Back to school! Webinar series assisting teachers, school leaders and students returning to classroom learning

May 21, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

Online learning tech providers Education Perfect (EP) https://epforlearning.com/ and education insights firm, Pivot Professional Learning https://www.pivotpl.com/, are proud to present a series of webinars as part of an effort to help guide our educators through the coming transition back to the classroom.

These interactive sessions will feature discussions about strategies for school leaders and teachers to take back to their classrooms. Each session will include useful tips from leading experts in engagement through content, supporting wellbeing, collecting feedback, and peer collaboration.

Educators who attend these sessions will take with them practical measures to bring into the classroom environment to help students flourish.

Amanda Bickerstaff, Pivot PL CEO highlights the urgency of the Education Redefined webinar series, “it is more important now than ever that we provide our educators with strategies that matter to ease their transition back into the classroom.”

“Based on the results of our State of Education research, wellbeing, and meeting student instructional needs should be at the forefront of the conversation. So in this series, we are bringing together experts across the region to provide real guidance for school leaders and teachers in this time of transition.

CEO of EP, Alex Burke said that it was important the nation’s teachers were as well equipped as possible after such an unprecedented and sudden interruption to their classroom schedules.

“We all value teachers and the vitally important work they do,” he said.

“Education is one of the pillars of our community, and we know that the webinars will provide teachers with assistance and guidance when heading back into the classroom, or as they continue their vital work with students through online learning.”

To register, click on the session titles below.

Student Wellbeing (https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=&eventid=2349678&sessionid=1&key=484D4C114579256A2084D762EC18480C&regTag=&sourcepage=register)

Wednesday 20th May, 6:30pm AEST
Student wellbeing is a top concern of educators. Hear from wellbeing experts about how to best support students as they move back into the classroom. Joined by special guest Helen Prior and Simon Mann, Education Consultant.

Teacher Wellbeing – https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=http%3A%2F%2Fhs-sites.com%2F&eventid=2349799&sessionid=1&key=F5BD3F5F90882C8EB610AD2CBA65CE1A&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Thursday 21st May, 6:30pm AEST
We need to come together and support our educators. Our experts come together to discuss self and team care. Joined by special guest Dr. Pete Stebbins, Leadership & Team Development expert with over 20 years’ experience, helping 1657 education leaders across the last 4 years.

Online Pedagogies – https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=&eventid=2355410&sessionid=1&key=8CD747FB50529B3E0E370DCFF0529D1D&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Wednesday 27th May, 6:30pm AEST
Digital technologies have the potential to reshape the learning process, but only if teachers are supported to truly understand how they can fit into effective pedagogy. Explore how to meaningfully harness technology to improve student outcomes, by looking at differentiation, flipping the classroom, and blended learning.

Student Feedback – https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=&eventid=2355413&sessionid=1&key=0787D37103A518E510D6A417B5CAAFB4&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Wednesday 3rd June, 6:30pm AEST
Research shows that we need to prioritise student feedback. Interactive and instant feedback and monitoring during class learning and teaching are missing online. Discover practical ways educators can gather student feedback to inform the next steps and their professional development.

The Student Voice – https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=&eventid=2355419&sessionid=1&key=035002EC8288075AA7E4C39B786F694E&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Wednesday 10th June, 6:30pm AEST
We need to listen to what students are telling us. Through this student-led session, we are giving students the opportunity to contribute to the conversation on the transforming nature of education. What do they need? What works for them? And what doesn’t?

