Latest news with #NewZealand-based
Scoop
6 hours ago
- Business
- Scoop
Onecheq Rises As An All-in-One Online Retailer In New Zealand
Press Release – Onecheq The growth of the platform reflects a larger trend in the national retail landscape. According to NZ Posts latest Full Download report, online consumer spending reached $7.2 billion in 2024, with over 70 million parcels delivered nationwide. As New Zealand's e-commerce economy continues to set new records, local online retailer Onecheq is emerging as a significant force, steadily expanding its product categories to meet the evolving needs of Kiwi shoppers. The growth of the platform reflects a larger trend in the national retail landscape. According to NZ Post's latest Full Download report, online consumer spending reached $7.2 billion in 2024, with over 70 million parcels delivered nationwide. Among the top-performing sectors were electronics, home improvement and health products, all categories in which Onecheq has recently expanded. Onecheq started as a tech-focused retailer but now carries an extensive inventory that spans electronics, tools, homeware, health and beauty, outdoor gear and more. 'We're seeing strong demand from Kiwis who want the convenience of a single online destination for both high-quality products and local service,' says Kushal, spokesperson for Onecheq. 'Whether it's a smartwatch, a power drill, or skincare tools, people expect to get what they need quickly, with full transparency and support.' E-Commerce Trends Driving Onecheq's Growth Onecheq's range expansion is closely aligned with the broader trends transforming New Zealand's retail sector. According to Stats NZ (2024), 42% of Kiwi households now shop online for non-grocery goods, a significant rise from 32% in 2022. This shift reflects a growing demand for convenience, variety, and speed in the online shopping experience. Consumers are increasingly prioritising product diversity and local availability, along with clear return policies, GST-inclusive pricing and the reassurance of a New Zealand-based retail platform. In a market where shoppers are often forced to choose between slow international delivery or a limited domestic range, Onecheq is stepping in to fill that gap, offering a wide selection of products with the reliability and responsiveness that New Zealanders expect. 'Customers are looking for trusted, local alternatives to the global giants,' Kushal says. 'They want faster delivery, clear product listings and New Zealand-based warranty protection. That's where we've focused our attention.' A Retail Platform Built for NZ Shoppers Founded in Auckland in 2020, Onecheq's platform now features products across multiple verticals, including: Consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, wearables and gaming consoles DIY tools including drills, rotary kits, workbenches and hand tools Home and lifestyle items such as air fryers, lighting, furniture, decor and storage Health and beauty devices like massage guns, grooming kits and hair styling tools Outdoor and fitness gear, including fishing accessories and camping equipment Toys, hobbies and craft supplies, including art tools and LEGO Apparel, pet accessories and more This wide product offering positions Onecheq not just as a tech store but as a genuine multi-category retail site that competes with traditional department stores, while leveraging the convenience of fast, digital shopping. Innovation Plans Aligned With Global E-Commerce Trends Looking ahead, Onecheq is actively exploring a range of innovations that align with emerging global trends in online retail. Among the initiatives under consideration are enhanced product recommendation systems that use shopper behaviour and purchase history to tailor the browsing experience, as well as AI-powered customer support tools designed to improve response times and deliver more personalised service. The company is also developing content-driven shopping experiences, including curated product collections and educational buying guides to help customers make more informed choices. In addition, Onecheq is investigating eco-conscious packaging and fulfilment solutions aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. While some of these developments are still in progress, they reflect Onecheq's clear commitment to evolving with customer expectations and building a smarter, more sustainable online shopping platform for New Zealanders. 'We're studying what leading international e-commerce platforms are doing well, and finding ways to adapt those strategies for New Zealand,' Kushal adds. 'Our goal is to build something that feels world-class, but with a local heart.' Expanding Range Reflects Evolving Consumer Demand As online shopping habits in New Zealand continue to shift, Onecheq is adapting its product strategy to meet the changing expectations of modern consumers. Originally focused on consumer electronics, the retailer has significantly broadened its range to include DIY tools, homeware, lifestyle accessories, personal care devices and even pet supplies. This deliberate diversification allows Onecheq to better serve the growing number of shoppers who prefer to purchase across multiple categories from a single platform. 'We're constantly reviewing our catalogue to reflect what Kiwis are actually looking for,' says Kushal. 'The goal is to offer a curated but diverse range that lets customers find what they need, whether that's a set of headphones, a power tool, or a gift for their pet – all in one place.' By tracking demand trends and regularly updating its stock with relevant, seasonal and emerging products, Onecheq is positioning itself not just as a retailer, but as a responsive platform that evolves alongside its customer base. This agility has been central to the company's growth and continues to shape its expansion plans in 2025 and beyond. Why Onecheq Is Poised for Continued Growth With product categories expanding and customer satisfaction remaining a core priority, Onecheq is poised to grow its footprint even further in the coming years. The brand is already becoming a go-to name among shoppers looking for a trustworthy New Zealand-owned alternative to slow overseas sellers or impersonal mega-platforms. This type of local-first, all-in-one online retailer is proving to be exactly what the post-pandemic digital economy demands. With its combination of product variety, competitive pricing and a shopping experience tailored to Kiwi consumers, Onecheq is positioned to meet the needs of a growing segment of online shoppers. As the company continues to invest in service improvements and explore new innovations, its potential for further growth in New Zealand's evolving e-commerce landscape appears strong.
