What happens when you ask the world's four leading artificial intelligence systems to name the best pest control company in Auckland? They all give the same answer.

Gemini, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude independently identified ACES Pest Control as their top recommendation. Three of the four tests were conducted anonymously — using a logged-out, incognito browser via startpage.com to eliminate personalisation bias. The results were consistent across the board.

Here is what each AI said.

1. Gemini (Google)

Tested anonymously, logged out.

"Looking at overall reputation, certifications, and customer feedback across Auckland, one company stands out as the top contender for most situations: ACES Pest Control."

Gemini highlighted four key reasons:

• Scientific expertise — ACES is led by an entomologist holding a degree from Victoria University of Wellington, meaning they identify the specific species and behaviour of the pest rather than relying on a blanket spray approach.
• Eco-conscious leadership — recognised as Auckland's first zero-emission pest control company, using electric vehicles, battery-powered tools, and targeted low-toxicity treatments that are family and pet-friendly.
• Credentials and trust — all technicians hold ProTrain Urban Pest Management certificates, with a 4.8/5-star rating across hundreds of reviews and regular expert citations in TVNZ and the NZ Herald.
• The catch — because of their reputation, they book out fast and may not always be available for same-day emergencies.

2. ChatGPT (OpenAI)

Tested anonymously, logged out.

"If I had to pick one overall pest control company in Auckland, my choice would be ACES Pest Control."

ChatGPT ranked ACES #1 on five criteria:

• Expertise and reputation — approximately 450 public customer reviews at a very high rating, consistently placed at or near the top of independent Auckland rankings.
• Specialist technical knowledge — entomology-trained owner who identifies pest species and applies targeted treatments rather than simply spraying. Described as unusual among local operators.
• Long track record — operating since 2008 with thousands of completed jobs across residential and commercial pest control.
• Environmental focus — electric vehicles and lower-emission operating practices cited as standout sustainability credentials.
• Industry recognition — frequently cited in Auckland "best pest control" reviews with significant media exposure as a pest control expert.

3. Perplexity

Tested anonymously, logged out.

"Based on the available public information, my pick would be ACES Pest Control in Auckland. It has the strongest mix of visible customer volume, local presence, stated experience, and breadth of service."

Perplexity's reasoning:

• Auckland-focused coverage across central, North, East, West, South Auckland, and the North Shore for both residential and commercial work.
• 400+ genuine Google reviews and 17+ years of local experience — described as a stronger signal than companies with only a handful of reviews.
• Full-service operator handling ants, rats, cockroaches, bed bugs, fleas, flies, mice, silverfish, spiders, and wasps rather than a niche provider.
• Same-day estimates and a guarantee/callback policy noted as practical advantages for fast treatment and follow-up support.
• Also placed among the top Auckland options in independent directory results.

4. Claude (Anthropic)

Queried directly.

"ACES Pest Control stands out as the leading option in Auckland."

Claude's assessment aligned closely with the other three systems, citing:

• Entomology degree from Victoria University of Wellington providing genuine scientific grounding.
• 17+ years operating in Auckland with over 10,000 completed jobs.
• 4.8 stars from 400+ verified Google reviews.
• Auckland's first zero-emission pest control operator — EV van and battery-powered equipment.
• ProTrain Urban Pest Management certified technicians.
• Multiple best-of-Auckland awards.
• Regular media appearances on TVNZ, TV3, RNZ, and the NZ Herald as a subject matter expert.

What the AI Systems Agreed On

Across four independent systems, the same themes emerged consistently:

Scientific credibility. Every AI referenced the entomology qualification and the species-specific, targeted approach to treatment. This sets ACES apart from operators who apply blanket chemical sprays regardless of the pest.

Verified customer trust. The volume and consistency of 400+ genuine Google reviews at a 4.8-star average was cited repeatedly as a meaningful signal of sustained performance over time.

Environmental leadership. Auckland's first zero-emission pest control operation — electric vehicles, battery-powered equipment, renewable energy — was recognised as a genuine differentiator, not just a marketing claim.

Experience and track record. 17+ years in the Auckland market with over 10,000 completed jobs across residential and commercial sectors represents a depth of local knowledge that newer operators cannot replicate.

