Business North March 2026

Volume 25 | Issue 1 | March 2026 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Powering Northland Work is well underway on Meridian Energy’s exciting Ruakākā Solar Farm, which will deliver enough power each year for over half of Northland’s homes... T T Page 14 businessnorth north

2 | Contents businessnorth 30| Community driven Tauranga Community Housing Trust is moving ahead with a new strategic partnership. 19| Growing good Maori Kiwifruit Growers Inc is enjoying an exciting era of burgeoning growth. 125| Surf’s Up Surf Life Saving Kariaotahi has officially opened its new purpose-built clubrooms. 19 125 30 #businessnorth #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz   TROW Group ��03 Auckland Business Chamber ��04 IDB ��04 Athenry Electrical ��05 Clarity Insurance ��07 Lineage NZ ��08 Thames-Coromandel District Council ��10 Clements Hotel ��11 Tuakau Hotel ��12 Meridian Energy ��14 EastPack ��16 Shawn Williamson Building ��18 Maori Kiwifruit Growers ��19 Trevelyan’s Pack & Cool ��20 iLine Construction ��22 Robinson Asphalt ��24 All Good Pet Food ��26 JWE Limited ��27 WPM Group ��28 Iconic Construction ��29 Tauranga Community Housing Trust ��30 Robertson Boats ��33 C-Corp NZ ��34 JNP Aviation ��34 Vessel Works ��36 Titan Marine Engineering ��41 Kawerau Engineering ��42 Mt Wellington Engineering ��44 Titus Transport ��46 Green Civil ��48 Colquhoun Construction ��48 McCore Group ��50 Big Save ��52 Align Group ��52 Endoscopy Auckland ��53 James Kirkpatrick Group ��54 Rauland NZ ��56 Savory Construction ��58 Southbridge Industrial Park ��60 Golden Bay Cement ��61 FLSSH ��62 New Boots Ltd ��64 James Group Real Estate ��65 Livingstone Building ��66 Urban Homes ��68 Design Builders Waikato ��70 Vivid Living ��71 Sedar Properties: ��72 Chedworth Properties ��74 Barakat Contractors ��75 Spot X Cleaning ��76 Clean Planet ��77 SolutionAir ��78 Shane Powell Earthmoving ��79 Duncan’s Scaffolding ��80 Whangamata Scaffolding ��81 Harkin Roofing ��82 Roof Auckland ��84 Drill Force ��85 Williams Salvage ��86 Verge NZ ��88 CGC Landscapes ��89 Resilio Studio ��90 Magnum Equipment ��92 DAM Doors ��93 Midway Flooring ��94 Plantation Bamboo ��95 Morgan Pools ��96 OUR PARTNERS: Christchurch Office 112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 PO Box 37 346 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown 9300 MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz CO-MANAGING PARTNER Chris Pearce chris.pearce@waterfordpress.co.nz EDITORIAL Editor Nick Gormack nick@waterfordpress.co.nz Sub-editors Christine Defelice, Margaret Landauer Journalists Alexia Anderson, Kim Bowden, Kelly Deeks, Hugh de Lacy, Russell Fredric, Kim Newth, Sue Russell, Karen Phelps, Rosa Watson, Virginia Wright,Nicki Woodlock RESEARCH & MARKETING James Anderson, Sam Dart, Chris Graves, Megan Hawkins, Annie Patrick, Chris Pearce, Danielle Percival, Adam Shirra, Leo Smith, Alasdair Thomson sales@waterfordpress.co.nz PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT General Manager Luke Lynch luke@waterfordpress.co.nz Graphic Artists Anton Gray, Francesca Hildawa, Sophie McCleary, Liki Udam art@waterfordpress.co.nz CONTENT COORDINATORS Alissa Crosby, Ann-Marie Frentz, Michelle Phelan, Josie Villa OFFICE AND ACCOUNTS Lyn Barlow lyn@waterfordpress.co.nz T&C’s: These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Waterford Press Ltd and its clients. 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Arcline Architecture ��97 Robert Montgomery Architects ��98 Mike Brewerton Architects ��99 Spatial Studio ��100 Creative Kitchens and Interiors ��101 Alpha 1 Builders ��102 AW Building ��103 Auckland Build 360 ��104 Bakalich Builders ��105 Gilbanks Character Builds ��106 N.A.S Construction ��107 Box - The Architect Builder ��108 Quality Build ��108 Barrett Homes - Whangarei ��109 Elite Building ��110 David Reid Homes North Shore ��111 OWL Construction ��112 PJ Builders - Whitianga ��113 Transbuild ��114 Ultimate Group Builders ��115 Complex Construction ��116 Principle Homes ��116 KMB Construction ��118 Gibson Construction ��119 Bream Bay College ��120 Flat Bush School ��121 Owairaka School ��122 Kings College ��122 Papatoetoe Intermediate School ��124 Kariaotahi Surf Club ��125 Mad Campers ��126 Harrisons ��127

