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JANUARY 2026

BAY OF PLENTY The voice of Bay of Plenty

SHAKING UP THE CITY

Pāpāmoa student Ben Jones is part of a ground-breaking partnership. Page 3

BETTING ON THE BAY

The property market could be on the cusp of recovery says a leading economist. Page 5

ALIGNING AGENDAS

Bay of Plenty must harness its potential by uniting business priorities. Page 6

OUT AND ABOUT

We were at business chamber events. Were you there? Pages 10, 11

The science of learning What began as a Tauranga teacher’s frustration over gaps in science education has grown into a nationwide network delivering bilingual kits to 700 schools every fortnight. David Porter reports.

hris Duggan turned her concern for students into a charitable trust that now reaches thousands of children with hands‑on science experiments, while giving teachers the confidence to teach the subject. Twelve years ago, as Head of Science at Tauranga Girls’ College, she identified a glaring gap in how primary students were introduced to science before reaching intermediate and secondary school. Initially the shortfall appeared most pronounced among girls, but Duggan soon realised boys were equally affected. Her response was to found House of Science. Since then, House of Science has grown from a small Tauranga initiative into a national network of 21 branches supplying bilingual resource kits to more than 700 schools and 50,000 students every fortnight. Duggan is chief executive. The organisation is now focused on ensuring consistent access across the country and scaling to meet growing demand. She was recognised last year in the King’s Birthday Honours with a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her transformative impact on science education. Matua School science specialist Bruce Reid says Duggan has been an inspiration. “She has provided professional development for local teachers, weekly science articles, and most importantly, made it possible to get science resources out to schools every fortnight.” Duggan received her medal at Government House in Wellington from governor general Cindy Kiro during last September’s official investiture ceremonies. “While it’s personally meaningful, and a humbling honour, I see it primarily as recognition of the collective effort behind House of Science,” she says.

“Ask any student - they will tell you they love science” “Our staff, volunteers, branches, and partners have all contributed to building a national science education programme.” She believes the honour also highlights the importance of scientific literacy and the role the organisation plays in strengthening New Zealand’s future workforce. Duggan, whose full name is Welmoed Christiane, lives in Ātiamuri with husband Aaron. He joined her at the ceremony alongside their eldest daughter, baby grandson, and Duggan’s parents. In a typical example, every second Monday, kits arrive at Matua School stocked with equipment and guidebooks for new entrants through to Year Six. Reid says the children love the hands-on nature of science. Students could be testing point of balance, acidity, five senses, sweet and sour, fossil fuels, solar energy, microbes, forensic science, micro exploration, magnets, floating and sinking, electricity, and much more. Reid says booking the kits is easy, and they arrive fully stocked. After two weeks, they are collected and consumables replaced for the next teacher. “Chris has always aimed to get more science into schools,” says Reid. “Ask any student - they will tell you they love science.” Kate Davies chairs House of Science and says the programmes have become very successful. Duggan looked at why girls were turning off science and maths at such an early age. “I think it comes down to primary schools not having

the money to provide science resources,” says Davies. “They are expensive things to buy and to maintain. “The second thing is teachers having confidence to teach it.” Davies says the kits solve both problems. “It’s like magic in a box. Everything you need is there, for all levels with easy instructions and extensive online support.” The system works like a library. Schools book what they want, House of Science delivers, then collects and restocks for the next school. “It’s fun and easy for teachers because it doesn’t require special knowledge,” Davies says. The programme now reaches about one third of schools up to intermediate level. The primary aim is to ensure every child in New Zealand becomes scientifically literate, with a clear grasp of concepts and processes encountered in daily life. From teacher to CEO, Duggan’s journey reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every child in New Zealand has the chance to discover the science of learning.

Chris Duggan with governor general Cindy Kiro at the investiture ceremony in Wellington. Photo: Government House.

Chris Duggan, left, demonstrates the joy of science to primary school students.

Photo: Supplied

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

THE PORTER REPORT

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JANUARY 2026

Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of editorial staff and may be edited. Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s full name, residential address, and telephone number. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. Bay of Plenty Business News is published by Good Local Media Limited.

Also publishers of

As previously noted, I have always been proud of the fact that journalists were amongst the earliest adopters of the new IT. I am als0 the co-parent of several children, who in turn have been and are avid users of computers, online games and the multiple other ways young - as well as older people - have embraced accessing the cyber universe. However, the latest move by our bigger neighbour Australia, must at the least cause some of our politicians to seriously consider evaluating the impact and potential benefits of the Australian action. As I write, New Zealand politicians are currently too busy trying to position their parties to advantage for the next general election to address this issue. But I would not be surprised to see a number of parties manoeuvring to replicate the Australian actions. Our neighbour has gone out on a limb and implemented what is being reported as a world-first ban on allowing access to the internet for children and young teenagers. Stirred by multiple stories from across the country of the time young people are spending online, and the potential and actual damage that can be caused, Australia

has opted to crack down on youth access. Now accounts held by users under 16 must be removed on apps that include TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Kick, Twitch and Threads. I do not doubt that our canny teenagers will attempt and sometimes succeed in finding ways around the ban. However, Australia’s move to shift the focus onto the internet access providers is a shrewd one. No longer can the companies who profit most from providing access, slough responsibility off on the users. The interesting aspect of the ban is that it imposes responsibility on the suppliers of the various forms of internet access. Platforms that do not comply risk hefty fines. The owners of the internet access portals are expected to take steps this month to remove accounts held by users under 16 years of age in Australia and prevent those teens from registering new accounts. Internet companies have long proffered their own interpretation of the phase “If we build it they will come” (derived from the film Field of Dreams, where it originally referred to the spiritual return of a long dead sportsman.) Certainly, much of the conspicuous consumption we see in the

world derives from that basic concept. Many readers of The News are very aware of the extent to which the internet has penetrated our lives. And for those of us still engaged in rearing children, there are undeniable and not yet answered questions about the penetration of the internet into our lives. The Australian ban has caused millions of children and teenagers to lose access to their accounts. However, the Guardian reported that there had some “teething problems” with the ban’s implementation. Children have reportedly spent the past few weeks undertaking age assurance checks, swapping phone numbers and preparing for their accounts to be deactivated. Guardian Australia has received several reports of those under 16 passing the facial age assurance tests, but the government has flagged it is not expecting the ban will be perfect from day one. I do fear that as we move towards further access to the internet, we may risk diminishing our abilities to talk with one another. That, in my own experience, remains the best way of communicating with our children.