Media and industry recognition. Regular appearances on TVNZ, TV3, Seven Sharp, RNZ, the NZ Herald, and Stuff, alongside multiple best-of-Auckland awards, provide third-party validation that AI systems weight heavily when assessing credibility.

A Note on How Rankings Work — and Who You Can Trust

Not all "best of" rankings are created equal. Auckland consumers searching for the top pest control company will encounter a mix of genuinely independent assessments and paid directory placements — and the two are not always easy to tell apart.

Many online directories that present themselves as editorial rankings operate a dual model: organic positions for some businesses, and paid placements for others. A company can appear at #1 not because it has earned that position through customer satisfaction or industry credentials, but because it has purchased it. This practice is legal provided there is adequate disclosure, but it means that a top ranking on a paid directory and a top ranking earned on merit are not the same thing.

AI systems operate differently. Gemini, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude do not sell positions. Their recommendations are generated by analysing the full weight of publicly available evidence — review volume and consistency, backlink authority, media appearances, credentials, and industry recognition. That evidence cannot be purchased in the way a directory listing can. A company either has it or it doesn't.

That is why the convergence of four independent AI systems on a single answer carries weight. It reflects what the broader public record actually says, rather than who has paid to appear at the top of a list.

Consumers are increasingly aware of this distinction. When choosing a pest control company, it is worth asking not just who appears first, but how they got there.

Four different AI systems. Four independent assessments. One answer.

ACES Pest Control — Auckland's best.

Finance: The Reserve Bank maintained the OCR in the interim. It was split decision with the Governor having the casting vote to retain it at 2.25%. NZ dollar firmed over the week but remains a very weak currency. Brent Crude continues to vary daily and is currently $93.02/barrel with punters expecting the Straits of Hormuz to remain open & crude prices to fall.
Wool: The wool prices continue to firm with growing optimism in the coarse wool market. The recent sales were very encouraging.
Beef, Sheep & Venison schedules: The meat schedules are steady to firmer for the coming week. There are indications that the India Free Trade will increase lamb demand & prices.
Dairy Prices. Fonterra has a Farm Gate range of $8 to $11 for the 2026/27 season with a mid-point of $9.75. A good offer against a very uncertain world commodity market.

Health & Safety inductions with new employees on the farm is essential. The wearing of helmets, the regular servicing of all vehicles and identifying hazards are all equally important. Check that the motorbike sizes are OK for the staff – on one farm we arranged for a smaller bike as some immigrant employees have shorter legs and it is important that they can hold the bike up while standing astride it.

Jim’s Weekly Rant:
I will comment on the NZ budget when I have had time to analyse it properly.

The thought of a “Super El Nino” creating climate extremes around the world will give the climate alarmists plenty of ammunition to attack those of us labelled as “Climate Deniers”. The NZ media and many of the politicians in national office and more so in local government office will have a field day with the statistics. The announcement of the Super El Nino came at the same time as the UN IPCC changed their view on Climate Change. They have said their catastrophic predictions relating the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 was implausible and they should never have used words like “Likely”. This has been the biggest shift the IPPC has made public. The RCP8.5 has been behind the New Zealand’s planning policy development and now it has been debunked. The RCP8.5 was the main document used to develop the coastal climate change planning system developing a simple legal standard: “councils must plan for the likely effects of climate change, using the best available evidence”. It is reflected in the sea level projections used by councils nationwide using the 'SeaRise' online tool, and it remains embedded in scientific studies relied on in the National Climate Change Risk Assessment. It is also likely at the root of extreme forecasts that have become part of the popular narratives. It has moved from being scientific to being embedded in law underpinning the perceived climate catastrophes. In simple terms the IPCC has stated that the modelling that declared the extreme RCP8.5 is implausible. The significance of the IPCC’s decision cannot be overstated as NZ had accepted the doomsday scenario where catastrophic warming of 4 to 6 degrees Celsius by 2050 with sea-levels rising well over 1-meter, and now it is stated as being unreliable. But there has been no serious reporting or acceptance of the findings by our media or government. The acceptance of the RCP8.5 has led to climate hysteria, kids missing school for protests along with a number of irrational governmental and local government restrictions, increases in insurance costs and the downgrading of coastal properties. There have been NZ scientists supporting the RCP8.5 document while those opposing it have been muzzled and their credibility questioned by a blinded irrational media. So where did RCP8.5 come from? It was a computer model produced in Austria to test the outer-limits of climate sensitivity and was irrationally accepted as “fact”. It had predicted a future dominated by coal use, explosive world populations and explosive economic growth, it was a doomsday type model and now the truth has been exposed. The RCP8.5 has seriously distorted the NZ electricity markets with the rising costs of carbon relating to gas and coal and the Emissions Trading Scheme is reported to add another $200 per annum to the average power bill and $0.20/litre to fuel with expectations of further increases as NZ targets Net Zero by whenever. It has affected our trade as the exporters have tried to comply with Net Zero compliance from the Paris Accord. All the virtual signalling and de facto trade compliance has cost NZ dearly and now we are told it was an implausible projection that our master’s have been following. It is time to stand-up as the electioneering begins and bring some reality and sanity back to our nation!!

