Managing your finances can be tough, especially if you have a mortgage, KiwiSaver, and future plans to think about. Whether you’re buying property in Christchurch, starting a family, or planning for retirement, it’s important to choose a reliable financial advisers in Christchurch.

So, how can you tell the real experts from those just trying to make a sale?

New regulations have made New Zealand’s financial advice industry safer for consumers. However, finding the right adviser still takes some research. Here’s what you should know to find a trustworthy financial adviser in Christchurch.

You can hire an adviser from anywhere in New Zealand, but working with someone local to Canterbury has real advantages. Local advisers know the Christchurch housing market, business trends, and insurance issues that came up after the earthquakes. Many people also prefer meeting in person.

Understanding New Zealand’s Financial Regulations

Before you start looking for advisers, it’s important to know what makes someone qualified in New Zealand.

In 2021, the government brought in new rules through the Financial Services Legislation Amendment Act. Now, the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) closely oversees the industry. Every adviser must either hold, or work for someone who holds, a Financial Advice Provider (FAP) licence from the FMA.
The FSPR: All legitimate advisers must be registered on the public Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR).

The Code of Conduct: Advisers are legally obligated to put your interests first, treat you fairly, and only give advice in areas where they have proven competence and skill.

Step-by-Step: How to Find the Right Adviser

1. Identify Your Financial advisers have different areas of expertise.

Before you reach out, think about what you need help with—whether it’s your mortgage, insurance, KiwiSaver, or planning for retirement.

2. Search Reputable Networks

Don’t just do a quick online search. Use trusted sources to start your search:
Financial Advice NZ: Use their website Directory to filter professionals by Christchurch area and expertise.

Personal Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues in Christchurch who they use, but remember that their financial goals might differ from yours.

3. Check the Register

After narrowing your list, check the Financial Service Providers Register on the Companies Office website. If they aren't listed, move on.

4. Set Up Introductory Meetings

Most good advisers offer a free first meeting. Treat it like a job interview; you are choosing someone to protect your money.

The Golden Questions to Ask a Prospective Adviser
When meeting a potential adviser, use this list of questions. A trustworthy professional will answer clearly.

Are you licensed under the FMA? (Confirm they are operating legally under an FAP).

Are you independent? (Find out if they select products from the whole market, or if they are tied to specific banks or insurance companies.

How do you get paid? (This is crucial. Do you pay them a transparent, set fee for their time? Or do they earn a commission from the product providers they recommend? If they earn a commission, ask how they manage that conflict of interest.

What are your qualifications? (Look for NZ certificates in Financial Services or international CFP qualifications.)

What happens if I want to leave? (Ask if there are any exit fees or clawback charges if you cancel a policy or move your investments later.

The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Reliable Financial Adviser in Christchurch

Even with strong regulations, it’s important to trust your instincts. Be very careful if an adviser shows any of these signs: No legitimate financial professional will ever promise or guarantee a specific investment return. Markets always carry risk.

Pressures you to act quickly: Good advice never involves high pressure or urgency.n: A great adviser's primaUses confusing jargon: A great adviser’s main job is to explain things clearly. If they can’t describe their strategy in plain English, they may not be the right choice. The recommendations you receive should be documented in a written Statement of Advice that clearly outlines the scope of their service and why the recommendations suit your goals.

The Bottom Line

Finding a reliable financial adviser in Christchurch takes time and research. Choose someone who helps you feel confident about your money. By checking the FSPR, asking clear questions about fees, and looking for local experience, you can build a financial plan that works for you.

If you want help setting specific financial goals before reaching out to advisers, or if you’d like a simple explanation of how different fee structures work, just let me know.

