Latest news with #RebeccaJames
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Sunrise weatherman Sam Mac's new look savaged by fans as beloved Channel Seven star returns to screens: 'It's horrid'
Sam Mac has left fans divided after retuning to Sunrise with a new look. On Monday, the beloved weatherman, 43, appeared on the Channel Seven morning show for the first time since he went on 'dad leave' back in May. The TV regular, who shares Margot, two, and Mabel, ten months, with fiancée Rebecca James, debuted a beard which he had grown in his month away from the show. Prior to his first broadcast back, Sam uploaded a picture to Instagram on Sunday telling fans that if the snap of his new facial hair got enough likes, he'd keep it. 'If this photo gets 10 thousand likes I'll keep the beard for my return to @sunriseon7 on Monday #DadLeaveBeard,' he captioned the post, which showed him holding onto his new bundle of joy. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. While the Instagram picture failed to garner enough likes before the show, his Facebook post did, resulting in Sam's return to his weatherman gig with a hairy chin. However, it seems many fans were actually not too pleased with the dad-of-two's new look. 'Very good to see Sam Mac back and showing why he is the best at weather. The beard was an interesting addition,' one person wrote on a Sunrise chat forum. Another chimed in: 'It's horrid. Most guys with beards, at least, tidy up their throat area.' One person savagely commented on his Instagram post: 'Sorry Sam but I dislike the beard immensely. What does Bec think of it?' With opinions on the beard divided, one sentiment was echoed throughout - fans couldn't wait for the beloved weatherman to return to screens. 'Just so glad you will be back tomorrow you were so missed beard or no [beard],' one person sweetly noted on his recent Instagram clip. 'It makes you look grown up!!..but will love to see you back with [or] without. But Katie has done a stellar job filling in..' another wrote. One person penned: 'As long as you come back certainly missed you, Sunrise wasn't the same by the way love the beard.' 'Have missed you on Sunrise, Hans and Katie Brown have done a good job. But will be happy your back,' another added. In May, the TV weatherman took to Instagram to share that he would be going on leave. Posting a picture with baby Mabel, the girl dad went on to express how excited he was to spend some quality time with his young children. 'This guy is officially on "Dad Leave"' Sam, who welcomed his second child last August, captioned the post. 'So ridiculously excited to have some uninterrupted time with our darling Mabel. I did the same when Margot was a baby and have vivid memories of being there as she took her first steps. 'Now to have more time with her as a toddler is an added bonus (albeit a slightly terrifying one)' he added.
RNZ News
03-06-2025
- Business
- RNZ News
Trump tariffs worse for businesses than Covid-19 pandemic
US President Donald Trump delivers remarks on reciprocal tariffs during an event in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, DC, on April 2, 2025. Photo: AFP / Brendan Smialowski Two-thirds of businesses think United States tariffs would have a more severe global impact than Covid-19 and the Global Financial Crisis over the next 12 months, with nearly 80 percent of exporters most concerned, a survey indicates. However, the Talbot Mills Research survey of more than 300 business leaders commissioned by ASB Bank indicates a quarter saw some opportunity in the tariffs. "The current market volatility and geopolitical tension may be our 'new normal', but we've been in positions of global uncertainty before and the research shows Kiwi businesses are already thinking about actions they can take to make their business more resilient and generate returns," ASB's executive general manager business banking Rebecca James said. "It's clear businesses view any proposed US tariffs as troubling, but it's pleasing that nearly a quarter of respondents see opportunity in tariffs too. New Zealand has a reputation on the world stage for ingenuity and a can-do attitude, and we want businesses to know there are things they can do to future-proof and manage risks in turbulent times." Donald Trump holds a chart with each country's tariffs, although some have been paused or changed since the announcement on 2 April, 2025. Photo: AFP / Brendan Smialowski President Donald Trump's America First trade policy is aimed at protecting US industries and addressing the trade deficit through tariffs. While tariffs were set at 10 percent for most countries, including New Zealand, there were some notable outliers including Chinese origin goods. Negotiations between China and the US were scheduled to begin this week, while the 10 percent baseline was paused for a 90-day period. Given the uncertainty, James said businesses were shifting their focus to closer to home. "The research shows a pendulum swing when it comes to trading partners, with businesses redirecting their attention to our close neighbours. "Location seems to be king, with our customers prioritising relationships much closer to home. "We're also seeing exporters maintaining high standards and doubling down on premium products to give us an edge on the global stage, even where it costs more for consumers." She said banks were seen as a critical support function for 39 percent of respondents, specifically for working capital support (31 percent), risk advice (26 percent) and trade finance (24 percent). "ASB has provided $4.6 billion to Kiwi businesses over the past five years including considerable support to companies looking to expand and navigate opportunities abroad. "We encourage companies doing business overseas to speak with their banker and engage with a trade specialist to ensure your business is in the strongest position." Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Scoop