| 3 T T Karen Phelps Waste transformed into opportunities TROW Group has been proudly Māori and Pasifika owned and operated throughout its entire 10-year history. TROW Group REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT TROW Group has achieved outstanding success at the 2025 Pacific Business Trust Awards, taking home both a category win and the inaugural Frances Hartnell Supreme Business Excellence Award as well as launching an innovative online marketplace. The Māori and Pasifika-owned Auckland-based construction company claimed victory in the Business Excellence in Construction, Infrastructure and Trades category. TROW Group was also named finalists in the Pacific Community Impact Award and Business Excellence in Technology and Innovation. “There were so many amazing Pacific entrepreneurs, so it was a real honour to achieve these accolades,” says Jayda Iole-Pauga, communications coordinator at TROW Group. “The recognition reflects our commitment to embedding Pacific values into modern sustainability practices and serves as vital proof that Pacific people belong in every sector, offering hope and inspiration for the next generation of entrepreneurs.” The wins came as particularly sweet validation for a business model that initially faced scepticism. “Deconstruction was dismissed at first; the idea of creating opportunity from construction and demolition waste sounded bizarre to anyone stuck in a linear mindset,” explains Jayda. “We evolved the approach in Aotearoa, demonstrating to major businesses and corporations that repurposing construction materials is both viable and valuable.” Central to recent success is the launch of TROW ReStore, an online marketplace that gives salvaged materials a second life. “Creating and launching it is something we’ve dreamed about for the last 10 years, and it finally became available in November,” says Jayda. “The platform allows customers to browse available items or visit The Vault to reserve pre-sale materials.” The marketplace embodies founder Saia Latu’s original vision of breathing new life into materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. TROW Group’s methodology focuses on carefully dismantling buildings rather than demolishing them, salvaging a minimum of 80 per cent from all deconstruction projects. Materials are redirected into schools, churches, housing and disaster recovery projects throughout Tonga and the wider Pacific region. The company’s accreditations include ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, IMPAC, SiteWise Gold and Totika. Since its inception, the company has diverted over 120,000 tonnes of waste, creating affordable resources and supporting community infrastructure projects. TROW Group extends across the Pacific with a division in Tonga where recovered materials from New Zealand are upcycled into furniture, picnic tables, desks and other items. Jayda says this circular economy model generates income that funds future shipments and provides local employment opportunities. TROW Group has been proudly Māori and Pasifika owned and operated throughout its entire 10-year history. “TROW Group’s sustainability commitments speak not only to the waste-recovery side of our mahi but also to the sustainability of Māori and Pasifika people, empowering them with practical skills, training and employment that can sustain them and their families into the future. “The reason we stand tall within the sustainability space filled with many other heavy hitters is because we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors who pioneered the idea of reusing all resources they could to survive. “We took that blueprint and nurtured it into a modernised resource recovery methodology, which, in turn, improves social and environmental outcomes for our people and for Papatūānuku.” 021 892 535 kieran@fencehire.co.nz www.fencehire.co.nz • Temporary Fence • Permanent Site Fence (Deer Fence)

4 | “We’re much more representative of the changing face of Auckland now. Being relevant to those communities has been a big part of our membership growth.” 170 years of backing Auckland business Simon Bridges: “We’re going through a strong period of growth because, in tough times, we’ve worked hard to show our worth.” Auckland Business Chamber T T Karen Phelps IDB : Vincent St Project Client focus, expertise and on-time delivery T T Virginia Wright REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT This year Auckland Business Chamber, New Zealand’s oldest business association, is celebrating 170 years of supporting, connecting and advocating for businesses across the region. Founded in 1856 the chamber has evolved alongside Auckland itself, maintaining a constant focus on strengthening economic conditions and adapting to the changing needs of its members. It now represents businesses of all sizes from sole traders and start-ups to major corporates, operating across local and global markets. “Reaching 170 years is pretty special,” says chief executive Simon Bridges. “It’s a reminder of the legacy but also of not being