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Kia Ora ,
Get ready for a week of sweet indulgence and community spirit with the Sweet As Hot Chocolate Challenge! This delightful event is back, bringing together some of our best local cafes and eateries to serve the most creative and delicious hot chocolate creations.
Supporting our local small businesses has never been more enjoyable. By participating in the Hot Chocolate Challenge, you're not just treating yourself; you're helping to boost our local economy and showing our amazing entrepreneurs that the Hutt Valley stands behind them. So, gather your friends, whānau, or colleagues and embark on a hot chocolate adventure across our beloved valley. Every cup is a toast to the strength and resilience of our local businesses.
When we support local, we’re investing in our community's future. Every purchase helps keep doors open, creates jobs, and fosters a vibrant, thriving local economy. It’s a powerful way to show our collective strength and ensure the Hutt Valley remains a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
And here’s another way to make a big impact: our Hutt Valley Chamber app! If you’re a member, downloading the app is a fantastic way to stay connected and support local businesses. You'll find exclusive deals and discounts that make shopping locally even more rewarding. If you haven’t set up your account yet, get in touch with Patrick at patrick@hvchamber.org.nz, and start enjoying all the benefits the app has to offer.
Let's make this week one to remember. Enjoy the Sweet As Hot Chocolate Challenge, support our local gems, and take advantage of the great offers available through our Chamber app. Together, we can keep our Hutt Valley community strong and vibrant.
A Huge Thank you to all our Partners for your continued support.
In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
- National News
- Regional News
- Seaview Business News
- Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
- Featured Events
- Member News/Events
Member Offers
Employment Opportunities
National News
The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date.
Xero Beautiful Business Fund offers total prize pool of at least $80,000 to Kiwi small businesses
The Xero Beautiful Business Fund for 2024 offers more than NZ$750,000 globally in funding to support small businesses and nonprofits with their growth plans, helping drive future success.
At least $80,000 will go to SMEs across Aotearoa New Zealand, with $20,000 being awarded to the winner of each of the four categories: Innovating for environmental sustainability, Trailblazing in technology, Strengthening community connections, Upskilling for the future. The recipients are also eligible to become a global winner, receiving an additional $50,000 (this global win was actually awarded to a Kiwi business, Buzz Burrows, last year).
Entries are open now until 27 August.
Reserve Bank keeps OCR at 5.5 percent
On 10 July the Reserve Bank announced that the Official Cash Rate (OCR) will stay at 5.5 percent. The Reserve Bank noted its decision was partly informed by “receding domestic pricing pressures, as well as lower inflation for goods and services imported into New Zealand” and predicts a return to its target range of 1-3 percent inflation in the second half of 2024. However, the Reserve Bank was unclear about the impact upcoming tax cuts will have. Complete data on the Consumer Price Index for the year to 30 June will be released later this week.
OECD report shows New Zealand is a red tape state
Minister for Regulation David Seymour says that the OECD Product Market Regulation Indicators (PMRI) released this morning shows why New Zealanders sorely need regulatory reform.
“This shocker result should end any and all doubt that the Government must go to war on red tape and regulation,” says Mr Seymour.
“The quality of regulation in New Zealand is in freefall. From being ranked 2nd in 1998, we are now 20th in this year’s survey. It’s no coincidence that New Zealand experienced strong productivity growth in the 1990s but has fallen behind since.
“Areas that are found to be particularly overregulated include barriers to foreign direct investment, acquiring licenses and permits, and administrative and regulatory burden – where we rank last in the OECD.
Short employer survey for ERO’s research on the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA)
The Education Review Office (ERO) wants to hear from employers. They are doing some research to inform government decision-making about the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA). Please can you help by completing this short survey about the young people you employ. It will take about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Here is the link to the survey. Feel free to forward this email to other employers. The link gives information about the project and consent before the survey starts.
Please respond before the survey closes on the 26th of July.
A bit about this work and why it matters
We want to understand the views and experiences of implementing the NCEA Level 1 changes, and the impacts. The Minister of Education commissioned this review to help understand how things are going. Your school’s responses can help inform future decisions about the qualification and school supports.
Questions? Contact teihuwaka@ero.govt.nz
Regional News
Project Update: H2O Xtream
Did you know that H2O Xtream was the first in the world to get a giant inflatable pelican slide that stood 3.7 metres high and 8 metres long?
Did you also know that since their last update…
- The foundation has been completed and the pool is being installed as we speak in the Jr leisure pool area.