03-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
ASB Business Survey: The Impact Of Trump's Tariffs, According To Kiwi Businesses
Research released today by ASB, supported by Talbot Mills Research, shows Kiwi businesses see US tariffs as more impactful than Covid-19 or the Global Financial Crisis. More than 300 business leaders, including CEOs and founders, contributed to the study, giving their insights on President Trump's recently announced trade policies. Two-thirds (67%) of businesses are concerned about the impact of proposed US tariffs in the next 12 months, with nearly 80% of exporters concerned Kiwi business leaders believe Trump's tariffs will have a more severe global impact than Covid-19 and the GFC Meat, dairy and wine are seen as the most vulnerable within Food and Fibre sector, while businesses predict wool and seafood would fare better Nearly one-quarter (24%) of Kiwi businesses see at least some opportunity in the tariffs More than one-third (39%) of respondents listed support of banks as critical to navigating the current environment Tariffs: a threat and an opportunity for Kiwi businesses ASB's Executive General Manager Business Banking Rebecca James says: 'We're seeing sustained market volatility with the ever-changing political decisions around tariffs, which naturally creates a heightened sense of uncertainty for businesses. It's clear businesses view any proposed US tariffs as troubling, but it's pleasing that nearly a quarter of respondents see opportunity in tariffs too. New Zealand has a reputation on the world stage for ingenuity and a can-do attitude, and we want businesses to know there are things they can do to future-proof and manage risks in turbulent times.' President Trump first announced tariffs in April as part of the 'America First' trade policy, aimed at protecting US industries and addressing the trade deficit. The tariffs are set at 10% for most countries, including New Zealand, with China a notable outlier where a larger tariff has been applied to Chinese origin goods. Additional proposed tariffs higher than the 10% baseline were paused for a 90-day period and will be reviewed in July. Businesses are split on how long potential disruption could last. A slight majority (51%) of Kiwi businesses are optimistic that the economy will recover quickly, while 38% predict a prolonged economic downturn for the country and the remainder were unsure. Taking action key to growth 14% of those surveyed view US tariffs purely as an opportunity, while 10% see them as both a potential risk and an opportunity. Ten percent of businesses and 14% of exporters have already taken action to reduce the negative impacts of tariffs including raising prices, shifting markets or cutting costs. Just under one-third (30%) believe they can make up losses through new customers or cost savings; 25% from operational efficiencies, and 22% from other revenue streams. 22% are unsure, with uncertainty highest among small businesses. 'The current market volatility and geopolitical tension may be our 'new normal', but we've been in positions of global uncertainty before and the research shows Kiwi businesses are already thinking about actions they can take to make their business more resilient and generate returns.' Ms James encourages businesses to stay connected to industry partners, trade advocacy groups and their banks to share knowledge and ideas when it comes to growth and scale. 'Business customers are relying on us more than ever to navigate the current environment, and we're seeing this through an increase in trade finance and a rise in currency hedging enquiries. Our advice is to start exploring options now. We're seeing customers adapting their business strategy in all sorts of ways, so solutions for your business might look like assessing AI to improve workflow, adjusting your supply chain, selling down stock before new inventory orders, building new trade relationships or exploring untapped markets.' Businesses shifting their focus to closer to home More than three-quarters of Kiwi exporters expect the cost of doing business with the US to increase by 10% or more in the next year. Concern is higher among exporters (78%) and increases with business size, with worry growing to 88% among 100+ staff businesses). The potential impacts of tariffs which were of the most concern to businesses include slowing economic growth (39%), increased operating costs (32%) and supply chain disruptions (28%). Nearly one-quarter of businesses are worried about consumer backlash due to price inflation (24%), along with 23% who see a China-US Trade war as unsettling for business. Some of the most explored markets by businesses are China (51%), Australia (37%), European Union (28%) and Southeast Asia (25%). 'The research shows a pendulum swing when it comes to trading partners, with businesses redirecting their attention to our close neighbours. Location seems to be king, with our customers prioritising relationships much closer to home,' says Ms James. 'We're also seeing exporters maintaining high standards and doubling down on premium products to give us an edge on the global stage, even where it costs more for consumers.' The role of banks as a critical support function Businesses see Government lobbying as the most critical tool in helping to reduce the impact of tariffs, with banks the next most important. More than one-third (39%) of respondents listed support of banks as critical, specifically working capital support (31%), risk advice (26%) and trade finance (24%). 