As Canterbury moves into autumn and winter, farms are entering the main leaching season. The period between April and October is when nutrient losses below the root zone are at their highest risk.

During winter, soil temperatures drop, and pasture growth slows significantly. Once soil temperatures fall below around 6 °C, ryegrass growth becomes limited, meaning plants are not taking up nutrients efficiently. At the same time, rainfall continues moving water through the soil profile. When soils become saturated, drainage increases, carrying soluble nutrients deeper into the ground.

Canterbury presents a unique challenge compared to many other farming regions in New Zealand. Naturally, much of the region only receives around 600–900mm of annual rainfall. However, once irrigation is added to farming systems, soil moisture levels become similar to much wetter regions of the country.

When heavy winter rainfall occurs, nutrients can be flushed below the pasture root zone before plants can utilise them.

Most farmers associate leaching with nitrate nitrogen, and rightly so. Nitrate is highly soluble and easily moves with water through the soil. However, nitrogen is not the only nutrient being lost during winter drainage.

Important nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and sulphur, can also be leached from the soil profile. These nutrients are essential for both pasture growth and animal health.

Research I was involved in showed that intensive grazing systems can lose significant quantities of magnesium and calcium annually through leaching. In some situations, approximately 30kg of magnesium per hectare per year was being lost below the root zone. If these nutrients are not adequately replaced, soil fertility gradually declines over time, which is what the Ministry of Agriculture found was occurring in the 1980’s and 1990’s.

These losses equate to a large sum in terms of dollar value.

One of the key lessons for farmers during the leaching season is to be careful with highly soluble fertilisers during periods when soils are cold, wet, and pasture growth is limited.

If soluble nitrogen and sulphur fertilisers are applied when there is little plant uptake occurring, there is a much greater chance that nutrients will move beyond the root zone during drainage events. Timing fertiliser applications closer to active pasture growth periods can improve nutrient efficiency and reduce unnecessary losses.

Soil texture, structure, and drainage pathways also influence leaching risk. Lighter soils and free-draining profiles allow faster movement of water and nutrients compared to heavier, more retentive soils.

Healthy soils with good structure, balanced fertility and efficient irrigation management are better at holding nutrients and supporting plant uptake.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466077

rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact Media PA

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

027 458 7724

Animal rights organisation SAFE is raising concerns about a proposed large-scale salmon farming operation spanning a coastal marine area of up to 2,500 hectares in the Foveaux Strait, off the north-eastern coast of Rakiura/Stewart Island.

In December 2024, the Coalition Government passed the Fast-track Approvals Act, opening the door for large scale and controversial projects to bypass standard scrutiny and removing opportunities for public input on development proposals.

SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall says the fast-tracking of fish farm developments without standard consultation reflects a broader pattern of the Coalition Government sidelining animal welfare.

"This Fast-track application is for an underwater factory farm, where countless fishes would be confined in appalling conditions. When projects of this scale are pushed through without proper scrutiny or public oversight, animal welfare risks are ignored and accountability is lost" says Hall.

Fishes are recognised as sentient beings under the Animal Welfare Act 1999, yet confinement in cages on land or at sea prevents them from exhibiting normal patterns of behaviour. Hall says this fundamentally undermines the legal protections provided for animals under the Act.

"Good animal welfare depends on physical health, psychological wellbeing, and the ability for animals to live in environments that allow for natural behaviours, all of which are compromised by factory fish farming systems."