REGIONAL VIEW

Cut spending, cut progress? By TODD MULLER

CountryLife

One of the last announcements of 2025 was the government’s call for a cap on local government rate rises. As a former politician I can see the ready appeal during a cost of living crisis to turn the attention of a demanding and restless voting public to the cost of local government. Local government are an easy target, no one likes paying rates out of tax paid income, so those regular rates bills can sometimes bite more than central government taxes that for salary earners at least, is gone before you get paid. This is a national issue of course, but our local councils certainly get some pretty pointed comments about its cost performance. Recently I attended the Pāpāmoa Ratepayers Association to talk to a small local audience about Priority One, but the discussion quickly turned to Tauranga City Council and the Pāpāmoa residents’ various concerns over our city strategy and associated costs. Every person had a pretty negative view around the CBD, the new council building, parking availability, the new museum - you get the

picture. I am not trying to carve out a role as a council defender - and I’m out of national politics - but I can’t see how we square our communities’ desire for more amenities, roads, infrastructure, with a view that we should reduce council spending. Add to this dynamic, the government’s proposal for a maximum 4% rates rise. A quick look over the last few years of local council rates has seen annual rates increases well in excess of 4%, excluding the regional council that uses its dividend from its port shares to subsidise rates. Most people who call this city home, want more investment, not less. When my son was younger we would go and watch him play cricket every January in the Hawkes Bay. I would marvel at the amenities the Hawkes Bay region had at their disposal, from museums, to art galleries, numerous cricket grounds surrounded in old trees, to swimming pool complexes, a cricket and rugby stadium, all for a population of 153,000.

When I was a boy in the late 1970s our population was 30,000, now it’s 211,000 if you include the Western Bay and expected to continue to grow at a pace reflecting the economic opportunities this region provides. We all want improved liveability and that requires investment but to constrain that investment to some mythical nominal percentage above inflation does not seem smart. Ratepayers should have transparency of costs and priorities and to test council direction as our Pāpāmoa residents did - but to put our council leaders into a fiscal straight jacket and then demand a highly liveable and functional city seems counterintuitive. I think 2026 will be a key year to have some frank conversations about this reality. Financial prudence always has its place, but so does targeted spending to build this region for the 2030s. Bring on the debate. • Todd Muller is a long term Tauranga resident, former MP and current chair of Priority One. All views expressed are his own.

Sam Uffindell MP for Tauranga Wishing Tauranga business owners and staff a successful summer festive season and a great start to 2026.

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JANUARY 2026

Briefs… New Year honours

Bay of Plenty honours were evenly spread in the New Year’s honours list. Among them were Leith Comer (Rotorua) made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (NZOM) for services to Māori, governance and education, Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) to Shirley Hooper (Pāpāmoa) for services to netball and artistic swimming, Jens Mueller (Tauranga) for services to education and former Tauranga mayor Tenby Powell for services to business, governance and humanitarian aid. Made members of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) were Jane Eynon-Richards (Rotorua) for services to the community, Katharine Milford (Tauranga) for services to people with aphasia and Jennifer Nahu (Rotorua) for services to rugby league. The King’s Service Order (KSO) went to Mark Harawira (Whakatāne) for services to Māori education, arts and conservation while King’s Service Medals (KSM) were awarded to Anneke Dinnington (Taupō) for services to seniors and the community, Elizabeth Fletcher (Rotorua) for services to the community, particularly wastewater advocacy and Leonie Sinclair (Rotorua) for services to health.

Prices up

Median prices for Bay of Plenty properties increased year on year to $855,000, Real Estate Institute chief executive Lizzy Ryley reports. Owneroccupiers, first home buyers and investors were the most active over November. There were 463 sales in the region during the month with 282 in Tauranga – where the median price was $880,00 - 69 in Western Bay and 65 in Rotorua.

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

Students shake up city A young researcher’s internationally recognised work is revealing how resident‑driven innovation can guide Tauranga’s next wave of technology development, reports senior writer Mary Anne Gill.

Ben Jones

hen 22-year-old Ben Jones began exploring how everyday residents could influence the technologies shaping Tauranga’s future, he didn’t expect the project to become a case study in how regional partnerships can accelerate innovation. Now his work is being recognised on the international stage - and offering a glimpse into how cities like Tauranga can build smarter infrastructure, stronger talent pipelines and commercially relevant digital solutions. Jones, 22, a University of Waikato graduate now completing a Master of Science (Research) who attended Pāpāmoa College, recently presented his findings on community

co-design for smart cities at OzCHI 2025 in Sydney, one of Australasia’s leading human-computer interaction conferences. The research has also been published as an Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) long paper - a significant milestone for an emerging researcher and a signal that Tauranga’s innovation activity is gaining global visibility. The project, developed with Tauranga City Council and local residents, examines how communities can meaningfully contribute to the design of smart-city technologies. While codesign is widely used in product development, applying it to city-scale digital infrastructure is still relatively new in New Zealand. For councils and businesses, the approach offers a way to reduce project risk, improve adoption rates and ensure investment aligns with realworld demand. Jones worked alongside Software Engineering senior lecturer Jessica Turner to engage residents, students, council staff and community groups in shaping earlystage concepts. “It has been amazing seeing research we started in Tauranga recognised internationally,” he says.

Kelly dies

Tauranga-based marine expert Sean Kelly died unexpectedly last month in his early 50s. He established a distinguished history in the marine world and was founder of Pacific7. Kelly was a critic of Tauranga City Council’s decision to sell the Marine Precinct.

Tauranga’s waterfront boardwalk. Photo: Tourism Bay of Plenty

The results of a brainstorm session with local community looking at how technology can improve Tauranga.

