New Heating and Cooling Webinar Series Available

April 28, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

Waterware is calling on homeowners, architects, and tradespeople of any background or experience to join their live webinar series, led by industry experts. The webinars, which are split into beginner and intermediate modules, offer information on how the systems work, what solutions are available, and how to choose the best heating and cooling option for your project.

Waterware spokesperson and webinar host Lewis Hughes says the webinar series can be helpful for homeowners who aren’t sure what heating and cooling systems to install in their home, architects looking to upskill, and people who are thinking about getting into the heating trade.

“We want to make sure that people have access to the most relevant information regarding radiant central heating and cooling, but in a way that’s convenient. Online webinars tick that box.”

Each webinar is one hour long, and any questions will be answered live either throughout the Webinars or during a Q + A session at the end.

Beginner modules offer an introduction to central heating, while intermediate modules dive into functions, installation, servicing, and more. There are four webinars on offer- beginning with the concept around heating and cooling, radiator heating, underfloor heating, and Active Ceiling heating and cooling.

During the Covid-19 Level 3 and 4 lockdowns, the webinars will be running regularly by ZOOM, and all attendees are invited to register their interest online to receive information on session times. For more information and to register, visit https://www.waterware.co.nz/webinar-series/, or phone 0800 WATERWARE or 09 273 9191. If you have missed a webinar or can’t make a scheduled session, all sessions have been recorded and will be made available on-line in due course.

About Waterware

Waterware has been a market-leading specialist in the plumbing, central heating and bathroomware sectors for the past 30 years. Waterware prides itself on its positive pre and post sales service experience, its ongoing drive for product innovation, and technical design expertise.

Partnering with internationally recognized brands, Waterware offers both component equipment and full service solutions including:

• Central Heating & Cooling: Gas, LPG, and Diesel Boilers, Heatpumps, Radiators, Radiant Active Ceiling and Underfloor Heating
• Plumbing: Temperature & Pressure Valves, Water Meters, Tanks & Cylinders, Pumps, Pipe Systems and Lubricants
• Bathroomware: Tapware, Baths, Toilets, Vanities, Mirrors, Heated Towel Rails and Lighting

We work hard to source the highest quality products to meet New Zealand market needs and trends, ensuring they meet national regulatory requirements. Our products are supported by our extensive range of spare parts, in-house Installer training and Warranty assurance programs.

The business is located in East Tamaki, Auckland and provides a nationwide service from Northland through to Invercargill.

Waterware is committed to delivering positive service outcomes for its customers across both product and solution offerings.

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Media Release on 28 April 2020

Media Contact
Waterware
info@waterware.co.nz
0800 WATERWARE / 09 273 9191

https://waterware-waterware.kademi.com.au/webinar-series/

MIL OSI

The State of Education – The impact of COVID-19 on Distance Teaching

Live News

April 28, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

Education insights firm, Pivot Professional Learning, in collaboration with Education Perfect (EP), are set to release the findings of a significant survey assessing the current learning climate from the perspective of teachers and school leaders.

Over 3500 teachers and school leaders in Australia and New Zealand responded to the 38 item survey exploring the impact of COVID-19 on education. The survey focused on technology usage and challenges, educator concerns for students, and the impact on student and teacher well-being.

The report titled ‘Educator perspectives on the impact of a rapid shift to distance and online learning’, focused on understanding overall confidence in schools’ ability to support distance teaching and learning; as well as creating insights into how to better support both teachers and students during this new era of schooling.

“We wanted to capture ‘of the moment’ feedback from those on the frontlines of educating students during COVID-19,” explains Pivot Professional Learning CEO, Amanda Bickerstaff, adding that “with over 3500 responses, we’ve now gained a wealth of data about how teaching has changed and what educators need most to meet the needs of their students.

This is an opportunity for us to come together as a community to innovate and provide better solutions for online teaching and learning.”

The report generated key insights into both teaching and technology, with the research finding:

– While technology allows the connection of both teachers and students to create meaningful educational experiences, the well-being of students, social isolation, and apprehension around loss of learning were the major concerns of teachers and school leaders

– 7 out of 10 teachers report their planning time has increased. Distance teaching has brought with it a steep learning curve, putting teachers back to being “new teachers” in terms of preparation time

– Schools are using multiple technology platforms (between 2-5) to support teaching and learning online. No platform was rated consistently highly across features and confidence in use

– Just over half of teachers and school leaders feel that they can effectively communicate with students and parents online

EP CEO, Alex Burke, emphasises that “governments have already called for more data on the impact of remote learning for teachers, students and parents. Additionally, we are seeing our teacher community being challenged to adjust to the new working conditions.