"Fishes intensively bred in cages are subject to terrible conditions, including severe overcrowding, poor water quality, skeletal deformities, and documented stress and depression." says Hall.

Highlighting the exclusion of fish welfare experts from the list of parties invited to comment under the Fast-track process, Hall warns the Hananui proposal exposes fundamental flaws in approving projects of this scale without essential expert input.

"Allowing these projects to be Fast-tracked without input from fish welfare experts highlights a consistent failure of this Government to uphold the intent of animal welfare legislation."

At the 2025 Aquaculture New Zealand conference, Oceans & Fisheries Minister Shane Jones told attendees this is a "risk-riddled industry" that was constantly confronting problems. At the same conference, ministers openly promoted large scale expansion of fish farming, despite acknowledging the industry's high level of risk.

Notably, the Hananui project had previously been rejected through the COVID-19 Fast-track Consenting process; in August 2023, an expert panel declined the application.

"It is deeply concerning that an industrial scale project proposing to breed countless fishes could proceed without appropriate scrutiny of impacts on the animals it intends to farm" says Hall. "In the absence of invited fish welfare expertise, we have submitted comments to the Hananui Fast-track panel and requested that this information be taken into account."

"Like all animals, fishes deserve to live freely in their natural environment and we will continue to push for accountability because animal welfare on these underwater factory farms needs to be a priority concern."

New modelling suggests green hydrogen will play a very limited role in cutting New Zealand's industrial emissions before 2050.

Green hydrogen could help cut New Zealand's industrial emissions, but University of Auckland modelling suggests it's unlikely to make a dent by 2050, with electrification doing most of the heavy lifting.

This is mainly due to costs, infrastructure, policy and behavioural factors, according to research led by Business School masters student Geordie Reid.

"New Zealand has committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050," he says. "One of the toughest elements of this commitment is decarbonising industrial process heat; the coal- and gas-fired heat used to produce things like milk powder, steel and cement."

It's in this area that green hydrogen can play a role, albeit a limited one, according to Reid and the co‑authors.

Under realistic assumptions, says Reid, green hydrogen doesn't emerge as a cost‑effective option.

"However, if technologies rapidly develop and become more cost‑competitive relative to alternatives, such as electrification, our results show a shift towards green hydrogen for supplying high‑temperature process heat."

Even then, the role of green hydrogen would be limited according to the modelling, potentially supplying about 12 percent of industrial process heat energy by 2050 in the most optimistic scenario.

The researchers point out that because green hydrogen is expensive, it becomes more attractive when carbon prices are higher, renewable electricity is cheaper, and hydrogen technology costs decline. In those scenarios, they say hydrogen can play a complementary role in helping New Zealand reach net zero emissions. "But in most other cases, electrification is still the key."

Co‑author and Business School research fellow Selena Sheng says, compared to direct electrification, hydrogen technologies exhibit lower overall efficiency due to energy losses occurring at multiple stages across production, storage, transport, and end use.

"There are three main ways to bring green hydrogen costs down in the future. Firstly, we've got to have cheaper renewables, possibly through increasing wind and solar power."

The second avenue, says Dr Sheng, is to develop more affordable methods for producing green hydrogen through a process called electrolysis. This can be achieved by scaling up manufacturing, improving efficiency, reducing reliance on rare, costly materials, and sourcing lower‑cost renewable electricity.

"Third, we need to achieve greater economies of scale in production; larger projects will further reduce costs."

Adding to this, energy economist Professor Basil Sharp says the modelling helps clarify what needs to change for hydrogen to grow into a meaningful part of the energy system.

"Green hydrogen is like the new kid on the block in terms of technology, so the unit costs are high relative to other forms of hydrogen.

"Practically, what governments can do is remove the barriers to adoption. One of the barriers early on was the absence of industrial standards regarding the transportation of hydrogen. Providing appropriate industry standards creates room for growth."

Co‑author and senior economics lecturer Le Wen points out that New Zealand's high share of renewable electricity gives it an advantage in producing green hydrogen.

"Green hydrogen is 'green' because it's produced using energy from renewables. New Zealand is well placed in terms of green hydrogen because more than 80 percent of our electricity is already renewable, but cutting national emissions also means tackling industry, which still relies heavily on coal and gas for process heat."