“(This research) shows how collaboration between students, researchers and council can create ideas that are both innovative and grounded in “Seeing how a large organisation like Tauranga City Council operates was a valuable learning experience, and I really appreciated their openness to exploring what technology could make life better for our city.” The study surveyed 248 residents and held a co-design workshop with 13 participants, using an interactive toolkit aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Traffic congestion, environmental monitoring and public safety emerged as top priorities - areas that represent significant cost centres for councils and major opportunities for technology providers. To make complex technology accessible, the team used two international toolkits - the Tiles IoT Inventor Toolkit from Norway and the Futurice IoT Service Kit - which turn technical problem-solving into hands-on design. For industry, this kind of early engagement can help validate concepts before major investment, reducing development time and improving commercial

viability. Turner says the project demonstrates the value of designing with communities rather than for them. “When residents and students collaborate with council, you get solutions that are both innovative and realistic for the city.” While Tauranga City Council’s involvement has been exploratory, the partnership has already created momentum. Dave Parsons – council’s senior programme manager – says partnering with the university on the Summer Research Programme was rewarding. “A year on, we’re excited to prototype one of last year’s concepts and explore how local partnerships can help bring these ideas to life.” Council Innovation lead Holly Simons says the research reinforces the importance of human-centred design in the public sector. “It can help the public sector design solutions that respond to real community needs to create meaningful value in people’s daily lives.” The study has already generated two new summer research scholarships with students and the council. Software Engineering’s Jack Unsworth and Blake Smith from Computer Science will develop a prototype of the

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Manu Meter - a concept first imagined during the co-design workshops. The Manu Meter uses artificial intelligence and environmental sensors to measure splash height from manu jumps on Tauranga’s waterfront, while also providing insights into water safety and water quality. Beyond its playful origins, the project demonstrates how environmental monitoring, computer vision and public engagement can intersect - areas with growing commercial potential in tourism, recreation and environmental tech. Turner says the collaboration highlights the strategic role universities can play in regional innovation. “We’re giving students the opportunity to see their research make an immediate difference,” she says. “It shows how universities can act as connectors between community, industry and local government to co-create ideas that matter.” As Tauranga continues its transformation into a centre for research, technology and high-value industry, projects like this signal the emergence of a more coordinated innovation ecosystem - one where talent development, public-sector partnerships and commercial opportunity are increasingly aligned.

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

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ork-integrated learning is becoming an increasingly important part of university curricula as industries look to employ graduates who are confident, adaptable and able to contribute from day one. At the University of Waikato, applied learning experiences are embedded across all undergraduate programmes and ensure students develop academic knowledge and practical workplace capability. In Tauranga, our city campus and strong relationships with local businesses provide students with access to high-quality work placement opportunities in an integrated way. A clear example of this model can be seen in the partnership between cleantech company Cetogenix and University of Waikato Tauranga student Madeline Sharpe. Cetogenix is a New Zealand startup based in Rotorua developing technology that unlocks the potential of organic waste streams to produce renewable carbon resources. Cetogenix is part of a growing regional inno-

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entific concepts into accessible information for industry audiences and potential customers. “I have learned that biotech is my passion,” she says. “Working across different parts of the business has shown me how research and commercial application connect. The work feels purposeful and I am developing skills that will be important for my career.” Cetogenix COO and co-founder Alexandra Stuthridge says student involvement contributes meaningfully to company progress. “Students bring curiosity, energy and fresh thinking. They take on challenging projects and help us accelerate our work. Madeline has been a fantastic addition to the team. She brings perspectives that strengthen our ability to think creatively and communicate our R&D externally.” Since 2022 Cetogenix has hosted 14 students across New Zealand. Two have progressed into master’s degrees and one into a PhD, all with industrial focus,

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Madeline Sharpe, (third from left) University of Waikato Tauranga student and marketing intern at Cetogenix. with others pursuing opportunities in the deeptech space. Experiences like this demonstrate how applied learning can inspire students towards emerging fields, vital for New Zealand’s low carbon transition and future economic resilience. Work-integrated learning strengthens the Bay of Plenty’s capability by ensuring students gain real-world experience in sectors important for the region’s growth. As students build confidence, practical skills and industry awareness, businesses benefit from emerging talent and additional capacity to advance new ideas. These collaborations also support the development of a connected regional knowl-

edge precinct where education, research and industry operate in partnership. This summer, the R&D Experience Grant enabled 76 internships across the region, with approximately one third undertaken by University of Waikato students. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a future-ready workforce and supporting the Bay of Plenty’s long-term economic potential.

Professor Alister Jones is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Waikato. He can be contacted at alister.jones@waikato.ac.nz

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Can we bet on The Bay?

After turbulent times, a resilient BOP real estate market could be on the cusp of recovery making for a happy New Year on the homes front, as Jon Rawlinson discovered. Call it middle-of-the-road, run-of-the-mill, or nothing to write home about, sometimes average is more than just okay. While Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) recently suggested there could be more pain before gains in real estate, it’s not quite so bad in the Bay. “The Bay of Plenty is a bit more resilient than average,” Cotality’s chief property economist, says Kelvin Davidson. “There’s still a bit of pain, but not as much as

Cotality chief property economist, Kelvin Davidson

elsewhere.” So, pretty good, glass half full, on the bright side, light on the horizon? “The outlook for 2026 as a whole is for rising house prices and sales, but certainly not at the crazy post-pandemic levels. It’s hard to say how the Bay of Plenty will perform specifically, but I’d suspect it’d be somewhere in the middle of the pack.” According to the latest Cotality Pain and Gain Report, property resale gains in the third quarter of 2025 fell to their lowest since 2013. However, Davidson says this is consistent with property values in many areas still significantly down from their 2022 high. Some have more ground to regain than others. “What goes up must come down. Auckland and Wellington, for example, had big booms. Bay of Plenty still went up, but maybe it didn’t become as elevated or excessive,” Davidson says. “The Bay has been relatively robust. You can get down into the weeds on that,

but the bigger picture is that it’s been a more resilient part of the country.” A strong rural property market may have been helping ease the pain in regions associated with farming including BOP. “Absolutely, and we’re seeing this in areas that aren’t primary sector driven as such, but they have a larger share of activity coming from the primary sector than others.” Some quarterly reports have revealed a drop in house prices nationwide, including in Tauranga, towards the end of the year. Such short-term analysis must be considered in context, Davidson says. “I wouldn’t say Tauranga’s entering a second downturn or whatever, it’s just normal variability at the tail end of the downturn.” Another cut to the Official Cash Rate (OCR) towards the end of the year, as well as other ‘green shoots’, should help treat market pangs as the tide turns. “It’s the same everywhere – borrowers are benefiting and this will support the

Gudsell Designer Homes of Tauranga won the Mitre 10 Trade Craftsmanship award at the Master Builders House of the Year national awards for this new home in Ōtūmoetai.

housing market as we go into 2026 so we’ll see more sales probably at higher prices.” A slow and steady upturn could be just what the doctor ordered.