- The much-anticipated hydro slide’s external framing is on-going, but the structure and stairs are complete.
- The main pool hall roof is on and is being painted as we speak.
- The plantroom mechanical installation is underway in the basement.
- The roof for the plantroom extension is in progress.
- The redeveloped entranceway now has its floor slab poured!
Long Term Plan adoption
Upper Hutt City Council’s Long Term Plan 2024 – 2034 was formally adopted on 27 June following community consultation from 2 April to 12 May.
The council proposed a back-to-basics approach that delivers core activities, maintains infrastructure, and builds financial resilience. They appreciate the time taken by the community to give their views.
Lower Hutt’s hot chocolate challenge promises wild flavours and delectable delights
Smashed croissants, pandan leaves, macadamia truffle, frozen marshmallows, and drinks with kiwi classics like buzz bars, crunchies, snickers, and maltesers are just some of the delicious flavours in the “Sweet As” Hutt’s Hot Chocolate Challenge™.
Since 2015, local cafes have presented signature hot chocolate creations, with customers voting for their favourite. This year, 22 hospitality operators in Lower Hutt’s City Centre are participating from 5th to 21st July.
New this year is the “Sweetstake,” where customers can win prizes by collecting stickers through purchases or foodbank donations. The draw will happen at the challenge's end.
A foodbank drive runs throughout the event. Donations at Buzz Café or CK and Co Realty in Alicetown earn a Sweetstake stamp, with proceeds going to the Lower Hutt Food Bank.
Vote for your favourite hot chocolate via a QR code at participating cafes. Enjoy creative entries like Lady Macadamia, Butter My Pandan vegan hot chocolate, Freezy Mallow Elegance, and traditional-style hot chocolates like Smore’d.
Kia Haumaru Safer Centres Programme
Retailers are invited to the first training event of the Kia Haumaru Safer Centres Programme, designed for staff and owners of consumer-facing businesses in Lower Hutt. The opening event focuses on Retail Safety, People Welfare, and Loss Prevention.
Two identical training sessions are scheduled, hosted by Hutt City Council and delivered in partnership with Lower Hutt Police and First Retail Group. Businesses are encouraged to send as many staff members as possible:
- Option One: Tuesday, 30 July, 9am-10am
- Option Two: Thursday, 8 August, 9am-10am
Both sessions will be held at The Dowse Art Museum, 45 Laings Road, Lower Hutt. Doors open at 8:30am, and the session starts at 9:00am sharp.
The training will build capability and provide direct insights from NZ Police on managing antisocial and aggressive behaviour, as well as de-escalating risky situations.
Key elements of the training include:
- Tactical Communication: De-escalating challenging situations and preventing harm using words and body language.
- People Welfare: Supporting vulnerable individuals and ensuring they receive the necessary help.
- Theft Prevention: Strategies for dealing with shoplifting, aggressive behaviour, trespassing, robbery, and developing a store safety plan.
Participation in the Kia Haumaru Programme is free, but advance registration is required.
Grants for local businesses
Four local businesses and three community groups have received financial support in the third and final round of funding for Upper Hutt City Council’s Sustainability Stimulus Grant (SSG).
They are Arrow Uniforms for their work on a fabric recycling programme, Hutt Concrete Products for the manufacture of low carbon concrete, Aston Norwood for stream restoration and The Good Carbon Farm for the development of their biochar charity.
You can read more about the projects in the link below.
Hutt Valley Careerfest
Are you ready to discover exciting career opportunities and shape your future? Join us at CareerFest 2024 on 30th July at the Lower Hutt Event Centre. This event, running from 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM, brings together over 90 employers, organisations, and education providers, offering a unique platform for you to explore diverse career paths.
Whether you’re dreaming of a career in construction, technology, infrastructure, or any other field, CareerFest has something for everyone. Engage in hands-on activities, meet top employers, and get inspired by the possibilities that await you. This is the perfect opportunity to network, gain insights, and take the first step towards your next career adventure.
Details:
Date: 30th July 2024
Time: 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Lower Hutt Event Centre, 30c Laings Road, Hutt Central
Entry: Free
Don’t miss out – your future starts here! For more information, please contact our Special Events Coordinator at annette@hvchamber.org.nz.
Join us at CareerFest and let’s build a brighter future together!