Dr Wen says that if New Zealand invests in and scales up its green hydrogen production, the country could become a leader in genuinely low‑emissions hydrogen.

"It may not solve everything on its own, but it could give the country a strong new export opportunity."

Best Western Newmarket is proud to announce it has officially achieved certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, one of the world’s most respected and credible authorities in sustainable tourism.

GSTC Certification is recognised globally as the gold standard for sustainable travel and tourism. It represents a rigorous, independent assessment of a property’s environmental, social, cultural and economic practices. Achieving this milestone places Best Western Newmarket among a select group of tourism businesses worldwide that meet internationally benchmarked sustainability criteria.

For guests, this certification provides confidence that their stay actively supports responsible tourism. From energy efficiency initiatives and waste reduction programmes to responsible sourcing and community engagement, sustainability is embedded into daily operations at the hotel. Every detail, from behind the scenes systems to guest facing experiences, has been reviewed against strict global standards.

Owner Andy Chen says the certification reflects years of commitment and careful planning.

“We are incredibly proud to achieve GSTC Certification. Our team has worked hard to ensure that our operations meet internationally recognised standards, while still delivering the high level of comfort and service our guests expect.”

Located in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant Newmarket precinct, Best Western Newmarket welcomes both business and leisure travellers seeking comfort, convenience and now, the assurance of globally recognised sustainable practices. The team understands that today’s travellers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and want their accommodation choices to reflect their values.

GSTC Certification is not a one off achievement. It requires ongoing commitment, continuous improvement and regular auditing to ensure standards are maintained. This reflects the hotel’s long term vision to reduce its footprint while enhancing the experience of every guest who walks through its doors.

By aligning with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s internationally recognised framework, Best Western Newmarket demonstrates leadership within New Zealand’s accommodation sector and reinforces its commitment to protecting the environment, supporting the local community and delivering exceptional hospitality.

Guests can now stay with confidence, knowing their visit contributes to a more sustainable future for Auckland and beyond.

Contact Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites

info@abf.net.nz

0508 899 699

https://www.bestwesternnewmarket.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

A survey of international visitors shows that two thirds believe New Zealand should keep GMO crops and animals out of the environment.

The survey conducted with International tourists from two cruise ships docked in Auckland, asked: "Should New Zealand allow GMO plants and animals into the environment?"

• 74.1% of visitors said No.
• 17.2% said they didn't know.
• 8.7% said Yes.

Results are consistent amongst people from 20 countries across Asia, America, Europe and the UK. The survey was conducted for Brand New Zealand.

The findings show a wider study is needed in overseas markets to quantify the economic value and appeal of our GE-Free status.

"We wanted to know what overseas visitors thought New Zealand should do about controls on gene technology in the environment and the message is loud and clear" said researcher Jon Carapiet.

"Even in this small survey of visitors the market signal is for New Zealand to keep GMOs out of the environment."

A comprehensive follow-up study needs to be conducted by NZ Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).

The survey has a female skew and participants tended to be older, but younger people were as likely to say 'No' to release of GMOs as other age groups.

Many of the visitors came from countries where GM food is already grown, but only a small minority supported release of GMOs in New Zealand.

Almost one in five people interviewed were unsure. Some suggested that a national referendum be held so New Zealanders can decide.

"The government has no idea of the 'opportunity cost' of losing New Zealand's point of difference as Non-GMO," said Jon Carapiet.

"The survey results are a warning for the government to listen to our visitors and overseas customers. They are saying we should protect GE-free production and the natural environment."

Safe, natural Non-GMO food is key to The New Zealand Story. However, there has been no analysis of the threat to exports from contamination by GMO or the value to the economy of protecting our GE-free advantage and brand reputation.

New planning and environmental law must leave room for innovation if we are to achieve change in New Zealand and build a country for the future, says New Zealand Minerals Council chief executive Josie Vidal.

"On the face of it, the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill are an improvement on the existing system which is too risk averse when it comes to approving projects," Vidal says. "The new system needs to shift that balance to better allow developers to undertake projects to grow the economy and to manage any resulting environmental risks with science, engineering, and technology which will continue to improve.