Turua Gallery is proud to present Vintage, a highly anticipated solo exhibition by celebrated New Zealand artist Jody Hope Gibbons, opening from 5pm on Friday 15 May and running through to 27 May.
This deeply personal exhibition offers collectors and art lovers a rare opportunity to experience The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection — a curated body of works spanning decades of the artist’s practice. Featuring pieces held closely by the artist for years, Vintage traces the evolution of Gibbons’ signature style, while revealing the enduring threads that connect her work across time.
One of the original artists to join Turua Gallery, Gibbons has long been a favourite among collectors — many of whom credit her work as their very first art purchase. Others have followed her journey for years, building collections that reflect her dynamic evolution while retaining the unmistakable essence of her practice.
“We often say Jody is a master with colour, but she is equally a master of texture, layering and subtle detail,” says Turua Gallery owner Liss Wallace. “Vintage is incredibly special — it’s not just an exhibition, it’s a window into an artist’s life and creative journey. These are works she has lived with, loved, and, in many cases, held onto for years.”
Visitors to the exhibition will also experience a unique gallery setting, with a selection of Gibbons’ personal vintage collection — including rugs, chairs and found objects — thoughtfully incorporated into the exhibition design. An avid collector, Gibbons draws significant inspiration from these pieces.
“They really do influence my work,” she explains. “Old worn surfaces, the patina, the layers of colour and history — they all inform what I’m creating. Sometimes I’ll find something in a vintage store, and later you’ll see that colour palette appear in a painting.”
Known for her richly layered works that span abstract painterly forms, contemporary landscapes and assemblage, Gibbons’ practice is driven by an innate and lifelong need to create.
“I have to paint. I can’t imagine a time when I won’t,” she says. “It’s not a chore, it’s a choice — something I need to do.”
That drive has been present since childhood. Gibbons recalls being unable to leave the art table at kindergarten, preferring to create rather than play outside — an instinct that has shaped a lifelong career defined by dedication, curiosity and continuous evolution.
Her work has never stood still. Instead, it has developed organically over time.
“It’s evolved naturally,” she says. “There’s an underlying thread through the work — even as it changes, it’s still me. I can’t stay still, I just keep moving forward.”
Vintage also offers insight into the artist’s process, revealing the depth behind works that may, at first glance, appear spontaneous.
“These works are not a happy accident,” Gibbons explains. “There’s composition, structure, proportion — layers and marks underneath that give the painting its depth. There’s a lot going on beneath the surface.”
While the exhibition celebrates her career, it also comes with a sense of vulnerability.
“You’re putting a part of yourself out there,” she says. “It doesn’t get easier — there’s always that feeling of exposure.”
Adding to the emotional weight of the show is the fact that many of the works on display are personal favourites, pieces that have lived in her home and studio for years.
“It will be exciting, but also a bit sad,” she admits. “Some of these works have been part of my everyday life for a long time.”
Despite the nerves, Vintage promises to be a standout exhibition — a rare and intimate look at one of New Zealand’s most beloved contemporary artists, and a celebration of a career defined by passion, persistence and an unwavering commitment to making.
Gibbons’ work is held in private collections across New Zealand and internationally. Her previous solo exhibition with Turua Gallery in 2021 sold out online, despite being held during pandemic restrictions.
With strong demand already building, collectors are encouraged to register their interest with Liss on melissa@turuagallery.co.nz ahead of the presale on Thursday 14 May.

Exhibition Details:
Vintage – The Jody Hope Gibbons Archival Collection
Opening: 5pm, Friday 15 May
Exhibition Dates: 15 – 27 May
Location: Turua Gallery, 10 A Turua Gallery, St Heliers, Auckland

About Turua Gallery
Turua Gallery is dedicated to making contemporary art accessible within a welcoming and relaxed environment. Representing both established and emerging New Zealand artists, the gallery presents a curated programme of solo and group exhibitions that prioritise emotional connection, craftsmanship and storytelling.
Alongside original paintings, Turua Gallery also showcases limited-edition prints, sculptures and ceramics, celebrating the breadth of artistic talent across Aotearoa New Zealand.
turuagallery.co.nz
@turuagallery
 
 

Finance: The NZ dollar firmed against the US $ & the Euro over the week but is struggling against the Australian $ being well down on recent years. Brent Crude has eased. It is currently $90.74/barrel, but ranges over the day varying up to $US10 in a 24 hr period.

Wool: The wool prices continue to firm with the growing optimism in the coarse wool market.

Beef, Sheep & Venison schedules: The meat schedules are steady for the coming week & there is good grass cover across most of the country. Yard prices are strong and especially strong for well-presented stock.

Dairy Prices. The farmers are cautiously optimistic anticipating a $10/kg payout for the 25/26 season and expecting at least $10 for the 26/27 season. The Iranian war is causing some concern as a lot of product goes to the Middle East via the Persian Gulf & the Red Sea.

The Fonterra suppliers have received some large payments over the last week & the community are using the “Rich Farmers” label again. Make sure it is used wisely and debt reduction must be high on the list as the lesser debt becomes a gift that “keeps on giving” The annual interest savings can go on for years adding to the bottom line each year.

Jim’s Weekly Rant:

I was preparing a similar piece when I found this & there was no way I could write it as well as written here!!!

Bruce Cotteril’s piece in the NZ herald on 11th April is a must read. I have copied it below

Oil crisis: Why New Zealand needs a ‘kamikaze Cabinet’ to fix the economy by Bruce Cotterill | Apr 13, 2026

We’re getting ourselves quite worked up about oil prices. And it’s probably fair.

Despite three decades of climate mumbo jumbo warning us that we need to abandon fossil fuels for the sake of the planet, the events of the last few weeks have highlighted that we’ve made little such progress and we are still heavily reliant on the black stuff. We’ve seen a little bit of panic buying, thankfully not too much. The odd gas station has run out. But it hasn’t been too bad. The national airline is cutting flights and ferry services have been curtailed. I heard this week that an earthmoving firm had parked up their machines. Not because they’ve run out of work. But because the price of diesel makes running them uneconomical for the time being.

