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Kia Ora ,
We are thrilled to announce that entries are now open for the 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards 2024! 🌟 This is our moment to celebrate the outstanding businesses that make our region shine.
The 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards is a regional event that recognises the achievements, innovation, and resilience of our local businesses. This year, we are excited to introduce the brand-new People’s Choice award, adding to our nine diverse categories. There is a perfect opportunity for every business to find its spotlight and gain the recognition it deserves.
Business Categories:
- Excellence in Manufacturing
- Excellence in Service and Support
- Excellence in Technology and Innovation
- Excellence in Hospitality, Tourism and Retail
- Excellence in Construction, Trades and Infrastructure
Special Categories:
- Excellence in Sustainable and Environmental Practices
- Best Small Business
- Diversity, Inclusion, and Growing People
- Excellence in Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Innovation
This is your chance to be celebrated among the best in Wellington, showcasing your achievements and innovations. Winning an award can significantly boost your business profile, open doors to new opportunities, and provide a wonderful morale boost for your team.
Key Dates: Entries are open from Monday, 1 July 2024, and will close on Friday, 13 September 2024, at 5pm. Finalists will be announced at the Finalist Function on Thursday, 17 October 2024. The official Awards Gala Event will take place on Friday, 15 November 2024, at the Lower Hutt Events Centre.
We invite all businesses in the Wellington Region to participate. The Awards are free to enter, and with categories ranging from Excellence in Manufacturing to Best Small Business and Diversity, Inclusion, and Growing People, there’s a place for everyone to shine.
Don’t miss out - head to bit.ly/BEA-24 for all the info and to submit your entry. Let’s make this year’s celebration the best yet!
Stay tuned for more details and special announcements as we gear up for an unforgettable celebration of success and innovation. This is your chance to be part of something amazing.
You may have noticed the Seaview Business Association logo in our header image. We are excited to announce that the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce is now working to support the businesses that are party of the Seaview Business Association. We are really excited about this opportunity and the support we can provide to the Seaview businesses. Please reach out to patrick@hvchamber.org.nz if you have any questions or need anything to support your business.
A Huge Thank you to all our Partners for your continued support.
In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
- Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi (Delivering RiverLink) Updates
- National News
- Regional News
- Seaview Business News
- Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
- Featured Events
- Member News/Events
Member Offers
Employment Opportunities
Lower Hutt Flood Protection
Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi is committed to protecting the river environment while mitigating the risk of flooding and erosion. They are creating pools and shallow areas (riffles) to promote healthy water flow and fish habitats. The image shown illustrates how a pool-riffle sequence can function.
Barriers are being used to minimise disruption and protect water quality, and any fish that might get temporarily trapped are being carefully relocated. This project aims to keep the city safe and healthy.
Want to learn more? Check out Mills St Stopbank.
National News
The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date.
What the EQC and FENZ changes may mean for you
Both Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the Earthquake Commission have announced changes from 1 July 2024.
In New Zealand, premiums for insurance policies may include a levy, which is a charge applied by the Government to help cover the cost of specific services.
For example, if you insure an asset that could be damaged by a fire, your premium will include the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) levy (plus GST). Your insurer passes this levy payment onto FENZ.
Navigating cyber threats in 2024
Cyber risk is a reality for every business in the digital age. Whether it's a business email becoming compromised, a data breach, a ransomware attack or a phishing scam, cyber incidents can cause significant financial and reputational damage to your organisation.
This was a frightening reality faced by many New Zealand businesses in 2023, with CERT NZ (New Zealand's Computer Emergency Response Team) documenting 7,935 such incidents, impacting both individuals and organisations. 24% of these cyber-attacks resulted in financial loss, with a staggering total of $18.3 million lost. These numbers highlight the importance of being prepared and proactive in managing your cyber risk, no matter the size of your business.
Regional Infrastructure Fund opens to application
Councils, iwi, businesses and community organisations with infrastructure projects that support regional priorities are invited to apply for funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, which opened today.
“The Coalition Government is focused on growing the economy. We are doing everything we can to enable an export-led recovery, regional prosperity and jobs,” Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) will drive regional productivity, prosperity and resilience by focusing on two key investment categories:
- Resilience infrastructure to improve regions’ ability to absorb, adapt and respond to stresses and shocks, and
- Enabling infrastructure to support growth by ensuring regions are well-connected and productive.
“The RIF will look for investment and co-investment projects that support the priorities of the regions themselves,” Mr Jones says.
