Latest news with #Probert
Scoop
2 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Venture Taranaki Releases Latest Economic Figures
Press Release – Venture Taranaki The data shows that the Taranaki economy provisionally contracted by 3.1% in the year to March 2025, compared to a national decline of 1.1%. The latest Quarterly Economic Monitor report commissioned by Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, has been released offering an evidence-based view of how Taranaki is faring amid ongoing national economic uncertainty. Developed by Infometrics, the report provides a clear, objective snapshot – presenting both the strengths and the challenges shaping the region's economic landscape. 'This report is something we specifically commission for Taranaki because it's vital that our region has access to independent, timely data,' says Anne Probert, Director of Strategic and Sector Partnerships at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. 'It's about being informed, realistic, and proactive about the trajectory of the region.' The data shows that the Taranaki economy provisionally contracted by 3.1% in the year to March 2025, compared to a national decline of 1.1%. Employment has also fallen by 1.8%, and consumer spending is down 1.9%. These figures reflect the broader pressures felt across Aotearoa, as cautious spending patterns continue to influence business and household behaviour. However, Taranaki is also experiencing more localised impacts. 'We're at the pointy end of the accelerated decline in gas production, and that's flowing through many of our industry sectors, particularly engineering and specialist supply chains, adding a further dimension to our economic situation,' says Probert. Amid these pressures, the region's primary sector is showing significant strength. The dairy payout for Taranaki is forecast to reach $1.807 billion this season, a 31% increase from last year, thanks to rising global commodity prices and a lower exchange rate boosting export returns. 'This is a much-needed boost for our rural communities, who have been contending with the impacts of drought and other challenges,' Probert explains. 'Given the critical role that farming plays across our entire economy, from the farm gate to support services, manufacturing, logistics and retail, this upturn has flow-on benefits for the whole region.' Adding further momentum to the sector, Fonterra has announced significant investments in Taranaki, including the electrification of its Whareroa plant and the development of new cool store facilities demonstrating long-term confidence in the region's agri-food future. The economic report also highlights early signs of a turnaround in the housing market. House sales are up 13.2% over the year in the region, and the number of residential building consents have jumped nearly 23%. While house prices have remained steady, the increase in sales and listings points to renewed interest, driven in part by the region's lifestyle appeal and comparative affordability. 'It's clear that there are challenges but there are also positive areas and momentum for the region,' says Kelvin Wright, Chief Executive of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. 'The report highlights the importance of having the regional economic development strategy in place, Tapuae Roa, to ensure we're making the most of our region's strengths and capitalising on emerging opportunities.' Taranaki Economic Snapshot (Year to March 2025) Regional GDP: Provisionally down 3.1% compared to the national decline of 1.1%. Employment: Fell 1.8%, with job losses concentrated in construction, metal manufacturing, and utilities. Unemployment Rate: 4.5%, still lower than the national average of 4.9%. Consumer Spending: Down 1.9%, reflecting cautious household behaviour amid economic uncertainty. Dairy Payout: Forecast at $1.807 billion for the 2024/25 season – a 31% increase from the previous year. House Sales: Up 13.2%, pointing to renewed market interest. Residential Consents: Increased by 22.9%, signalling growing development confidence. Tourism Spend: Down 6.3%, with both domestic and international visitor nights falling. Business Units: Slight decline of 0.1%, compared to national growth of 1.2%. Jobseeker Support: Recipient numbers rose 7.2%, below the national increase of 12.6%.