Seaview Business News
Seaview business keeps bringing us the goods
It was a pleasure to meet Tom Hudig, Managing Director of Seaview-based John Jacobson Ltd (JJL Imports). Since 1987, this family-owned business has been importing food goods from the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. Starting with the Bolletje Dutch Crispbakes, today they import over 1,500 different lines including Biscuits, Cakes, Licorice, Preserves, Cheese, chocolates and many other products like Stroopie Dutch Syrup Waffles, Almond Fingers, Almond Rounds, Marzipan Cakes, Butter Custard Cakes, Apple Rounds, Cinnamon Squares, Butter Pretzel Cookies, Fondant Cakes and Coconut Rings.
All I can say is YUMMMMM
You can find these great products at the Dutch Shop at 89 Jackson Street Petone, as well as many supermarkets and speciality stores across New Zealand.
Seaview Odour Treatment Renewal project briefing
You are invited to a briefing on the planned odour treatment renewal work at the Seaview Wastewater Treatment Plant. 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 - Customer.Notifications@wellingtonwater.co.nz. (before July 23)
Seaview manufacturer expanding presence in New Zealand and internationally
Established and long-term Seaview business New Zealand Tube Mills is a leading manufacturer specialising in carbon & stainless steel precision tubes. Established in the 1950s as an exhaust system producer for the automotive industry, the company pivoted to horticultural trellising solutions in the early 2000’s as the local car manufacturing industry declined. Today, they produce the ECO TRELLIS® and ECO BEAM™ systems, widely used in vineyards and orchards. In recent years they have expanded their work to include Apple orchards across New Zealand & Australia with their ECO V trellis.
Patrick McKibbin, CEO of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, sat down with Terry Carter, General Manager of New Zealand Tube Mills to discuss their business and their role in the Seaview business community.
‘The middle of each year is traditionally a busy time for New Zealand Tube Mills, and this year is no different’ said Terry Carter, ‘This is when we have our production at high capacity, and we are certainly in that position this year. But we are still doing things a little bit differently to most of the manufacturing community. Our factory team work 4 days, Monday to Thursday, still at 40 hours a week, but having Friday off, unless there is overtime to do. We have found this model works well, and our productivity is still really good.’
There is lots going on for this leader in environmentally and sustainable trellising solutions for the agricultural and horticultural industries.
Terry explained that Cyclone Gabrielle, whilst devasting for the Hawkes Bay region and some of their main customers in the wine and hort sectors, has meant that some customers have been looking for different solutions as part of the rebuilding process.
‘Whilst some of the more traditional methods of trellising were washed away, the steel trellis was more easily reclaimed. This additional advantage of our solution was interesting. We of course have supported our customers through this difficult time but have seen new customers seek our option as they look to replace’ says Terry.
Coming out of the Covid pandemic has also seen New Zealand Tube Mills prosper. However, a lack of RSE workers in 2022 for the Kiwifruit sector and higher interest rates meant a poor quality of crop in 2023 and these producers were reluctant to further invest. Now this has improved, and quality, yields and higher prices are being seen this sector is starting to open up.
In recent years, New Zealand Tube Mills has focused on expanding its market presence internationally. They have secured substantial business in the U.S., supplying major wine brands in California, and are now exploring opportunities in Europe with the assistance of MBIE and ALTIOS, a global business consultancy. This strategic expansion aims to balance their seasonal sales by targeting both Northern and Southern Hemisphere markets. Their team are working hard in Tasmania as that wine sector starts to grow, and their mainland market in the traditional wine producing areas of Australia are also continuing to look for environmental solutions. They have been well supported by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise in many of their markets.
The environmental nature of the New Zealand Tube Mills solution is really paying dividends as customers start to look for options which are sustainable. The New Zealand Tube Mills solutions meets the needs of customers in the USA and Europe as their regulations increase their emphasis in this area. The company recently signed up to Toitu Envirocare, to progress its Carbon Zero initiatives.
Situated in Seaview means that New Zealand Tube Mills are also thinking about the longer term impacts of climate change; sea level rise, the cost of insurance and the future of their business. For the time being though they have just resigned their lease for the next 8 years and are very happy to be located in the Seaview area of the Hutt Valley, close to their skilled workforce.
It's definitely onward and upwards for this great Hutt Valley manufacturer.
Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
Opportunities for Kiwi firms, particularly in tech & services, manufacturing, and F&B/consumer goods
Tech and Services: There is growing demand for digital transformation and cutting-edge technologies, driven by government spending. Services are also growing rapidly, supported by the UAE’s efforts to be a regional player, including in data centres. Education, telehealth, data analytics and artificial intelligence are all expanding, in line with their Vision2031 prioritisation. That said, the UAE is a highly competitive market with competitors a short distance away. Cost of goods sold are quite high, driven by expensive talent, and retention is difficult given the hot labour market.