“Price rises should be fairly modest compared to what we have seen historically just because supply has rebalanced to some extent over the past couple of years,” Davidson

Kiwifruit companies in liquidation Financial restructuring is underway at five Te Puke kiwifruit companies linked to Gurwinder Singh Bains. The companies have been placed in court‑appointed liquidation, with PwC investigating their financial position. PwC directors Wendy Somerville and Malcolm Hollis are leading the process. The companies are Bains Fruit Productions, Bains Hort Group, Bains Farms, Bains Bros and GDP Orchards. Zespri has suspended Bains Hort Group’s contract to supply fruit. Gurwinder Singh Bains of Te Puke is listed as sole shareholder and director of the group and is associated

with the other companies. PwC said it is securing assets and assessing liabilities, with a first report due to the Registrar of Companies this month. Somerville confirmed the liquidators are in talks with company representatives and the immediate focus is on orchard operations. Receivership differs from liquidation as it is typically an appointment by a lender holding a security agreement and applies only to secured assets. PwC is still determining the number of unsecured creditors. Details will be disclosed in this month’s filing. – David Porter

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says. “In general, the economy is picking up, interest rates are down. So, whether you’re in Auckland or the Bay of Plenty, it does feel like things are turning around.”

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

Aligning agendas

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Shaping winning cultures

Bay of Plenty’s business community is being urged to align agendas and seize export opportunities, reports David Porter. Priority One’s new chief executive Dave Courtney says the region must harness its potential by uniting business priorities and staying competitive on the world stage. There was a lot of positivity around the region which Courtney says has underlined the reason why he wanted to take on the role at the economic development agency. He has an extensive background in business in New Zealand and overseas and according to Priority One chair Todd Muller a genuine economic and strategic bent. Courtney’s NZ business background centres on senior leadership roles in New Zealand’s primary and export sectors. He was Silver Fern Farms Chief Customer Officer and Chief Grower and Alliances Officer at Zespri where he drove global sales, strategy, and stakeholder relations in the kiwifruit and meat industries. Before that he was a journalist at the New Zealand Herald, the Press and the Sunday Star-Times. He also served in public sector communications roles

including at the NZ Defence Force and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Trade. Courtney believes business communities contain various stakeholders. “And they all have a view of economic growth and that it’s really important for the community and the region,” he says. “We face two things – how do you prioritise within different people’s agendas and secondly, once you’ve done that, how you coordinate between different people to bring them together and work out how they go after it. “That for me is the key thing and obviously for Priority One as well.” Courtney says that his previous roles, especially in primary industry, provided a good sense of the need for coordination and long-term views setting foundations for success. “It’s no different from that,” he says. “New Zealand is clearly in a race with the world.” And he notes that the rest of the world is now “flat” in terms of access to markets making it essential for New Zealand business communities to keep on

JANUARY 2026

By NICK SHEPPARD

Dave Courtney

turning up in markets with consistent messages. The important thing, he emphasised to The News, was for export businesses to “keep on turning up” in markets. Muller says he is confident local businesses will quickly recognise Courtney’s natural ability to connect people. “He has exceptional relationship skills and a remarkable capacity to see a path forward that will help deliver momentum for our community.” Courtney replaced longserving former head Nigel Tutt, who moved to head up Stuff Digital.

High-performing organisations and elite sports teams share more than many realise. Having worked in both worlds - from HighPerformance Manager for the Blues Super Rugby Club to executive leadership and now business - I’ve seen how principles that shape winning cultures translate seamlessly. The foundation of any high-performing team, whether in sport or business, is a strong culture and shared purpose. It’s the North Star that aligns individuals, clarifying who we are, why we exist, and what we strive to achieve together. Culture is central to EMA’s 27 leadership and management courses. Leaders learn to model and reinforce culture through actions and communication. I recall early mornings at the Blues’ base, finding captain Keven Mealamu already reviewing footage - his example set the tone. True leadership is service: creating an environment where people bring their best selves every day. At its heart is trust - trust that leaders care, that you’re empowered, and that mistakes invite support, not punishment. This means embracing inclusivity, diversity, and psychological safety. We’re not building clones; we’re building unique individuals whose combined strengths propel us forward. Values are the glue that binds culture. At EMA, we embed values into leadership practice to inspire integrity and foster respectful, productive workplaces. Values shape behaviours and decisions. When someone steps outside those boundaries, courageous conversations must follow - not as punishment, but as realignment. Open, honest communication is key. In sport, it’s a senior player quietly reminding a teammate.

challenges with empathy. When teams selfmanage expectations, it signals maturity and strength. Building high-performing teams is multifaceted. People want to connect to something bigger than themselves. Leaders must communicate vision and provide tools and training for growth. Investment in learning pays dividends in engagement, productivity, and resilience. Successful organisations nurture people, recognising growth as a two-way street where employees feel valued. High performance is about consistency as much as outcomes. Rookies may shine briefly, but champions persist, seek feedback, and commit daily. In business, thriving organisations build this enduring growth mindset. Over time, I’ve learned the importance of connecting with people as human beings -understanding families, aspirations, and challenges builds trust and loyalty. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. New Zealand has incredible talent. By fostering culture through effective leadership, we can create teams that succeed and inspire. Whether coaching or leading, the principles remain: clarity of purpose, trust, valuesdriven behaviour, authentic leadership, and continuous development. As Sir Peter Blake said: “Will it make the boat go faster?” Clarity cuts through distractions and keeps everyone focused on what matters. • Nick Sheppard is Head of Learning and Development at the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA)

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Local government reform overdue > By MAHÉ DRYSDALE, Mayor of Tauranga

ecent Government announcements about proposed changes to the structure of local government and the replacement of the Resource Management Act (RMA) are positive and overdue reforms. Simplification of the local government structure would provide an opportunity to create a more efficient system that communities across New Zealand can benefit from. I’ve previously advocated for a review of local government because I believe the system designed 36 years ago can be improved. Ratepayers face huge cost pressures and we need a system