Scoop
2 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Venture Taranaki Releases Latest Economic Figures
Press Release – Venture Taranaki The data shows that the Taranaki economy provisionally contracted by 3.1% in the year to March 2025, compared to a national decline of 1.1%. The latest Quarterly Economic Monitor report commissioned by Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, has been released offering an evidence-based view of how Taranaki is faring amid ongoing national economic uncertainty. Developed by Infometrics, the report provides a clear, objective snapshot – presenting both the strengths and the challenges shaping the region's economic landscape. 'This report is something we specifically commission for Taranaki because it's vital that our region has access to independent, timely data,' says Anne Probert, Director of Strategic and Sector Partnerships at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. 'It's about being informed, realistic, and proactive about the trajectory of the region.' The data shows that the Taranaki economy provisionally contracted by 3.1% in the year to March 2025, compared to a national decline of 1.1%. Employment has also fallen by 1.8%, and consumer spending is down 1.9%. These figures reflect the broader pressures felt across Aotearoa, as cautious spending patterns continue to influence business and household behaviour. However, Taranaki is also experiencing more localised impacts. 'We're at the pointy end of the accelerated decline in gas production, and that's flowing through many of our industry sectors, particularly engineering and specialist supply chains, adding a further dimension to our economic situation,' says Probert. Amid these pressures, the region's primary sector is showing significant strength. The dairy payout for Taranaki is forecast to reach $1.807 billion this season, a 31% increase from last year, thanks to rising global commodity prices and a lower exchange rate boosting export returns. 'This is a much-needed boost for our rural communities, who have been contending with the impacts of drought and other challenges,' Probert explains. 'Given the critical role that farming plays across our entire economy, from the farm gate to support services, manufacturing, logistics and retail, this upturn has flow-on benefits for the whole region.' Adding further momentum to the sector, Fonterra has announced significant investments in Taranaki, including the electrification of its Whareroa plant and the development of new cool store facilities demonstrating long-term confidence in the region's agri-food future. The economic report also highlights early signs of a turnaround in the housing market. House sales are up 13.2% over the year in the region, and the number of residential building consents have jumped nearly 23%. While house prices have remained steady, the increase in sales and listings points to renewed interest, driven in part by the region's lifestyle appeal and comparative affordability. 'It's clear that there are challenges but there are also positive areas and momentum for the region,' says Kelvin Wright, Chief Executive of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. 'The report highlights the importance of having the regional economic development strategy in place, Tapuae Roa, to ensure we're making the most of our region's strengths and capitalising on emerging opportunities.' Taranaki Economic Snapshot (Year to March 2025) Regional GDP: Provisionally down 3.1% compared to the national decline of 1.1%. Employment: Fell 1.8%, with job losses concentrated in construction, metal manufacturing, and utilities. Unemployment Rate: 4.5%, still lower than the national average of 4.9%. Consumer Spending: Down 1.9%, reflecting cautious household behaviour amid economic uncertainty. Dairy Payout: Forecast at $1.807 billion for the 2024/25 season – a 31% increase from the previous year. House Sales: Up 13.2%, pointing to renewed market interest. Residential Consents: Increased by 22.9%, signalling growing development confidence. Tourism Spend: Down 6.3%, with both domestic and international visitor nights falling. Business Units: Slight decline of 0.1%, compared to national growth of 1.2%. Jobseeker Support: Recipient numbers rose 7.2%, below the national increase of 12.6%.
Scoop
2 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Venture Taranaki Releases Latest Economic Figures
The latest Quarterly Economic Monitor report commissioned by Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the regional development agency, has been released offering an evidence-based view of how Taranaki is faring amid ongoing national economic uncertainty. Developed by Infometrics, the report provides a clear, objective snapshot - presenting both the strengths and the challenges shaping the region's economic landscape. "This report is something we specifically commission for Taranaki because it's vital that our region has access to independent, timely data," says Anne Probert, Director of Strategic and Sector Partnerships at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. "It's about being informed, realistic, and proactive about the trajectory of the region." The data shows that the Taranaki economy provisionally contracted by 3.1% in the year to March 2025, compared to a national decline of 1.1%. Employment has also fallen by 