Manufacturing: Foreign firms that partner with local manufacturers, and/or set up operations themselves locally, can take advantage of the ‘Make in the Emirates’ scheme’s incentives. Incentives include better access to requests for proposals, favourable financing, and training opportunities. In-country firms can also access the UAE’s growing network of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). The country is expecting to exceed its initial target of signing 26 CEPAs by 2031. Six are currently in force with India, Israel, Indonesia, Türkiye, Cambodia, and Georgia, with another three signed, five concluded, and a further eleven currently under negotiation, including with New Zealand. New Zealand firms providing e-mobility solutions have received regional interest, and the hydrocarbon sector will remain important to the UAE in the years to come, including as part of non-oil future exports. That said, export controls requirements, and the increased cost of sea freight due to the regional situation, continue to be challenges for New Zealand manufacturing firms.
Food, beverage, and consumer goods: Companies that move away from commodity trading and focus on value-adding through branded products can command a premium price in both retail and food services sectors in the Emirates. A major pharmaceutical retailer’s upcoming entry into the UAE will also facilitate market access to many new nutraceuticals and fast-moving customer goods (FMCGs). That said, given the limited barriers of trade, the UAE market is becoming increasingly competitive, with many high quality, and sometimes cheaper, alternatives to New Zealand products fighting for market share. This sector is also grappling with the increased cost of air and sea freight, combined with increased shipping times.
Huge Day for Lower Hutt Game Developer A44
Lower Hutt based A44 is launching a new game to the world this week.
Founded in 2013, A44 has a goal of making games they want to play. Their team is a sophisticated group of game developers and world-leading visual effects artists who excel at meticulous gameplay and cinematic experiences. In 2018 they released the hugely successful Ashen. The team have now completed Flintlock; The Siege of Dawn, which will be launched on July 18th. A lot of really hard work has gone into the development of Flintlock; The Siege of Dawn. You can pre-order here https://www.playflintlock.com/linkhub
Congratulations to the team at A44. We know this will be a huge success too.
Featured Events
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: Wed, 24 July
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Hutt Valley Careerfest
When: Tues, 30 July
Time: 2:45pm - 4:00pm
Where: Lower Hutt Events Centre, 30c Laings Road, Hutt Central.
Investing 101 with Forsyth Barr
When: Thurs, 1 Aug
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
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
AI Training for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in Hutt Valley
When: Wed, 14 Aug
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Cost: $450.00 + GST (Non-Chamber members) - 10% off for Chamber members
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
Join Us for Q Space Open Day!
We’re excited to open our doors and welcome you to our Q Space Open Day! Whether you’re already part of our vibrant community or curious to see what we’re all about, this is the perfect opportunity to explore and connect.
Date: 18th July 2024
Time: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Location: Q Space, Level 1, 134 Queens Drive, Lower Hutt
What’s Happening:
- Tours: Discover our amazing coworking spaces, meeting rooms, and all the amenities that make Q Space a great place to work.
- Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks throughout the day. We’ll also have a fun drinks trolley making the rounds!
- Networking: Meet fellow entrepreneurs, freelancers, and professionals from various industries. It’s a great chance to expand your network and make new connections.
- Special Offers: Exclusive deals on memberships and meeting room bookings for attendees.
Bring Your Friends & Family: We encourage you to bring along friends, family, and colleagues. Share the Q Space experience with those you think would love to see what we’re all about!
Whether you’re looking for a new workspace, want to connect with like-minded individuals, or simply enjoy a fun and engaging day out, Q Space Open Day has something for everyone.
Come see why Q Space is the perfect place for you to work, collaborate, and thrive.
We can’t wait to show you around and share all the amazing things happening here!
Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: A Unique Corporate Event Experience
Host your next corporate event at the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition. This immersive experience explores the science behind the iconic BBC series, offering private and discounted viewing options.
Packages Available:
- Discounted General Viewing: 30% off with code CORP30.
- Private Viewing: Exclusive access for groups of 50-300.
- Bespoke Packages: Customised events with catering and entertainment.
Book now by contacting Carla Steed at Carla.steed@wellingtonnz.com or call 027 836 0589. Don’t miss this extraordinary journey through time and space!
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.