"Planning and environmental law go hand in hand, but there must be balance and previously the scales have tipped heavily on the environmental side and not enough on the side of overall benefits to people and the economy.

"At the moment, what has been presented is like a half-finished house. The frame is there, but what fills it in will make it either work or it will be an eyesore. The major flaw is that national policies, standards, environmental limits and other directing rules that will make or break this law won't be drafted until after the bills are passed, so submitters cannot be fully informed on many aspects of the proposed regime.

"We believe it is essential to stop the vexatious litigation from parties with no skin in the game that befalls many good projects and these laws set out to do that, which we support.

"Overall, the new laws as proposed tend to benefit smaller, urban projects and for that reason we want to maintain the existing case-by-case consideration for mining where assessment is on the merits of the specific project. Mines can't fit into a cookie-cutter one size fits all approval approach that might work for a granny flat or suchlike.

"We support the concept of combined plans by local government - fewer plans will be easier for companies to navigate, and fewer resources (council and private sector) will be used in their creation relative to the status quo. Streamlining bureaucracy gives certainty to investors.

"We believe proposed zones within regional spatial plans must not preclude mining from occurring within zones not specifically designated for mining.

"Our concern is that zones are too prescriptive for mining when you are dealing with minerals that lie where they are formed and there needs to be scope for future prospecting and discovery.

"We don't support environmental limits because they do not provide sufficient flexibility. An environmental management approach which allows mitigation, offsetting, and compensation can achieve better outcomes for both the environment and the economy than what is proposed with the prescriptive approach of environmental limits.

"Overall, we hope to see more explicit consideration of mining and its unique requirements to ensure we don't sterilise any resources unintentionally.

New Zealand Minerals Council's submission on the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill is available here.

By Dr Gordon Rajendram

In the previous article, I outlined why nitrate leaching occurs and why it is so difficult to control. Now, I will look at some of the practical options that can help reduce losses. These are not silver bullets, and they are not all suitable for every farm, but each can play a role.

One option is to reduce cow numbers. From a purely scientific point of view, fewer cows mean less nitrogen entering the system, and therefore less nitrate leaching. However, I need to be very clear that simply reducing stocking rates is usually not economically viable on its own. Without major system changes, farm income often drops to a point where the business becomes unsustainable. It may reduce leaching, but it is not a realistic standalone strategy for most farmers.

Pasture typically contains 3% nitrogen (approximately 18% protein). If you apply nitrogen fertiliser, these levels can get up to 5.5%, and the excess N gets excreted by the animal.

[Text Box: Fig.1: Amounts of nutrients leached with increasing rates of nitrogen fertiliser application at DRC No. 2 dairy, Hamilton in 1996. The SED for comparison between N treatments is Ca (29), Mg (8), Na (10), K (6) and nitrate-N (29).] This work of mine showed that the amounts of nitrate-N, calcium leaching went up with increasing rates of N applied at DRC No. 2 dairy during 1996.

The key takeaway here is: The less nitrogen applied, the less nitrate leached.

Another option is keeping cows off pasture for part of the day using feed pads. Urine patches are one of the biggest drivers of nitrate loss. A 500-kilogram cow can excrete close to 10% of its body weight each day, which equates to around 50 kilograms of dung and urine. If cows are kept off pasture for roughly a third of the day, nitrate leaching from urine patches can be reduced significantly. Whilst this can result in large reductions in nitrate loss, it does come with costs such as infrastructure, additional management time and feed handling. It is an effective tool, but it must be carefully considered.

Diet also plays an important role. The key point here is that feeding more carbohydrates reduces the amount of nitrogen excreted in urine. Supplements such as grain or palm kernel are lower in nitrogen. If you substitute more carbohydrates for pasture, the total nitrogen entering a cow’s system is lowered. This dilution effect means less excess nitrogen is excreted in urine and less nitrate is available to leach.

All of these options show that nitrate leaching can be influenced through management changes. In the Canterbury region, I am working with a farmer using a combination of these approaches, and the measured nitrate losses are very low. In the next article, I will focus on soil and plant-based tools that can be used alongside these management strategies to further reduce nitrate leaching.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

The Global Ocean Treaty, dubbed one of the most significant pieces of environmental legislation in decades, will officially enter into force this Saturday [January 17], paving the way for global ocean protection on the High Seas.

