Items filtered by date: Tuesday, 02 December 2014

Arrangements agreed today - Monday 2 May 2016 - open up new opportunities for airlines to fly between New Zealand and New Caledonia.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges and New Caledonia President Philippe Germain today formalised new air services arrangements negotiated in November 2015. These included amendments to New Zealand's 1967 Air Transport Agreement with France, which pertain to New Caledonia.

President Germain is visiting New Zealand along with French Prime Minister, Manuel Valls.

“Under the new agreement, airlines from New Zealand and New Caledonia now have the opportunity to operate additional services to the other,” Mr Bridges says.

“The agreement will also make the process easier for New Zealand airlines to fly from New Caledonia to other international destinations in future.

“The two countries are close Pacific neighbours, with nearly 30,000 passengers travelling between them each year. Arrangements such as these, which assist the movement of people and goods, are an important part of the relationship.”

Mr Bridges says this another example of the Government’s success in negotiating air services agreements.

“With more than 50 new or amended air service agreements negotiated over the last four years, the Government’s International Air Transport Policy is bringing a number of benefits to New Zealand including tourism and trade.

“In the last year alone, 18 new air routes have been announced, making it easier for New Zealanders to travel and trade internationally.”

Press Release from Transport Minister Simon Bridges 2 May 2016

New Zealand’s new air services agreement with India strengthens ties with one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges signed the agreement with Sanjeev Balyan, India’s Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, in Auckland today - Sunday 1 May 2016.

The signing was witnessed by Prime Minister John Key and India’s President Pranab Mukherjee.

“New Zealand airlines now have the opportunity to code-share to seven cities in India - Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi,” Mr Bridges says.

“India is an emerging superpower, and its population of 1.25 billion people presents enormous opportunities for New Zealand.

“Our annual trade with India is worth more than $1 billion. In the year to 31 March 2016, almost 52,000 Kiwis travelled to India and close to 60,000 Indians visited New Zealand. In addition, more than 160,000 people of Indian descent live here.

“Today’s signing will boost tourism, trade and personal ties between our two countries.”

Mr Bridges says the Government’s liberal International Air Transport Policy is bringing many benefits to New Zealand.

“Since the policy was implemented in 2012 more than 50 new or amended air agreements have been negotiated, bringing the total to 78. Most of the major airlines in the world are now able to operate services to New Zealand without restriction, with 18 new air routes announced in the past year alone.

“Our success in negotiating Air Services Agreements is providing New Zealand access to a large wealth of benefits including tourism and trade. We’ll continue our efforts to grow and enhance these connections, making it easier for New Zealanders to travel and trade internationally.”

But on the numbers side rather than the people one

Napier, MSCNewsWire, 4 May 2016 - Even Mark Weldon’s most avid admirer would not describe him as a people person. He is a performance and results person. It was always rather a mystery why he accepted the top operational job at Mediaworks a song-and-dance entertainment outfit covered by a thin news legitimacy.

Mr Weldon is an over achiever and was simply over-qualified for the job. His numbers-related actions from the start raised the hackles of what he might describe as the “customer-facing” staff, the station personalities.

One of the first tasks for the old McKinseys and Skadden Arps hand was to stem all the doubling-up at the entertainment company. This meant telescoping the separate television and radio presentations.

He also sought to stem the opinion masquerading as news on its stations. A problem for Mr Weldon was that there was no A&R person between he and the personality staff, most of who seriously consider themselves big stars.

In the absence of the artists and repertoire staff handling intermediary such as he would have enjoyed in his old law days in New York, Mr Weldon was forced to deal direct.

Mr Weldon is entitled to refer to himself, in the New Zealand manner, as “Doctor..” He has a doctorate from Columbia University. But the former Olympic swimmer does not do so.

His focus on performance rather than the niceties of peoples’ egos was also a characteristic of his years running the New Zealand Stock Exchange which was badly faltering at the time of his arrival, and which he decisively de-mutualised and put on the sound, if unspectacular footing, that the exchange enjoys today.

Mr Weldon, now in his very late 40s, is not one to look back, at least not with any whimsical remorse. For the time being he will tend his vines, and then will look at offers to shake up another enterprise somewhere. This time though, it will probably be outside the confining boundaries of New Zealand.

From the MSCNewsWire reporters' deskThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Franco / New Zealand summit confronts US – imposed trade embargoes and offset deals

UK Trade & Investment Policy swerve recognises European uncertainties

These Regional Research Institutes are to be new research centres developed in areas outside of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch

Wellington, 27 April, 2016  - Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce today announced that three proposals to establish new Regional Research Institutes (RRIs) have been shortlisted and that applicants will now enter the business case development stage of the selection process.

Regional Research Institutes are to be new research centres developed in areas outside of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch that help build research and development intensity and lift innovation in key regional industries.

“Our regional economies have unique resources and strengths. The Regional Research Institutes initiative looks to harness these and build on economic potential by establishing independent and industry-focused R&D facilities,” Mr Joyce says.

A total of 24 proposals, from 16 different locations, were received for consideration.

