Latest news with #NewZealandTradeandEnterprise
NZ Herald
27-05-2025
- Business
- NZ Herald
Horticulture: Kiwi start-up's catnip wine ready for export
The breakthrough has made large-scale production and export more viable. John Roberts, director of Muttley's Estate, said catnip was a resilient crop that had adapted to grow well in New Zealand's temperate climate and well-drained soils since it was first introduced. He said the commercial-scale farming of catnip would further diversify New Zealand's horticultural sector. Roberts said, with a growing domestic footprint, the company had now set its sights on the lucrative US market, where pet owners sought premium, novelty products for their furry companions. 'One of the key advantages of catnip is that even a small crop yields enough to produce a batch of pet wine, allowing us to create a high-value product without requiring extensive land investment,' he said. 'With the growing international interest in catnip and the 'humanification' of pet diets, it was a natural extension to explore the development of a premium beverage for pet owners to celebrate with their pets.' Roberts said Muttley's Estate had already signed more than 40 retailers since launching the range in New Zealand less than a year ago. 'We believe the reputation of NZ's wine sector in North America will help us establish an entry into this market and we [are] now actively looking for US distributors.' Roberts said research showed the impact of chronic anxiety and stress among pets had become more prevalent due to a combination of urbanisation, multi-pet household dynamics, ongoing issues relating to the pandemic and shifting lifestyles. 'International studies have found almost a third of dogs showed high sensitivity to noise, with fireworks a particular problem, while 29% of dogs were said to be highly fearful, and 14% showed highly problematic aggression. 'Symptoms of anxiety in cats are often more subtle, yet owners reported signs of tail flicking, avoiding eye contact, and shifting head/body away repeatedly [every week or every other day] or more often than usual.' He said the range was created to help alleviate some of the modern stressors on pets, but unlike conventional wines, the products contained zero alcohol. 'The range offers multiple 'varietals,' each featuring a different concentration of catnip: lighter whites such as the Champawgne appeal more to cats, while the deeper blends such as the Purrno Noir and Pawt are popular with dogs,' he said. Muttley's Estate is already selling through veterinary clinics and pet retailers across New Zealand. It has also held tasting events at local dog parks. 'We were overrun by canines wanting to taste the pet wine, and it demonstrated the positive response across a wide variety of breeds,' Roberts said. The company was now working with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise to identify distributors in overseas markets. 'We'd love to see entire fields of catnip grown right here,' Roberts said. 'The idea that we could turn a small backyard experiment into a nationwide horticultural endeavour, and share it with pet lovers worldwide, is really exciting. 'It's a chance for New Zealand to do something fresh and unexpected - yet again.' The company is also investigating the potential of catnip for human consumption, with trials under way to determine its suitability for the human market. 'Catnip is related to the mint family, so it is safe for humans,' Roberts said. 'We're working with food technologists to explore the possibilities.'
Scoop
16-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Luxury Home Rentals Surge As Wealthy North Americans Queue For NZ Investor Visas
A surge in wealthy North American investors anticipating changes to New Zealand's foreign buyer rules is fuelling a sharp rise in off-market luxury home rental demand, according to property experts. Real estate agent Caleb Paterson says the country is seeing increased interest from ultra-high-net-worth individuals, particularly from the United States and Canada, who are looking to secure short-term leases in multimillion-dollar homes, while they wait for clarity around new investor visa pathways and possible amendments to the foreign buyer ban. According to latest REINZ data, there is a growing glut of premium homes languishing on the market, with median days to sell in Auckland of properties valued at $3.5 million rising from 42 days in March 2024 to 64 days in March 2025 listings. In Queenstown, days to sell for luxury listings have climbed even higher, reaching 95. 'These are clients who could buy a home tomorrow if they were allowed,' says Paterson, founder of Paterson Luxury Real Estate. 'They're testing the waters, sometimes paying $20,000 to $30,000 a week to rent properties that fit their lifestyle and long-term ambitions.' Paterson says the dynamic is reshaping how vendors approach the luxury market, with many now embracing a 'try-before-you-buy' model as a way to attract offshore tenants and potentially convert them into future buyers. He says New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has reported a 700% increase in the number of people visiting the Active Investor Plus Visa application page, compared to the older version of the visa at the same time last year. Paterson says he was approached by a premium rental firm wanting to match investors with properties after being unable to meet demand. 'While there is a surplus of rental properties at the lower end of the market, high net worth individuals have very specific accommodation requirements, and there is not enough suitable rental stock in the traditional market. This unmet demand has led to the development of a hybrid model, which is injecting hundreds of thousands of dollars into the economy each week. 'Traditionally, these homes would be listed for sale and sit idle while owners waited for the right buyer. But with the market stagnating in recent months we're now seeing more owners open to short-term rental agreements, particularly as these international clients are happy to pay well above local market rates. 'We've got vendors who previously would never have considered renting their home now proactively asking us to place it with international clients for six to 12 months. If the foreign buyer ban is lifted, we expect many of these tenants will put in an immediate purchase offer on these homes,' he says. Paterson says the shift comes amid rising uncertainty in key offshore markets. He says many of his Canadian clients are seeking to exit due to proposed wealth taxes and capital gains reforms, while American buyers are increasingly motivated by political instability and upcoming elections. 'Some are saying they just don't want to live under another Trump presidency. Others have had New Zealand on their radar for a while and the current visa discussions have reignited that interest,' he says. Half of Paterson's current listings – which include homes valued between $8 million and $20 million – are now available for rent, and many are receiving multiple enquiries before even hitting the open market. 'The demand is there, but the ability to purchase still isn't and that's what is driving this surge in ultra-luxury rentals. 