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Hutt Valley Business Weekly
 

Kia Ora , 

When engaging with MPs, government agencies, local governments, and other stakeholders, we're often asked about the current state of the business community. These inquiries have become particularly relevant as the government rolls out new policies amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Looking at the data from the many results we had last night, it is evident that the views of the Hutt Valley business community have changed in the past 5-6 months. Just after the election, there was a feeling of optimism. This may still be there for the longer term, but it looks like it is not so right now.

Please add your voice to our data. I would really appreciate your help in completing this short business confidence survey.  

Complete the Survey Now

Congratulations to Our Hot Cross Bun Winners!

We're thrilled to announce the winners of the Hot Cross Bun giveaway from Janus Bakkerij! Congratulations to the ten following Chamber members who have each won a delicious pack of 6 Easter Hot Cross Buns.

  • James Scott from Hutt Community Radio
  • Rasik K Bhula from Paragon PG NZ
  • Rochelle from Wellington Water Filters
  • Adrian Woodliffe from Stratmore Construction Solutions
  • Darryn Gray from Darryn Gray Consulting 
  • Tricia McKendry from David Reid Homes
  • Vicky Bennett from Petone Working Mens Club
  • LJ Shaw from Cosmos Business
  • Vered Ohanna from Success Engineering 
  • Meena Patel from Woburn International

Thank you to all who expressed interest in this tasty draw. Our winners can look forward to indulging in these decadent, spiced treats that are sure to add a special touch to your Easter festivities.

Megan will be in touch with the winners shortly to coordinate the delivery of your Hot Cross Buns. We're excited for you to enjoy this delightful treat!

Stay connected with the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce for more opportunities and benefits. A big thank you again to Janus Bakkerij for partnering with us and to all our members for your continued support.

 
 

A Huge Thank you to all our Partners for your continued support.

Hutt Valley Chamber Partners
 
 

In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:

  • Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi (Delivering RiverLink) Updates
  • National News
  • Regional News 
  • Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
  • Featured Events
  • Member News/Events

  • Member Offers

  • Employment Opportunities

 
 
 

SH2 Lane Closures

Utilities and ground condition investigations continue along SH2 on Sunday to Thursday nights next week.
Northbound lanes will be reduced to one lane overnight from Sunday 17th -  Thursday 21st March between 7pm and 5.30am. 
Southbound lanes will also be reduced to one lane overnight from Sunday 17th - Wednesday 27th March between the same times. 
Please follow the temporary speed restrictions (50 km/h) and take extra care when travelling through these areas. 
Plan your journey at journeys.nzta.govt.nz/journey-planner

Upcoming Infrastructure Works in Hutt Valley: What You Need to Know

Crews are currently engaged in locating utility services and testing the pavement material/thickness along Rutherford, Margaret, Daly, Dudley, High streets, and Andrews Avenue. Traffic management measures have been, and will continue to be, implemented from Wednesday 28th February to Friday 5th April, operating from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. It is noted that no work will be conducted on Friday or Saturday nights, nor during public holidays.

Please be advised:

  • Not every street will be affected simultaneously. The works will transition between locations.
  • The Riverbank carpark will remain accessible at all times. While access for residences and businesses will continue to be open to pedestrians/cyclists, vehicle access may be restricted and managed by the traffic management team during detours.
  • Traffic management measures will be enacted; occasionally, this may involve stop/go controls and minor detours to ensure community safety.
  • Speed limits will be reduced from 50 km/hr to 30 km/hr.
  • Some parking spaces may be unavailable during the works period.
Learn More
 
 

 

National News

 

 

The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date. 

 
 

Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) General Review

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is currently seeking views on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) General Review.

The Review will take into account the work of all committees established under CPTPP, identify provisions that would benefit from revision or updating, and ensure the Agreement remains of the highest possible standard. Feedback is sought to ensure that CPTPP remains relevant to the trade and investment issues and challenges New Zealand currently faces


MFAT particularly welcomes feedback from Māori, businesses, exporters, civil society and the public to ensure CPTPP reflects the interest of all New Zealanders. Consultation opens on 7 March 2024. To make a submission, email cptpp@mfat.govt.nz or complete the survey below. 

Complete the Survey Now!
 

Government delivering on tax commitment

Legislation implementing coalition Government tax commitments and addressing long-standing tax anomalies will be progressed in Parliament next week, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

The legislation is contained in an Amendment Paper to the Taxation (Annual Rates for 2023–24, Multinational Tax, and Remedial Matters) Bill issued today. 

“The Amendment Paper represents the first step in delivering on the Government’s tax commitments,” Nicola Willis says.