Scoop
8 hours ago
- Business
- Scoop
Onecheq Rises As An All-in-One Online Retailer In New Zealand
As New Zealand's e-commerce economy continues to set new records, local online retailer Onecheq is emerging as a significant force, steadily expanding its product categories to meet the evolving needs of Kiwi shoppers. The growth of the platform reflects a larger trend in the national retail landscape. According to NZ Post's latest Full Download report, online consumer spending reached $7.2 billion in 2024, with over 70 million parcels delivered nationwide. Among the top-performing sectors were electronics, home improvement and health products, all categories in which Onecheq has recently expanded. Onecheq started as a tech-focused retailer but now carries an extensive inventory that spans electronics, tools, homeware, health and beauty, outdoor gear and more. 'We're seeing strong demand from Kiwis who want the convenience of a single online destination for both high-quality products and local service,' says Kushal, spokesperson for Onecheq. 'Whether it's a smartwatch, a power drill, or skincare tools, people expect to get what they need quickly, with full transparency and support.' E-Commerce Trends Driving Onecheq's Growth Onecheq's range expansion is closely aligned with the broader trends transforming New Zealand's retail sector. According to Stats NZ (2024), 42% of Kiwi households now shop online for non-grocery goods, a significant rise from 32% in 2022. This shift reflects a growing demand for convenience, variety, and speed in the online shopping experience. Consumers are increasingly prioritising product diversity and local availability, along with clear return policies, GST-inclusive pricing and the reassurance of a New Zealand-based retail platform. In a market where shoppers are often forced to choose between slow international delivery or a limited domestic range, Onecheq is stepping in to fill that gap, offering a wide selection of products with the reliability and responsiveness that New Zealanders expect. 'Customers are looking for trusted, local alternatives to the global giants,' Kushal says. 'They want faster delivery, clear product listings and New Zealand-based warranty protection. That's where we've focused our attention.' A Retail Platform Built for NZ Shoppers Founded in Auckland in 2020, Onecheq's platform now features products across multiple verticals, including: Consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, wearables and gaming consoles DIY tools including drills, rotary kits, workbenches and hand tools Home and lifestyle items such as air fryers, lighting, furniture, decor and storage Health and beauty devices like massage guns, grooming kits and hair styling tools Outdoor and fitness gear, including fishing accessories and camping equipment Toys, hobbies and craft supplies, including art tools and LEGO Apparel, pet accessories and more This wide product offering positions Onecheq not just as a tech store but as a genuine multi-category retail site that competes with traditional department stores, while leveraging the convenience of fast, digital shopping. Innovation Plans Aligned With Global E-Commerce Trends Looking ahead, Onecheq is actively exploring a range of innovations that align with emerging global trends in online retail. Among the initiatives under consideration are enhanced product recommendation systems that use shopper behaviour and purchase history to tailor the browsing experience, as well as AI-powered customer support tools designed to improve response times and deliver more personalised service. The company is also developing content-driven shopping experiences, including curated product collections and educational buying guides to help customers make more informed choices. In addition, Onecheq is investigating eco-conscious packaging and fulfilment solutions aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. While some of these developments are still in progress, they reflect Onecheq's clear commitment to evolving with customer expectations and building a smarter, more sustainable online shopping platform for New Zealanders. 'We're studying what leading international e-commerce platforms are doing well, and finding ways to adapt those strategies for New Zealand,' Kushal adds. 