Mahé Drysdale

that delivers better value. This is our opportunity to provide that. With 78 councils nationwide – including seven in the Bay of Plenty – there is inevitably some duplication of resources, systems, processes and expertise, which creates unnecessary complication and adds to overall delivery costs. Across the region, our Council colleagues work hard to deliver for the Bay of Plenty community, but since I was elected in 2024, I’ve seen areas where the current system could be streamlined to improve decision-making and reduce costs. We need a model that delivers services and infrastructure more efficiently, while maintaining strong local governance and representation by and on behalf of communities. We now have a chance to clarify which functions are best delivered nationally, regionally, or locally. With RMA and water reforms also underway, now is a good time take a close look at local government and design a fit-for-purpose system. The changes announced recently provide a catalyst for this to happen. Collaboration will be key to ensuring the future form and

function of local government is fit-for-purpose, while not compromising local voices or negatively impacting important considerations such as Treaty of Waitangi principles and protecting New Zealand’s environment. We need to keep an open mind and design a system that works better for our communities. I’m looking forward to working with our neighbouring councils, central Government and Local Government New Zealand to get this right and set local government up for success for the next generation. The proposed RMA reforms aim to simplify our resource management system and reduce the number and complexity of resource consents. That’s an admirable goal, providing that it does not compromise the protection of the environment that enables our ‘Kiwi lifestyle’. It will also be important that any legislation passed has broad support in Parliament, so that we don’t face the prospect of a potential change in Government also resulting in the new resource laws being repealed. Local government and developers need sensible legislation, but we also need certainty.

Another new Government initiative is a move to introduce ‘rates capping’. On the face of it, this is something most people would support. However, I do have some concerns around what this could mean for the councils managing the needs of fast-growing populations and looking to drive economic growth in their communities. As a Council investing significantly in infrastructure to enable the growth that the government keeps asking for, I think this has the potential to drive perverse outcomes. Communities do need the flexibility of deciding to invest in the infrastructure and

In business, it’s managers addressing

community facilities they need, so any legislation introduced will need to provide for that ability, even if it does result in a rate increase outside of the 2-4% band the Government is contemplating. If the Government was serious about saving ratepayers money, taking GST off rates would reduce rates bills by 15%, removing what is a tax on a tax. All of these matters will be subject to full consultation processes and I would encourage businesses and individuals with strong views on these subjects to make submissions for the Government to consider.

The spread of butter… BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Open Country Dairy’s new $50m North Island butter plant underscores confidence in farmers, exporters and the community. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill reports from Wahāroa.

ew Zealand butter is strengthening its place on the world stage and Waikato-Bay of Plenty dairy farmers are at the heart of it. Open Country Dairy has cut the ribbon on a $50 million butter plant in Wahāroa, a bold bet on global demand and local capability. It sits alongside another one the company operates in the town which processes powder, cheese, whey protein and fat production and creates a strong proteinfat mix, says chief executive Mark de Latour. The investment positions New Zealand milk firmly on the world stage, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a premium dairy producer. Yet chair Laurie Margrain says Open Country faces challenges with European Union quotas restricting butter exports and ruling out adding more customers. “We’ve invested $50 million in this plant, but we’re locked out of Europe

for the next few years,” he says. Butter exports are headed to the United States, where giant retailer Costco is among the customers with its influential Kirkland brand promoting ‘Grass-Fed Butter’. De Latour says the investment in the butter plant is about longterm security. “This isn’t a five-year investment, it’s 50 years. It should give farmers confidence we can deliver the best returns for their milk.” Since 2004, Talley familyowned Open Country has grown into New Zealand’s second-largest milk processor. Margrain acknowledged the company’s 1250 farmer suppliers at the opening last month. “Without your milk, we’d be nothing,” noting Wahāroa farmers Cliff and June Hazelton were among the first to join Open Country 21 years ago. The couple, who have been married for 66 years, own

Collaboration that moves

Open Country Dairy chief executive Mark de Latour, left, with chair Laurie Margrain in front of suppliers and guests at the butter plant opening. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

two Wahāroa dairy farms and have now moved into Matamata. De Latour emphasised flexibility as key to keeping milk value high. “Protein, fat, butter - we’ve got options, and that’s what gives farmers confidence.” Locally, the project has injected millions into the community through trades, contractors, and ongoing maintenance. “Most of our people are employed from around here, and we keep sparkies, builders, and engineers busy all year,” Margrain says. For Wahāroa, the plant

is more than an industrial milestone. “Communities like Waikato have been unfairly criticised over dairying,” de Latour says. “In reality, we are the best farmers in the world, with the lowest carbon footprint. That’s something New Zealanders should celebrate.” Matamata-Piako Mayor Ash Tanner called the opening “a vote of confidence in our district, in our farmers, and in the future of New Zealand dairy,” praising Open Country’s support for local projects including

the upcoming community stadium in Matamata. The plant created up to 30 additional jobs. Open Country positions itself not as a rival to Fonterra but as an alternative. “Our role is to provide choice. That’s healthy for the industry,” de Latour says. Margrain agreed competition has lifted standards. “As we’ve done well, they have to do better. As they do better, we have to keep doing better. That’s competition.” Future expansion could focus on Southland, where flat sheep country

Commercial property law that protects more than just buildings.

offers potential for dairy conversion. De Latour says proposed changes to the Resource Management Act have made the prospect of sustainable growth easier. “Suppliers are number one. Without farmers, you have nothing. They are the cornerstone of what we do,” Margrain says, a reminder that at the heart of global growth is local milk. The butter plant is more than steel and machinery – it’s a $50 million vote of confidence in local people and a reminder that WaikatoBay of Plenty dairying still shapes the world.

To us, it’s always personal. tompkinswake.com

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Sponsored Content

Farm-to-forestry rules tighten under ETS reforms

ver the past decade, many farm owners have converted parts of their land to forestry and registered those areas in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), generating New Zealand Units, commonly referred to as carbon credits, which can be sold for profit. While this has created new income streams, it has also driven significant farm-to-forestry conversion, particularly on sheep and beef farms. Concerns that large-scale conversion was reducing the availability of highly productive land have now prompted a legislative response. The Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme – Forestry Conversion) Amendment Act received royal assent on 23 September 2025 and introduces new limits on future forestry registration under the ETS. The reforms are forward-looking. They do not affect land already registered in the ETS, nor applications lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) before 31 October 2025.

Restricted forest land From 31 October 2025, new restrictions apply to what is defined as “restricted forest land”. In broad terms, this includes land that falls within Land Use Capability (LUC) classes 1 to 6, was not forest land as at that date, and is intended to be planted predominantly in exotic species. Certain categories of land are excluded, including erosion-prone land, specified Māori land, unfarmed land, unmapped land and Crown afforestation land. LUC classes rank land based on its productive capability, with class 1 being the most productive and class 8 the least. The policy intent is clear: to limit the conversion of productive farmland to exotic forestry. Once land meets the definition of restricted forest land, options for ETS registration become significantly narrower.