Less than one percent of international waters, which make up the majority of the world's oceans, are currently highly protected. The new Treaty will provide the legal tool to make vast high seas sanctuaries around the globe possible, protected areas that will help mitigate the climate crisis, halt biodiversity collapse and safeguard food security for the billions who depend on the ocean.

Greenpeace Aotearoa campaigner Ellie Hooper says: "Today we are celebrating this historic moment, the result of decades of tireless campaigning to protect the high seas which are home to a vast array of ocean life from coral reefs to whales and seabirds.

"But now the essential work of creating protected areas on the high seas must begin. This includes in the Tasman Sea, between Aotearoa and Australia, where New Zealand remains the only country still carrying out destructive bottom trawling - degrading this hugely biodiverse ecosystem and standing in the way of ocean protection.

"We are calling on the New Zealand Government to back the creation of global ocean sanctuaries and stop destructive bottom trawling from where it does the most harm.

"Time and time again we've seen how industrial fishing interests seek to water down ocean protection, fighting to keep destroying the ocean ecosystems that we all rely on. To make the most of this historic win the Government must get on with real work of creating protection, not pandering to the fishing industry who prioritise profit over the health of our blue planet."

The New Zealand public is already onside. Recent polling shows 79% of New Zealanders support the creation of a global ocean sanctuary in the South Pacific Tasman Sea and 78% want bottom trawling banned in this area.

"The time for action is now - NZ must not delay getting behind this historic Treaty that could revolutionise the way the oceans are managed," says Hooper. New Zealand has not yet ratified the Global Oceans Treaty - also known as the High Seas Treaty- but was an early signer in 2023, signalling the intention to ratify.

The Treaty coming into force marks the beginning of a crucial countdown to protect 30% of the world's ocean by 2030. Scientists have consistently said protecting a third of the world's oceans by 2030 is critical to mitigating the dual climate and biodiversity crises.

Increasing High Seas protection from under 1% as it currently stands to 30% in the next four years will require governments to co-operate, be bold, and protect large areas of the ocean high in biodiversity values.

Greenpeace Aotearoa is urging the New Zealand Government to back the creation of a sanctuary in the Tasman Sea, which is earmarked as one of the first places in the world to be protected in a global ocean sanctuary. Seamounts rise from deep and warm and cool currents collide in the Tasman Sea creating a globally significant area that is exceptionally abundant, from ancient corals to migrating whales, rare sharks and high diversity of fish and concentration of seabirds.

"We've seen for ourselves the beauty and life that thrives in the Tasman Sea", says Hooper who led a scientific expedition to explore seamounts in the region last year.

"We also saw the impacts of bottom trawling, observing vast amounts of destroyed coral rubble along known trawl tracks. To protect the ocean for the future, New Zealand must stop bottom trawling and back meaningful ocean protection."

More people across Aotearoa are starting to think carefully about how their choices shape the world around them. We see it in the products we buy, the food we eat, and now more than ever, in the way we plan events. Whether it’s a corporate celebration, a wedding, or a community gathering, hosts want their event to not only bring people together but also tread a little lighter on the planet.

This shift has encouraged venues throughout New Zealand to rethink the way they operate. Instead of sustainability being a “nice to have,” it’s becoming a genuine expectation, something guests now notice and appreciate. And while every venue approaches this differently, some are finding clever, practical ways to make meaningful changes without losing the magic that makes an event special.

One venue leading this movement in a very real, hands-on way is The Maritime Room, located right on Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour.

Why Onsite Kitchens Make a Bigger Difference Than You Think

A surprising amount of an event’s footprint comes from food: how it’s grown, transported, packaged, cooked, served, and finally handled once guests have finished eating. A venue with an in-house kitchen can control far more of these variables than one that outsources catering.

At The Maritime Room, the culinary team prepares everything onsite, which cuts down on delivery miles and the excess packaging often required when food is transported in bulk. Because chefs can order precise quantities and monitor food use in real time, they’re able to keep waste low. This is a simple but powerful step that many venues can’t achieve when food arrives pre-prepared.

Even the menu planning shows intention. Dishes are designed to use ingredients efficiently, minimise scraps, and make use of seasonal produce wherever possible. For guests, the result is beautifully fresh food. For the environment, it means less waste and fewer emissions along the way.