complacent. “We want to be as relevant now as we were back then. Auckland businesses felt they needed something like the chamber to advocate on big issues 170 years ago and that hasn’t changed.” Membership is currently growing; a trend Simon attributes to proving its value during challenging economic conditions. It has expanded staffing in key areas such as international business, events and member services to better support businesses navigating inflationary pressure, labour shortages and global uncertainty. “We’re going through a strong period of growth because, in tough times, we’ve worked hard to show our worth,” explains Simon. “New members are joining every day and that tells us we’re delivering what businesses need right now.” A core part of the chamber’s offering is practical, hands-on support. Members can access a free 0800 advice line connecting them to legal, accounting, HR and other expert services, as well as mentoring and training through the Regional Business Partner Network, delivered in collaboration with MBIE and other government agencies. An employment hub helps members find their next workers. Another major drawcard is its events and networking programme, which includes everything from large-scale international speaker events and awards evenings to small, high-level roundtables with ministers, councillors and business leaders. “Those connections are incredibly important,” says Simon. “They help businesses learn from each other, form partnerships and have direct access to decision-makers.” Christopher Watt has recently changed his company name from Interior Design Build to IDB, reflecting their ongoing role as a general contractor. However, if clients prefer a full end-to-end project delivery service, they’re very happy to provide that. “If a client says I want you to build a design team, I’ll get an architect and an engineer and other consultants and put the whole project team together. Otherwise, I’m quoting and tendering work with the client’s architect which is where the Auckland market is currently,” he explains. A qualified and experienced quantity surveyor who has run a number of construction companies, Christopher has an extensive pool of trusted consultants and sub-contractors to call on that he’s worked with over the years. Equally at home building the best team for a design and build, or tendering for a project that’s ready to go, his core skills include project and contract management and owner level compliance with building and health and safety regulations. “We’re flexible to meet our clients’ needs and requirements going into the build and then once construction is underway, I’m hands on dealing with the on-site management and delivery,” says Christopher. “Essentially, I’m a boutique operator offering a bespoke construction service. I’ve got the skills to deliver a project end to end; I can tailor my services to meet my client’s needs and if it’s a complex project or a technical project requiring hands-on ownership level engagement that’s what clients will receive.” IDB’s main focus is on building interiors, commercial office fit-outs and building upgrades. They represent the client with the skills, expertise and experience to deliver exactly what the project necessitates. A project successfully delivered to a hard deadline just before Christmas illustrates both IDB’s flexibility and their commitment to achieving a project to meet their client’s needs. The client had recently purchased two floors in Auckland’s mixed use, 17-storey, 1980s built Vincent Towers, for long term occupancy. Craig Moller Architects was commissioned to design a quality fit-out with high-end finishes such as acoustic ceiling tiles and bespoke flooring. IDB ran the project with an open book procurement strategy and knew from the start that it would be a pressured build. Because there were residents living in the mixed-use building, they were unable to start work before 8am, had to be offsite by 5pm, and could not work weekends. Noisy work was heavily restricted and had to be notified and agreed in advance with the Body Corporate Manager who lived in the building and was active in liaising between all parties. IDB had the required combination of skills and experience to manage the Body Corporate restrictions and brought in the right team of people to manage a successful outcome. To get there the programme had to be re-sequenced on a regular basis as IDB adapted to typical construction challenges. One example involved a subcontractor ringing up the day before delivery saying they couldn’t perform for another two weeks. The chamber also leverages its scale to secure buying privileges and discounts with major New