of this new centre means more than just convenience; it signifies a boost in the quality of automotive care available. With top-tier services provided in an aesthetically unmatched, welcoming, and comfortable environment, customers can experience that purchasing a vehicle from Simon Lucas Mitsubishi doesn’t end at the point of sale, it is an ongoing relationship that enhances vehicle ownership.

Experience, Reputation, and a Look to the Future
With 19 years of leadership under Simon Lucas and over 1,000 happy customer reviews on Google, Simon Lucas Mitsubishi’s reputation for quality and customer satisfaction precedes itself. The new facility will also serve as a showcase for the latest Mitsubishi models, available for test drives by appointment, highlighting the brand’s ongoing innovation and excellence in automotive engineering. Between the Silverdale Service Centre, the North Shore Dealership, and Simon Lucas’s “Demo to Your Door” service, getting behind the wheel of the latest Mitsubishi models is easier than ever.

“We’re not just celebrating the opening of a new service centre; we’re reaffirming our commitment to our customers and the community,” added Simon Lucas. “Our team’s dedication to creating a premier service facility is a testament to our promise to deliver only the best. We’re looking forward to continuing to serve the Hibiscus Coast area with the same level of passion and excellence that Simon Lucas Mitsubishi is known for.”

For service bookings, further enquiries, or to book a test drive at our new location, please visit our website Simon Lucas Mitsubishi Silverdale Service Centre.

So mark your calendar for 10 June 2024 as Simon Lucas Mitsubishi usher in a new era of automotive service excellence for the Hibiscus Coast. Welcome to the future – welcome to Simon Lucas Mitsubishi’s new Service and Parts Centre in Silverdale.

About Simon Lucas Mitsubishi
Simon Lucas Mitsubishi is one of the premier Mitsubishi dealerships in New Zealand, renowned for its award-winning customer service and commitment to quality. With a history of serving the Auckland community for over two decades, Simon Lucas Mitsubishi continues to lead with innovation, excellence, and a genuine passion for enhancing the vehicle ownership experience for its customers. They’ve built a loyal customer base on the North Shore in part due to their expert knowledge on Mitsubishi’s latest offerings coupled with their helpful and honest approach to customer care – from finance options to after-sales care, Simon Lucas Mitsubishi truly cares about their customers. If you’re looking to experience this award-winning customer service for yourself, get in contact with Simon Lucas Mitsubishi today.

Media Release 29 May 2024

Media Contact
Simon Lucas, Simon Lucas Mitsubishi
slucas@simonlucas.co.nz
0800 001 106
https://simonlucas.co.nz/service/silverdale

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Key Founders and Personnel Depart Sportsflare to Launch Generative AI App Idyllic

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Source: Press Release Service

In an exciting development within the New Zealand tech industry, three of the founding members of Sportsflare—Max Polaczuk, Chris Herrmann, and Trevor Cavill—along with key personnel Tony Zhang, Jeremy Baron, Matt Cavill, and Reuben Horne, have officially departed from the company to establish a new venture: Idyllic. Following Sportsflare’s acquisition by Entain, these visionary leaders have embarked on a new journey to revolutionize content creation with a new AI generator app.

Introducing Idyllic
Idyllic, based in Wellington, New Zealand, aims to democratise the creation of generative AI content, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. At its core, Idyllic’s mission is to empower individuals to produce faster and better content using AI, thus accelerating and enhancing the world’s creative output. The founders believe that the future of content creation lies in the hands of ordinary people, and Idyllic is dedicated to making that journey seamless and inspiring.

Unique Value Proposition
In a market becoming saturated with AI tools, Idyllic sets itself apart through exceptional user experience and innovative product design. The Idyllic App features an AI image generator that is remarkably user-friendly, designed to cater to individuals without technical backgrounds. This ensures that anyone can effortlessly delve into the world of AI-generated art.

But Idyllic’s innovation doesn’t stop at content creation. The app offers a seamless community exploration experience, allowing users to browse and draw inspiration from the stunning content generated by a vibrant community. A dynamic recommendation system evolves in real-time, delivering increasingly personalised content to enrich users’ creative journeys every time they interact with the app.

Founders’ Vision
Max Polaczuk, Chris Herrmann, and Trevor Cavill, along with Tony Zhang, Jeremy Baron, and Reuben Horne, bring a wealth of experience from their time at Sportsflare, a B2B provider of esports odds for sportsbooks. Under their leadership, Sportsflare developed cutting-edge AI and data solutions that significantly improved the betting experience for esports fans. This innovative spirit and technological expertise are now being channeled into Idyllic.

“At Idyllic, we believe that creativity should be accessible to everyone,” said Max Polaczuk, co-founder of Idyllic. “Our mission is to remove the barriers to content creation, enabling people from all walks of life to express themselves and explore their creative potential with the help of AI.”