Donald Trump’s on-again off-again approach to the war in the Middle East is creating massive uncertainty across the world. The financial markets are experiencing substantive swings, after – and sometimes before – every announcement. Entire economies are hanging on every press conference. Even our bulletproof mates across the ditch are looking wobbly.

For us, the timing couldn’t be worse. But the can-do has seemingly become the can’t do. And we’ve run out of places to hide. Our national balance sheet is overburdened by debt. When times were good we underinvested in infrastructure and the result is that our bridges, roads and hospitals are all less than we need. Our exchange rate will tell you that our purchasing power in the international marketplace is at least 20% less than it was just a few short years ago. It’s great for our exporters. But it’s a double whammy when you’re buying increasingly expensive oil with a weak dollar.

What we didn’t need was an oil crisis. Not now.

It’s easy to blame Trump. Perhaps you’d prefer to blame Israel. But that’s not going to help us.

Here’s the thing that no one is talking about. The oil crisis has brought a stark realisation into the sharpest of focus. It has highlighted just how ill-equipped New Zealand has become. So we need to help ourselves. We need to build resilience in our economy where there is currently none. Helping ourselves means making some tough decisions. We’ve proven not to be good at that. As former Government minister Nick Smith recently said in a Facebook post, “Government is easy and fun when the coffers are full and there are the funds to expand services or take less in taxes.” But the coffers aren’t full. The debt is too high. The tax grab is already as high as people can afford. And right now, being in government isn’t easy anywhere. Our problems start with the size of our Government. Simply put, it is costing us too much to run the country. Here’s a couple of facts. For the year ended June 30, 2024, New Zealand’s total government expenditure reached $180.1 billion, or 44% of GDP. On the other side of our nation’s profit and loss, the total tax collections hit $115.4b or 28%.

It’s not that we’re collecting too little tax. The problem is that we’re spending too much money. That shortfall is primarily met by increasing debt. In a sense we’re no different to a struggling small business or even a household. We have two choices. Increase revenue or cut spending. To be fair, the current Government sees this and they’ve focused on growing the economy. As positive as it is to hear the Prime Ministerial passion for “growing the size of the pie” through better trade outcomes and increased productivity, that takes time and it’s likely not enough. Besides, it’s no good growing the income if all the additional revenues go down the drain labelled “wasted government spending”. Simply put, if we are going to rebuild the resilience in the economy, in a reasonable timeframe, we have to get the national cost base down to a level that enables us to deliver surpluses, repay some debt, and start investing again. There’s an old saying that’s trotted out whenever there’s major economic upheaval. It says “never waste a crisis”. If ever there was a time for that saying to become a mission, this is it.

Kamikaze Cabinet

We need a kamikaze Cabinet. A collection of highly capable Government ministers who care more about fixing the place than they do their re-election chances. Because we need optimal decisions, rather than decision-making on the back of the politics of compromise. A kamikaze Cabinet should only need three years and some clear plans. Here’s a few ideas to get them started.

The last time I looked we had 41 government departments. Singapore has 16. We have 78 government portfolios. We have to take a knife to the bureaucracy. Why not aim to cut 20% of our total government servants? Given that the last Labour-led Government put 16,000 additional people on, that should be achievable. We should aim to do so without impacting frontline education, healthcare or police workers and instead look to the nation’s back offices for savings. Look for technology and AI solutions to assist with productivity of those who remain. While we’re at it we should freeze government salaries for three years. This week’s release of the Taxpayers’ Union Bureaucrat Salary Leaderboard showed that public service salaries have increased by 21.4% over the last five years. Those salaries now run at $17,600 per year more than people in the private sector. It might sound harsh, but you have to remember something: we’re broke! Our government debt is growing by almost $60 million per day. Sooner or later someone has to stop the rot. When you drop people, you’ll also drop the costs they carry. Office rental is a massive cost. That goes down if you have fewer people. Flights is a big one. Meetings and associated catering is another. Meetings shouldn’t require more than eight people and they don’t always need coffee and morning tea. Meetings with 20 people or more are not meetings; they’re communication forums. They don’t need coffee or catering either. While we’re at it, we can’t afford to spend money on kūmara patches, whale noises or singing lessons for government employees either. Our kamikaze Cabinet should also do the stuff that countless governments have been afraid to do. The retirement age is one. From Treasury to those international credit agencies we increasingly fear, most observers will tell us that we can’t afford to continue with a retirement age of 65. We need to progressively push it up by two years every decade for the next 40 years. We’ll get a few grizzles, but our kids will have better futures as a result. Fortunately we’re a country that people want to come to. But we need to sort out immigration. The key focus should be on bringing in people whom we need, rather than people who want to come here. It should be a simple fix. But it needs someone with the nerve to make the call. And by the way, we need every Kiwi, including companies, trusts and tribes to pay their way. No more tax-free status or rates relief. We need all hands on deck. In fact, there are only two groups of people who shouldn’t be asked to front up. There are those who genuinely can’t help themselves. We have an obligation to do the best we can for those people. Secondly, retirees have paid their dues and many will rightly think that their lifetime of hard work should leave them better rewarded than they are. Elsewhere we need every person on board. Helping. Contributing. Capacity. Productivity. Cost reduction. Efficiency. Resilience. These should be the words we hear from our politicians in the lead-up to the election. But we won’t. Our current Government is slowly making progress. But I wish they were bolder. Those in Opposition have already decided that, if elected, they will return to borrowing, increasing taxes and spending more. You can probably guess how that will turn out. Sooner or later we have to stop digging the hole!