'Our goal is to build something that feels world-class, but with a local heart.' Expanding Range Reflects Evolving Consumer Demand As online shopping habits in New Zealand continue to shift, Onecheq is adapting its product strategy to meet the changing expectations of modern consumers. Originally focused on consumer electronics, the retailer has significantly broadened its range to include DIY tools, homeware, lifestyle accessories, personal care devices and even pet supplies. This deliberate diversification allows Onecheq to better serve the growing number of shoppers who prefer to purchase across multiple categories from a single platform. 'We're constantly reviewing our catalogue to reflect what Kiwis are actually looking for,' says Kushal. 'The goal is to offer a curated but diverse range that lets customers find what they need, whether that's a set of headphones, a power tool, or a gift for their pet - all in one place.' By tracking demand trends and regularly updating its stock with relevant, seasonal and emerging products, Onecheq is positioning itself not just as a retailer, but as a responsive platform that evolves alongside its customer base. This agility has been central to the company's growth and continues to shape its expansion plans in 2025 and beyond. Why Onecheq Is Poised for Continued Growth With product categories expanding and customer satisfaction remaining a core priority, Onecheq is poised to grow its footprint even further in the coming years. The brand is already becoming a go-to name among shoppers looking for a trustworthy New Zealand-owned alternative to slow overseas sellers or impersonal mega-platforms. This type of local-first, all-in-one online retailer is proving to be exactly what the post-pandemic digital economy demands. With its combination of product variety, competitive pricing and a shopping experience tailored to Kiwi consumers, Onecheq is positioned to meet the needs of a growing segment of online shoppers. As the company continues to invest in service improvements and explore new innovations, its potential for further growth in New Zealand's evolving e-commerce landscape appears strong.
New York Post
a day ago
- New York Post
Some psychic! Fugitive who worked predicted the future nabbed after two decades on the run for fatal DWI crash in Florida
A self-proclaimed psychic on the run for more than 20 years after a fatal Florida car crash apparently never saw his capture coming — and now thinks hiding out in the Great White North was a big mistake. Patrick Lutts Jr. went on the in 2003, after skipping out on a court date related to a Christmas morning drunken driving crash in Orlando in 1998 that left two teens dead, according to the CBC. Lutts, 51, snuck into Canada and settled in Toronto in 2004, where he never opened a bank account and made a living hosting monthly horror-themed trivia nights under the name 'Pat Lighthelp,' the outlet reported. 3 Patrick Lutts, Jr., lived out in the open in Canada for 21 years. Facebook/Quebec Disappearance and Criminal Case Lutts was working for a New Zealand-based psychic reading app called LifeReader. 'I thought that authorities would be able to find me as I stayed in the same place in Toronto for over 20 years,' wrote Lutts in a March 25 affidavit uncovered by the CBC. 'That day just never came until now, but I am tired of running.' 3 Facial recognition software was crucial to Lutts' capture. Facebook/Quebec Disappearance and Criminal Case Lutts, who has been profiled on the TV show 'America's Most Wanted,' was busted by Toronto Police in February and sought bail prior to his extradition to the United States. An anonymous tip led the department's fugitive squad to Lutts. An online cyber sleuth is also said to have used facial recognition software to pinpoint Lutts' location. Lutts remains in Canada awaiting extradition. 3 Nancy Lopez and her boyfriend were killed inthe 1998 Christmas morning crash. Facebook/Quebec Disappearance and Criminal Case Lutts is accused of crashing his car into a vehicle driven by Nancy Lopez, 19, and her boyfriend, Darvin Javier DeJesus-Taboada, 18, neither of whom survived. He faces a pair of DUI manslaughter counts, and if convicted, could end up spending the next 30 years behind bars.