GPS 2024: Record transport investment to drive economic growth
The final Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 (GPS 2024) outlines the Government’s ambitious $22 billion transport plan to boost productivity and support economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.
“Upon being elected, the Government was clear that we wanted to make good on our transport promises to New Zealanders and that is what we are doing with our Government Policy Statement on land transport,” Mr Brown says.
GPS 2024 is already delivering for New Zealanders with:
- a 41 per cent boost in public transport services and operations funding;
- a 91 per cent boost for NZTA to fix and prevent potholes on state highways; and
- a 50 per cent boost across local councils to fix and prevent potholes on local roads.
Parental leave payments to increase from 1 July 2024
Parental leave payments will increase by 6% from Monday 1 July 2024 to reflect the rise in average weekly earnings.
The maximum parental leave payment rate for eligible employees and self-employed parents will increase from $712.17 to $754.87 gross per week.
Charts of the Week: We’ve updated our forecasts.
The Kiwi economy has clearly weakened since we last looked under the hood. Over the past 18 months, the economy has been at a standstill, recording a double-dip recession. And the forward-looking indicators point to an economy that will struggle to eke out much growth in 2024. We have downgraded our forecasts for the Kiwi economy. We now see the economy growing just 0.1% this year, down from an already soft 0.5%. The RBNZ has been among the most aggressive central banks in a quest to tame inflation. The “higher for longer” rates environment hurts. And the impact of restrictive monetary policy is undeniable.
Regional News
New Fees and Charges in Lower Hutt Starting 1 July 2024
As part of its 10-Year Plan, Hutt City Council has reviewed and updated the fees and charges for various services in Lower Hutt. Here are some of the key changes:
- Landfill: The fee will be $260 per tonne.
- Pools & Gyms: Admission will be $7 for adults, $5.50 for students, and $5 for children.
- Parking: Rates will be $3 per hour, with a maximum of $10 per day. A riverbank monthly pass will cost $150. Charges will be enforced seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.
For detailed information on fee changes for specific services or facilities, please visit the relevant page on the Hutt City Council website.
HAPAI car park repair works update
Repair work on the road surface and drainage system of Hapai’s car park (879-881 Fergusson Drive) has been delayed due to poor weather and will remain closed until Thursday, 4th July. The car park will close again for a day on 10th July for resealing.
Here is what you need to know:
- The car park will remain fenced off for construction work.
- Car park users will need to make alternative parking arrangements. Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
- Signage will be in place to advise of the car park’s closure.
For any questions, please contact the Customer Service team at askus@uhcc.govt.nz or call 04 527 2169.
Green light for a 10 Year Plan with a resilience focus
Hutt City Council has today approved its 10 Year Plan 2024-34 which has a primary focus on tackling generational under-investment in infrastructure.
The plan was passed unanimously at today’s Council meeting and maps out Council’s priorities, with a plan to invest just over $2.7 billion over the next ten years. Of this spend, 60% is in water services and 21% on transport. This includes funding for Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi (formerly RiverLink) - which will help transform our CBD’s relationship with our river, connect to a new Melling Station, and enable more residential and commercial development opportunities.
The 10 Year Plan includes a rates revenue increase of 16.9% (after growth) for the 2024/25 year. This equates to an average weekly increase of $10.81 per residential household.
Mayor Campbell Barry says setting the 10 Year Plan has been a challenging process as Council balanced financial constraints with the need to invest in vital infrastructure.
"Over the past few years we have focused on getting the basics right and investing in our city's future. We now find ourselves in a perfect storm where our infrastructure needs to be fixed, and the costs to do that work are increasing - all while our city continues to experience the pressures from growth.
"You told us you wanted us to invest in water and transport - that’s what we’re doing. Without this crucial investment over the next ten years, we put the building blocks of our city at risk.
"It brings us no joy to increase rates at a time where people and families across our city are finding their own budgets stretched. To help offset our rates increase we have gone line by line through the budget and made some tough decisions to find $38 million of savings."
Other measures adopted in the 10 Year Plan include:
- Free swimming at Council pools for under-10s when supervised by an adult with a Community Services Card. A targeted investment to remove the cost barrier of entry for children
- Additional funding of $2.8 million to address water leak repairs in 2024-25, and a further $1.5 million each year from 2025-26
- A capped $12 million investment to consider and potentially repair the dilapidated Petone Wharf.
- The introduction of paid parking on Petone's Jackson St and the Peel Carpark at Petone Library from 1 October.
- Changes to various Council fees and charges.