Zealand brands, delivering tangible cost savings for members. It plays a significant role in helping exporters, investing heavily in technology to streamline international export documentation used by thousands of Auckland businesses, from large exporters such as Fonterra through to small manufacturers. Advocacy remains central to its mission. It represents individual businesses, supports business-to-business resolution and champions Auckland and nationwide economic issues, with a strong recent focus on small and medium-sized enterprises. “We’ve been very active on issues that directly affect SMEs,” says Simon. “A recent example is the government’s proposed surcharge ban, which was badly conceived and would have had negative impacts on businesses. We pushed hard on that, and the law has now been stalled.” Energy reform including improved competition and supply, technology enablement and tourism are also key priorities. Simon says that the chamber continues to work with council and central government to create conditions that support innovation, productivity and the growth of globally competitive Auckland companies. Internally it is investing in digital systems and customer relationship management to better serve members and reflect Auckland’s increasingly multicultural business community. “We’re much more representative of the changing face of Auckland now,” says Simon. “Being relevant to those communities has been a big part of our membership growth.” As a not-for-profit and independent organisation, Simon says the purpose of the Auckland Business Chamber remains clear. “We’re here for one reason,” he says. “to support, connect and champion Auckland businesses and we’ll keep doing that for the next 170 years.”

| 5 IDB : Vincent St Project IDB focuses on building interiors, commercial office fit-outs and building upgrades. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Prompt action to get Moller to agree a design change and a rapidly approved minor variation through Auckland Council avoided project delay. The last three weeks involved a day-by-day programme for every contractor. It was IDB’s upfront risk management in engaging with subcontractor Troake, who offered all four of the finishing trades with one point of contact: partitioning, painting, stopping and suspended ceilings that allowed the hard deadline to be met. “They committed to hitting the deadline with me and it’s only because we worked closely together that we made it,” says Christopher. “Decorations and final fit ended up being completed the day before we handed over. “I had the council final inspection on Friday with Client Practical Completion handover on the same day, with the client moving in a day later Saturday. It’s pretty much unheard of to be able to deliver to those timescales.” Achieving this outcome before Christmas, alongside a highly satisfied client, is testament to IDB’s proven capability to deliver exactly what they promise. 11 Anvil Rd, Silverdale 09 426 7664 sales@troake.co.nz www.troake.co.nz Proudly supporting Interior DB Ltd • CEILINGS & PARTITIONS • INSULATION • FIXING • STOPPING • PAINTING 4 Holmes Rd Takanini, Auckland 1061 | 021 070 2702 | adrian@precisiondemolition.co.nz | www.precisiondemolition.co.nz We get the job done QUICKLY & EFFICIENTLY. Dated fit-out slowing leasing interest? Call us for a no-obligation cost estimate and get your space tenant-ready. • FLOORS, PARTITIONS, CEILINGS & SHOPFRONTS • CONCRETE CUTTING & MINOR REPAIRS • SMALL EXCAVATOR & TRICKY-ACCESS WORK • HIGH-RISE & MALL SPECIALISTS 09 816 8410 enquiry@interiordb.co.nz Fit Out & Building Upgrade Specialists IDB is an office fit out company that specialises in tailored construction solutions to suit your company’s specific requirements. Whether it’s a build-only fit out or design and build, we work diligently to complete your construction project on time and within budget. www.interiordb.co.nz

6 | Electrical engineering experts Athenry Electrical offers a comprehensive suite of services and expertise across many areas. Auckland Chamber - Athenry Electrical T T Karen Phelps REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Athenry Electrical Engineers is entering 2026 with confidence in the future of Auckland’s manufacturing, production and energy sectors. “To support our growth and our clients we’re recruiting both experienced industrial electricians and engineers as well as additional apprentices. ”Investing in our team at every level ensures we continue to deliver the highest standards of safety, service and innovation while building the next generation of industry talent,” says company managing director David Harris. Founded in 1998 