About EP: As a leading EdTech platform, EP has been able to use their primary technology to support the engagement of students in online learning, provide effective assessment during the learning online process; while also supporting the collection and analysis of student feedback. http://epforlearning.com/

About Pivot: Pivot Professional Learning (Pivot) is an educational insights company dedicated to enhancing teaching effectiveness by harnessing the power of the student’s voice as a driver of evidence-based improvement. Pivot’s tools and systems are supported by international research and data from over 65,000 Australian classrooms. https://www.pivotpl.com

More info or media enquiries:

Annie de Merindol
The Big Smoke Australia
annie.demerindol@thebigsmoke.com.au
+61 414 757 390
Aisha Hillary-Morgan

aisha.hillarymorgan@educationperfect.com
+61 4415 166 673
Hannah Micich
Pivot
hannah@pivotpl.com

MIL OSI

Property Consultancy Company Announces Operational Procedures for Alert Level 2

Live News

May 20, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

Throughout each of New Zealand’s COVID-19 Alert Levels, The Property Group Limited (TPG) has been dedicated to providing both a high-quality and safe service for all its clients and team members. The move to Alert Level 2 is no different.

From Monday 18 May, TPG opened its offices to resume a new level of normal under the latest alert level. This move means that TPG’s team will be able to engage with suppliers, complete site visits and work from offices where possible and safe to do so.

To align with the government’s health and safety requirements, TPG has several strict measures in place to protect both employees and clients. These include keeping a daily record of visitors to TPG’s offices and work sites, practicing good hygiene practices and maintaining physical distancing.

TPG’s Managing Director Wayne Crowley says the TPG team can’t wait to help New Zealand reopen its economy – but safely.

“TPG’s Business Continuity Plan (BCP) was reviewed and updated to comply with strict health and safety controls in accordance with the Alert Level 2 guidelines. The health and safety of our team and clients continue to be our top priority.”

While Alert Level 2 has enabled TPG to reopen its doors, the company’s advanced technology meant they were also able to operate remotely and provide services during Alert Levels 3 and 4 too.

“Our teams have IT equipment to enable them to work remotely, access our systems, and continue to have project calls and meetings online. TPG was otherwise business as usual, and we continue to provide services to our clients and work through these uncertain times.”

“Throughout all Alert Levels, our team can help with end-to-end property, planning and development advice so our clients can make decisions that add value to their business.”

If you would like to know more about TPG or their services, visit propertygroup.co.nz, use the contact form, phone 04 470 6105, or email enquiries@propertygroup.co.nz.

About The Property Group Limited
The Property Group Limited (TPG) is New Zealand’s largest independent specialist property consultancy, with 13 offices nationwide. They are proud to offer end-to-end property, planning, and development advice to enable clients to make decisions that add value to their business. From the north to the south, TPG has a variety of experts who are dedicated to providing the full property package.

Media Release on 20 May 2020

Media Contact

The Property Group Limited (TPG)
Email: enquiries@propertygroup.co.nz
Phone: 04 470 6105
Website: https://www.propertygroup.co.nz/
Video: https://youtu.be/yPVct5vZoAE

MIL OSI

BJA Painting Services in Auckland

Live News

May 19, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – Auckland

(PR.co.nz)

BJA Painting Services is offering a full interior painting service to all residents in Auckland city.

The painting company based in West Auckland is only minutes away from the direct hub of the central motorway, making access to all regions of Auckland easy and cost effective for anyone using their services.

Having a painting company located centrally is important as it cuts down call out fee costs and allows the interior painter to be on time to the job site every day. Reliable and punctual painters can work effectively and ensure that the work is completed on time and on budget.

BJA Painting Services’ interior painting work is a central service of the Auckland company and one that they pride themselves on as they feel it’s their golden standard of workmanship that gets noticed the most.

Brian, CEO and owner of BJA Painting Services says, “We take pride in all of our painting work but it’s the interior work that gets that little extra sprinkling of fairy dust to ensure it really shines. Interior painting gets the most attention from homeowners and visitors and it also has to endure the most.”

With interior painting needing to survive the vigor’s of everyday life, be it food splashes, scuffs from shoes and children playing with toys, the paint has to be applied properly and be done using industry approved techniques and practices.

BJA Painting Services starts interior painting with a solid foundation as it’s the bare surface that will provide the backbone of a truly lasting paint finish.

Every surface that is to be coated in interior paint has to have all cracks filled in, all old paint or wallpaper stripped off and the surface has to be made to accept paint.