Choosing an escort in Auckland is not simply about availability. For many, it is about finding a refined, discreet, and genuinely enjoyable experience that aligns with personal expectations. With a wide range of options available, knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

The first consideration should always be reputation. Established agencies with a long-standing presence tend to offer a higher level of reliability and professionalism. An agency that has operated consistently over time demonstrates not only stability, but also a commitment to maintaining standards and client trust.

Equally important is the quality of profiles. A reputable service will present companions in a clear and transparent manner, with well-written descriptions and professional imagery. Authenticity is key. The best experiences often come from companions who are not only visually appealing, but also personable, engaging, and genuinely attentive.

Discretion is another essential factor. A high-end escort experience should feel seamless, private, and respectful of boundaries. This extends beyond the encounter itself and includes communication, booking processes, and overall client care. Agencies that prioritise discretion tend to attract a more discerning clientele and maintain a stronger reputation.

For many, the appeal lies in the Girlfriend Experience, often referred to as GFE. This style of companionship emphasises connection, warmth, and natural interaction. Rather than something transactional, it offers a more relaxed and engaging dynamic, where conversation and chemistry play a central role.

Variety and selection also contribute to the overall experience. A well-curated agency will offer a diverse range of companions, each with distinct personalities and qualities. This allows clients to find someone who aligns with their preferences, whether they value elegance, charm, intelligence, or a particular presence.

Ultimately, choosing the right escort in Auckland comes down to trust, presentation, and the ability to deliver a consistent standard of quality. It is about selecting a service that understands the importance of discretion, authenticity, and attention to detail.

Dark Angels, an established escort agency based in Auckland, reflects these principles through its carefully curated selection of companions and its commitment to professionalism. With a focus on refined experiences and genuine connection, it continues to serve clients who expect a higher standard of companionship.

For those seeking a more considered and elevated experience, taking the time to choose the right agency can transform a simple booking into something far more memorable.

Annual commemorative event returns to Kāhui St David’s, honouring service and sacrifice with a powerful evening of performance, reflection and shared remembrance.

Auckland, New Zealand – To mark Anzac Week, Kāhui St David’s in Grafton - Auckland’s centre for music-making, inspiration and social connection - will once again host its annual Art of Remembrance on the eve before Anzac, Friday 24 April 2026 at 7pm.

Now in its eleventh year, the event brings together veterans, whānau, artists and the wider community for an evening of music, ceremony and storytelling – honouring service and sacrifice through reflection, connection and shared remembrance in one of the city’s most significant living memorial spaces.

Event:                    Art of Remembrance 2026 – We Will Remember Them
When:                    Friday 24 April | 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Where:                  Kāhui St David’s, 70 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland
Tickets:                Pay-what-you-can – all welcome (via Humanitix | www.kahuistdavids.nz)

St David’s Memorial Church, whose foundation stone was laid on Anzac Day 1927 as a memorial to those who served in World War One, was originally dedicated as The Soldiers’ Memorial Church. Today, as Kāhui St David’s, it is home to a charitable trust and stands as a living memorial – a place of remembrance for all branches of the New Zealand Defence Force, and a centre for cultural connection and inspiration..

Honouring the Royal New Zealand Engineers

As part of Art of Remembrance 2026, this year’s ANZAC commemoration places particular focus on the Royal New Zealand Engineers (RNZE) – past and present – recognising their enduring contribution and historic connection to St David’s.

This connection dates back to 1927 and is reflected today through the RNZE memorial plaques, the Sappers’ Chapel and the Sappers’ Memorial Window, honouring generations of service.

At the heart of this year’s service is the Lamp of Remembrance, illuminated daily in the Sappers’ Chapel and ceremonially re-lit by members of the Royal New Zealand Engineers for the coming year – a powerful act of continuity and collective remembrance.

Paul Baragwanath, Director of Friends of St David’s Trust Kāhui Rangi Pūpū, says: “The relationship between St David’s and the Royal New Zealand Engineers spans nearly a century. This is a place where that history is not only preserved, but actively remembered.

“Art of Remembrance allows us to honour all current members of the New Zealand Defence Force, and all veterans, in a way that brings their legacy into the present – through ceremony, music and community.”

A powerful programme of music, storytelling and remembrance

The 2026 programme brings together leading performers and community contributors for a deeply moving shared experience.