Background on Sportsflare
Sportsflare, recently acquired by Entain for CA$13.2 million, has been a pioneer in the esports betting industry. The company developed advanced AI and data solutions, creating engaging and dynamic betting markets for esports. This includes a unique bet builder, micro-markets, and a solution for gamers to bet on their own performance. The acquisition by Entain aims to enhance its betting product offerings, optimized specifically for esports.

Looking Forward
With the launch of Idyllic, Polaczuk, Herrmann, Cavill, and their team are poised to make significant strides in the AI content creation space. Their new venture promises to transform how people create and interact with digital content, fostering a more inclusive and innovative creative community.

For more information about Idyllic and to explore the possibilities of AI-driven content creation, visit https://idyllic.app.

Media Release 29 May 2024.

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Darryl Carey announced as NZIA Fellow

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Source: Press Release Service – Christchurch

Darryl Carey, Registered Architect and Senior Principal at Chow:Hill, and Founder of the New Zealand Health Design Council, has been announced as a Fellow of TeKāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects.

Darryl has, and continues to, contribute hugely to the New Zealand health design sector, fostering collegiality, sharing knowledge, and facilitating cohesive project team environments. His powerful design intelligence has seen him lead the design of some of New Zealand’s most complex healthcare facilities, most notably Christchurch Hospital Waipapa.

Committed to improving health design, both in New Zealand and abroad, Darryl is regularly asked to share his insight and expertise at industry conferences. His passion for the betterment of New Zealand’s health design industry will benefit all New Zealanders.

Media Release 24 May 2024.

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Rising insolvencies signal ongoing economic struggle for NZ businesses

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

Latest insolvency figures reveal NZ businesses are continuing to feel the economic strain, with most sectors seeing year-on-year increases in business failures.

BWA Insolvency’s Quarterly Market Report for the period January to March 2024 shows a 10% rise in insolvencies compared to last quarter and a 28% increase year-on-year.

There were 553 insolvency cases reported in Q1 2024, up from 432 in the same period last year and up from 501 in Q4 2023. While the signs point towards increased hardship for the country’s businesses, the report’s author urges observers not to jump to conclusions based on these figures alone.

“While the 28% yearly increase in insolvencies appears significant, a closer comparison reveals only a 2% increase from the third quarter of 2023,” says BWA Insolvency principal Bryan Williams. “It is important to look at the overall picture.”

A notable spike in the data is in voluntary administrations (VAs), which have surged by 317% this quarter compared with the same period last year, increasing from six to 25.

“This can be interpreted as good news,” Williams explains. “It suggests that more insolvency practitioners are being consulted by directors at a stage where the business may still be salvageable, offering them a chance to explore various options beyond immediate liquidation.”

Williams is anticipating a steady increase in insolvency inquiries into the second quarter as current inflation levels and cautious consumer spending persist.

“Times are tough. International geopolitical events, uncertainty in the U.S., and the prospect of borderless currencies are forcing governments to be cautious. New Zealand’s small economy is heavily linked with our trade partners, and this, in turn, affects our stability significantly.”

“There is often a significant latency in insolvencies following economic downturns, as it takes time for the adverse financial climate to fully impact business closures.”

Business insolvency trends have shown varied movements across sectors compared to the previous quarter (Q4 2023) and the same quarter last year (Q1 2023). In the construction sector, there was a 4% decrease in insolvencies from 131 to 126 this quarter, yet a 10% increase from 115 last year. Retail sector insolvencies decreased by 6% from 33 to 31 this quarter and 9% over the past year. In contrast, business services reported a sharp increase, with insolvencies climbing by 52% from 48 to 73 this quarter and 66% from 44 the previous year.

The transport and delivery sector experienced a significant rise in business failures this quarter, up by 127% from 11 last quarter and 79% from 14 the previous year, reaching 25.

“As the economy contracts, it naturally impacts service providers. Reduced consumer spending means less demand for transporting goods, leading to more downtime for transport businesses where they aren’t earning but still incurring costs. Coupling this with rising interest rates on debts, it’s evident why many companies in this sector are struggling with insolvency.”

Williams expects the outlook to remain sombre across all sectors as consumer spending tightens further.

“In addition to the economic and market challenges, seasonal factors come into play. As we head into winter, business naturally subsides, compounding the stress already placed on weakened balance sheets from the pandemic,” explained Williams.

“The construction sector is particularly vulnerable as costs rise and budgets are strained. The full impact of these increases will soon become evident, particularly painful for many as projects end and bills come due.”

“The sky is not going to fall in, but it is going to get chilly. A day of reckoning is on its way for companies not compliant with their obligations, as patience wanes and enforcement tightens.”

“Businesses are urged to brace for challenging times ahead and consider early interventions to manage financial health.”