With a careful selection of suitable paint primers and additives that only master painters understand, the interior surface can be made pliable for painting. From wooden surfaces to plasterboard and gib, every paintable surface requires a special priming coat first.

Gib stopping and plastering is another of BJA Painting Service’s strength and it usually goes hand in hand with their interior painting work. When a new home or extension is built, the bare gib walls need to be prepared for painting by filling in the cracks, voids and dips that occur in gibbed walls. BJA will prepare the surface and create a uniform and flush result that won’t create shadows on the walls when painted.

Brian Says, “Gib stopping and surface preparation is essential for a great interior finish. You need to get it spot on to ensure that the paint looks perfect after application. We take the time and effort to do proper prep so that our final result is flawless.”

With a properly prepared surface and priming, the Auckland painters can then move in and start painting the interior walls with only the best New Zealand made paint.

Using locally produced paint that is made to the conditions of Auckland is just as important as proper plastering and paint preparation as anything else simply won’t be able to withstand the tough conditions and will being to crack and distort in a much shorter period.

Interior painting also requires a staggering amount of various paint brushes, rollers and putty knives and only a professional painter like BJA Painting Services can tell the difference between one short haired rolling brush to another.

Where an amateur will just use the cheapest bulk pack of paint rollers available at Bunnings Warehouse, BJA Painting Services will use the premium paint roller designed for only one purpose as only then will the paint be applied smoothly and consistently.

Of course every paint job is a timely process and no one understands this more than BJA Painting Services as they have been painting Auckland homes for over 25 years.

Every job taken on by the West Auckland painter will see prompt and punctual work ethics and pains taken to ensure that the job gets completed in a timely and efficient manner.

From small home renovations to full new house interior painting, BJA Painting Services can ensure a quality painted finish with the first quote to final coat with their golden standard of service and flawless finish.

Booking information and a full list of other services can be found on their website, or find them by searching “house painters near me”.

Media Release 19 May 2020.

MIL OSI

It’s Back to Business at Level 2 for Ecowool

Live News

May 18, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz)

New Zealand took a proactive response to the coronavirus, COVID-19, which meant that for a time, many businesses had to close their doors. However, with the changing of the alert levels, it’s business as usual for online sales of quality New Zealand-made products.

The Ecowool team is proud to be able to offer a variety of beautiful sheepskin, wool, natural, and knitwear products for customers around the world from their online store. These are carefully packaged following government guidelines, and then sent on their way.

According to Ecowool spokesperson John Collyer, while they endeavour to get their products delivered in a timely fashion, shipping times may be delayed due to each country’s COVID-19 response.

“Shipping times are likely to take longer than our standard guidelines. Thank you for your patience and understanding in these trying times. Wherever you are in the world, please follow the official guidelines to help overcome this virus, and take care of yourself and others.”

About EcoWool
EcoWool is based at Sheep World, New Zealand’s showcase for sheep farming and wool production. It boasts some of the finest quality sheepskin and woollen and natural products in the country. EcoWool has been a leading provider for natural products since 1987, moving into the online market in 2001.

EcoWool is passionate about products that represent New Zealand. They use the finest raw materials from unpolluted alpine pastures, natural spring water, and crisp, mountain air. These elements are a recipe for success, and this is evident in the quality of the products available. Get in touch with EcoWool today to find out what they can do for you.

Media Release 18 May 2020.

MIL OSI

New Online Yoga Space Rises from Lockdown

Live News

May 15, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz)

One positive story to come out of the lockdown is the creation of the new online Yoga space, MyTime.tv

The lockdown was difficult for many Yoga studios, for owners, teachers and students. Like so many small businesses across New Zealand, studios had to close their doors as we entered into lockdown. While some studios managed to pivot and offer online classes, not all were able to make that transition; resulting in owners, teachers and students losing out.

MyTime.tv was the idea of Tom Murphy, known for co-founding the New Zealand success story ‘Kitomba’ – now a global player in Salon & Spa software, and more recently ‘Frankie AI’, artificial intelligence that improves the outcome of Ecommerce stores. Murphy has also recently developed and donated the contactless Contact Tracing app ‘Safe Keeper’ to retailers for free.