'We're also seeing foreign exchange rates playing a role – with the NZD falling to its lowest point against the greenback in the past decade early this month, it's extremely favourable for these buyers, so what looks expensive locally can actually feel like a bargain to someone arriving from California or Toronto,' he says. Paterson says some owners have seen rental returns more than triple what the domestic market would offer, particularly when facilitated through high-end rental agencies. He says while one home might fetch $2,000 a week in the traditional market, it could rent for $6,000–$7,000 through private arrangements with vetted international tenants. 'There's a lot of wealth sitting in our homes that isn't being unlocked because we've frozen out foreign investment. Opening a pathway for buyers at the $5 million-plus level could drive a major reinvestment cycle and ease pressure across the market,' says Paterson. Paterson believes now is the perfect time for the Government to remove the current uncertainty preventing downsizers from moving to the next stage in their life. 'We're coming into winter, which is typically a quiet time, and without clarity, we're seeing people sit on their hands. I've had Kiwi clients walk away from retirement village agreements because they can't sell their homes, and that's clogging up movement across every tier of the market. 'A typical high net worth downsizer will reinvest most of the proceeds from the sale of a $5m plus home in local businesses as they look to build their retirement incomes. 'Letting high-value buyers into the country not only stimulates the property sector it also brings in capital, supports tradespeople and helps unlock the next stage of the housing cycle. If this is done right there will be a transfer of wealth that benefits New Zealand down the track,' he says.
Scoop
16-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Luxury Home Rentals Surge As Wealthy North Americans Queue For NZ Investor Visas
A surge in wealthy North American investors anticipating changes to New Zealand's foreign buyer rules is fuelling a sharp rise in off-market luxury home rental demand, according to property experts. Real estate agent Caleb Paterson says the country is seeing increased interest from ultra-high-net-worth individuals, particularly from the United States and Canada, who are looking to secure short-term leases in multimillion-dollar homes, while they wait for clarity around new investor visa pathways and possible amendments to the foreign buyer ban. According to latest REINZ data, there is a growing glut of premium homes languishing on the market, with median days to sell in Auckland of properties valued at $3.5 million rising from 42 days in March 2024 to 64 days in March 2025 listings. In Queenstown, days to sell for luxury listings have climbed even higher, reaching 95. 'These are clients who could buy a home tomorrow if they were allowed,' says Paterson, founder of Paterson Luxury Real Estate. 'They're testing the waters, sometimes paying $20,000 to $30,000 a week to rent properties that fit their lifestyle and long-term ambitions.' Paterson says the dynamic is reshaping how vendors approach the luxury market, with many now embracing a 'try-before-you-buy' model as a way to attract offshore tenants and potentially convert them into future buyers. He says New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has reported a 700% increase in the number of people visiting the Active Investor Plus Visa application page, compared to the older version of the visa at the same time last year. Paterson says he was approached by a premium rental firm wanting to match investors with properties after being unable to meet demand. 'While there is a surplus of rental properties at the lower end of the market, high net worth individuals have very specific accommodation requirements, and there is not enough suitable rental stock in the traditional market. This unmet demand has led to the development of a hybrid model, which is injecting hundreds of thousands of dollars into the economy each week. 'Traditionally, these homes would be listed for sale and sit idle while owners waited for the right buyer. But with the market stagnating in recent months we're now seeing more owners open to short-term rental agreements, particularly as these international clients are happy to pay well above local market rates. 'We've got vendors who previously would never have considered renting their home now proactively asking us to place it with international clients for six to 12 months. If the foreign buyer ban is lifted, we expect many of these tenants will put in an immediate purchase offer on these homes,' he says. Paterson says the shift comes amid rising uncertainty in key offshore markets. He says many of his Canadian clients are seeking to exit due to proposed wealth taxes and capital gains reforms, while American buyers are increasingly motivated by political instability and upcoming elections. 'Some are saying they just don't want to live under another Trump presidency. Others have had New Zealand on their radar for a while and the current visa discussions have reignited that interest,' he says. Half of Paterson's current listings - which include homes valued between $8 million and $20 million - are now available for rent, and many are receiving multiple enquiries before even hitting the open market. 'The demand is there, but the ability to purchase still isn't and that's what is driving this surge in ultra-luxury rentals. 'We're also seeing foreign exchange rates playing a role - with the NZD falling to its lowest point against the greenback in the past decade early this month, it's extremely favourable for these buyers, so what looks expensive locally can actually feel like a bargain to someone arriving from California or Toronto,' he says. Paterson says some owners have seen rental returns more than triple what the domestic market would offer, particularly when facilitated through high-end rental agencies. He says while one home might fetch $2,000 a week in the traditional market, it could rent for $6,000–$7,000 through private arrangements with vetted international tenants. 'There's a lot of wealth sitting in our homes that isn't being unlocked because we've frozen out foreign investment. Opening a pathway for buyers at the $5 million-plus level could drive a major reinvestment cycle and ease pressure across the market,' says Paterson. Paterson believes now is the perfect time for the Government to remove the current uncertainty preventing downsizers from moving to the next stage in their life. 'We're coming into winter, which is typically a quiet time, and without clarity, we're seeing people sit on their hands. I've had Kiwi clients walk away from retirement village agreements because they can't sell their homes, and that's clogging up movement across every tier of the market. 'A typical high net worth downsizer will reinvest most of the proceeds from the sale of a $5m plus home in local businesses as they look to build their retirement incomes. 'Letting high-value buyers into the country not only stimulates the property sector it also brings in capital, supports tradespeople and helps unlock the next stage of the housing cycle. If this is done right there will be a transfer of wealth that benefits New Zealand down the track,' he says.
