Going Dutch for a sunnier future
A weekly snapshot of news from the region’s business sector.
Ara Ake’s solar power move
New Plymouth-based Ara Ake, New Zealand’s Energy Future Centre, has announced a partnership with a Dutchbased start-up, Solarge, which produces sustainably made solar panels using cutting-edge technology.
Ara Ake will be the first place in New Zealand to try out the solar panels, at its Young St office.
The panels are sustainably made and use lightweight material, which make them suitable to use on roofs with limited space capacity.
The panels are also reusable at the end of their 25-year lifespan.
Ara Ake chief executive Cristiano Marantes, pictured, said the partnership with Solarge put Aotearoa at the ‘‘forefront’’ of circular solar technology, and it had great potential as a low-energy option.
The collaboration between the two could also see Solarge set up a manufacturing facility in New Zealand.
Food For Thought
Venture Taranaki is hosting a networking event and panel discussion this week focusing on the region’s food and beverage sector.
Called Food For Thought, it will be held at Shining Peak on Gill St from 5pm tomorrow.
The brewery is one of the businesses that will provide some insights into its operation, along with Van Dyck Fine Foods and Planta.
Venture Taranaki will also share its plans for the coming year in terms of strategies and projects on the horizon to grow the sector.
The 90-minute showcase is free to attend, and those interested can register
online at eventbrite.com.
New accountancy business
A new accountancy business was officially launched in New Plymouth this month.
Wisnewskismith Chartered Accountants, on Robe St, has been set up by founding members Craig Wisnewski and Callum Smith.
The firm can cater for all-sized businesses and offers tax compliance services, along with financial analysis, strategic planning and business valuation.
Dance venture’s first birthday
New Plymouth’s only Latin dance school is marking its first year in business in the only way it knows how – by hitting the dance floor.
Alegria Latin Dance, which is based on Devon St West, will host a series of dance workshops and private classes on June 24 and 25, with some of the best instructors in the country coming along for the celebration.
The school primarily teaches salsa and bachata styles, as well as kizomba, dancehall and tango. For more information, visit its Facebook page.
Do you have some Taranaki business news you want to share? Email taranakinewsdesk@stuff.co.nz – subject line: Biz Bites.