See the BWA Insolvency Quarterly Market Report here.

About BWA Insolvency

BWA Insolvency is a leading insolvency firm that supports New Zealand businesses through liquidations, receiverships and voluntary administrations (VA), specialising in VA in particular.

Founder Bryan Williams has 30 years’ experience in the industry and has recently become just the second person in New Zealand and one of 200 people worldwide to be named a Fellow of global insolvency organisation Insol International.

MIL OSI

Introducing the Future of Productivity: Dynabook Portege X40L-M

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Source: Press Release Service

May 6, 2024. Dynabook ANZ Pty. Limited, the laptop experts, have unveiled the Portege X40L-M, setting a new benchmark for productivity, mobility and visual excellence.

Boasting an expansive 16:10 display aspect ratio for a more immersive viewing experience, paired with the latest Intel© Core™ Ultra Processor (H28), Intel Arc Graphics, up to 32GB LPDDR5 RAM and up to 2TB SSD storage, alongside the integrated Microsoft Copilot key², the Portege X40L-M empowers users to achieve more with this technologically advanced device.

As the lightest premium 14-inch laptop ever crafted by Dynabook, the Portégé X40L-M is packed with the latest technology, including the new Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. These processors are engineered with a hybrid architecture CPU, an integrated Intel® Arc™ GPU and a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), delivering unparalleled AI performance.

Capable of intelligently allocating tasks and AI workloads to the most suitable processor, these processors elevate productivity to new heights in today’s AI driven business landscape, while optimising performance and battery life.

Tailored for maximum operational efficiency, the Portégé X40L-M comes standard with Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, offering a seamless computing experience with enhanced productivity features, intuitive navigation and robust security.

The Portégé X40L-M also introduces Copilot integration, an innovative AI-powered assistant from Microsoft. Activated by the dedicated Copilot key, this feature enhances creativity, streamlines workflows and fosters collaboration through intelligent suggestions, task automation and seamless communication among team members, empowering users to work smarter and more efficiently than ever before.

Angela Walker, General Manager at Dynabook ANZ, “We are excited to introduce the Portege X40L-M to the market. This laptop embodies our commitment to delivering exceptional technology that enhances productivity and meets the evolving needs of our customers. With its striking 16:10 display aspect ratio and powerful features, the Portege X40L-M is a compelling addition to our product lineup, offering users easy access to AI with the integrated Copilot key.”

Crafted to meet the demands of modern professionals, the Dynabook Portege X40L-M offers unparalleled portability, weighing in at just 1.05kg(1). Its sleek and lightweight design makes it the perfect companion for on the go productivity, wherever work takes you.

Key Features of the Dynabook Portege X40L-M include:
Latest Intel Core Ultra Processor (H28)
Intel Arc Graphics for Enhanced Visual Performance
Integrated Microsoft Copilot key(2)
Expansive Viewing Area with 16:10 Display Aspect Ratio
Up to 32GB LPDDR5 Memory for Seamless Multitasking
Up to 2TB SSD Storage for Ample File Storage
Lightweight Design, Weighing from just 1.05kg1

Pricing: Starting from $2450 NZD RRP inc. GST.
Availability: The Portege X40L-M Non vPro model will be available in May 2024.
For more information about the Portege X40L-M and other products in the range, please visit Dynabook’s website.

Note to Editors: High-resolution images of the Dynabook Portege X40L-M are available upon request.

1) Weight: Weight may vary depending on product configuration, vendor components, manufacturing variability and options selected.

2) Microsoft Copilot Feature availability varies by market for the devices which have the Copilot in Windows icon, see aka.ms/WindowsAIFeatures
To learn more about the new Portege X40L-M laptops from Dynabook, please contact your authorised Dynabook reseller, or visit anz.dynabook.com.

Media Release on 6 May 2024

Media Contact
Annette Horst, Dynabook ANZ
Email: ahorst@anz.dynabook.com
Phone: +61414996852
Website: https://anz.dynabook.com

MIL OSI

Kelray Heating Introduces New Fire Pit to Its Outdoor Heating Collection

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

Kelray Heating, an established local manufacturer of outdoor heating solutions, is set to expand its product range with the introduction of the Fire Pit, available from July. This new offering is designed and manufactured entirely in New Zealand, emphasising the company’s dedication to supporting local industry and maintaining high standards.

The Fire Pit range will be offered in various sizes, making it adaptable for different outdoor spaces. Its design not only aims to provide warmth but also to enhance the visual appeal of outdoor settings, making it an ideal choice for those interested in landscape design.

“Our new Fire Pit is more than just a heating element; it’s a piece of art that enhances any outdoor area,” said Clive Menkin, owner of Kelray Heating. “It represents our commitment to not only meet but exceed the expectations of our customers with a product that is both functional and visually appealing.”

