Strong commodity prices boost Kiwi dollar, US currency under pressure
Concerns about the US dollar losing its shine as the world's reserve currency, and strong prices for New Zealand's key commodities, have combined to drive the Kiwi dollar up by about 7.5% so far this year.
The greenback has been under pressure from what the market views as erratic US
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Lions memories: So, who the hell were the 'Geography 6'?
Following the failed Graham Henry experiment in 2001, there was not much enthusiasm for another overseas Lions coach as the emphasis went back to culture. But then the calamity that was 2005 happened, and all bets were off once again. And, as it turned out, Henry's fellow Kiwi Warren Gatland ended up with a distinguished Lions record after being involved with four consecutive tours. Having impressed as an assistant on the 2009 tour, Gatland got the lead role in 2013 and oversaw a series win in Australia. Lions head coach Warren Gatland in 2017. Pic:He then got the gig again four years later for the daunting trip to New Zealand in 2017 to take on the back-to-back world champions and, despite intense pressure from the local media, managed to draw the series when the Lions had been widely written off. An impressive result by any standards, but there was one aspect of Gatland's management of that 2017 expedition which brought a lot of criticism — his selection of what became known as the 'Geography Six'. This was a decision straight from Clive Woodward's pragmatic, culture-banishing playbook from 2005, with Gatland looking for the best way to protect his Test starters towards the end of the arduous tour. Finn Russell with the Lions in 2017. Pic: INPHO/Dan Sheridan His solution was to call up six players from the Scotland and Wales tours to Australia and the Pacific Islands, respectively, so that members of his Test squad would not be required for bench duties in midweek games. This flew in the face of more than 100 years of Lions tradition, where call-ups to tours had always been exclusively due to injury and withdrawal. The six players involved were the Scots Alan Dell and Finn Russell, along with Cory Hill, Kristian Dacey, Tomas Francis and Gareth Davies from Wales. This selection decision was based primarily on proximity and it attracted outrage from Lions traditionalists, among the media, supporters and former players. The general consensus was that the history and culture of the institution was being diminished by Gatland in the interests of expediency. Tomas Francis, Kristian Dacey, Liam Williams, Gareth Davies and Cory Hill look on as the Lions took on New Zealand Maori in 2017. Pic: Huw Evans/REX/Shutterstock The criticism of Lions icon Ian McGeechan – Gatland's head coach on the 2009 tour – was especially damaging. 'It's that geography part – where you are shouldn't determine that you're in a Lions jersey,' said McGeechan, while former Ireland and Lions flanker Stephen Ferris said Gatland was 'devaluing the badge'. Gatland admitted afterwards that the criticism got to him and the 'Geography Six' were used sparingly, in the clash against the Hurricanes, all six were named on the bench but only one – Russell – was Lions led 31-17 but ran out of gas and ended up drawing the game. The whole episode was an unfulfilling experience for everyone concerned and while it could not be directly linked to the Lions failing to win the series, it definitely contributed to Gatland failing to emulate the same levels of popularity enjoyed by McGeechan — adding another layer of ire for his detractors on the back of his controversial call to axe Brian O'Driscoll in 2013. Gatland was retained for the Covid-dominated tour to South Africa in 2021, but that was a slog from beginning to end for all involved — including the fans shut out of the stadiums and forced to watch on TV — and felt like a tour too far for the New Zealander.
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New Certification Scheme Unlocks $200M Market For Kiwi Cosmetics In China
Hon Todd McClay Minister for Trade and Investment Hon Scott Simpson Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson have welcomed a new certification scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in Shanghai today, that unlocks access to China's $200 million cosmetics and skincare market — a move that will drive stronger returns for New Zealand exporters and boost the economy. 'This is a smart, practical step that removes a long-standing trade barrier and opens up valuable new channels for our exporters,' McClay says. 'It means more high-quality, innovative New Zealand products on shelves in China - not just online, but in stores across one of the world's fastest-growing consumer markets.' The scheme, developed with International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), provides exporters with a Government-issued Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate that meets Chinese regulatory requirements. 'This certification allows Kiwi-made cosmetics to be sold through traditional retail channels in China, significantly expanding market reach beyond cross-border e-commerce and supporting our goal of doubling exports by value in 10 years,' Mr McClay says. Minister Simpson says the scheme is a strong example of the Government's commitment to backing New Zealand businesses and removing barriers to growth. 'With global demand for health and beauty products rising, this gives our exporters the confidence to grow and compete in China; quickly, credibly, and at scale,' Mr Simpson says. 'It's another example of how we're cutting red tape and aligning our standards with key trading partners to give Kiwi firms the certainty they need to succeed.' How it works: Exporters complete an independent GMP assessment with IANZ. If successful, MBIE confirms compliance with a certificate signed on behalf of the Government. New Zealand's ban on animal testing for cosmetics remains in place, giving Chinese consumers assurance that Kiwi products are high-quality, safe, sustainable, and ethically produced.