1.8%, and consumer spending is down 1.9%. These figures reflect the broader pressures felt across Aotearoa, as cautious spending patterns continue to influence business and household behaviour. However, Taranaki is also experiencing more localised impacts. "We're at the pointy end of the accelerated decline in gas production, and that's flowing through many of our industry sectors, particularly engineering and specialist supply chains, adding a further dimension to our economic situation," says Probert. Amid these pressures, the region's primary sector is showing significant strength. The dairy payout for Taranaki is forecast to reach $1.807 billion this season, a 31% increase from last year, thanks to rising global commodity prices and a lower exchange rate boosting export returns. "This is a much-needed boost for our rural communities, who have been contending with the impacts of drought and other challenges," Probert explains. "Given the critical role that farming plays across our entire economy, from the farm gate to support services, manufacturing, logistics and retail, this upturn has flow-on benefits for the whole region." Adding further momentum to the sector, Fonterra has announced significant investments in Taranaki, including the electrification of its Whareroa plant and the development of new cool store facilities demonstrating long-term confidence in the region's agri-food future. The economic report also highlights early signs of a turnaround in the housing market. House sales are up 13.2% over the year in the region, and the number of residential building consents have jumped nearly 23%. While house prices have remained steady, the increase in sales and listings points to renewed interest, driven in part by the region's lifestyle appeal and comparative affordability. "It's clear that there are challenges but there are also positive areas and momentum for the region," says Kelvin Wright, Chief Executive of Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki. "The report highlights the importance of having the regional economic development strategy in place, Tapuae Roa, to ensure we're making the most of our region's strengths and capitalising on emerging opportunities." Taranaki Economic Snapshot (Year to March 2025) Regional GDP: Provisionally down 3.1% compared to the national decline of 1.1%. Employment: Fell 1.8%, with job losses concentrated in construction, metal manufacturing, and utilities. Unemployment Rate: 4.5%, still lower than the national average of 4.9%. Consumer Spending: Down 1.9%, reflecting cautious household behaviour amid economic uncertainty. Dairy Payout: Forecast at $1.807 billion for the 2024/25 season - a 31% increase from the previous year. House Sales: Up 13.2%, pointing to renewed market interest. Residential Consents: Increased by 22.9%, signalling growing development confidence. Tourism Spend: Down 6.3%, with both domestic and international visitor nights falling. Business Units: Slight decline of 0.1%, compared to national growth of 1.2%.
New Paper
04-06-2025
- General
- New Paper
Look Hoo's trying to go one better
It has been three years to the day, and David Probert has hardly gone through a day without reliving the bittersweet moment of "the one that got away" in UK's most famous flat race, the Epsom Derby. On June 4, 2022, the Welsh jockey felt the adrenaline rush kicking shortly after Tattenham Corner when he began weaving a passage on his 150-1 mount Hoo Ya Mal for his former master Andrew Balding. But, when he saw daylight at the 500m, he knew deep down he would have to settle for second-best. The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Desert Crown (Richard Kingscote) was in full flight and beyond catching. Hoo Ya Mal still ran out of his skin, clipping down the deficit on the winner to 2½ lengths, while holding off a late charge from Westover to win the battle for the minors by a head. Probert, 34, has since not sat on a Derby contender again, leaving it to fate to gift him with a second chance to go one better one day, so he can realise his boyhood dream. As fate would have it, Hoo Ya Mal's owner, Ahmad Al Shaikh has turned dream-maker for the 1,600-odd race-winning jockey again. The Dubai brain behind Green Team Racing has booked Probert on the Owen Burrows-trained Al Wasl Storm, and yet again, they head in as overlooked underdogs. The three-year-old grey by Affinisea is another long shot at cricket odds, just a touch better than Hoo Ya Mal at 100-1. Probert, whose highest acclaim is an overseas Group 2 win aboard Highland Knight for Balding in the Oettingen-Rennen at Baden-Baden in Germany in 2012, is fully aware of the racing conundrum facing him in the £1.5 million (S$2.6 million) Group 1 2,400m race on June 7 (10.30pm Singapore time). Overjoyed to finally get a chance to soothe the three-year-long hurt, he is, however, sitting atop a horse bred for jumps against a host of Derby bluebloods. Yet, he knows first-hand about the romance of just being a ticket holder and even coming so close to hitting the jackpot. "A Derby win would be massive. We all grow up wanting to ride in a race like this, compete at a high level," said Probert. "Hoo Ya Mal ran a great second in the Derby. I watched that race plenty of times. "I got a nice split down the inside. Hoo Ya Mal was renowned to be quite keen, but we managed to get a nice split through the