Read the Full Media Release Here
 
 

Hon Brooke Van Velden Address | Government Reform for Workplace Flexibility and Economic Growth

In a recent address, the coalition Government's commitment to proactive initiatives in the Workplace Relations and Safety portfolio was highlighted, marking a significant pivot from previous policies. The Government has successfully abolished the Fair Pay Agreements and expanded 90-day trial periods, fulfilling two key priorities within its initial 100-day plan. The focus is now shifting towards long-term goals for the portfolio, aiming to reduce red tape and regulations to unlock the full potential of businesses and employees alike.

Specific priorities include reforming the Holidays Act to address widespread non-compliance issues and simplify its complexities, ensuring the legislation accommodates diverse work arrangements. Additionally, a review of health and safety laws is on the agenda, aiming to clarify obligations and reduce unnecessary compliance burdens, particularly for small businesses. The Government also seeks to refine the Employment Relations Act, enhancing the balance between regulatory flexibility and worker protection and increasing certainty in contracting relationships, potentially simplifying personal grievance procedures.

Read the Full Media Release Here
 
 

 

Regional News

 

 
 
 

Representation Review| Upper Hutt City Council

Upper Hutt City Council are undertaking a Representation Review, a mandatory process that must be carried out every six years. This review is crucial to ensure that all communities in our city are represented fairly and effectively.

Currently, the Upper Hutt community is represented by a mayor and ten councillors who are elected across the whole of Upper Hutt. There are no community boards.
This review will examine our representation model, considering the appropriate number of councillors and the establishment and structuring of any additional wards and community boards.

The review also focuses on evaluating governance structures, including options for wards and community boards by looking at the following factors:

  • The total number of councillors we have.
  • The number of wards there will be in addition to the Māori ward(s).
  • What wards might be called, how many Councillors they each have, and where their boundaries will be.
  • Whether there are community boards, and if so, the review must also consider how they are set up (e.g., what they’re called, where they are, how many members they have, etc).

This is the third stage of the review, following decisions by Council in 2023 to include at least one Māori ward and that the election will be conducted using the 'first past the post' system.
If you'd like to take part in the survey, click below: 
 

Complete the Survey Now!

10 Year Plan | Hutt City Council

The countdown is on for you to have a say on what matters to you in Lower Hutt!

Consultation kicks off for their draft 10-Year Plan from Tuesday, 2 April, until Friday, 3 May.

Hutt City Councillors want to get out and about to chat with you all during this time.

If you’d like them to visit your business, organisation or club, let us them know by emailing haveyoursay@huttcity.govt.nz

Complete the Survey!
 
 

 

Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News

 

 

Hutt Valley's Recipe for Innovation

The Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with WellingtonNZ and the New Zealand Food Innovation Network, recently orchestrated an evening that celebrated the essence of food innovation. This collaborative event brought together the local food and beverage manufacturing sector to dive into the theme of innovation through adversity.

Nicky Solomon, of the New Zealand Food Innovation Network captured the audience with her empowering message, "Let the obstacles be your opportunity," highlighting the innovative potential within challenges. Nikki Van de Laar from Creative Cooking shared her inspiring journey of developing new products, including an innovative macadamia brittle, underlining the importance of facing the most daunting challenges with determination and creativity.

The event's success was amplified by the support from Clare Menzies and the team from WellingtonNZ, demonstrating the power of collaboration in fostering a thriving food innovation culture. It was a testament to the Hutt Valley's role as a hotbed of culinary creativity and innovation, where challenges are not just obstacles but catalysts for growth and success.

 
 

 

Featured Events

 

 

Grazie: Inspirazione | Where Ambition meets Amore

 

When:  Thurs, 21 March
Time: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Where: The Sebel Hotel, Grazie Restaurant, 72 High Street, Lower Hutt

Book Now!

Business Numbers - Looking for Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities in your Data 

When:  Wed, 3 April
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Upper Hutt Libraries, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt

Book Now!

Long Term Plan Consultation Workshop | Hutt City Council

 

When:  Wed, 10 April
Time: 8:00am - 9:00am
Where:  Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt

Book Now!
 
 

Business Skills Lunch Series: Te Reo & Tikanga at Work

When:  Wed, 10 April
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where:  Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt

Book Now!

Embracing Change to Drive your Business Forward | WCBE

When:  Wed, 10 April
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Upper Hutt Libraries, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt

Book Now!
 

Auspicious AI Master Class

When:  Thurs, 11 April
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt

Book Now!
 
 

Streetwise Marketing to Maximise ROI 

When:  Thurs, 11 April
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt

Book Now!
 
 
 

 

Member News/Events

 

 
 

UPS Power Solutions Awarded Eaton Distributor of the Year

The Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrates UPS Power Solutions Ltd's extraordinary achievement of being named Eaton Distributor of the Year for the fifth consecutive time. This achievement highlights their unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and the tireless efforts of their team to deliver unparalleled service. This achievement not only exemplifies their dedication to continuous improvement but also reinforces their position as a leader in power management solutions. The Chamber commends UPS Power Solutions for setting a stellar example for the business community in the Hutt Valley and beyond. Congratulations to the entire team on this remarkable success! 