- Rollout of universal water meters
Mayor Barry was pleased with the significant number of public submissions on the 10 Year Plan.
"To receive 1770 submissions with a myriad of views on the future of our city was vital to refining and improving the 10 Year Plan . We listened and we made changes. Thank you to everyone who took the time to contribute."
The 10 Year Plan takes effect from 1 July 2024.
Seaview Business News
Treated Wastewater Discharge in Waiwhetu Stream Following Heavy Rainfall
On 1st July 2024, heavy rainfall within the catchment area resulted in a discharge of fully treated wastewater into the Waiwhetu Stream at 17:25. This discharge may cause the water to appear cloudy or murky and may emit some odour.
Wellington Water advises all recreational water users to follow the guidelines provided by Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA). LAWA recommends avoiding the water for two to three days after heavy rain to ensure safety.
For further information or to stop receiving notifications, please contact Wellington Water at Customer.Notifications@wellingtonwater.co.nz.
Odour Treatment Renewal Project
An upgrade of the biofilter air distribution system is scheduled to begin in early August.
The biofilter is a key part of the system to manage odour. Odorous air is pumped to the biofilter, where it passes through a bed of media (mainly bark, gravel and limestone chip) containing microbes that break down the odour-causing compounds.
As a reminder, when the biofilter media was replaced in December 2023, a comprehensive mechanical and structural condition assessment was undertaken. It became evident that:
- The air distribution system (plenum) in all six biofilter cells needs replacing.
- The biofilter cell isolation system needs redesign and upgrading to isolate each of the six cells individually, this would avoid odour discharge to the environment during future routine maintenance events.
- The design for the replacement air distribution system and cell isolation has been completed and is undergoing review in line with Wellington Water’s process.
We are close to having a contractor in place to undertake this work, and necessary equipment has been ordered.
Wellington Water - Treatment Renewal Work Project Update Meeting
Come and join Wellington Water for a briefing on the planned odour treatment renewal work. We will go through the design and work programme in detail and answer any questions. This briefing will be open to any interested members of the public.
When: Tuesday, July 30, from 6pm - 7pm
Where: Wellington Water (Level 4) 25, Victoria Street, Petone
RSVP - Community@wellingtonwater.co.nz (before July 23)
Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
Showcasing innovative 3D printing solutions:
A collaboration between WelTec and InTELCOM Services Limited
The Engineering Department under the School of Innovation Design and Technology at WelTec recently embarked on an exciting 3D printing project, demonstrating our advanced capabilities in rapid prototyping and small-scale manufacturing. The project originated from a request by InTELCOM Services Limited, a technology firm based in Lower Hutt, seeking assistance with a small molding job for one of their products.
InTELCOM initially approached us to create 10 encapsulations for a circuit board attached to a cable. Recognizing the potential for a more efficient and innovative solution, our team introduced them to the state-of-the-art 3D printing facilities available at WelTec. After thorough discussions, InTELCOM agreed to proceed with 3D printing, appreciating its flexibility and precision.
Our collaboration began with a detailed consultation to understand InTELCOM’s specific requirements. Leveraging our expertise, we designed a series of prototypes, iterating the design based on feedback to ensure it met all functional and aesthetic criteria. This iterative process highlighted the rapid adaptability of 3D printing technology.
Upon finalizing the design and obtaining approval from InTELCOM, we moved to the production phase. Utilizing our advanced 3D printing equipment, we successfully produced the encapsulations with high accuracy and quality. The finished products met the client's expectations, demonstrating the efficacy of 3D printing for specialized manufacturing tasks.
This project exemplifies WelTec’s capabilities in providing 3D printing solutions to industry partners. It highlights our facility’s potential to transform traditional manufacturing processes, offering benefits such as reduced lead times, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to easily customize products to meet precise specifications.
By sharing this success story, we aim to inform the industrial community of the facilities and expertise available at WelTec. Our 3D printing capabilities show our commitment to innovation and quality, making us a valuable partner for businesses needing advanced engineering solutions.
Our collaboration began with a detailed consultation to understand InTELCOM’s specific requirements. Leveraging our expertise, we designed a series of prototypes, iterating the design based on feedback to ensure it met all functional and aesthetic criteria. This iterative process highlighted the rapid adaptability of 3D printing technology.
Upon finalizing the design and obtaining approval from InTELCOM, we moved to the production phase. Utilizing our advanced 3D printing equipment, we successfully produced the encapsulations with high accuracy and quality. The finished products met the client's expectations, demonstrating the efficacy of 3D printing for specialized manufacturing tasks.