The 25 per cent allowance One pathway remains available

through the 25 per cent allowance. Landowners may apply to register forestry under the ETS for up to 25 per cent of an individual farm. An individual farm may comprise multiple records of title, provided they share a boundary and are owned by the same person or entity. The allowance is fixed. It does not increase if the landowner later acquires adjoining LUC class 1 to 6 land. If an application is approved, the EPA must notify the Registrar-General, and the registration is recorded on the relevant titles. This means future purchasers and lenders will be able to see that the allowance has been used. For many landowners, this allowance will be the primary option for future ETS participation on productive land.

LUC class 6 permits A second, more limited pathway applies to LUC class 6 land only. Each year, permits will be allocated through two random selection ballots. Successful permit holders may register forestry

beyond the 25 per cent allowance for the number of hectares specified in the permit. Permits are non-transferable and expire after three full calendar years. Nationally, permits will be capped at 15,000 hectares per year unless amended by regulation. Applications will be split into small and large categories, with a portion of permits reserved for smaller landholdings. The first ballot is currently proposed for mid-2026.

What this means for landowners These reforms introduce additional barriers to farm-to-exotic forestry conversion and add a layer of regulatory complexity to land-use planning. For some landowners, this may limit flexibility and future revenue options. For others, particularly those with existing ETS-registered forestry, it may increase the relative value of land already within the scheme. Whether the changes lead to greater uptake of indigenous forestry or materially shift farm

Tax season wrapped: 2025 IN REVIEW

hope you enjoyed the summer break and spent some meaningful time with family and friends. If you made a new year’s resolution, I hope you can tick it off and you get that sense of achievement for meeting it. I’m not sure that the Commissioner of Inland Revenue will have made a work-related new year’s resolution, but if I had to guess at what one might be, I’d suggest “continue at pace with the issue of tax policy and interpretation documents”. 2025 was a very busy year in the tax development space, with some major consultation on both FBT and tax on charities. Both areas evoke strong feelings on one side or the other and, at least for now, we have not seen any of the material suggested changes acted on. Leading up to the Christmas break we saw the usual flurry of consultation documents issued with lots of holiday reading for those of us who enjoy such content! A couple of items released pre-Christmas are worthy of comment. Inland Revenue has recently turned its attention to shareholder current accounts. It’s

BY THERESA LE BAS & LAUREN APLIN values remains to be seen. What is clear is that ETS participation is no longer a straightforward option for productive land, and future land-use decisions will require careful legal and commercial consideration.

Theresa Le Bas is a Partner at Tompkins Wake, Rotorua. She can be reached on 07 838 6009, or theresa.lebas@tompkinswake.co.nz Lauren Aplin is a Solicitor at Tompkins Wake, Rotorua. She can be reached on 07 245 7032, or lauren.aplin@tompkinswake.co.nz

Sponsored Content

TAXATION

BY ANDREA SCATCHARD

> It is understandable

that gym memberships and general wellness perks don’t qualify for exemptions, but new Inland Revenue guidance suggests that providing employees with safety equipment like hard hats and high-vis gear might not be fully exempt from FBT, unless the items are branded.

common for shareholders to borrow funds from their company to manage cash flow or reinvest elsewhere. The concern is that shareholders are accessing funds tax free because the drawings are not being funded from taxed salaries or dividends. The changes being contemplated, with retrospective effect from 4 December 2025 if enacted, include taxing as dividends

LAW

any new shareholder loans left unpaid 12 months after the end of the income year. Inland Revenue is also considering taxing outstanding loans when a company is struck off and introducing tougher reporting requirements. The good news is that existing loan balances will not be affected (although additional drawings will be), and a $50,000 threshold

will keep smaller borrowings out of scope. These moves aim to align with international standards and ensure fairness, but will require businesses to keep a closer eye on how shareholder current accounts are managed. The recent statement on the health and safety FBT exemption is an example of where Inland Revenue’s interpretation starts to

feel out of step with reality. It is understandable that gym memberships and general wellness perks don’t qualify for exemptions, but new Inland Revenue guidance suggests that providing employees with safety equipment like hard hats and high-vis gear might not be fully exempt from FBT, unless the items are branded. It also suggests that paying for medical treatment for a workrelated injury is a taxable benefit to the employee. Both positions are a little hard to agree with as it is difficult to see a real benefit to the employee. Moving into the new year I don’t expect Inland Revenue will be slowing down. Staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating what will shape up to be another busy year in the tax space.

Andrea Scatchard is a Tax Partner at Deloitte, based in the Bay of Plenty. She can be contacted on ascatchard@deloitte.co.nz

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

GIANT SUDOKU

‘AMERICAN’ CROSSWORD

The legendary phoenix lives for 500 years or more. At the end of its life it builds a nest of twigs that it then ignites. Nest and bird are reduced to ashes, from which a new, young phoenix emerges. Can you solve our Giant Sudoku? Every row, every column and every 4x4 box must contain digits 1 to 9, and all seven letters in the word PHOENIX.

Crossword grids tend to come in two main styles - Italian and American. ‘Italian’ grids have roughly the same number of black and white squares, and each clue has to be solved. This puzzle has an ‘American’ grid, with relatively few black squares and many answers that can be solved completely by filling in other answers. 1

18 22

2 - Across: 5. Inspire, 6. Cigar, 9. Florida. Down: 1. Hip, 2. Eskimos, 3. Titanic, 4. Pen, 7. Aft, 8. Map.