with his wife Kath, the East Tamaki-based company offers a comprehensive suite of services and expertise across many areas. These inclcue hazardous area electrical classification, design, installations, maintenance and inspections; industrial automation and control systems; machine safety solutions ; industrial/commercial electrical design, installation, maintenance, and inspections; AutoCAD electrical, solar, thermal imaging; fixed-wired gas detection; IQP certification and appliance testing and tagging. David says the team structure and ongoing training programmes support reliable service. “We offer flexible engagement models including 24/7 support, maintenance shift cover, production-window installations and planned shutdowns.” The company has built a reputation as a health and safety led business delivering complex industrial electrical solutions on time, safely, within budget and without defect. It works nationwide and supports clients operating in demanding, high-risk environments where generalist electrical services are not enough. We like to think we are a health and safety company that happens to provide specialised electrical engineering services,” says David. “These industries require deep knowledge, compliance and absolute trust. That’s what we’ve built our business on.” That approach has delivered long-term relationships with large and small industrial clients with many working with the company for more than two decades. Customers include Coulter Engineering, Transnet, Winstone Aggregates, Taylors Laundry, Genesis Energy, Draeger, Alinta Energy, Nestle, Fonterra and Bluebird Foods . David believes broader policy and economic shifts will drive demand for specialist contractors. “There is a lot of infrastructure to be invested in over the next 10-plus years, including power generation, healthcare, roading, prisons, education, agriculture and housing,” he says. “I am already hearing positive discussion around RMA reforms and the fast-tracking of infrastructure.” Technology is also reshaping the industrial landscape. With government encouraging investment in advanced manufacturing, David expects rapid adoption of artificial intelligence. “Control components such as electronic logic controllers, instrumentation and motor control systems are already embedding AI,” he says. “That will change how plants operate and how they need to be or can be maintained.” To meet that future demand the company is developing clear career pathways to ensure staff stay ahead of evolving technology and compliance requirements. “The largest issue we will all be contending with is skilled human resource,” he says. “Specialised work requires experience, training and commitment and those skills are in short supply.” David says Athenry Electrical Engineers’ work is guided by five core values: consistency, knowledge, flexibility, compliance and safety . he company’s accreditations include IMPAC PREQUAL, CMSE – TUV Nord (Certified Machinery Safety Expert) and Rockwell Automation System Integrator. It is a member of Master Electricians, Auckland Chamber of Commerce and Advanced Manufacturing Aotearoa (AMA). Proudly supporting Athenry Electrical Services: • Switchboards • Energy monitoring • Thermal Imaging • Dynalite controls P +64 7 959 0079 E sales@switchgear.co.nz | 5 Mainstreet Place, Te Rapa 3200 Countis P QCT: Compact and easy to install DIRIS A: Smarter Insights for Complex Loads Digiware: Scalable,Centralised, Future-Ready Webview M: Visualise and analyse NHP Support Real data, real savings How to Maximise Your Energy Monitoring Investment Socomec’s Digiware system is a scalable, flexible, and centralised energy management system suitable for new or existing sites. It is a modular system that grows with your needs. It supports everything from basic energy metering to advanced power analysis, as well as the ability to incorporate switchboard health. It is a cohesive system that can go from switchboards to panelboards and all centralised into a single head-end device, for visibility, granular insights without compromising on accuracy. NHP’s local team is here to help you get the most from your system, whether you need basic setup support or full commissioning. With free consultations available, it’s easy to find the right fit before you commit. Even small changes can unlock big results, if you’ve got the right data. Energy visibility enables low-disruption improvements that reduce costs and support continuous operational optimisation. As the saying goes, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it”. Want to unlock better energy insights and real savings? Scan to book a free consultation with our team today. AUTO SUPER SHOPPE PAKURANGA Unit G, 245 Burswood Drive, Pakuranga mark@autosspak.co.nz 09 2737310 Mark Baker Congratulations to Athenry Electrical & proud to be associated to keep their Fleet running & compliant