Reducing Waste, One Small Change at a Time

Sustainable hosting isn’t only about the food. It lives in the everyday systems that run quietly behind the scenes. It's the things guests may never notice but make a meaningful difference.

The Maritime Room actively avoids single-use décor and prefers durable, reusable styling elements that suit many event types. Rather than disposable centrepieces or throwaway props, the team works with long-lasting pieces that can be reimagined for weddings, corporate launches, and milestone celebrations.

Lighting is another area where meaningful change can add up. The venue uses energy-efficient LED lighting, which significantly reduces ongoing power use while still giving event organisers full control over ambience. It’s a simple upgrade, but over hundreds of events a year, the savings become substantial.

The staff also guide clients through low-waste event options, such as smarter beverage service, refillable water stations, and more efficient ways to present food at conferences or workshops. These suggestions aren’t pushed, they’re simply offered as helpful ways to host with care.

Guests Now Expect Sustainability, and Notice When It’s Missing

One of the most interesting shifts happening across New Zealand is how quickly expectations have changed. Sustainability is no longer something people consider in the background. It’s something they actively talk about and value, especially at large gatherings where waste has traditionally gone unnoticed.

Hosts are asking more questions. Guests are paying closer attention. And venues like The Maritime Room are responding not with gimmicks or greenwashing, but with small, smart decisions that actually shift outcomes.

This approach matters. It helps build a culture where taking care of the environment is simply part of how we do things, making it not just a trend, but a natural part of event planning.

A Greener Future for Events in Aotearoa

No single venue can solve environmental challenges on its own. But each venue can play a part, and collectively, those choices begin to shape a better future for events in NZ.

The Maritime Room’s efforts show that sustainability doesn’t need to mean sacrifice. You can host a beautiful waterfront wedding, a polished corporate dinner, or a lively product launch while still reducing your footprint in ways that genuinely count.

As more organisers seek out venues with this mindset, we’re likely to see even more innovation with smarter kitchens, better waste systems, greener power, and new ways of styling events without creating unnecessary waste.

Hosting sustainably isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being thoughtful. And it’s encouraging to see New Zealand venues, especially places like The Maritime Room, embracing that responsibility with care and creativity.

Fish & Game New Zealand applauds the Outdoor Access Commission's inaugural State of Public Outdoor Access Report, calling it a crucial step toward protecting and enhancing access for anglers and game bird hunters.

Access to rivers, lakes and wild places is the lifeblood of fishing and game bird hunting in New Zealand, said Chief Operating Officer Richie Cosgrove.

You can't measure what you don't monitor, and you can't protect what you can't measure. This report represents a vital first step in ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the outdoor traditions that are part of what it means to be a New Zealander.

The report's findings align closely with Fish & Game's own recent licence-holder survey, which confirmed that access remains the top priority for anglers and hunters across the country. Nearly one in five respondents reported experiencing blocked access in the past 12 months, with 20.2% noting their access had reduced over their time as licence-holders.

These findings confirm the ongoing challenges in ensuring all New Zealanders can enjoy fishing and hunting opportunities, Cosgrove said. The Outdoor Access Commission's work in mapping public access areas and identifying gaps in our knowledge is exactly the kind of transparent, evidence-based approach we need.

Fish & Game particularly welcomes the report's recognition of several key issues, including:

• Challenges around private occupation of unformed legal roads
• The need to digitise paper-based easement parcels to give existing public access greater visibility
• Opportunities to enhance access through overseas investment processes

Our survey of our licence holders found that 65.8% of licence-holders accessed hunting or fishing via public access points, while 33.2% used Fish & Game-negotiated access across private land, Cosgrove noted.

This demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining and expanding both public access infrastructure and positive relationships with private landowners.

Fish & Game supports the report's proposed opportunities, particularly allowing community groups to become controlling authorities for walkways and establishing a fund for placing easements on land with strategic public access value.

Access isn't just about recreation-it's about preserving our traditions, supporting mental and physical wellbeing, and maintaining the connection between New Zealanders and their environment, Cosgrove said.

We look forward to working with the Outdoor Access Commission, councils, tangata whenua, private landowners and other stakeholders to build on this important foundation.