Kelray Heating’s products are known for their durability and ability to withstand the challenging New Zealand weather conditions. The Fire Pit is designed to maintain these standards, ensuring longevity and performance. “We pride ourselves on creating products that are built to last, standing up to both time and the elements,” Menkin added.

The introduction of the Fire Pit is expected to attract those who value design and functionality in their outdoor heating solutions. It complements Kelray’s existing range of NZ outdoor heaters and represents an important step in the company’s growth strategy.

Available from July, the Kelray Fire Pit product line will be available on the company’s website https://www.kelrayheating.co.nz/.

Media Release on 1 May 2024

Media Contact
Clive, Kelray Heating
Email: info@kelrayheating.co.nz
Phone: 0800 535 729
Website: https://www.kelrayheating.co.nz/

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Immigration New Zealand Cracks Down on Employer Non-Compliance

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

Leading visa and immigration consultancy, VisaAide, is urging New Zealand employers to make sure they’re up to date with their accreditation and compliant with New Zealand employment laws and standards, plus the Immigration Act 2009.

This follows the deployment of new enforcement tools by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), which from April 11 have been used to combat lower-level immigration non-compliance and deter exploitation of migrant workers by employers.

The change targets employers who fail to follow the rules and is designed to provide immediate consequences for non-compliance.

While previously, employers found to be in breach of their employer accreditation would be prosecuted through the criminal courts, they can now be issued with infringement notices.

Infringement penalties can vary in severity based on the level of non-compliance and can include:

– A minimum fine of $1,000,

– Loss of accredited employer status, and

– Prohibition from supporting further visas for migrant workers.

A stand-down from supporting visa applications lasts for a period dependent on the number of infringement notices the employer receives. This might range from a 6-month stand-down for a single infringement to a 12-month maximum stand-down for multiple infringements issued at once.

Employers stood-down under this new enforcement strategy will have their names published on the Immigration New Zealand website. This brings a new level of transparency to the system, ensuring that the public is aware of those employers not complying with the rules.

Although employers can hire migrants with open work visas while on the stand-down list, they must demonstrate they have rectified the issue and taken the necessary steps to prevent future occurrences before they can be accredited under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programme again.

These new rules and penalties highlight the dedication of INZ to create a fair and level playing field for all employers in New Zealand. It ensures that businesses are aware of the consequences of non-compliance.

VisaAide is committed to keeping you updated on these important changes and to continue providing expert advice on how to navigate New Zealand’s immigration system. We support the efforts of the INZ in enforcing immigration standards and believe these new tools will help foster integrity, fairness, and transparency in the immigration and employment sectors.

Media Release 29 April 2024.

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Twinkl NZ’s Free Yearly Subscription for Primary School Teachers

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Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

In response to alarming statistics showing 23% of New Zealand teacher graduates leave the profession or change school within their first five years, educational publisher, Twinkl, is offering free teaching materials to students in their final year of their teaching degree.

This comes at a crucial time as the education sector grapples with significant challenges, including teacher shortages and high turnover rates among early career professionals. Being the time of year when final year teaching students begin school placements, it is critical that these students who are about to enter the profession have as much support as possible to enable long careers in the education field.

Regional teacher turnover data for Auckland specifically shows a notable increase, rising to 17.5% in 2021 from 14.9% in 2020. Teacher retention is struggling not only in this region but also nationwide due to the cost of living and burnout which put additional stress on both teachers and principals who have been dealing with staffing issues.The data also shows that Wellington region has seen a 22.5% increase in turnover in 2021 which makes it one of the most affected regions in New Zealand.

Acknowledging the challenges young teachers are facing in New Zealand, Twinkl has decided to offer teaching students access to educational tools and hundreds of thousands of educational resources to empower them as they begin their placements and careers. This includes access to over 1 million digital resources, including full schemes of New Zealand curriculum aligned resources, lesson plans, AI-powered tools designed specifically for educators and interactive activities like educational games and videos.

Being a trusted resource provider globally, Twinkl gives teachers access to tools and materials that save them time and boost their productivity, with over 200,000 teachers and parents across New Zealand already using Twinkl’s digital library of curriculum-aligned materials to support children’s education.

So far, three universities have partnered on this offer, giving access to Twinkl’s complete library to all enrolled final-year education students.

“Our third year student teachers have enjoyed having access to teaching resources that support their practice and engagement with tamariki,” said Kylie Smith, Head of School of Education at Manukau Institute of Technology.

How can institutions apply to receive free educational resource access for their Final Year Students?
In a gesture to further extend the positive initial impact of its initiative to help students in at least 10 institutions in New Zealand, Twinkl invites Education Faculty members to apply to also receive free educational resource access for their students.

To do so, visit the Twinkl website and complete a short form, or email Twinkl directly at hello@twinkl.co.nz.

Media Release 29 April 2024.

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