“There were a number of credible and exciting proposals submitted, and the three shortlisted represent those considered at this stage to have presented the best plans for delivering the strongest growth in business R&D and innovation in regional areas,“ Mr Joyce says.

“For New Zealand to achieve its economic potential, we need all our regions to thrive. Regional growth is a priority for the Government and this initiative supports the Business Growth Agenda and its goal to increase business R&D expenditure to 1 per cent of GDP.”

The three shortlisted proposals are:

New Zealand Institute of Viticulture and Oenology, Marlborough, led by the New Zealand Winegrowers – research to support the growth and continuing success of the New Zealand wine industry.

Centre for Space Science Technology, Central Otago, led by Bodeker Scientific – research allowing the use of space-based measurements and unique to New Zealand satellite imagery to develop solutions tailored to regions and key sectors, for example, in water resource management and regional planning.

Earth+Vantage, Southland, led by Venture Southland – research using real time satellite and ground-based data to lift primary industry productivity across New Zealand, in areas such as precision farming, forestry and marine management.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will work with the three applicants on a more detailed analysis of their proposals and determine the preferred options that deliver the greatest value from the potential institutes. Once this process is complete, Cabinet will make its final decision on which new institutes will be established.

The development of privately-led regional research institutes was announced as part of Budget 2015, with funding for up to $25 million over three years to support the initiative. Proposals were invited from groups of businesses, researchers and private investors in November 2015.

“MBIE will also contact those applicants who were not successful in proceeding to the next stage at this time and provide evaluation feedback for them to consider when building on their initial concepts and for applying to any future funding rounds,” says Mr Joyce.

“The high level of interest from all applicants illustrates that there is plenty of potential for further regional growth in research and development.”

 Lest we forget. Poignant words that mean so much to all New Zealanders. 

Auckland, 27 April 2016 - So why then were 5 wheelchair bound servicemen  from World War Two not allowed to march in the dawn parade at the Auckland War Memorial Cenotaph on Monday.

Because they were in wheelchairs and would "slow the march down" according a report in the NZHerald this morning.  The organisors also commented  that health and safety was an issue - hope they are not hiding behind the new H&S law to try and justify their decision.  

Come on, whoever is responsible for this decision has got it wrong these guys will not be with us for much longer and deserve to be included in the march, not just placed at the Centotaph, on the very day that celebrates the sacrifice they and those who didn't return made all those years ago.   Do we have to go so fast that we leave behind, or in this case don't include, the very people we gather to respect each year.   To sacrifice a small amount of time in a case like this is not to much to ask, is it?

If you missed the Herald article you can read it here

Image Credit: stuff.co.nz

Financier's new Silk Road journey makes him pivotal figure in East-West economic balance

 New Zealand’s new Brighter Money $5 note has been named Banknote of the Year in a prestigious international competition.

Wellington, 26 April 2016 - The $5 note was awarded the IBNS Banknote of the Year title at the International Bank Note Society’s annual meeting.

The IBNS Banknote of the Year award recognises outstanding achievement in the design, technical sophistication and security of a banknote or banknote series. Twenty banknotes from around the world were nominated for the award, and the winner was voted by IBNS members.

The IBNS says New Zealand’s $5 note was the competition’s “clear winner”, with Sweden’s 20 Kronor note, Russia’s 100 Ruble note, Kazakhstan’s 20,000 Tenge note and Scotland’s (Clydesdale Bank) 5 Pound polymer note voted the runners-up.

New Zealand’s new banknotes are designed and printed by Canadian Banknote Company in Canada.

Reserve Bank of New Zealand Deputy Governor Geoff Bascand says the award is testament to the hard work and innovation by the Bank and its partners that has gone into developing the note.

“We are proud of all of New Zealand’s new banknotes, but to have our $5 note recognised internationally is very special. The note incorporates some of the world’s most advanced security features, yet still beautifully showcases New Zealand’s history, culture and heritage.”

The $5 and $10 notes have been in circulation since October. The new $20, $50 and $100 notes will come into circulation from May 16.

More informationBrighter Money websiteInternational Bank Note Society websiteCanadian Bank Note Company website

An outstanding cross-section of New Zealand companies have made it through as finalists in the 2016 Air New Zealand Cargo ExportNZ Awards for Auckland and Waikato.

​Auckland, 26 April 2016 - From household names to start-up businesses, judges have been impressed with the calibre of entries received this year, especially as this is the first time the awards have been opened up to Waikato enterprises.

Overall, there are 25 finalists in seven categories (see below).

“I’m delighted with the diverse range of finalists we have in this year’s awards. We have a mix of service industries and manufacturers. These awards are designed to give recognition to our exporting community, and acknowledge the hard yards they have put in to help transform our economy. This year’s awards will showcase a cross-section of some of our most ingenious and innovative businesses,” says Catherine Lye, ExportNZ Manager Auckland, Waikato & Bay of Plenty.

Exports account for 29% of New Zealand’s GDP (NZ$69.3 billion).

ExportNZ Auckland and Waikato are divisions of the Employers and Manufacturers Association. The 2016 awards will be presented at a black-tie gala dinner on Thursday, June 23 at The Langham Hotel, Auckland.