| 7 T T Karen Phelps Tailoring insurance for individual businesses Through its work with Auckland Business Chamber, Clarity Insurance Brokers has also been able to negotiate premium savings for members. Auckland Chamber - Clarity Insurance REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Clarity Insurance Brokers is positioning itself as a distinctive force within Auckland’s business community through its close partnership with Auckland Business Chamber and its tailored, industry-led approach to insurance. Founded by directors Chris Bull and Jason Harkness, Clarity Insurance Brokers was launched during Covid with a clear purpose. “We started the business because we wanted to put clients first,” says Chris. “We had both come from large corporate brokerages and could see that many businesses were being forced into generic cover that didn’t reflect their actual risk.” That philosophy has shaped the way it works with Chamber members. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, it invests time upfront in understanding how different members operate. “The Chamber has a wide cross-section of members, so it makes sense to respond in a more individualised way,” explains Jason Harkness. “We focus on understanding what makes a business or an industry unique before recommending cover.” “As the Chamber has been having its own form of innovation around internal technology, they are also getting better data on members and their needs,” says Chris. “This means we can now take a segmentation type approach and are looking forward to providing some more specific solutions to Auckland Business Chamber members.” Through its work with Auckland Business Chamber, Clarity Insurance Brokers has also been able to negotiate premium savings for members. “By working with a handful of insurers and leveraging the size of the Chamber membership we are often achieving savings of 25 to 35 per cent below standard market rates,” says Chris. A key differentiator is Clarity Insurance Brokers’ development of bespoke insurance schemes for specific industries. This process often involves bringing together small, medium and large operators within a sector to run risk profile workshops. “We sit down with operators and identify what is normally covered by general insurance then look at the risks that are unique to that industry,” says Jason. “From there we build tailored endorsements and options that genuinely fit.” These schemes are then taken to multiple insurers allowing it to leverage collective buying power. When insurers can see a well-structured group with a clear risk profile, it opens the door to broader cover and better pricing,” says Chris. oth Jason and Chris say Clarity Insurance Brokers places strong emphasis on proactive service and ongoing engagement. “If you are not having a proactive experience with your broker, you are not having a good insurance broking experience,” says Jason. “We regularly check in with clients and have detailed risk discussions so there are no surprises.” That proactive approach was particularly evident during recent severe weather events. “Our team contacted all clients in affected regions to see if they needed help,” says Chris. “That kind of reach-out is critical when businesses are under pressure.” It also works with a network of specialist partners to support Chamber members beyond insurance alone. These include quantity surveyors who provide accurate building replacement valuations and a law firm that offers clients an hour of free legal advice per event. “It means clients can get informed advice early and make better decisions,” says Jason. Backed by Insurance Advisernet New Zealand, Jason and Chris say that Clarity Insurance Brokers combines local insight with national strength, providing clients with a rare balance of personal service, specialist expertise and collective buying power. UNRIVALLED IT & CYBER PROTECTION Managed Services Cyber Certification IT Consultancy EVO-ELITE PACKAGE Unlimited Assistance Microsoft 365 Suite Email, Cloud Storage & Workstation Backup End User Security Awareness Training & Protection Managed Security Operations Centre (SOC) Managed Internet Connection for Office CYBER CERTIFICATION Partnered with Clarity Insurance, Gold Certification, Reduced Premiums Call us on: (09) 242 3861 Visit us at: evolutiontechnology.co.nz 420+ 130 19,000 rooms built happy families sqm of floor space created Build Your VisionWith Keola Auckland’s award-winning construction management team! From multi-unit residential and commercial builds to education facilities and architectural homes, we manage every project with precision, innovation and real care. ’ , , 09 627 7124 info@keola.co.nz keola.co.nz