Murphy said, “Lockdown was a difficult time for many – with fear and uncertainty weighing heavily. For me, this reinforced the importance of health and wellbeing. MyTime.tv was my response to this challenge.”

“I’ve been fortunate to enjoy a range of physical and well-being activities throughout my life. MyTime combines a love for these activities with my experience in technology. I saw an opportunity to improve the accessibility and affordability of activities that contribute to people’s wellness, such as yoga, and help struggling studio owners and teachers.”

MyTime works by allowing teachers and studios to offer their classes via MyTime.tv. Visitors to the site can select and join the class they’re interested in. MyTime is a live platform so classes are not recorded – “that’s what YouTube is for” says Murphy. Each MyTime class is a real unique one-off experience, just like in real life, that we can share with others. All teachers are well known, highly regarded and fully qualified. MyTime.tv allows visitors to access a wide array of quality classes at times that suit them and for Yoga teachers to reach new audiences.

Whilst initially focused on Yoga, Murphy is open to MyTime offering other types of classes such as pilates, F45 and HIIT in the future. “While my preference is Yoga, people need to find what resonates with them.”

Murphy also sees synergies with businesses looking to support the wellbeing of their people during this difficult time. We’re talking to several employers about them taking on MyTime. We think there is a real opportunity for employers to invest in their people’s health and well being, especially with more people working from home in the foreseeable future. MyTime is able to be flexible to meet the needs of small, medium and larger employers and their people.

Whilst new, MyTime is already proving popular. “We’ve had students tune in from all over New Zealand and internationally. “I think it’s the combination of choice, accessibility and affordability”, says Murphy. “I think we’ve all asked ourselves what do we want to take from lockdown? For me, it is the importance of maintaining health and wellbeing. That’s what MyTime is about.

Media Release 15 May 2020.

MIL OSI

New Vapers on the rise – Caktus Vape

Live News

May 15, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – Business

“We saw a 35% jump in order volume during Alert level 4 & 3 with tobacco e-liquid and beginner pod kits being the largest contributor to these sales. Our data tells us that many smokers are transitioning to vaping at a time when money is tight,” says Jo Einarsson, Director of Caktus Vape – one of New Zealand’s largest online vape retailers.

The rising costs of cigarettes in New Zealand has seen the vape industry take-off, Caktus Vape being an online-only retailer can offer customers a quick & easy buying process and prices online that are hard to beat in stores.

“Our business has always been geared to online first, during the lock-down we were able to reach a wider customer base seeking vape products online as traditional brick & mortar stores were not able to open,” he says.

Mr Einarsson says one of the key parts to getting online e-commerce right is fast dispatch and just as fast delivery.

“We were able to maintain our same day dispatch and even with the expected delays, the majority of our customers saw a delivery in 1-3 Business Days. Covid-19 has demonstrated how important our courier network is. During the lockdown, our business and customers relied on the services New Zealand Post provides,”

Funding of $130 million from Budget 2020 will allow New Zealand Post to maintain service levels as it positions itself for the future. E-commerce will be a huge factor in their success as online sales continue to grow post-lock-down.

Caktus Vape continues to see steady sales moving into Alert Level 2, “We pride ourselves on providing easily accessible information on our website for anyone new to vaping” says Jo Einarsson.

NZ caktusvape.co.nz
AU caktusvape.com

Media Release on 15 May 2020

Media Contact
Steven Gibbs, Caktus Vape
Email: admin@vaportrade.co.nz
Phone: 02041001298
Website: https://caktusvape.co.nz/

MIL OSI

Kore Projects to donate $1,200,000 to help NZ Business

Live News

May 15, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – Business

Kore Projects announces more features for its new Kore Track and Trace APP.

Kore Projects wants New Zealand to be Covid-19 free AND we need New Zealand Business back to work now.