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Stainless Steel Vs. Nano Coated: NZ Kitchen Sinkware Showdown
When choosing sinkware for your kitchen renovation, you're often faced with numerous material options each with its own set of advantages. Two standout choices gaining traction among New Zealand homeowners are classic stainless steel sinks and the newer, innovative nano-coated sinks. Stainless Steel Sinks: Proven Durability and Classic Appeal Stainless steel has been the go-to kitchen sink material in NZ for decades, offering durability, affordability, and timeless style. Well-regarded for its resistance to rust, corrosion, and staining, stainless steel sinkware suits the typical Kiwi kitchen that sees heavy daily use. The main benefits of stainless steel are clear. These sinks can handle everyday impacts, from pots and pans dropped accidentally, without significant damage. Cleaning is typically straightforward—often just a quick wipe-down with a soapy sponge. This low-maintenance aspect makes stainless steel highly practical for busy households. However, stainless steel sinks can also come with minor drawbacks. They can be noisier when utensils or dishes hit their surface, and lower-quality options might easily show water spots or fingerprints. To mitigate this, it's essential to invest in high-quality stainless steel sinks specifically suited to local conditions, such as those available in Rocket Hardware's range of Santorini stainless steel sinks. Nano-Coated Sinks: A New Standard in Kitchen Innovation Nano-coated sinks represent a significant technological advancement in sinkware, quickly becoming a favourite among discerning homeowners throughout New Zealand. These sinks feature an ultra-thin microscopic coating designed to improve durability, hygiene, and ease of maintenance. The most significant advantage of nano-coated sinks is their impressive ability to resist scratches, stains, and corrosion. This ultra-smooth coating means food particles and liquids effortlessly wash away, significantly reducing cleaning time and effort. Nano-coated sinks boast antibacterial properties, ideal for maintaining a hygienic kitchen environment a major plus for health-conscious Kiwi households. Another appealing aspect is that these sinks tend to be much quieter than standard stainless steel. Their coating naturally dampens noise, ideal for open-plan kitchen designs commonly found in NZ homes. However, the advanced benefits of nano-coated sinks typically come with a higher upfront cost compared to standard stainless steel. But considering their durability, ease of care, and long-term savings on maintenance, many homeowners find this premium investment worthwhile. Choosing the Right Sinkware for Your NZ Kitchen Deciding between stainless steel and nano-coated sinks largely depends on your individual kitchen needs, lifestyle, and budget. If you're after reliable performance, timeless style, and cost-effective practicality, stainless steel sinks remain an excellent choice. Companies like Rocket Hardware provide high-quality stainless steel options that stand the test of time. Conversely, if innovation, cleanliness, and minimal maintenance are top priorities, nano-coated sinks are undeniably appealing. They're transforming NZ kitchens by significantly simplifying daily cleaning routines and ensuring surfaces remain hygienic and attractive long-term. Complement Your Sinkware with Quality Tapware Regardless of the sink material you choose, completing your kitchen with the right tapware is essential. Pairing your sinkware with complementary tapware not only enhances usability but also significantly elevates the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Rocket Hardware's extensive selection includes stylish mixers and elegant faucets, making it easy to find the perfect tap to match your chosen sink. Both stainless steel and nano-coated sinks offer considerable benefits tailored to different homeowner needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best choice for your kitchen depends on evaluating which features matter most—traditional reliability and affordability or advanced technology and minimal upkeep. By selecting premium products from trusted NZ suppliers like Rocket Hardware, you ensure your kitchen fixtures offer exceptional durability, style, and functionality specifically suited to local homes. Carefully considering these factors will lead you to a sinkware solution perfectly matched to your lifestyle and your kitchen's requirements.