Unsung Heroes perform original songs and readings from wartime letters, including Cameron Bennett, veteran foreign correspondent, whose ballad recounts a letter sent to his grandfather from the Western Front.  Guitarist Chris Priestley has also written a song that tells his father’s story of the battle at Takrouna Hill in Tunisia.  The pieces will be introduced by Peter Elliott ONZM, Shortland Street actor, percussionist and Member of the Waitematā Local Board.

The evening will also feature David Harvey on Scottish bagpipes, pūoro by Riki Bennett, the University of Auckland Student Choir and hymns for all to join led by soprano Michelle Thorne-McHugh, the Off Broadway Big Band, and Helen Lukman-Fox on the great pipe organ.

The night will begin with a parade of veterans into the Great Hall. It will include the Last Post, Minute of Silence, The Rouse, and the ceremonial relighting of the Lamp of Remembrance for the year ahead. The programme will also include contributions from members of the New Zealand Defence Force.

Highlights include:

●      National Anthem and hymns, led by Soprano Michelle Thorne-McHugh, the Off Broadway Big Band (Bandmaster Paul Radden), and Helen Lukman-Fox (organ)

●      Taonga pūoro by Riki Bennett

●      Unsung Heroes, performing original works reflecting on Passchendaele and the Siege of Tobruk

●      Music led by whānau of the 28th Māori Battalion

●      University of Auckland Student Choir

●      Laying of the wreaths, including:

○      28th Māori Battalion (at plaque)

○      Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps (at plaque)

○      Royal New Zealand Engineers and other wreaths (Sappers’ Chapel)

●      RNZE members will also play a central ceremonial role, including leading the procession, supporting the lighting of the Lamp of Remembrance, and laying a wreath within the Sappers’ Memorial Chapel.

Carried by community

A defining feature of the event is the generosity of those involved, with many performers giving their time in the spirit of remembrance.

Paul Radden, firefighter with the New Zealand Fire Service and Bandmaster of the Off Broadway Big Band, who has supported the event for several years, says:

Radden says: “It’s a privilege to be part of Art of Remembrance each year. Music brings people together in a way that allows us to honour those who came before us, while connecting in a way that feels both powerful and deeply personal.”

A living ANZAC legacy

Set within the beautifully restored heritage space known for its exceptional acoustics, Kāhui St David’s offers a uniquely immersive way to mark Anzac.

“Kāhui St David’s is a place where remembrance lives on – through art, music and community,” says Baragwanath.

“It is a space for reflection, connection and shared understanding, where the past is honoured and carried forward together.”

Following the service, attendees are invited to stay for hospitality and to experience the Art of Remembrance installation programme, continuing the evening’s theme of reflection through contemporary art.

For more information and to secure tickets, visit www.kahuistdavids.nz or Humantix.

For many New Zealand homeowners, buying a spa pool starts with a simple search and quickly becomes a much bigger decision. With so many models on the market, and a wide range of prices, features, and build standards, knowing what to compare can make a major difference to long-term value and satisfaction.

While appearance often draws buyers in first, industry professionals say the most important factors are usually the ones that are less visible at a glance. Build quality, insulation, servicing support, and suitability for New Zealand conditions all play a major role in how a spa performs over time. Trueform Spas, based in Helensville, has spent more than 40 years manufacturing spa pools in New Zealand and says buyers are becoming more informed about what matters beyond the initial price tag.

One of the first things buyers are encouraged to assess is how and where the spa will be used. A couple looking for evening relaxation may need something very different from a family wanting room for children or guests. Size, seating layout, jet placement, and overall depth all affect comfort, and choosing the wrong layout can lead to a spa that looks good on paper but gets used less often in practice.

Insulation is another major point of difference. In New Zealand’s outdoor conditions, a spa needs to retain heat efficiently to keep running costs under control. Lower-priced models can sometimes appear attractive upfront, but if they lack proper insulation or use lower-grade materials, they may cost more in power and maintenance over time. For many homeowners, the better comparison is not just purchase price, but overall ownership costs across several years.

Support and servicing are also important considerations, especially for larger purchases intended to last. Buyers are increasingly asking where a spa is made, how easy it is to source parts, and whether help is available locally if something needs attention. New Zealand-made products can offer an advantage here, particularly when manufacturers and service teams are based in the same market as their customers. Trueform says this local support is one of the reasons many homeowners choose to buy from a domestic manufacturer rather than relying on imported stock alone.

Health and wellbeing have also become a bigger part of the buying conversation. Spa pools are no longer seen only as luxury items, with many buyers looking at them as tools for stress relief, recovery, and better sleep. Features such as ergonomic seating and targeted hydrotherapy jets can make a meaningful difference for people wanting to use a spa regularly rather than occasionally.

Warren Leslie, Managing Director of Trueform, says buyers tend to be best served by looking at the full picture rather than narrowing their choice too early around a single factor.