Air New Zealand Cargo ExportNZ Awards 2016

2016 finalists for the Air New Zealand Cargo ExportNZ Awards

Award category 1:Westpac Exporter of the Year (export revenue over $25 million)1. Gallagher Group Ltd are renowned for innovation and marketing of animal management, security, fuel systems and contract managing solutions. [Waikato]2. Hobbiton Movie Set Tours provides a fascinating two hour guided tour of the set used for filming The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies which has experienced spectacular growth in visitor number in the past five years. [Waikato]3. Leigh Fisheries are New Zealand's largest and leading fresh chilled seafood exporter providing a sustainable premium product directly to USA, Europe, Asia and Australia on a daily basis. Working with artisan fishermen nationwide employing the art of long line fishing with the principles of "just in time" process of hook to plate internationally and domestically. [Northland]4. Vista Group Ltd is the global leader in film industry software solutions. Building on the dominant market position of Vista Entertainment Solutions, Vista Group has expanded to include a number of complementary businesses offering solutions across the wider film industry. [Auckland]

Award category 2:QBE Insurance Exporter of the Year (export revenue $10 million - $25 million)1. Auckland Institute of Studies is an independent tertiary education institution offering quality education and strong support services to international students. [Auckland]2. BBC Technologies are developers and manufacturers of advanced fruit and vegetable processing equipment, specialising in small, delicate commodities such as berries. [Waikato]3. Bobux International is a baby footwear developer and manufacturer which designs from a foot health first perspective which recognises that while barefoot is best it is not always practical. [Auckland]4. James Dunlop Textiles is an international converter and wholesaler of premium furnishing fabrics. Established more than a hundred years ago, it has been recognised internationally as a leading premium brand from the Southern Hemisphere. [Auckland]5. Waikato Milking Systems is a New Zealand success story. Founded in the Waikato in 1967, the company is today one of the leading designers and manufacturers of dairy systems in the world. [Waikato]

Award category 3:BDO Exporter of the Year (export revenue $1million - $10million)1. API Consumer Brands is a leading New Zealand developer, manufacturer, supplier, marketer, and distributor of high quality pharmaceuticals, toiletry and cosmetic products. From the two state of the art manufacturing plants they bring to the market the high quality toiletries and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and a range of controlled drugs. [Auckland]2. Dulux Powder & Industrial Coatings NZ with a reputation for quality and service, manufacture in New Zealand, and market internationally, a comprehensive range of colourful, innovative, and technologically advanced powder coatings. [Auckland]3. Rayglass Boats was established in 1989 and is a leading manufacturer of high quality power boats, with the Rayglass Legend and the Rayglass Protector being its two key prototypes. [Auckland]

Award category 4:Endace Services Exporter of the Year (export revenue $1million - $10million)1. Eagle Aviation Consulting Ltd is an independent consulting firm specialising in commercial aviation advisory and solutions for investors, airlines and governments. [Auckland]2. ICL Education is a group of education providers offering a range of tertiary business, computing, teaching English as a second language and early childhood education programmes. [Auckland]3. Keedup Ltd provides a 24/7 service to the international celebrity image business - editing, captioning, keywording and distributing the latest shots from celebrity hot spots such as Hollywood and Cannes. [Auckland]

Award category 5:TNT Emerging Exporter of the Year1. Triumph & Disaster is a modern day apothecary and skincare foundry using bespoke aromas and natural blends to deliver a product that’s reminiscent of simpler times. [Auckland]2. Virsae provides cloud services to allow its clients to manage their technology and communication systems to peak performance levels, so channels remain open and customers can always get an answer. [Auckland]3. Zealong Tea Estate Ltd produces organically certified tea which is handpicked from New Zealand’s only commercial tea estate. [Waikato]

Award category 6:Baldwins Intellectual Property Best Use of Commercialisation of Innovation for Export1. Adept Medical sells a range of ear, nose, radiology, cardiology, neuroradiology and sterilisation service products directly to hospitals. [Auckland]2. BBC Technologies are developers and manufacturers of advanced fruit and vegetable processing equipment, specialising in small, delicate commodities such as berries. [Waikato]3. Methven Ltd create amazing water experiences every day with their range of beautifully designed showers, tapware and valves. [Auckland]4. Quantec Ltd is a biotechnology business focused on capturing value from dairy, through innovation business activities in animal and human health. [Waikato]

Award category 7:Quantium Solutions Best Use of Digital Strategy for Export1. Metal Heart Ltd make fashion jewellery from the finest minerals and gemstones, with an emphasis on quality and brand experience. [Auckland]2. Natural Ringa Company create holistic products that enhance individual beauty and provide rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit. [Auckland]3. Triumph & Disaster is a modern day apothecary and skincare foundry using bespoke aromas and natural blends to deliver a product that’s reminiscent of simpler times. [Auckland]

Supreme Winner (selected from the winners of award categories 2-5)Simmonds Stewart Exporters Champion (for exemplary services to export)8.     Supreme Winner (selected from the winners of award categories 2-5)9.     Simmonds Stewart Exporters Champion (for exemplary services to export)