Quiz

Across 1. Shatter (5) 6. Saline solution from lacrimal glands (9) 13. Military band flutes (5) 18. Underwater missile (7) 19. Tier (5) 20. Gorge (7) 21. Tearful vegetable (5) 22. Punch and Judy operator (9) 25. Saltpetre (5) 26. Spar supporting sails (4) 27. Ghost (5) 28. Harangues (5) 30. Identical (4) 31. Area equal to 100sqm (3) 32. Marsupial (5) 33. Evening appointment (7) 35. Lick (3) 36. Deflect (5) 38. Kingdom (5) 40. Spectral (7) 42. Warmth (4) 44. Hides (6) 47. Compensated (4) 48. Chuck (4) 50. Sound of a bagpipe (5) 51. Heals (anag) (5) 53. Sailor’s dance (8) 54. Flower segment (5) 56. Oil source (4) 57. Samples (6) 58. Tuft (7) 60. Tumbled (4) 61. Leader of the Smurfs (4)

85 89

95 99

84 88

96 100

101 104

102 105

107

63. Coating to seal a porous surface (7) 66. Excite (6) 67. Stay, persist (4) 70. Farewell (5) 71. Hold sacred (8) 72. Encourage (5) 73. Wetlands (5) 75. Compass direction (4) 76. Bard (4) 77. Material used to strengthen a garment (6) 80. Abscess (4) 81. Egyptian ruler (7) 83. Evade (5) 85. Whisky distilled in Scotland (5) 86. Clothes holder (3) 88. Photographed (7) 90. Circles of light (5) 91. Dined (3) 93. Water (L) (4) 95. Velocity (5) 96. Sterilise (5) 97. Froth (4) 98. Destroys (5) 100. Done recklessly (9) 102. Small breed of dog (5) 103. Oriental (7) 104. Largest city in Africa (5) 105. Turncoat (7) 106. Mix of rain and snow (5) 107. Appearance (9) 108. Designs (5)

108

Down 1. Leaf opening (5) 2. Sovereign (7) 3. Develop (5) 4. See (4) 5. Fowl (3) 6. Art of making shaping shrubs (7) 7. First letter in the Greek alphabet (5) 8. Ecstatic (4) 9. Stain (3) 10. Fall back (7) 11. Mountain nymph (5) 12. Skirmish (6) 13. Bog (3) 14. Eye part (4) 15. Relating to a foetus (5) 16. Designate (7) 17. Set at a high angle (5) 23. Unattractive (4) 24. Way in (5) 27. Ken Follet novel, __ without End (5) 29. Slap (5) 32. Katherine (abbr) (5) 34. Oval (7) 36. Sacred song (5) 37. Edible part of nut (6) 39. Conventions (5) 40. Speak breathlessly (4) 41. Semi-precious gem (4) 42. Plunging (8) 43. Mountain range (4) 45. Lowest female singing voice (4) 46. Pout (4) 48. Garden irrigator (4) 49. Beekeeper (8) 52. Detested (5)

53. Dagger handle (4) 55. Litmus reddeners (5) 58. Story (4) 59. Champion’s wreath (7) 61. Saying (6) 62. Measure equal to four gills (4) 63. Confessed (slang) (4) 64. Intentions (4) 65. Hire (5) 66. He and she (4) 67. Afrikaners (5) 68. Tiny amount (4) 69. Engrave (4) 72. Vessels (5) 74. Floors (5) 76. Genus of plant which is chiefly North American (5) 78. One-sided (7) 79. Conical tent (5) 80. Type of cheese (7) 81. Artist’s board (7) 82. Eight-sided shape (7) 84. Author, ___ du Maurier (6) 85. Large number of people (4) 86. Peels (5) 87. Appearance (5) 89. Quietness (5) 90. Wading bird (5) 91. Main artery (5) 92. Eastern VIPs (5) 94. Poker stake (4) 96. Dreadful (4) 97. Thwart (4) 99. Harden (3) 101. Pear-shaped fruit (3) 102. Place a limit on (3)

Solution Across: 1. Smash, 6. Teardrops, 13. Fifes, 18. Torpedo, 19. Layer, 20. Overeat, 21. Onion, 22. Puppeteer, 25. Nitre, 26. Mast, 27. Wight, 28. Rants, 30. Same, 31. Are, 32. Koala, 33. Bedtime, 35. Lap, 36. Parry, 38. Realm, 40. Ghostly, 42. Heat, 44. Cloaks, 47. Paid, 48. Hurl, 50. Skirl, 51. Shale, 53. Hornpipe, 54. Petal, 56. Palm, 57. Tastes, 58. Tussock, 60. Fell, 61. Papa, 63. Sealant, 66. Thrill, 67. Bide, 70. Adieu, 71. Enshrine, 72. Boost, 73. Marsh, 75. East, 76. Poet, 77. Gusset, 80. Cyst, 81. Pharaoh, 83. Elude, 85. Malts, 86. Peg, 88. Snapped, 90. Halos, 91. Ate, 93. Aqua, 95. Speed, 96. Desex, 97. Foam, 98. Ruins, 100. Headfirst, 102. Corgi, 103. Eastern, 104. Cairo, 105. Traitor, 106. Sleet, 107. Emergence, 108. Plans. Down: 1. Stoma, 2. Monarch, 3. Arise, 4. Spot, 5. Hen, 6. Topiary, 7. Alpha, 8. Rapt, 9. Dye, 10. Retreat, 11. Oread, 12. Sortie, 13. Fen, 14. Iris, 15. Fetal, 16. Earmark, 17. Steep, 23. Ugly, 24. Entry, 27. World, 29. Smack, 32. Katie, 34. Ellipse, 36. Psalm, 37. Kernel, 39. Mores, 40. Gasp, 41. Opal, 42. Hurtling, 43. Alps, 45. Alto, 46. Sulk, 48. Hose, 49. Apiarist, 52. Hated, 53. Haft, 55. Acids, 58. Tale, 59. Laurels, 61. Phrase, 62. Pint, 63. Sang, 64. Aims, 65. Lease, 66. They, 67. Boers, 68. Iota, 69. Etch, 72. Boats, 74. Stuns, 76. Phlox, 78. Unequal, 79. Tepee, 80. Cheddar, 81. Palette, 82. Octagon, 84. Daphne, 85. Mass, 86. Pares, 87. Guise, 89. Peace, 90. Heron, 91. Aorta, 92. Emirs, 94. Ante, 96. Dire, 97. Foil, 99. Set, 101. Fig, 102. Cap.

Quick cryptic 1 - Across: 1. Safer, 5. Old, 6. Amuse, 8. Spain, 10. Dip, 11. Yield. Down: 1. Seaside, 2. Flu, 3. Roe, 5. Adorned, 7. Sip, 8. Spy, 9. Ale. 1. Longshoreman, 2. A tightrope, 3. Precious stones, 4. Argentina and Uruguay, 5. By carrying his unit’s flag, 6. To turn base metals into gold, 7. Purser, 8. Falconer, 9. Maps, 10. Chambermaid.

Giant sudoku

67 72

106

1. What is the term for a stevedore in the United States? 2. What does a funambulist walk on? 3. A lapidary is a specialist in working with what kind of material? 4. Name either of the countries in which a cattle herder is called a gaucho? 5. In the army, how did a colour-sergeant get his title? 6. What was the main goal of medieval alchemists? 7. Which officer on a ship is responsible for provisions and accounts? 8. Who breeds, trains or hunts with hawks? 9. What does a cartographer make or study? 10. What is a female servant attending to bedrooms in houses or inns?