“People often start with price, but they quickly realise that quality, comfort, and long-term support are just as important,” he says. “A spa should be something you enjoy for years, so it makes sense to compare how it is built, how it performs, and who is standing behind it.”

As more New Zealanders continue to invest in their homes and outdoor living spaces, the spa pool market is likely to remain competitive. For buyers, that means more choice, but also a greater need to compare carefully.

Industry advice remains consistent. Look beyond the brochure photos, ask questions about insulation and servicing, think realistically about how the spa will be used, and consider long-term value rather than upfront cost alone. In a category where comfort, durability, and support all matter, taking a more informed approach at the start can lead to a much better result over time.

With SMEs forming the backbone of New Zealand’s economy, a new Auckland-based agency group, Foundry Collective, is launching this month — to help ambitious Kiwi businesses grow in a more sustainable way, at a time when effective marketing, brand building and performance have never been more important.

Co-founded by Emily Ostrowska and Wade Kirkland, Foundry Collective is designed to redefine the modern agency model - combining intelligent systems, strategic  oversight and AI-enabled optimisation at its core, as the industry shifts from execution-led delivery to strategic integration and system design.

Under one integrated umbrella, Foundry Collective brings together Folk&Tale - a strategic growth consultancy specialising in brand storytelling and marketing ecosystems, using a fractional CMO model to embed senior strategic leadership into client businesses - and Explosive Social, a performance-led digital agency specialising in paid media, social and customer acquisition.

Together, the model connects long-term brand building with short-term performance to drive more sustainable business growth for SMEs in New Zealand.

Emily Ostrowska, Co-Founder of Foundry Collective and Folk&Tale, says: “Marketing is moving into a new era. Execution is becoming faster, cheaper and more accessible through AI - but the real value is no longer in doing more. It’s in designing how everything works together. That’s the shift we’re here to lead.

“We connect brand strategy, performance and every customer touchpoint in one coherent system - so brands can move beyond fragmented activity and drive growth that actually compounds.”

A new way of structuring marketing

“Built to support New Zealand’s SME sector, the Foundry Collective model responds to growing pressure on businesses to deliver results - balancing long-term brand building with the immediacy of performance media, so both work together in a streamlined system, to drive sustainable compounding growth rather than disparate activity, says Ostrowska.

“AI plays a central role in how that system operates, it’s transforming how marketing gets done - streamlining execution, automating repetitive tasks and unlocking deeper data intelligence. But the real value still lies in how that’s applied.”

Through Explosive Social, growing businesses access high-performance paid media, social and customer acquisition - building the traction and data needed to scale.

As those businesses grow, Folk&Tale layers in - embedding senior strategic leadership through a fractional CMO model, and adding the fuller brand and marketing capability that scaling businesses need: from brand strategy and design through to website development, campaign production and ATL activity.

Ostrowska adds: “Many businesses have strong individual components - brand, media, content - but they’re not connected.

“Across my time working in agencies, I’ve seen the same pattern repeat - activity everywhere, but little integration behind it. That’s where growth starts to plateau. The real opportunity now is in connecting those pieces in a way that builds momentum. That’s where we’re seeing the biggest impact.”

Leadership built for a new model

Led by Emily Ostrowska, alongside Co-Founder Wade Kirkland and Head of Growth Fiona Kerr, the leadership team brings together expertise across strategy, commercial leadership and growth.

Ostrowska brings international experience across New Zealand, the UK and the US in digital strategy and integrated marketing. Kirkland adds commercial and operational leadership across media and business growth, while Kerr brings senior marketing leadership experience, having held strategic growth roles and worked across brands including VAPO, alt., Coca-Cola, Lion and Nestlé.

Built for a new generation of businesses

“We’re seeing a wave of ambitious businesses launching faster than ever,” says Ostrowska.

“As they grow, the challenge becomes less about execution, and more about how everything fits together - from initial customer acquisition through to long term brand growth.

“This is about building an agency that aligns with how modern marketing actually works - more connected, more strategic, and designed to support growth over the long term.”

Foundry Collective launches with a team of 20 across both agencies, spanning employed talent and fractional CMOs, with plans to expand capability and market reach over time.

For more information about Foundry Collective, please head to www.foundrycollective.nz.

After decades in the family home, the thought of downsizing can feel overwhelming. Families have raised children, celebrated milestones, and built lives within those walls. For many, moving is not simply a matter of packing boxes. It is saying goodbye to a lifetime of memories.

When sorting through decades of accumulated belongings, people often wonder where to begin. People face tough decisions about what to keep, what to pass on to family, and what to let go. Alongside the emotional weight, the physical demands of packing, lifting, and organising can quickly drain a person's energy. The stress of coordinating a move while managing these shifting emotions leaves many seniors and their adult children feeling exhausted before the process even begins.

Fairview Lifestyle Village recognises that the move-in experience is a crucial part of a resident's overall wellbeing. To ease this burden, they have completely reimagined the moving process by partnering with The Collective, a specialist senior relocation team.