Scoop
13-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Airports Day 2025
Airport and local government leaders from across New Zealand are gathering in Wellington today for Airports Day, with a clear focus on improving connectivity, unlocking infrastructure investment, and building a stronger, more competitive aviation system. Hosted by NZ Airports, the event marks the launch of a new strategy for the association. 'Our strategy is grounded in one goal: to provide better services for New Zealand communities,' says Chief Executive Billie Moore. 'That means a healthy, competitive airline market. It means airports investing confidently in infrastructure. And it means smarter rules, fewer funding gaps, and regulation that actually delivers for the travelling public.' The strategy sets out three key priorities: Airports as national economic engines, enabled by sustainable funding and fit-for-purpose regulation. A seamless, integrated aviation network, with smarter rules and joined-up systems across government and industry. A stronger, more competitive airline market, offering better service, more choice, and stronger regional connections. 'Bringing together airports and local government for our discussions today reflects the vital role airports play as critical community assets – supporting economic growth, social connection, and emergency response across the country.' Airports Day also sees the release of a major new aviation infrastructure report, developed by WSP with the support of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. The report offers the most comprehensive snapshot to date of the state of New Zealand's airport infrastructure, identifying both the gaps that threaten future growth and the investment opportunities that new technologies – such as electric aircraft – are set to unlock. 'The report underscores the need to stabilise and recover the aviation system through regional airline support and international airline attraction, laying the foundation for stronger growth and new opportunities ahead. 'These opportunities include new route development; greater non-aeronautical investment in commercial, tourism, and technology precincts; onsite renewable energy production; and infrastructure to support emerging technologies like eVTOL aircraft. 'Our discussions at Airports Day focus on helping communities make the most of their airports and the opportunities they create.' Notes: · Information on the NZ Airports strategy is available on the association's website: · The report New Zealand Airports: Future Infrastructure Requirements is available here: · The report provides an overview of New Zealand's airport network, domestic aviation market, aircraft fuel technologies, the future development of the New Zealand aviation industry, and possible investment opportunities that could support New Zealand's economic growth. · The report was commissioned to support long term strategy for the airport network as well as providing background insight for New Zealand Trade and Enterprise when considering the context and potential opportunities for Invest NZ's aviation and aerospace investment pipeline.
Scoop
11-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Minister For Mental Health And Associate Minister Of Health To Travel To Melbourne
Press Release – New Zealand Government A New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) hosted pavilion will be the focal point of New Zealands presence at the event. Digital Health Festival 2025 will run from 13-14 May, bringing together over 8,000 influential leaders and innovators to connect … Associate Minister of Health Minister for Mental Health Minister for Mental Health and Associate Minister of Health Matt Doocey will travel to Australia on 12 May to attend Digital Health Festival 2025 in Melbourne. He will head a delegation of 23 New Zealand companies and organisations, to highlight the leading role New Zealand is playing in the digital transformation of healthcare. 'New Zealand has a proud history of innovation in healthcare. I am delighted to support the innovative, forward-thinking Kiwi companies at this year's Digital Health Festival and showcase some of New Zealand's world-class healthtech solutions,' Mr Doocey says. While at the event, Mr Doocey will deliver a keynote speech on New Zealand's innovative approach to healthcare and take part in a panel discussion on 'Enhancing the Future of Patient Care – Innovation from the Edge'. He will also work directly with New Zealand companies to open doors to more opportunities for New Zealand businesses in Australia and globally. 'Healthtech is one of New Zealand's largest and fastest-growing tech subsectors, employing over 10,500 people globally. International collaboration is key to driving much-needed innovation in the industry and events such as this provide an excellent platform for fostering partnerships,' Mr Doocey says. Digital Health Festival 2025 will run from 13-14 May, bringing together over 8,000 influential leaders and innovators to connect and share the latest developments in healthcare. A New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) hosted pavilion will be the focal point of New Zealand's presence at the event. Mr Doocey leaves for Melbourne on Monday 12th May and will conclude his visit on Thursday 15 May.