 

Cathy Sheppard - BSI People Skills, Wins Global Award

From the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, we want to send a huge congratulations to Cathy Sheppard for her outstanding achievement in being named Professional Training CEO of the Year 2024 by Corporate America Today's Annual Awards. This accolade not only highlights Cathy's exemplary leadership and the excellence of BSI People Skills Ltd but also underscores the remarkable potential within Lower Hutt. Starting from the ground up over ten years ago, Cathy has assembled an incredible team, together making a significant impact on lives both in New Zealand and globally. We're proud to recognise her achievements and are excited to see how her continued work will shape the future of professional training worldwide.

 
 
 

Enter the 2024 Diversity Award NZ

Now is your chance to showcase the amazing work your organisation is doing to increase diversity, equity and inclusion within your workplace and put people at the core of what you do. This prestigious national awards programme has a new category this year – the Respectful Culture Award – so there are five organisation awards alongside the Impact Award and the Diversity Champion Award. It’s free to enter and all the information you need is at diversityworksnz.org.nz

Learn More
 

 

Member Offers

 

 

Z Energy | Chamber Deals

Z Business is delighted to advise that Chamber of Commerce members discount will increase from 10 cents per litre to 11 cents per litre off pump at service stations and truck stops from Monday 5 February.  

To find out more, click the button below!

Learn More Here
 

Inferno Outdoor Fireplaces | Chamber Deals

Inferno Fires specialises in making their client's dreams & memories come true in their backyard. Inferno Outdoor Fires has a special offer for Chamber members of 5% off the marked price.

To find out more, click the button below!

Email Pete to Learn More
 
 
 
 

Air New Zealand | Chamber Deals

For businesses looking to leverage the vast array of offerings from Air New Zealand, there's good news. Air New Zealand has crafted a specialised Business Services page that outlines the multitude of options and programs available for businesses.

To find out more, click the button below!

Learn More Here

Bunnings Trade | PowerPass Member Deal

Unlock a range of discounts and simplify the procurement of a huge range of products across our nationwide store network.
Bunnings Trade has partnered with NZ Chambers of Commerce to offer members access to the PowerPass membership program providing a range of exclusive benefits.

For any questions or queries, please feel free to email us at orgs@bunnings.co.nz.

Open a new Bunnings PowerPass account or link your existing account today!
 
 
 

Rove Rentals | Chamber Member Deal

Located in Wellington Region

From moving house to weekend getaways, Rove has got your transportation needs covered.  They are also van and truck rental specialists.

Ready to rent? Visit our website at www.roverentals.co.nz or give us a call on 04 560 4755 to reserve your vehicle. Experience the ROVE difference for yourself!

ROVE Rentals - Rent What You Need, When You Need It!

HVCC OFFER – 15% off base rental rate, all vehicles

HOW TO REDEEM OFFER – when booking online, use code “HVC15” | when booking via phone or email, please mention this offer and confirm you are a member of the Chamber of Commerce

Brendan Foot Supersite | Chamber Member Deal

Pre-order the Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton for March Delivery

One of the top three utes in New Zealand, be one of the first to drive away the new Mitsubishi Triton from RSP $38,690 + ORC (GLX 2WD ) or $43,990 + ORC (GLX 4WD). This is the Triton’s first new model in nine years, offering a significant tech upgrade & improvements in driving & off-road performance, comfort, & safety. Pre-order now for March delivery with only $500 deposit & zero Clean Car Fee. Contact their Fleet Specialist, Gary, to see how he can help you with your fleet. Test drive from February. *Ts&Cs apply
 

Learn More
 
 

Embroid Me| Chamber Member Deal

Email Embroid Me Today!

2degrees Business Mobile| Chamber Member Deal

Join us on an eligible business mobile plan and get 2 months free. As a Chamber member you’ll also get 15% off for the life of your plan. 

 

For More Offers:

 

View Our Member Marketplace:

Get Our App:

 
 

 

EMPLOYMENT

 

 

Are You Hiring?

If you have a job suitable for a student, get in touch with our Education to Employment Coordinator at Hera@hvchamber.org.nz or call 04 9399821.

Thank you to all our Partners

As always, special thanks to all our Members and Partners for your ongoing support.

Hutt Valley Chamber Partners
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Join Our Hutt Valley Business Support Group
 
 

HUTT VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
Level 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt, Wellington
PHONE: 04 939 9821
www.hvchamber.org.nz
Email support at support@hvchamber.org.nz.

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