Fairview’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Robyn Rangi, explains, "We acknowledge this is a monumental event for the resident, and having the right moving partner means we will have a relaxed and happy resident when they are settled - it's how we want all our residents to move in, without stress, fully supported and heard.”
 

Meet Louise and The Collective

Led by Louise, The Collective specialises in helping seniors move with respect and patience. Her motivation for starting this highly specialised service stems from a deeply personal place.

"I struggled with postnatal depression and learned how empathetic support can make a world of difference," Louise shares. "I wanted to help others move through difficult emotional moments in their lives."

The Collective supports residents from start to finish, completely removing the logistical headaches of relocating, and breaking the journey down into a seamless, step-by-step process. 

First, Louise meets with the resident, and spends time getting to know them and understand what’s important to them in the moving process.

“Many people find the whole process extremely emotional and are anxious about having to get rid of things they’ve held precious. It feels very weighty leaving the family home,” says Louise. The most important part of navigating the emotional side of downsizing is “100% support and understanding,” she shares. This is manifested in listening.

While downsizing is emotionally difficult (with the package including anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 hours downsizing ‘advice’), the real work is in the relocation: packing, moving and unpacking. Louise finds it is the thoughtful, small touches that make the biggest impact.

“Many people find the whole process extremely emotional and are anxious about having to part with things they’ve held onto for years. Leaving the family home can feel very weighty,” says Louise.

For her, the most important part is offering steady support and understanding, taking the time to listen and guide people through the transition.

Louise sends information to her team ahead of moving day, sharing key details about the move so everyone arrives well prepared.

“On pack day we go in as a team and everyone is introduced. We all do a walkthrough of the home so everyone has a clear understanding of what needs to happen,” says Louise.

The team tailors their approach to suit each home and its belongings. They manage all coordination with trusted, experienced movers to ensure everything is transported safely. Once at Fairview Lifestyle Village, the team unpacks and carefully sets up the new home so it feels familiar, comfortable, and immediately liveable.

“To move, we use our own eco-crates, which are 100% recyclable, weather resistant and designed to make packing faster and easier, helping the whole process run more efficiently and with less disruption for residents,” says Louise.

The Collective also employs a clever labelling system that matches a resident’s new floorplan.
 

A smoother transition and a warmer welcome

The outcome of this dedicated support is a much calmer transition. Residents experience significantly reduced stress, settle into their new routines faster, and step into their new community with confidence. Families and new residents consistently speak of the comfort and relief The Collective brings.

One resident shared how the team “significantly reduced the stress of moving after 33 years in the same home,” describing a sense of genuine care throughout the process. For another, seeing their apartment arranged to reflect favourite memories was a deeply moving experience: “(The) first sight brought tears to my eyes,” they shared.

Others appreciate the way treasured belongings are handled: “We are most grateful to have found The Collective who helped us sort and distribute my mother-in-law’s belongings in a respectful, kind, and incredibly efficient manner.”

As Fairview’s CEO Terry Middlemost says, “We have taken the emotive load of moving on board and brought on a partner that delivers like no other moving company. The Collective values mirror our own - and the feedback from residents confirms the service is making huge differences to how to integrate with village life.”

Moving home later in life does not have to be an isolating or exhausting chore. With the right support, it becomes a guided, respectful transition into a new lifestyle.

Q: Why is liquid foliar fertiliser especially important as we head into colder months?

As soil temperatures drop, pasture growth slows. At around 5 to 6 degrees, grass can stop growing. The primary reason is reduced microbial activity. In warmer conditions, soil microbes convert nutrients into plant-available forms. In the cold, this slows significantly. Foliar fertiliser works differently. It delivers nutrients directly into the plant through the leaf, bypassing the soil. When applied, nutrients can enter the plant and roots within an hour, keeping growth systems active when soils are not.

Q: How does foliar feeding work?

Foliar fertiliser is applied to the leaf and absorbed directly into plant tissue. This allows rapid uptake and immediate use and growth. Farmers understand this. Herbicides such as Roundup are applied as foliar sprays to kill weeds quickly, the same principle applies here. Just as it’s possible to get herbicide into a plant rapidly using foliar to kill and eradicate plants quickly, you can just as effectively deliver nutrition for plant growth. Foliar is a more efficient pathway, especially in challenging conditions.

Q: What have trials shown about its effectiveness?

Trials in New Zealand, including Canterbury, show clear increases in pasture growth when foliar fertiliser is used in cooler conditions. International research supports this finding. Studies show yield increases of 15 to 19 percent under stress conditions, particularly when soil performance is limited. This has been demonstrated in the field with farmers seeing a response within days and maximised within 3 to 4 weeks. In addition, foliar application is more uniform and provides nutrition to plants evenly.

Q: How does New Zealand's foliar fertiliser use compare internationally?