inside. "But, lo and behold, Desert Crown was still on the bridle on the outside a furlong down. "I was still delighted. This is what this is all about, isn't it? Trying to find these horses and hopefully, we found one." Like most jockeys saddled with a "no-hoper", Probert would rather look for any silver lining. "He actually has a good profile about him. He hasn't had much experience," he said. "He's done very little wrong in all the starts that he's had." Probert was aboard at the last two of Al Wasl Storm's three starts, including the last when he broke his maiden tag in a 2,400m race at Chester on May 9, but said the character-building run outweighed the win. "Chester is renowned as a good Derby trial. He seemed to handle the sharp ends and quick track very well," he said. "It feels like as if, mentally, he's grown up a lot. He was still quite raw going into Chester. "He had to do things the hard way from the front. He galloped it out relentlessly. "So, I'd imagine a mile and a half around a track like Epsom could suit him. He's a well-balanced horse and has a good mind on him." Al Wasl Storm had a first taste of the undulating Epsom course in an easy stretch-out on May 28. "It was nice to get him on the track with lovely ground this morning," said Probert. "We just took it from the mile. He never had a lead, we just allowed him to use himself, he quickened up well. "I'm delighted with the way he is in himself. Al Shaikh is a passionate fellow, and I'd just love for him to run well for him. "This is what dreams are made of. You've got to be in it to win it." manyan@
Wales Online
10-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Grade II* listed stunning home that has a hell of a history including royalty and a rock legend
Grade II* listed stunning home that has a hell of a history including royalty and a rock legend From a 375-year-old King to rock royalty, from politics to literature - this country estate can boast it all Welcome to a unique slice of history nestled within the Monmouthshire countryside (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) If you think your home has got a long and fascinating history it's highly unlikely to beat a Monmouthshire mansion that dates back centuries and includes a visit by a king and a rock legend as a past owner. The Argoed, nestled within in the glorious Monmouthshire countryside in the Wye Valley, is so special that the property was given the higher level of Grade II* listing by Cadw that is only awarded to around seven per cent of listing buildings. The listing was bestowed on this unique Welsh home in 1993 for 'its special interest as a small, mostly Victorian country house set in fine grounds which has exceptional historic associations with the Fabian Society' but that is only a small slice of this amazing property's past. For more property stories sent to your inbox twice a week sign up to the property newsletter here. READ MORE: Open the front door and you'll find a historic sweet shop still with its old weighing scales YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Wales' most expensive property currently for sale for £15m is definitely not what you think it's going to be Nestled within about 11 acres of beautiful grounds (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Article continues below According to the listing the first mansion at the site near the village of Penallt was built over 300 years ago and some of that original house can be found within the core of this sprawling home. However, the majority of the house dates back to around 1865 when it was significantly extended. But it's the colourful history that makes this home stand out from its contemporaries. The Cadw listing states that The Argoed was originally owned by the Probert family, and it was Christopher Probert who built the first house in the late 16th century, remodelled in early 17th century by Sir George Probert. It is during this first phase of ownership that, according to the estate agent, the house welcomed and entertained King Charles I. The country estate visit starts with a sweeping, tree-lined driveway (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) In 1865, Richard Potter purchased the property. That same year, he stepped down as Chairman of the Great Western Railway and promptly embarked on a significant renovation and expansion of the house, which largely shaped its current character. Richard's daughter, Beatrice Webb, was a social reformer and founding member of the Fabian Society, which played a pivotal role in the evolution of socialism in Britain. The grounds include a historic ha-ha and views that stretch for miles (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Beatrice's extensive network of friends who visited The Argoed included George Bernard Shaw, who is rumoured to have penned some of his works here including 'The Man of Destiny' and 'Mrs. Warren's Profession'. The property was then sold in 1897 and has since changed hands multiple times, with Led Zeppelin musician, singer-songwriter and rock legend Robert Plant CBE owning it from 1985 to 1990 according to Cadw. Under the custodianship of the current owners, The Argoed has been given a comprehensive refurbishment of both the house and grounds over many years, beginning back in 1990. Fireplace, wood panelled doors, and a carved staircase in the entrance reception hall (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Every historic country manor estate needs an impressive entrance and The Argoed can effortlessly deliver with a sweeping driveway lined with majestic, mature trees that leads to an imposing and handsome façade draped in a curtain of vines. The house is embedded into around 11 acres of beautiful grounds enveloped by panoramic and far-reaching views of the Wye Valley National Landscape to the horizon, so no wonder the esteemed architectural historian, John Newman, is said to have described The Argoed as 'tantalising'. Drawing room (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Wandering around the The Argoed's gardens and grounds it's also not a surprise to discover that they are also listed with Cadw on the ICOMOS Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales, with much of the present-day appearance of the peaceful and private gardens attributed to the late nineteenth-century alterations carried out by the Potter family. Much of the grounds are laid out informally with walks through specimen trees, shrubberies, lawns and fields enjoying the backdrop of the estate's beautiful location. Formal dining room (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Closer to the house the garden offers more formality via wide gravel paths and two large grass terraces to the east of the house that include a restored ha-ha, described by the National Trusts as a sunken wall or area in a country park or estate that creates a barrier between two areas of land without obstructing the view. The grounds also include a tranquil Japanese garden with a water feature and an enchanting arboretum that, given that 'argoed' translates from Welsh to meaning 'by the wood/on wood' in English, it seems apt that the home should offer such enticing walks through a visually stunning collection of magnificent trees. The sociable kitchen breakfast room has been moved to the centre of the house (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) Within the grounds are bonus buildings and spaces including an integral garage, a gardener's workshop with toilet facilities, a greenhouse, and a stable block that is so special it can also boast a listing from Cadw. This attractive stone building was Grade II listed in 1993 'for the special interest of its origins that date from the period of the original house and for the reused detail incorporated into this building. It has strong group value with The Argoed'. It's clear that the current owners have poured love and care into the house as well as the grounds, with four-storeys of accommodation to explore that include a basement cellar with an ancient well and a top floor of five extra rooms waiting to be utilised. The property has a wealth of inviting rooms and it's intriguing to think that both King Charles I and one of the kings of rock, Robert Plant, once wandered through some of these spaces. The staircase and arched window are stand-out features (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) The house tour of the main floors of The Argoed starts with a grand reception hall that features a large wood burner within a stone fireplace on one side and a sweeping and intricately carved staircase on the other, plus access to a handy cloakroom. The ground floor is a network of substantial rooms perfect for socialising, working and studying, and relaxing across five reception rooms; a drawing room, sitting room, dining room, family room and study home office. Arguably one of the most notable of the spaces on this ground level is the kitchen breakfast room which wasn't always nestled into the centre of the house. The impressive primary bedroom suite at The Argoed occupies one whole wing of the first floor (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) The current owners have smartly moved this social hub so it has literally become the heart of the home, and can now also fully utilise the dual aspect of the space whilst offering everything a modern day cook requires, including a five-door electric AGA. Before wandering up the impressive staircase the ground floor also offers the 'engine rooms' of the mansion - boiler room, boot room, and utility room. There are seven bedrooms to explore on the first floor and arguably the most noteworthy are the principal suite and second bedroom. The former stretches across the entire south east side of The Argoed, welcoming the morning sun through the large Georgian windows as well as boasting a luxury ensuite and masses of storage. The primary bedroom suite includes a luxurious bathroom including a period fireplace (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) The second bedroom suite is a historic gem, embellished with incredible floor-to-ceiling wood panelling, paying homage to the home's Jacobean roots. The Cadw listing highlights this room's 'moulded joists and wall-panelling which includes a reused and richly carved bed tester' as well the first floor corridor's 'late C16/early C17 wainscotting and a guilloche frieze'. The wall panelling in bedroom two is highlighted in Cadw's Grade II* listing details (Image: Knight Frank, Bristol ) The Argoed is for sale with a guide price of £2.6m with Knight Frank, Bristol. Call 0117 317 1999 to find out more. For more property stories join our Amazing Welsh Homes Facebook group here. 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