EP is used by over 1 million students across Australia and New Zealand, and we now have a unique insight into teacher sentiment and student engagement. So the survey will be invaluable to us and the broader community.”

Ultimately, the survey uncovered three key findings:

1. The Australian Teacher community are committed to shifting learning online, but would benefit from additional support The shift to distance teaching and online learning has had a significant impact on educators across Australia with the majority of respondents indicating their planning and preparation time has increased. Based on this study, it’s clear that teachers are committed to their students and have confidence in their ability to teach online. However this demand on teachers is unlikely to be sustainable over the longer term and schools and providers should consider supports to reduce planning and preparation time.

2. There is a need for a comprehensive distance learning approach that goes beyond “learning” Educators understand that the shift to schooling online impacts more than just learning outcomes – it also impacts social needs, communication and engagement. When designing and implementing new resources for distance teaching, it’s important that we take a comprehensive approach to providing recommendations, new solutions and professional learning for all facets of the student experience.

3. There is no“one-size fits all” technology for shifting schools online Most schools are using several technologies and platforms to deliver online teaching. Teachers identified strengths and weaknesses with all providers. This means there is no single student and teacher experience of ‘online learning’. A future analysis of the impact of distance learning should consider the influence of using different technology and providers.

The report will be released later this week with a webinar detailing further results and key findings. You can register your interest here: Insightsfor.education

The 38-item survey was open from April 9-April 13th and received responses from all states in Australia and regions in New Zealand. Respondents from all year levels, domains, and types of schools are represented in the results.

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

Education Perfect

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

Welcome

Media Release on 28 April 2020

Media Contact
Annie de Merindol, The Big Smoke
Email: annie.demerindol@thebigsmoke.com.au
Phone: +61 414 757 390
Website: https://epforlearning.com/

MIL OSI

Skin N Tonic Releases New Website

Live News

April 17, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz) Locals of West Auckland searching for beauty and massage therapists now have a new place to visit. Skin N Tonic recently launched a website with all their beauty therapy solutions. The website address is www.skintonic.co.nz.

With dozens of beauty salons in West Auckland, Niam Pala, owner of Skin N Tonic understands the needs of locals searching for treatments that suit them. “Everyone goes through consultation first to know which treatment is the best option.”

The website focuses on seven main areas: facial treatments; eye treatments; nail treatments; massage; spa packages; waxing & electrolysis; and spray tanning.

Facial Treatments

From the classic refreshing facial to anti-ageing facial treatment, Skin N Tonic has a range of treatments both available for men and women. Experience professional skin care tailored to your skin through a full consultation and how to maintain your rejuvenated skin with the aftercare programme.

Eye Treatments

Achieve the perfect eyelash and eyebrow treatment to suit your face. At Skin N Tonic, professionals will keep your brows tidy and perfectly shaped. If the brows are thinning, they can be tinted to give the impression of fuller brows.

Nail Treatments

Give your finger and toenails the ultimate treatment they deserve. Skin N Tonic offers a quick file & polish service and mani & pedi combos using only high-quality products to give your hands and feet a new look to match the occasion or look you are after.

Massage

Massage is the answer to your muscle tensions, niggling sports injury or from stress. Skin N Tonic has massage therapists to help in easing away your troubles. From Swedish massage, deep tissue massage to hot stone massage, these massage treatments can help reduce stress levels and help you relax.

Packages

Pamper yourself with Spa Packages from Skin N Tonic. Enjoy a body massage followed by a facial treatment or a facial with eyelash and eyebrow tinting. The spa packages can be given as a gift and you can also purchase gift vouchers from $50-$200.

Waxing & Electrolysis

Skin N Tonic offers waxing, threading and electrolysis for both men and women who want to get rid of unwanted body hair. If you are not sure which is best for you, your Beauty Therapist can help to pick the effective and safe treatment for you.

Spray Tanning

Using a 100% certified organic tanning solution, Skin N Tonic will leave you golden instead of orange whether you opt for a half body or full body tan. Achieve that naturally tanned skin through their spray tanning services.