Newsroom
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsroom
The revival of a genre that never went away
Once considered niche and tucked away in dusty record stores or rural community halls, country music in New Zealand is enjoying something of a golden moment. From chart-topping Kiwi artists to two dedicated music stations in the past 18 months, the genre is striking a heartfelt chord with more people than ever before. Mark Rogers, host of Nashville Babylon on RNZ, grew up listening to country music, from Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash to Marty Robbins, and tells The Detail that it's all about the storytelling. 'As a kid, the songs and storytelling caught my imagination,' he says. 'The songs have no fat on them, they cut to the chase straight away, they are pretty simple, there's nothing too complicated about them, you know exactly where you are. 'And the classic country songs have something in them that will appeal to just about everyone. They hit home. They are easy to get and understand. People can identify with them. 'It's rare that they are talking about big flash cars or billion-dollar jewellery. It's the working man's music – that's been its appeal for many, many decades, and that will continue to ring true.' Kiwis, it seems, are falling more in love with the genre. And over the past 18 months, this has prompted the launch of not one, but two dedicated country music radio stations in New Zealand. First, broadcaster Mike Puru started Southern Cross Country, found on digital platforms. Then this month, NZME launched iHeartCountry NZ, offered on the iHeartRadio app and selected FM frequencies around the country. There are no presenters, just pre-programmed country music. Both stations showcase global legends and local voices. Among those voices, one name stands out: Tami Neilson. The Canadian-born, New Zealand-based powerhouse has been a trailblazer for years and has just won the inaugural Country Music Honour for Contribution to Country Music in Aotearoa, recognising her outstanding impact and unwavering dedication to the country music scene. 'What Tami is doing at the moment is astounding; she has been teaming up with Willie Nelson over in the States, which is a dream come true for her,' Rogers says. 'It's incredible and I'm super proud of what she is achieving…. I would like to think she will get on the (mainstream radio) playlists, because what she is doing is absolutely fantastic. The songs are great, and radio loves a good song, so there is no excuse not to play Tami.' But she is competing for airtime with unlikely country singers, including Beyonce and Post Malone, who have swapped pop and rap, respectively, for country beats. 'This has just exploded, and I think it's a good thing,' Rogers says. 'Admittedly, I'm not a massive fan of some of it, but I'm a big fan of others. 'I don't think it's cheapened the genre at all; it's just music developing.' And it's clear Kiwis want more of it, proving country music in New Zealand isn't just surviving. It's thriving. Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here. You can also stay up-to-date by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Kiwi Screen Community And Auckland Locals Take 18,000 Steps To Honour Gaza's Lost Children
Press Release – Matter On Sunday June 8, Aucklanders will gather at Parrs Park in Glen Eden at 8am for '18,000 Steps for Gaza' —a walk/run event dedicated to honouring the 18,000 children estimated to have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Led by a collective of filmmakers, actors, sportspeople, and local community members, the initiative invites participants to complete 18,000 steps—each one symbolising a child's life lost. The Givealittle page has already raised $5,000 toward its $18,000 goal for ReliefAid, a New Zealand-based humanitarian organisation providing critical support on the ground in Gaza. A number of well-known New Zealanders have already pledged to participate, including actors Aidee Walker (Outrageous Fortune), Michelle Langstone (Westside), Dave Van Horn (Avatar), Dominic Ona Ariki (One Lane Bridge), Fleur Saville (Shortland Street), and Dimitrius Koloamatangi (Red, White & Brass) (remotely), as well as league legend Ruben Wiki, rapper Diggy Dupe, and filmmaker Nua Finau (Panthers). More names are expected to be confirmed in the coming days. '18,000 is a crazy number,' says organiser and filmmaker Tom Hern (The Dark Horse). 'When I sat with that, it really opened my heart. The average primary school roll in Aotearoa is around 160 students. That means 18,000 children is the equivalent of more than 100 schools of children being wiped out. Each one of those kids is someone's son or daughter, or grandchild. I can only imagine the pure heartbreak for the families—if they survived themselves. 'This fundraiser, for me, isn't really political. For many, that's where their energy goes, and I respect that. But for me, this is simply a human response. As a father—and just as a person with any conscience—I couldn't keep watching this extreme suffering and do nothing. So I reached out to my friends and asked for their help to raise crucial funds to support these innocent lives. It's a small contribution. But it's something.' Event Details What: 18,000 Steps for Gaza (estimated 13.5km) When: Sunday, June 8, 2025 — 7:30 AM Briefing, 8:00 AM Start Where: Parrs Park, Glen Eden (Meet at the Playground) Who: Open to all — run, walk, or move in your own way. No registration required. Donate: 18,000 Steps for Gaza Givealittle Participants are encouraged to bring a fitness tracker or phone to track their steps. For those without, steps will be estimated per lap. A hydration station will be available on-site.