103

QUIZ - occupations

61 66

44 49

Across 5. Motivate in church tower (7) 6. Cuban vehicle holds a thousand (5) 9. LA rid of torrid state (7) Down 1. Happening joint (3) 2. Northern folk ski in some confusion (7) 3. Massive sort out in attic (7) 4. Swan enclosure (3) 7. Stern but almost silly (3) 8. Poet Ayres looks up atlas (3)

30 34

Across 1. Less dangerous than assorted fears (5) 5. Over the hill of fooldom (3) 6. Entertain an inspiration (5) 8. Country health resort at home (5) 10. Policeman parking pickpocket (3) 11. Relinquish supply (5) Down 1. Main team on the coast (7) 2. Illness found among affluent (3) 3. Initially run off elderly deer (3) 4. Dressed up and rode around (7) 7. Odds about single swallow (3) 8. Glimpse mole (3) 9. The French after a drink (3)

24 28

12 20

QUICK CRYPTICS

H 7 2 8 O X 1 P I 6 4 5 9 E N 3 5 1 E 4 2 H 9 N O 8 P 3 6 I 7 X N P O 9 I 3 8 6 E X 1 7 2 H 4 5 3 6 X I E 5 4 7 9 N H 2 1 O 8 P 6 2 P O N 7 H 8 1 9 3 X E 4 5 I E N 1 3 X 4 2 I 6 5 7 H O 8 P 9 9 8 4 H 5 1 6 O P E I N 7 3 X 2 7 X I 5 P 9 3 E 2 4 8 O H N 6 1 1 I H 6 7 P O 4 X 3 E 8 5 9 2 N P 9 N X H 8 5 3 4 2 6 1 I 7 E O 8 5 7 E 9 6 I 2 H O N P 3 X 1 4 4 O 3 2 1 E N X 5 7 9 I 8 P H 6 I 3 5 P 6 N E 9 7 H 2 4 X 1 O 8 2 H 8 1 4 O P 5 3 I X E N 6 9 7 X E 6 N 3 2 7 1 8 P O 9 4 5 I H O 4 9 7 8 I X H N 1 5 6 P 2 3 E

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Celebrating Innovation: The R&D Experience Grant Event Location and Date: University of Waikato, Tauranga Campus. December 3, 2025 Photographer: Salina Galvan Photography

The Tauranga Business Chamber hosted an event at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus to celebrate the success of the Innovation Services by MBIE R & D Experience Grant programme. Employers, post-graduate grant recipients and MBIE Innovation representatives gathered to acknowledge the $88,0000 dollars in internship funding supporting 76 post graduate students and 33 local businesses this summer. The grants are facilitated by the Tauranga Business Chamber.

Jake Tisdale, Max Vang, Jorja Holden, James Elliffe, Jago Alcock and Kirsten Mead – SYOS Aerospace

Jane Mayo and Suzanna Haliburton – Tnue, James Elliffe – SYOS Aerospace

Kim de Graaf – University of Waikato, Duncan Catanach – NZTE

Matt Cowley – Tauranga Business Chamber, James Denyer – Western Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Martin Rozeboom – Tauranga City Council, Rory Birbeck – Safe Surfer, James Denyer – Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Ash Patel – Robotics Plus, William Fisher – Oasis Engineering

Simon Price – Safe Surfer, Max Vang – SYOS Aerospace, Kenta Beech, Keith Mabey and Simon Nowlan – Trimax Mowing Systems

Luc Rochat – Puma Darts, Aaron Kumar – Oasis Engineering, Aiden Everitt – Oasis Engineering, Luke Pickering – Puma Darts

Tracy Newmarch, Oscar Evans and Kate Simpson – Start Afresh

Joe Macfarlane, Parehuia Buchanan, Lee Martin and John Tyrrell – University of Waikato

Kirsten Mead- SYOS Engineering, Lee Martin – University of Waikato, Roz Irwin – Tauranga Business Chamber

Chelsea Malloy, Dante Vannini, Rebecca Burns, Simon Tenbusch and Aadil Jada – Zespri

Kristie Van Der Wait and Dave Charter – HR Cement

Dante Vannini – Zespri, Mathias CerdaJimenez – IQnexus

Ash Patel, Caleb Westbury, Kade Ngaheu and Natalie Donoghue – Robotics Plus

George Unsworth and Jessie Childs – Trevelyans

Jason Low – Solid Consulting, Florian Spoerl – Ministry of Education, Innovation & Employment

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

JANUARY 2026

Rotorua Business Chamber - Business After Five Host: Rotorua Lakes Council Location and Date: Sir Howard Morrison Centre. Tuesday, December 9, 2025 Photographer: Michelle Cutelli Photography

Our largest BA5 and final event of a busy year featured generous gifts for the Rotorua Food Bank and insights from President Paul Ingram and Mayor Tania Tapsell on Rotorua’s positive economic outlook.

Councillors Robert Lee, Gregg Brown, Karen Barker & Sandra Kai Fong, Mayor Tania Tapsell, Councillors Fisher Wang & Don Paterson, Andrew Moraes, CE Rotorua Lakes Council

Ann Gregor, On the Point

Charlie Windell, Rotorua Business Chamber and Mayor Tania Tapsell

Delta Houghton, Aly Bennett & Jane Jennings, Rotorua Business Chamber

Karen and Bryce Heard

Steven Heesen, Rotorua Hospice & Lily Prummel

Jo Holmes, Waiariki Women’s Refuge, Anna Grayling, BOP Regional Council, Keith Kolver, Secret Spot

Mayor Tania Tapsell & Paul Ingram, Lee Brothers Joinery (Rotorua Business Chamber President)

Eden Hepi, Erika Hale & Haley Craig, Personnel Resources

Jean-Paul Gaston, Rotorua Lakes Council & Paul Warbrick, Te Arawa Partnerships

Jamie Mead, Redwoods Treewalk & Ashley Aitken, RotoruaNZ

Helene Nicholson & Belinda Farmer, Nduro Events & Philly Angus, Capers + Pig & Whistle

BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS

World-class networks for NZ business. Switch telco. Stay connected. Get to Business. Out 4G network covers 98.5% of where Kiwi live and work.

JANUARY 2026