'ASB has provided $4.6 billion dollars to Kiwi businesses over the past five years including considerable support to companies looking to expand and navigate opportunities abroad. We have seen increased use of trade finance products, aided by trade credit insurance, enabling businesses to sustainably leverage balance sheets while derisking payment default. We encourage companies doing business overseas to speak with their banker and engage with a trade specialist to ensure your business is in the strongest position," says Ms James. ASB Bank Helping you get one step ahead. In 1847, ASB opened as the Auckland Savings Bank with the pledge: 'to serve the community; to grow and to help Kiwis grow'. And that is very much what ASB is about today. ASB is a leading provider of integrated financial services in New Zealand including retail, business and rural banking, funds management and insurance. ASB strives to consistently provide its customers with outstanding service and innovative financial solutions. They're dedicated to providing simple financial products that allow their customers to bank with them how and when they want. We all have our own ways to measure progress, and our own stories about the things that matter to us. Whatever way you choose to measure progress, and whatever your goals, ASB is there to help you get one step ahead. Contact ASB Bank
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Sunrise star Sam Mac captures nine-month-old daughter Mabel's first word...after taking her to a star-studded boys lunch
Sam Mac was very much in doting dad mode on Friday, spending some precious time with nine-month-old daughter Mabel. The Sunrise weather presenter and fiancée Rebecca James welcomed Mabel, their second child, in August last year. Sam, 42, shared a series of images and clips to Instagram on Friday, documenting the day out, which culminated in Sam capturing Mabel's first word. A video showed Sam, sitting in the passenger seat of a car while Rebecca was behind the wheel and Baby Mabel safely tucked away in her car seat. 'Could you please say "dadda', Sam asked his daughter as the camera rolled. Much to his and Rebecca's surprise, Mabel could be heard uttering what appeared to be 'dadda" back to her parents. Captioning the sweet clip, Sam explained that Mabel had been uttering the word for a while, but he was, until now, unable to get definitive proof. 'Mabel only just turned 9 months & I'm convinced she's saying "dadda". It's now happening on command and I managed to get it on video from the back seat today.' The adorable moment came after Sam took Mabel out for lunch with some very famous friends. He shared another clip that showed him walking into Sydney eatery China Doll with Mabel strapped snugly to his chest. 'When you're invited to a boy's lunch but you're on dad leave,' he captioned the clip. The clip then cut to Sam sitting at the table dutifully preparing a bottle for his daughter. The dad and daughter duo were in very good company for the lunch, with the likes of Gold Logie winner Larry Emdur and Sam's Sunrise co-star Mark Baretta at the table. They were also joined by My Kitchen Rules stars Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge, Better Homes And Gardens presenter Charlie Albone, celebrity fitness coach 'Chief' James Brabon, and Bachelor star Tim Robards. 'Could you please say "dadda', Sam asked his daughter as the camera rolled. Much to his and Rebecca's surprise, Mabel could be heard uttering what appeared to be 'dadda" back to her parents. They looked chuffed to be in each other's company, with another photo showing the pals beaming broadly as they posed for a group photo. '9 Men and a baby,' Sam captioned the image, taking time to make a pointed dig at Larry, who had his eyes closed in the pic. '@larryemdur obviously hasn't had enough media training &foolishly blinked during the photo,' he added. They quickly rectified the situation, taking another pic together, this time with Larry's eyes wide open. Sam's dad and daughter day comes after he recently revealed he was taking time away from television to focus on his family. Posting a picture with Mabel recently, Sam expressed how excited he was to spend some quality time with his young children. 'This guy is officially on "Dad Leave"' Sam captioned the post. 'So ridiculously excited to have some uninterrupted time with our darling Mabel. I did the same when Margot was a baby and have vivid memories of being there as she took her first steps. 'Now to have more time with her as a toddler is an added bonus (albeit a slightly terrifying one)' he added. The Sunrise star went on to say that he loves his job but it can definitely take its 'toll', especially when missing milestone moments with his children. 'Since becoming a Dad, saying goodbye to my girls every week gets harder and harder. So this is actually win / win / win!' he revealed. 'Bec is free to jump back into work full time and get a few well deserved breathers,' he said, adding: 'Sunrise viewers get to wake up to the wonderful Katie Brown and Mabel gets 24-7 entertainment from Daddy Mac, aka "The Temu Wiggle."' He finished off the post: 'I'm eternally grateful to our team at 7 being so supportive of new Dads and in turn, new Mums. It means the world and I'll see you all back on Sunrise soon.' Sam and Rebecca welcomed first daughter Margot in September 2022, two years after they started dating. Announcing the joyous news at the time, Sam wrote: 'This is a love I never even knew existed. I'm overwhelmed and still processing it all right now. My girls. Wow.' It's not the first time Sam has taken time off to raise his kids.