Overseas, foliar fertiliser is no longer niche. It is standard practice across many farming systems, from broadacre crops like wheat and maize to intensive production. In high-performing systems, multiple foliar applications are used through the season to maximise results. In comparison, New Zealand systems still rely heavily on soil-applied fertiliser, often around 70 kilograms of urea (36 kg N) per hectare in a single application, with less focus on foliar strategies.

Q: Why is foliar more widely adopted overseas?

The main driver is nutrient use efficiency (NUE). Overseas farmers focus on maximising return from every unit of nutrient. Foliar fertiliser allows faster response to plant demand, quicker correction of deficiencies, and better performance when soil conditions are limiting. In many cases, farmers use half to a quarter of the usual fertiliser and still achieve the same response.

Q: Is foliar fertiliser a replacement for traditional fertiliser?

No. The most effective systems use both. Soil fertiliser builds soil foundation, while foliar fertiliser fine-tunes performance by filling in the gaps. It is about using the right tool at the right time.

Q: What is the key takeaway for farmers?

As soils cool and biology slows, relying on soil fertiliser alone limits potential. Foliar fertiliser provides a direct line into the plant when other conditions are not favourable. Consequently, for growth maintenance and improved efficiency, foliar feeding can be a game-changer.

Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram

021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz

www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz

Contact MediaPA

Phillip Quay

MediaPA

027 458 7724

phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Auckland, New Zealand – Kiwi Web Design has launched a 2026 New Zealand website cost calculator aimed at helping small businesses better understand what a professional website actually costs before they start requesting quotes.

For many business owners, website pricing remains unclear. Quotes can vary widely depending on page count, functionality, eCommerce requirements, integrations, hosting, and ongoing support. That lack of clarity often leads to underbudgeting, unrealistic expectations, or choosing the cheapest option without understanding what is included.

Kiwi Web Design’s calculator gives New Zealand businesses a faster way to estimate likely website costs based on site type, size, add-ons, hosting, and GST.

The Auckland-based agency says the tool was created to address a common problem in the market: many small businesses know they need a better website, but they do not know what budget range is realistic.

According to the calculator, a typical small business website in New Zealand often falls between NZD $1,500 and $6,000 before GST, while small eCommerce builds can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on complexity. One-page websites generally sit at the lower end, while custom or integration-heavy projects can rise significantly higher.

Charlie Chao, founder of Kiwi Web Design, says pricing confusion is one of the biggest obstacles for small business owners early in the buying process.

“Many businesses are not comparing like with like. A cheap quote can leave out content, SEO foundations, revisions, integrations, or ongoing support. That creates problems later. We wanted to give NZ business owners a more realistic planning tool.”

The calculator is supported by broader guidance on what affects website pricing in New Zealand, including platform choice, design scope, functionality, SEO readiness, and ongoing care requirements.

Kiwi Web Design says the goal is not just to generate quotes, but to improve buyer understanding in a market where website investment decisions directly affect lead generation and business growth.

The calculator is available here:
Website Cost Calculator NZ (2026)
https://www.kiwiwebdesign.co.nz/affordable-web-design-auckland/website-cost-new-zealand-small-business/

About Kiwi Web Design

Kiwi Web Design is an Auckland-based digital marketing agency that helps small businesses generate leads through websites, SEO, Google Ads, and local search optimisation.

Located in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant Newmarket precinct, Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites offers guests a convenient and comfortable base just minutes from Ellerslie Racecourse. Whether you are visiting for business, leisure, or a thrilling day at the races, the hotel’s prime position makes it an ideal choice for racegoers and travellers alike.

Just a short drive from the hotel, Ellerslie Racecourse is widely regarded as New Zealand’s premier thoroughbred racing venue, with a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Today, it continues to host some of the country’s most prestigious racing events, blending world-class sport with fashion, entertainment, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Staying at Best Western Newmarket means you can enjoy all the excitement of race day without the stress of long travel times, making it easy to arrive in style and return to comfort.

The racing calendar at Ellerslie is packed with standout events throughout the year, including:

• 27 April 2026 – ANZAC Raceday
• 1 May 2026 – May Raceday
• 6 May 2026 – Ladies’ Day
• 16 May 2026 – Irish Raceday
• 23 May 2026 – Autumn Raceday
• 6 June 2026 – June Raceday
• 20 June 2026 – Winter Championships Finals Day
• 24 June 2026 – Ladies’ Day (Winter Edition)
• 3 November 2026 – Melbourne Cup Day

These key racedays are highlights on Auckland’s social calendar, attracting visitors from across New Zealand and beyond. From high-stakes racing to fashion in the field and lively hospitality, each event offers a unique and memorable experience.

For guests of Best Western Newmarket, this proximity means more time enjoying the atmosphere and less time worrying about logistics. After a day of thrilling finishes and trackside celebrations, you can retreat to modern, comfortable accommodation just minutes away.

Whether you are a seasoned racing enthusiast or simply looking to experience one of Auckland’s most exciting social events, Best Western Newmarket places you right at the centre of the action.

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