8 | Lineage NZ T T Kim Newth Quality cold storage vital for exports Lineage has invested strongly to support the food supply chain at strategic locations throughout New Zealand. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT a global leader in temperature-controlled warehousing, Lineage is playing a critical role in supporting New Zealand’s primary sector with sophisticated, and export-focused cold storage services. With integrated facilities in Auckland, Tauranga, Hawke’s Bay, Nelson, Christchurch, Timaru and Dunedin, Lineage services fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) trade activity while also providing a platform for export growth. Lineage has invested strongly to support the food supply chain at strategic locations throughout New Zealand. In Auckland, Lineage delivers smart cold storage services at Wiri, complementing other temperature-controlled facilities in the Tauranga area. In 2022, Lineage acquired Cold Storage Nelson and the following year opened a new next-gen cold storage facility at Tauriko, Tauranga. In 2025, Lineage opened a new cold storage facility in Hawke’s Bay. Lineage also plans to build consolidated temperature controlled warehouse facilities at Rolleston by the regional IPORT business park as customer demand grows. “We have a population of only five million but produce enough food to feed 40 million, so the export market is huge for New Zealand,” explains Sarah Williamson, Lineage Regional Vice President for New Zealand. “Lineage has 488 facilities in 19 countries, so it’s a big global operator. In New Zealand, we employ approximately 500 people and have more than 25 facilities in seven regions, catering predominantly for the export market encompassing marine, agricultural, horticultural and manufacturing products.” In New Zealand’s growing export sector, industry-leading cold storage facilities provide a vital link in the supply chain for perishable goods. Lineage’s global network connects exporters with leading cold storage facilities in key destination markets. New Zealand’s food and fibre sector export revenue increased 13% in 202425, with further growth forecast this year. According to MPI’s latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report, food and fibre export revenue is expected to rise 3% to $62 billion in the year to 30 June 2026 as a result of forecast volume lifts for dairy, forestry and horticulture products, and rising prices for meat products. “For Lineage, it feels good to be a part of New Zealand’s export story. We understand how much work goes into producing products for export and we treat those products with care and respect,” says Sarah. “We work with many great New Zealand companies. For instance, our newest cold store in Hawke’s Bay is a 5500 pallet facility for ZIWI, a high end pet food company; it was a bespoke build for them.” She notes there is considerable complexity involved in how various food products are chilled for storage. For example, for potatoes, temperatures must be gradually lowered and lights gradually dimmed to keep them in top condition. On the other hand, meat products invariably go through a blast chiller and are frozen over a couple of days. Lineage facilities cater to various requirements by providing optimal cold storage processes and conditions tailored to the product. New Zealand’s food exports must meet MPI standards around food safety processes. Products handled by Lineage go through an additional external audit process too, providing further assurance on food safety standards and ensuring products meet required export certifications. As an industry innovator, Lineage constantly looks for ways to improve systems and processes, with AI-powered computer vision technology set to have tangible applications in markets like New Zealand. “It makes receiving pallets much faster and really accurate. It can also streamline decisions around where pallets go in the warehouse. It is AI-based technology developed in the US, but we can make use of that pipeline of innovation in New Zealand too.” Lineage is focused on sustainability in its operations through initiatives like investment in renewable solar energy. Reducing food waste is another key priority. For example, at one point in 2025, Lineage worked with a customer to divert more than 1200 pallets of food to a secondary food network for redistribution. “We are aligned with the New Zealand Food Network and partner with local food banks too.”