Thousands of businesses are now going to have their customers book time and tables and appointments to meet the Level Two Covid-19 requirements. That booking will be part of Covid-19 tracking and tracing.

Kore Projects’ enhanced Kore Track and Trace APP now includes a booking feature and is ideal for real estate agents, restaurants, bars, clubs, coffee shops, hairdressers and many other businesses.

The Kore Track and Trace APP is extremely easy to install and very easy to use. The Kore Track and Trace APP even takes advantage of QR Codes.

Businesses will be able to licence the Kore Track and Trace APP for their clients for a small monthly fee. But the good news is that, for three months, while we are all getting back to business, Kore Projects will offer the Kore Track and Trace APP for free – a saving of $1,200,000 for Kiwi businesses.

Kore Projects had already developed specialized remote computer APPs as a response to the enormous demands of the post-earthquake Christchurch building redevelopment. “It was both necessary and obvious that we could and should add the Kore Track and Trace APP to our Covid-19 package” said Stan Lieder, CEO

Kore Projects lead the world with the Kore Track and Trace APP for the post Covid-19 world.

Stan Lieder, CEO of Kore Projects, says ‘We are pleased to be using our experience and expertise so NZ can get back to work quickly and safely”

For more information, contact:
Stan Lieder
CEO
Kore Projects
0800 025 673
info@koreprojects.com

http://www.korect.co.nz/

ENDS

Media Release on 15 May 2020

Media Contact
Stan Lieder, CEO – Kore Projects
Phone: 0800 025 673
Email: info@koreprojects.com
Website: http://www.korect.co.nz/

MIL OSI

Stella Beauty Introduces Gift Cards

Live News

May 12, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz)

One of the hottest and most innovative ethical beauty stores in New Zealand, Stella Beauty is introducing gift cards to help customers give the gift of guilt-free glamour more easily. This newest offering is in line with the shop’s mission of raising awareness about and promoting the use of cruelty-free and vegan makeup and skincare products.

Convenient Shopping, Customisable Gift-Giving Experience

In its latest undertaking, Stella Beauty also emphasises its commitment to give their patronisers a convenient shopping experience.

With a gadget and internet connection, their customers can shop their gift card of choice via their easy-to-navigate website.

Their gift card products are available in different designs — from a stylishly designed generic card to thematic ones which can be given on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and Mothers’ Day celebrations.

Apart from the variety of design choices, Stella Beauty gift cards are also customisable. You can enter the gift card price you want (a minimum of $10 is required), select the date wherein the recipient will receive your present, and even add a message of up to 300 characters. Valid within a year of purchase, their vouchers can either feature the primary product image or your desired image (which you can upload on their website upon filling out the order form).

Stella Beauty vouchers can be delivered to the recipient’s email address, or you can choose to print it and hand it out yourself for a more personal touch.

Why Choose Stella Beauty

Bringing the best in ethical beauty, Auckland-based Stella Beauty is built from its founders’ passion for cruelty-free makeup and skincare. Though only established in 2015, their relentless desire to promote vegan products — or products that contain no animal ingredients or ingredients derived from animals — have pushed them to the forefront of the industry. Why shop from their site? Here are the best reasons:

Huge catalog of products. Forging strong relations with the leading manufacturers in the industry, Stella Beauty boasts a huge selection of vegan, non-toxic, and natural beauty products. Safe and effective, the luxurious vibe their products give come with a competitive pricing to cater to any budget.

Sustainable packaging. The company’s dedication to go organic is also well-embodied in their packaging design. Teaming up with credible green companies Go Sweet Spot and r3pack, they use sustainable eco-packaging to wrap and send your order.

Prompt shipping services. Though based in Auckland, the company provides shipping services across New Zealand. Apart from delivering orders promptly, they also offer them at a budget-friendly rate. For orders under $50, a standard flat rate of $5 applies.

Rewarding shopping experience. When you create an account on their website, you can have access to Stella Beauty’s reward system. In this scheme, you will earn points each time you purchase from them. You can use your accumulated points to redeem a reward in the future.