“People have a hundred things to do during the day and I want their visit to Skin N Tonic to be an oasis in that busyness. Coming to our salon is an investment really, not just in the way you look but in your mental health as you take time to experience the ultimate in relaxation.” says Nilam Pala.

Skin N Tonic provides services across West Auckland

For more information on the beauty services provided by Skin N Tonic, go to: www.skintonic.co.nz.

MIL OSI

COVID-19 Opens Doors for Digital Marketing eLearning Courses

Live News

April 17, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz) A traditional business model for Clickthrough would be to offer classroom-style teaching sessions, incorporating all parts of search engine optimisation and social media marketing for businesses and companies.

According to Clickthrough’s Chief Motivator, Glen Maguire, that hasn’t changed. The only difference now is that the training sessions are entirely online and customised by a ‘personal trainer’ to suit each customer.

“Like many New Zealand companies, the alert level four lockdown has meant we’ve had to rethink how we continue our everyday services. Holding online SEO, Google Ads and Social Media Marketing training sessions was a natural choice the market was asking for.”

The eLearning course incorporates practical tips and advice and follow-up training from an online personal trainer. These trainers boast a vast amount of experience and will arm you with tips and tricks you can immediately apply to your business.

Glen says now, more than ever, learning search and social media marketing is crucial.

“It’s a manageable, controlled form of marketing and advertising for businesses that sees real results. It’s also something you can do yourself rather than pay someone to do for you.”

Businesses, eCommerce store can benefit from personalised eLearning courses. Everything from keyword selection to YouTube, social media, and learning how search engines work will be included in the one-on-one and group training sessions.

If you would like to know more about personalised eLearning courses, get in touch with Clickthrough Digital today. Email hello@clickthrough.co.nz or phone 0508 254 258.

Media Release 17 April 2020.

MIL OSI

Family Builder Celebrate 10 Year Success During Lockdown

Live News

April 16, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz)

It may not have been the celebration they originally planned, but Nigel and Amy Hollamby and Chris Karton, the team behind Stonewood Homes Timaru, still managed to ‘chink’ glasses and acknowledge a decade of success despite lockdown.

They shared the special event via Zoom, along with Chris’s wife Kelly.
“We were determined not to let the moment go unnoticed,” Ms Hollamby said. “We have worked very hard for the past 10 years to build a stable, credible business and particularly at a time like this in world, it’s important to share significant achievements in any way we can. We will do something special with our team and suppliers when all this is over though.”
Hollamby said the business was in a good position to ride out this crisis as they had always managed the business with the mindset of being prepared for the unexpected.

“Our conservative approach to cash flow and business management has been the cornerstone of our continued success. In this industry you always need to look at the big picture, plan for a ‘rainy day’. Right now, this proves to be a very sound strategy as we face our biggest hurdle in business yet.
“Obviously this lockdown will affect 99 percent of businesses however, we are confident we can come out the other side.”

Mr Karton said they had retained all 10 of their staff currently.
“Our team are incredibly loyal to us so in times like this is it is important to show our loyalty back to them,” he said. “After all, we will need them when we get back to working again. We have simply told our staff to stay home and abide by the lockdown rules. If everyone plays their part, we can hopefully get back to ‘normal’ again sooner.”

Stonewood Homes currently have 17 houses under construction in South Canterbury and 7 in Mid Canterbury.
“We are all in this together and customers have been very understanding about the situation. We are all in the same boat, but we are keeping in touch with our customers throughout the crisis. There will be a lot of planning and scheduling to be done once we can work again and we will do everything in our power to get people’s homes finished as quickly as possible.”

When asked about the future of the building industry in Timaru the pair was philosophical.

“It’s a very interesting question. Some people will be worse affected than others depending on the industry they work in, but interest rates will be at an all-time low so it will potentially be the cheapest time to build a house,” Mr Karton said.

“I also believe there will be a lot of people returning to New Zealand as a result of this pandemic and they will need a house to live in which could work favourably for those in the building industry,” Ms Hollamby said.
“We have invested in significant parcels of land around Timaru over the years to help facilitate locals with quality, affordable house and land packages and this will be something of need in the coming years as the local economy forges ahead again.”

