445 days ago

Hamilton-built business starts Australian franchise

Libby Reporter from Waikato Local

After leaving Australia 13 years ago, Troy Hillard has never gone back for a visit. But he will this Christmas as he is expanding his Hamilton-built business back to his hometown Newcastle.

Hillard owns the franchise business The Rite Group which operates brands doing lawn mowing, exterior washing, handyman work and cleaning.

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More messages from your neighbours
22 days ago

Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.

Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.

We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?

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As a customer, what do you think about automation?
  • 9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
    9.5% Complete
  • 43.4% I want to be able to choose.
    43.4% Complete
  • 47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
    47.1% Complete
2518 votes
6 hours ago

The butcher with a taste for adventure

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Jonathan and Sarah Walker are a couple with a give-it-a-go attitude to life, whether it’s travelling the world in a Land Rover or starting a butchery business with no experience.

Nestled below Hakarimata Scenic Reserve just outside of Ngāruawāhia is Soggy Bottom Holding, the local butcher you’ll recognise from frosty mornings at the farmer’s markets.

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8 hours ago

‘Devastated and disappointed’ - former students hope it wasn’t one of their own

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Former students of Taupō Nui-a-Tia College say they’re “devastated” and “disappointed” after the alleged arson at their school which has left an entire block of classrooms, and a health centre destroyed by fire.

Emergency services were called to the school about 2.15pm on Sunday, when plumes of black smoke could be seen across town.

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