Daily Mail
08-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mail
Sunrise says goodbye to beloved weatherman Sam Mac as he reveals shock family news: 'Every week gets harder and harder'
Sam Mac is taking time away from television to focus on fatherhood. The TV weatherman, 42, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share that he will be on leave from Sunrise. Posting a picture with his nine month old baby Mabel, the dad-of-two went on to express how excited he was to spend some quality time with his young children. 'This guy is officially on "Dad Leave"' Sam, who welcomed his second child with fiancée Rebecca James last year, captioned the post. 'So ridiculously excited to have some uninterrupted time with our darling Mabel. I did the same when Margot was a baby and have vivid memories of being there as she took her first steps. 'Now to have more time with her as a toddler is an added bonus (albeit a slightly terrifying one)' he added. The Sunrise star went on to say that he loves his job but it can definitely take its 'toll', especially when missing milestone moments with his children. 'Since becoming a Dad, saying goodbye to my girls every week gets harder and harder. So this is actually win / win / win!' he revealed. 'Bec is free to jump back into work full time and get a few well deserved breathers,' he said, adding: 'Sunrise viewers get to wake up to the wonderful Katie Brown and Mabel gets 24-7 entertainment from Daddy Mac, aka "The Temu Wiggle."' He finished off the post: 'I'm eternally grateful to our team at 7 being so supportive of new Dads and in turn, new Mums. It means the world and I'll see you all back on Sunrise soon.' Sam and fiancée Rebecca welcomed their second child in August last year. The Channel Seven took to Instagram at the time to confirm their jovial baby news, sharing a heartwarming image cradling their newborn and revealing her name – Mabel August McMillan. 'It's a girl. Again,' he wrote in his caption. 'We are absolutely delighted to welcome Mabel August McMillan to the world (Born last night 14/8/24) It's my destiny to be surrounded by beautiful women! A stark contrast to my high school years. 'I'll share more details soon, but Bec was our warrior yet again, Mabel was deliciously chunky and chilled and now we take a collective breather before Hurricane Margot passes through to meet her baby sister later tonight.' Sam and Rebecca announced they were expecting in February last year, but kept the gender of their child private. Gushing over their news, he wrote: '"Baby Mac" (the sequel) premiering this August 2024. Starring Margot as the big sister #MacDaddy #Round2.' Sam announced in December 2023 that the couple were tying the knot. At the time, Sam had shared the good news to Instagram alongside a photo of Rebecca flashing her diamond engagement ring. Giving an insight into the proposal, the presenter wrote in the caption: 'Ladies and gentlemen, my fiancée! She said yes. 'My secret 2023 New Year's resolution was to propose to my darling Rebecca sometime this year. So I guess this is what you'd call a buzzer beater.' 'She's calm, strong and unintentionally funny. She's super smart and a genuine knockout beauty. She makes me a better man.' He went on: 'Earlier this morning in front of her parents and brother… I told her I'm in love with every version of her and asked her to be mine forever, she said yes.' Sam and Rebecca welcomed first daughter Margot in September 2022, two years after they started dating. Announcing the joyous news at the time, Sam wrote: 'This is a love I never even knew existed. I'm overwhelmed and still processing it all right now. My girls. Wow.' It's not the first time Sam has taken time off to raise his kids. In December last year, Sam returned to TV screens after taking a month-long break from his role on the show to focus on full-time fatherhood.