Stonewood Homes has built close to 300 homes in the past decade backed by a team with a combined 100 years of building experience.
“Within our team we have 5 qualified builders working for us,” Ms Hollamby said.

“Chris and Nigel were the contract builders for the previous Stonewood franchisee and when the opportunity arose to buy the business we partnered up and took the plunge. It’s not something we planned to do but we have never looked back.”

Media Release 16 April 2020.

MIL OSI

Songs of Isolation by Marina Bloom

Live News

April 16, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz) While New Zealand is in a pandemic lockdown, Kiwi-Russian singer/songwriter, Marina Bloom, has committed to release a new song and lyric video each week as part of her new series Songs of Isolation.

Each song uncovers themes of hope, solace, and reflection and Marina hopes listeners will find a sense of peace from her music.

“Music can be fun and exciting, but it can also be soothing. I try to provide a bit of both with this collection of songs.”

Marina recently won a Russian Community Achievement Award for her music and has just wrapped up a nation-wide tour to promote her album ‘Back Where We Started’, which debuted at #16 on the NZ Album Charts in January this year.

Listen to the current releases in the Songs of Isolation series here, [https://marinabloommusic.com/music#songs-of-isolation] and follow her Facebook page for further updates. [https://www.facebook.com/marinabloommusic/]

Releases in the Songs of Isolation series:
‘Fragile’ – released March 27
‘Three sisters – Tri Sestry’ – released April 5
‘A Long Way From Home’ – released April 11
with more to come!

Media Release 16 April 2020.

MIL OSI

COVID-19 and Life Insurance

Live News

April 16, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz)

For people rushing out to get Life Insurance or Funeral cover you need to read this first. Several insurers are changing their policy wordings or asking further questions in regards to your potential exposure to COVID-19 or putting limitations on cover for next 12 months if you are travelling overseas – which may not even be possible for quite some time.

So far we have seen changes from most insurers, particularly Partners Life who have changed their wordings for new applicants for income protection.

If you have existing Life Insurance then yes you will have cover for Coronavirus or COVID-19 – if you die from COVID-19 then your policy will pay. Currently at the time of writing all insurers are still offering Life cover with no exclusions for COVID-19. However they are asking questions about your recent travel – any planned travel etc or possible exposure to COVID19 – if at all possible with the borders currently closed.

Funeral cover will generally cover COVID-19 – however most Funeral plans only cover illnesses after being in place for 2 years so this is something to be aware of if you recently taken out a funeral policy.

Trauma cover or critical illness generally does not cover a COVID 19 claim – however some policies will pay out if you have a certain amount of nights in the ICU unit.

Income Protection would cover a claim if you got sick from the Coronavirus and would kick in when you reached your waiting period, if you lose your job if you have redundancy cover then this would pay out. But not many people take up redundancy cover in New Zealand – this may change in the future. Currently at time of writing only one insurer was offering redundancy cover due to COVID-19 and there is a 6 month stand down.

There is no cover if you cannot work due to the current lock-down for COVID-19 in New Zealand.

Unfortunately for business owners they are also finding out that there business interruption insurance doesn’t cover the lock down either. For existing income protection policyholders there is mental health cover in most policies so this could be possible to claim under if you lost your job. Currently getting income protection cover is getting harder as insurers are either changing the wording for new policies or restricting it to certain occupations. The situation is changing by the day so this information was correct at the time of writing. If you want to look at this cover we would suggest getting onto sooner rather than later. https://smartinsure.co.nz/ COVID-19 and Life Insurance

Media Release 16 April 2020.

MIL OSI

Abode Heating & Insulation Releases New Website

Live News

April 16, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz)

New website for Abode Heating & Insulation highlights heating, insulation and ventilation solutions for homes throughout the Hawkes Bay.

Are you a home or property owner looking for professional heating, insulation and ventilation solutions? Take a look at Abode Heating & Insulation’s recently launched website for further information: www.abodehb.co.nz.

Locals can learn about the different aspects to the company’s business on the website, including: heat pump, wood burner and pellet fire installation; home insulation; and ventilation systems.

Abode Heating & Insulation are approved installers by the Hawkes Bay Regional Council, and can help you access heating grants, loans and subsidies depending on your situation.