This project exemplifies WelTec’s capabilities in providing 3D printing solutions to industry partners. It highlights our facility’s potential to transform traditional manufacturing processes, offering benefits such as reduced lead times, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to easily customize products to meet precise specifications.
By sharing this success story, we aim to inform the industrial community of the facilities and expertise available at WelTec. Our 3D printing capabilities show our commitment to innovation and quality, making us a valuable partner for businesses needing advanced engineering solutions.
Featured Events
Women in Business | Building Resilience - Unlocking your Inner Strength
When: Thurs, 4 July
Time: 9:00am - 11:00am
Where: NZCIS (Murray & Bond Room), 48 Somme Road, Upper Hutt Cost: $42.00 + GST for Chamber Members, $52.00 + GST for Non-Chamber Members
Dale Carnegie | Revenue Blind Spots Workshop
When: Tues, 16 July
Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Maximising the Value of your Intellectual Property
When: Mon, 24 July
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
15 Invaluable Laws of Growth | WCBE
When: Thurs, 25 July
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Become a Learning organisation | Business Skills Lunch Series
When: Wed, 7 Aug
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Everyone communicates few connect - understanding behaviour for effective communication
| WCBE
When: Thurs, 22 Aug
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Member News/Events
More than you expected – Rove Rentals – Commercial Fleet
Hutt Valley based Rove Rentals are local and have the flexibility to think on their feet and make productive decisions.
ROVE started after seeing an increasing demand for commercial vans as well as a real shortage of quality vehicles and flexible terms. Using their 25 years’ experience in the motor vehicle service and retail industry, they knew they could provide a unique and quality service to the community.
Meeting the demand for local businesses means they provide modern vehicles and flexible arrangements that make the perfect solution and can fill the gap for businesses needing an extra van but can’t justify buying one.
Rove Rentals now have more commercial vehicles to meet your needs with specialised trucks to meet your business requirements.
Celebrating One Year of EmbroidMe Hutt Valley!
Next month, EmbroidMe Hutt Valley celebrates their first anniversary in business. To mark this milestone, they are excited to offer exclusive member deals for the entire month of July.
Special Anniversary Offer
- Waived Setup Fee: Start your orders without the standard setup fee.
- 10% Discount: Enjoy a 10% discount on all orders in July.
- Win Branded Gear: Every order enters you into a draw to win $500 worth of branded gear.
EmbroidMe Hutt Valley appreciates the support from their community and looks forward to many more years of success together. Thank you for being a part of their journey!
Ensuring qualifications meet industry need
The Water Qualifications Review Phase One has begun, and your expertise is needed to ensure these qualifications are fit for purpose and that graduates meet future industry requirements. This project will review the current water qualifications, consider new credentials such as trade-waste training standards, and develop new skill standards to replace unit standards in the reviewed qualifications. Your insights are essential - please complete the survey to contribute.
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!
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!
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!
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.
More than you expected – Rove Rentals – Commercial Fleet
Located in Wellington Region
Hutt Valley based Rove Rentals are local and have the flexibility to think on their feet and make productive decisions.
ROVE started after seeing an increasing demand for commercial vans as well as a real shortage of quality vehicles and flexible terms. Using their 25 years’ experience in the motor vehicle service and retail industry, they knew they could provide a unique and quality service to the community.
Meeting the demand for local businesses means they provide modern vehicles and flexible arrangements that make the perfect solution and can fill the gap for businesses needing an extra van but can’t justify buying one.
Rove Rentals now have more commercial vehicles to meet your needs with specialised trucks to meet your business requirements.
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
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.
50% discount on one-off deep cleaning service | CrewCare
As part of our commitment to the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Member-to-Member Discount Program, we are prepared to offer a 50% discount on our one-off deep cleaning service to all Chamber members. This significant discount is designed to provide value to our fellow members.
How to claim: Call on the 0800 number provided in the promo (0800-800-209)
T&C's apply.
For More Offers:
View Our Member Marketplace:
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EMPLOYMENT
Real Estate Salesperson - Professionals Redcoats
Professionals Lower Hutt are on the lookout for new and existing salespeople to build on our world-class real estate team. We pride ourselves on being the organisation to provide you with the guidance, support and training to set up your own business and excel in this rewarding and lucrative career path! Reap the benefits of our experience, community standing and the lion's share of the housing market to begin your journey.
If you believe you have the passion and drive to succeed, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at:
Email - aaron.johnson@redcoats.co.nz
Phone - 027 700 3288
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.