PROUDLY SUPPORTING LINEAGE NZ Industrial refrigeration solutions delivered with precision, reliability, and trust. Absolute Zero Refrigeration is a family-owned New Zealand business delivering high-performance industrial refrigeration solutions nationwide. What began with a single service vehicle has grown into a highly skilled team operating from a fully equipped workshop, based in Auckland, supporting large-scale refrigeration systems across New Zealand. Capability at a glance • Industrial refrigeration design, installation, and service • Fully equipped Auckland-based workshop • Skilled technical team operating nationwide • Experience delivering complex, large-scale systems In an industry often dominated by large corporations, we stand apart through a people-first approach. Our team members are supported, empowered, and accountable — because great outcomes start with great people. What our customers value • Tailored solutions for operational requirements • Clear communication and accountability • Reliable delivery and ongoing support • Long-term partnerships built on trust Our culture underpins everything we do. By investing in strong foundations, we deliver consistent results and sustainable long-term performance. Industrial refrigeration solutions you can rely on — trusted by Lineage NZ and clients nationwide. CONTACT US 0800 2279376 www.abszero.co.nz

10 | Thames-Coromandel District Council: New Ferry Project T T Karen Phelps Ferry’s return a boost for local economy A shuttle bus will take passengers to and from Coromandel Town and Hannaford’s Wharf where the ferry will arrive and depart, ensuring seamless connections that encourage visitors to explore the town’s retail and hospitality offerings, “It’s more than just a transport connection — it’s a gateway that welcomes visitors, families, and new opportunities to our town. Local businesses will thrive as ferry passengers choose to dine, shop, and stay here. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Local businesses are preparing for a significant boost with the recent launch of the long-awaited return of the Auckland to Coromandel ferry service with Coromandel-Colville Business Association and Thames-Coromandel District Council playing a pivotal role in bringing visitors back to the region. The project is a finalist in the 2025 Economic Development New Zealand awards. “The success of the return of the ferry service owes much to this joint effort in pulling together the information, feedback and support needed to get the trial service across the line,” says Mitchell King, economic development lead at Thames-Coromandel District Council. “Our collaboration with the Coromandel-Colville Business Association, who really led the community advocacy for the return of this service, helped the proposal gain momentum. “This partnership demonstrates how local government and business communities can work together effectively, in this case restoring a vital economic and social connection.” Explore Group as the operator have committed to bringing the service back on a trial basis until April 2026. For local businesses, the implications are significant, says Mitchell. “It’s more than just a transport connection — it’s a gateway that welcomes visitors, families, and new opportunities to our town. Local businesses will thrive as ferry passengers choose to dine, shop, and stay here. “From accommodation providers to retailers and hospitality venues, everyone stands to benefit from the steady stream of visitors arriving right into the heart of Coromandel.” The return follows a difficult period for the region. “It’s been a hard few years since the ferry service stopped after Fullers 360 suspended the ferry in 2022,” says Mitchell. “Like other parts of New Zealand, as soon as we came out of the effects of Covid we experienced Cyclone Gabrielle. “We had over four metres of rain in the first six weeks of that year and it led to some long-standing road closures and really knocked the tourism market for the next 18 months. “So the ferry service is a happy return of an important connection between Auckland and Coromandel.” A shuttle bus will take passengers to and from Coromandel Town and Hannaford’s Wharf where the ferry will arrive and depart, Crispy, fresh, and cooked to perfection — grab a burger, fish pack, or something from our specials board and enjoy it seaside. We have fresh fish daily, 25 different burgers, 10 types of toasties, and everything is cooked in canola oil! We also have fresh oysters, kina and gluten free burgers and sausages! Locals love us, visitors come back for more! FISH & CHIPS COROMANDEL’S FAVOURITE SPOT FOR CLASSIC KIWI 07 866 8438 rockyc@slingshot.co.nz Tina Davies Open for lunch & dinner Great value, great taste Historic Hardware Store in the heart of the Coromandel TEAM ASHMAN LTD TRADING AS (2022) ROB 027 592 7180 | JENI 021 636 119 OFFICE 07 866 8805 EMAIL | info@jamesandturner.co.nz teamashman201@xtra.co.nz ROB & JENI ASHMAN OWNERS / OPERATORS COROMANDEL FISH - DIVE - HUNT Rob & Jeni Ashman Owners / Operators Rob - 027 592 7180 | Jeni - 021 636 119 Shop - 07 866 8797 teamashman201@xtra.co.nz 95 Kapanga Road Coromandel ensuring seamless connections that encourage visitors to explore the town’s retail and hospitality offerings, says Mitchell. He says it will mean better social and economic links with New Zealand’s biggest city. “Over the long term it will change the way people think about getting to the Coromandel. “It’s a long road journey so this is a way to be able to have a relaxing trip, and it should attract more local and foreign tourists to the area.” The service will initially operate an express Friday evening service, as well as Saturday and Sunday departures.

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