Heating

Abode Heating & Insulation has a range of heating options to keep a home dry, warm and comfortable. Heat pumps, wood burners and pellet fires; whatever suits the homeowner’s lifestyle and budget, there is a right choice. The team can take care of the project from the assessment of the overall costs to the installation, and help access heating grants where possible.

Ceiling & Underfloor Insulation

Reduce condensation, heat loss, and outside noise with quality underfloor, ceiling and wall insulation. Proper insulation will not only make your property warmer and drier, but also more efficient and may help reduce power bills. Abode Heating & Insulation utilizes quality products that work effectively, including Knauf Earthwool, Bradford & Mammoth Insulation products.

Ventilation

Keep the air at home fresher and healthier with a quality home ventilation system. Proper ventilation can help in reducing condensation, mould and unpleasant odours. Abode Heating & Insulation recommend and install SmartVent systems, with options that suit all types of homes or rental properties.

Abode Heating & Insulation service throughout Hawke’s Bay and the East Coast. Our insulation services are also available in Auckland.

For more information on the heating, insulation and ventilation services provided by Abode Heating & Insulation, go to: www.abodehb.co.nz

Media Release 16 April 2020.

MIL OSI

Thurlow Consulting’s New Director

Live News

April 16, 2020

Source: Press Release Service

(PR.co.nz)

Thurlow, a consulting engineers firm with a successful record for over 20 years expands into surveying and land development consultation, bringing on Joe Fletcher as a new director.

At Thurlow Consulting Engineers and Surveyors Ltd., we specialize in offering surveying and land development services. We have over 20 years of experience and have completed thousands of projects. We have done a variety of different types of surveys, including boundary mark-out, scanning, levelling, etc.

Not only are we extremely experienced in surveying and land development, but the thing that sets us apart from other companies is that we can do the majority of tasks that are associated with this type of project under one roof. We have the expertise for whatever your project is, and we can do it efficiently.

We believe that surveying and land development go hand-in-hand. The process that we follow for our projects generally starts with the creation of a comprehensive and accurate site plan. We do this to create a topographical survey. Next, we apply for resource consent. In order to do this, we create reports, drawings, and documents for the Assessment of Environmental Effects, which is used through the resource consent process, and we can also help if you need an expert witness at a public hearing. After, we complete detailed designs, apply for construction consents, and organise a contractor. Depending on the size of the project, we may also prepare tender documents, recommend a contractor, do regular inspections and certifications of the work, and provide you with general project management.

By choosing Thurlow Consulting, you are making an excellent investment. We are ready to help you, so contact us today if you are ready to get started.

Thurlow Consulting Engineers & Surveyors offer services to land developers, construction companies and residential property owners regarding engineering and development projects across New Zealand.

For more information visit https://thurlow.co.nz/

Media Release 16 April 2020.

MIL OSI

Whanganui Community Foundation COVID-19 Response Fund

Live News

March 31, 2020

Source: Press Release Service – New Zealand

(PR.co.nz)

With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing and community lockdown taking effect, Whanganui Community Foundation has set up a new Response Fund to support community organisations affected by the crisis in the Whanganui, Rangitīkei and Waimarino regions, effective immediately. The application process is simple, and successful applicants will be provided with the funds in as short a period as possible.

The fund was created by the trustees of the Whanganui Community Foundation on 26 March and is anticipated to continue for at least three months. Board chair, Trevor Goodwin, was delighted that there was unanimous support from trustees for this timely initiative.

“During this unprecedented time, we know that many organisations are struggling,” says Foundation Manager, Stephen Brandon. “Many local non-profits are at the centre of health and social service provision and have had to take rapid steps to ensure they can continue to serve the community safely. Others are facing a drop in income due to cancellation of fund-raising events, and unexpected costs such as IT support for remote working. The new fund is designed to support these organisations as they continue to serve our community.”

Grants will be made from the fund for up to $5,000 each, with applications for small grants of up to $1,000 encouraged. Applicants may apply for grants to cover:

1. Costs incurred in providing goods, services, projects or activities for members of the community most in need on the basis of COVID-19, and/or
2. Increased or unexpected operational costs related to COVID-19.

Further information and the simple online application form can be found at www.whanganuicommunityfoundation.org.nz/covid19. Interested organisations are encouraged to contact Foundation Manager Stephen Brandon on 022 595 8700.

Media Release 31 March 2020.

MIL OSI

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