Looking for an amazing gift for the equally amazing people in your life? Know more about Stella Beauty’s array of products and gift cards at https://stellaforcrueltyfree.co.nz/gift-cards.

Media Release 12 May 2020.

MIL OSI

New Website for NZ Rental Tax Services

Live News

May 9, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz)

At a time when a pandemic has prompted major industries to operate remotely through digital platforms, NZ Rental Tax Services — New Zealand’s leading provider of online tax accounting services for rental and investment property owners — has promptly unveiled a new website to help its clients do their tax returns more conveniently.

Launched in partnership with premier web design and development company Mars Digital, the website boasts a responsive and functional design that allows users to easily access reliable tax services — whether they’re browsing through their desktops, laptops, or even mobile gadgets.

Doing Tax Returns with Professionals

More often than not, the income tax you’ve initially filed and paid for can still be adjusted — you can either owe additional taxes that need to be paid or be eligible to get a refund of the taxes you’ve already paid. Hence, it is important to complete and file a tax return annually.

However, as tax laws can be complex and overwhelming, individuals and group entities often commit mistakes that cost them a significant amount of money. This problem can be avoided when you tap tax professionals to complete your tax return for you. When you work with a tax preparer, all your assets and deductibles will be taken into account, resulting in the most optimal tax return possible for your situation.

Why Choose NZ Rental Tax Services

NZ Rental Tax Services specialises in providing online tax accounting for rental and investment property owners. As this particular niche can cause quite the headache once the tax-filing season kicks in, seeking their help is a wise move. Here are the best reasons why you should hire their services.

Innovative platform. As a pioneering name in offering web-based tax services in New Zealand, the company knows the importance of adapting to the changing trends of the virtual world. With their newly designed website, they offer clients the most convenient digital experience possible when it comes to completing their tax returns remotely.

Experienced tax professionals. The rules and regulations governing property taxes are particularly tricky. Whether you are an individual entity, a partnership, or a full-service company in the real estate industry, NZ Rental Tax Services’ experienced tax professionals can complete and file your tax returns promptly.

Flexible plans. One of the best perks offered by the company is competitive pricing. They have affordable plans that can cater to a wide range of clients — whether what you own is a single family home, an apartment property, or a number of commercial or industrial properties. Depending on your tax-filing needs, the firm has a package of services offered at the most competitive rates in the industry.

Responsive customer service. As the company eyes ease, efficiency, and effectiveness in every project, it has a dedicated team of employees and tax experts that provide responsive customer service. Their online platform is also dedicated to answering queries from their clients.

Need help with your tax returns? NZ Rental Tax Services offers reliable rental and investment property tax services even online; visit https://nzrentaltax.co.nz for more information.

Media Release 9 May 2020.

MIL OSI

Kiwi Singer to Perform in Table Top Broadway

Live News

May 9, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz)

New York institution Table Top Broadway is raising money to benefit artists directly impacted by coronavirus in an upcoming event, ‘Live from Quarantine’.

New Zealand classical/ musical theatre performer Rosel Labone, who played the role of Carlotta in Wellington Musical Theatre’s Production of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, has been selected as one of the performers, out of more than 3000 applicants worldwide, to help raise funds for performers who have lost contracts due to the crisis.

Miss Labone recently premiered the opera ‘Last Year in Samsonville’ in the lead role of Lois at the National Opera Center in New York, and was set to perform the role of The Queen in Opera Kensington’s upcoming season of ‘The Bohemian Girl’.

For every viewer that tunes in, $8 is raised to help struggling artists, on top of the outside donations that are being made through the broadcast to help keep Broadway and its personnel afloat during this difficult time. You don’t need to watch the whole performance – just clicking on the link as we go live is sufficient to register as a view.

The event will be broadcast live on May 16 at 3pm EST/ NYC time, 7am New Zealand time May 17. More information can be found below:

https://www.facebook.com/events/538112677078055/

Media Release 9 May 2020.

MIL OSI

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