General News
Economic update: October 2025
Mark Lister from Craigs Investment Partners notes global markets are stabilising, while at home, we’re still facing challenges, including a weaker than expected GDP. Moving into the last quarter, falling…
Read MoreStudents step inside new career pathways in business and accounting
Across the Bay of Plenty, a collective of regional employers and professional service firms is working together to open doors for the next generation. Through hands-on experiences and real conversations…
Read MoreCity centre’s fresh flavours and familiar favourites are giving Tauranga new energy
There’s a quiet but confident buzz rising through the heart of Tauranga. Step into the city centre and you’ll find it’s not business as usual. It’s business better than ever.…
Read MoreBuilding culture from the ground up: students inspired by LT McGuinness
Our Instep Young Leaders braved the chilly morning last week for a chance to go behind the scenes of a major building project and hear directly from the LT McGuinness…
Read MoreMeet Basie Pikimaui: Building connections, unlocking potential
We’re thrilled to welcome Basie Pikimaui to the Ara Rau team as our new Employment Mentor. A calm presence with a strategic mindset, Basie brings a fresh energy to our…
Read MoreA guide to geoheat for businesses
The Geoheat Business Guide in Aotearoa New Zealand provides businesses with practical guidance on adopting geoheat — the direct use of geothermal energy for heating and cooling. Geothermal heat provides…
Read MoreWestern Bay of Plenty youth reimagine their city in this year’s yia! innovation challenge
More than 220 students from across the Western Bay of Plenty took part in this year’s yia! (Young Innovator Awards), bringing their boldest ideas to life in a one-day design…
Read MoreC3 Pedersen Group cuts emissions with innovative machine management
The Mount Maunganui Industry Environmental Accord has been signed by 31 businesses within the industrial zone who have volunteered to take measures above and beyond what’s required to measurably reduce environmental…
Read MorePriority One welcomes Dave Courtney as new Chief Executive
Priority One is delighted to announce the appointment of Dave Courtney as its new Chief Executive, commencing 1 December 2025. Dave joins Western Bay of Plenty’s economic development agency from…
Read MoreFrom take-off to insight: Mt Maunganui students explore aviation and tourism careers
What does it take to land a career at the intersection of adventure, people, and precision? For a group of Year 12 students from Mt Maunganui College, the answer came…
Read MoreEzra’s story: A new chapter of confidence, routine, and possibility
When Ezra reflects on his time with Ara Rau, it is the hands-on, practical nature of the experience that stands out. From forklift training to barista skills, the programme offered…
Read MoreTauranga careers expo showcases creative arts
Local street artist Tautoko Matehaere will be creating graffiti art at the expo. A local street artist, a fashion show and a film festival are just some of the things…
Read More