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Kia Ora ,
As we digest the announcements from Budget 2024, it's important to reflect on what this means for us here in the Hutt Valley. The government delivered on its promise of tax cuts, with changes to personal income tax thresholds coming into effect from July 31, 2024. But our opinion is that this budget was generally light on support for businesses. New Zealand’s productivity and innovation levels are low compared to similar economies. We agree with the assessment from Deloitte, that a focus on productivity and innovation are key to unlocking the next stage of the Hutt Valley’s and New Zealand’s economic success and a necessary step in ensuring international competitiveness. We understand the reasons for this tight budget but for business Budget 2024 missed
an opportunity. It is clear more needs to be done in this space, and we hope to see further investment and prioritisation for business in the future budgets.
The following are the highlights from the budget.
Tax Cuts
- The government has implemented tax cuts by adjusting personal income tax thresholds, effective from July 31, 2024. This change is expected to provide financial relief to many households. Businesses using payroll systems should ensure these updates are seamlessly integrated to comply with the new thresholds.
Health and Education
- Health: An investment of $8.15 billion over the next four years to address cost pressures in the health sector. This includes:
- $3.4 billion for hospital and specialty services.
- $2.12 billion for primary care and public health.
- Specific measures like funding security staff in emergency departments and extending the Breast Screening programme to include women aged 70-74.
- Education: An additional $2.93 billion in operating and capital funding for schools and early childhood education, including:
- $440.8 million from reprioritised funds.
- $1.5 billion for new schools and classrooms.
- $67 million for structured literacy support.
- $477 million for the Healthy School Lunches programme.
Law and Order
- A $2.9 billion investment aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing crime. This includes:
- $497 million from reprioritisation, savings, and revenue.
- Funding to improve law enforcement capabilities and community safety measures.
Infrastructure for Growth
- The budget allocates
significant funding for infrastructure development to address New Zealand's infrastructure deficit. Key investments include:
- Transport: $2.7 billion for new transport infrastructure, with a focus on new roads of national significance and road repairs, including the Cross Valley Link and Petone to Granada roads.
- Education Infrastructure: $678 million for new capital investments and a total of $1.5 billion overall for school infrastructure improvements.
- Regional Investment: $1.2 billion for regional projects, including $200 million specifically earmarked for flood resilience. Regions are encouraged to use these funds to enhance their infrastructure and adapt to climate change, making homes and communities safer and more resilient.
The ‘new’ expenditure – and a representation of the Government’s priorities – is in infrastructure. This Government is starting to address New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit. While the focus on infrastructure is a step in the right direction, signalling the government's priorities towards addressing New Zealand's infrastructure deficit, it's clear that more attention needs to be given to fostering business innovation and productivity. The current budget's limited emphasis on these areas means there is still a need for further development and support.
We remain hopeful that future budgets will see increased investment and prioritisation so our local businesses can thrive and compete on the global stage. Enhancing productivity and innovation is essential for unlocking the next stage of economic success for the Hutt Valley.
You can read more here:
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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
- Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
- Featured Events
- Member News/Events
Member Offers
Employment Opportunities
Avalon Skatepark
Check out the new skatepark coming to Avalon Park! The project is being developed in collaboration with internationally renowned skatepark designers Convic, as part of Te Awa Kairangi - Delivering RiverLink.
Designed with feedback from the community and insights from a specialist advisory group of roller, scooter, BMX, and skateboarding experts, the new state-of-the-art space will feature six different skate zones catering to beginner, intermediate, and expert users. The facilities will include:
- A mini bowl
- Five different quarter pipes
- Various rails, curbs, and pole jams
- A five-sided funbox with ledge
- Weather shelters, park furniture, and CCTV
Demolition of the current skating facilities at Avalon Park and construction of the new skatepark are expected to begin in late July, with the new skatepark opening in Summer 2024/2025. Funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi - Wellington, the new facilities will replace the existing Block Road skatepark and make room for vital transport improvements at Melling. For more information, click the button below.
National News
The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date.
People to keep more of their own money from 31 July
Average-income households will be up to $102 a fortnight better off from 31 July following passage of The Taxation (Budget Measures) Bill in Parliament today, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
“The bill gives effect to the coalition Government’s promise to allow New Zealanders who have been experiencing a prolonged cost of living crisis to keep more of their own money.
“More than 3.5 million Kiwis will benefit, on average, by $32 per fortnight from the bill which passed its third reading under urgency.
“People can see how much they personally will benefit from the tax changes by using the tax calculator at Budget.govt.nz/taxcalculator,” Nicola Willis says.
The bill adjusts the bottom three tax thresholds, extends eligibility for the independent earner tax credit, increases the in-work tax credit, lifts the minimum family tax credit and introduces the FamilyBoost payment for families with children in early childhood education.
Nicola Willis says the adjustment to the lowest tax threshold reduces income tax for everyone earning more than $14,000 a year.
Investing in transport for growth
Budget 2024 confirms a $2.68 billion investment in roads, rail, and public transport to unlock economic growth and enable Kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.
“This funding includes a billion-dollar increase over that signalled during the consultation on the GPS on land transport. This funding has been secured to accelerate the delivery of priority projects including the Roads of National Significance.
“We want construction firms to know that this government will get on and build roads and we have prioritised funding in place to make this happen.
“Investing in transport infrastructure is critical to our plan to rebuild the economy so we can lift incomes and afford the health, education, and other frontline services New Zealanders depend upon,” Simeon Brown says.
Fixing New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit
Budget 2024 lays the foundations for a better performing infrastructure system, with investments to ensure Kiwis spend less time waiting in traffic, that improve our climate resilience, and in modern classrooms that support our kids to achieve at school, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.
“The Government is determined to address New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit, while responsibly managing the public finances. Developing a coherent pipeline of infrastructure projects is a key part of our plan to rebuild the economy and make New Zealand a better place to live.”
Key infrastructure investments in Budget 2024 build on the existing capital pipeline, including programmes already in delivery:
- $1.2 billion for the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support our regional economies to grow. This includes an initial investment of $200 million into flood resilience infrastructure.
- $2.68 billion in roads, rail, and public transport to unlock economic growth and enable Kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely, including 17 new Roads of National Significance and funding for the Rail Network Investment Programme. This Budget boosts the Land Transport Fund with an additional $1 billion in capital funding, over that previously signalled, to accelerate construction of the Roads of National Significance.
- $1.5 billion in school and kura property so kids can learn in safe, warm and dry schools, and the school property portfolio can expand to accommodate more students
- $2.1 billion for law and order including funding for an 810-bed expansion of Waikeria Prison to support stronger sentencing and capital costs associated with delivering 500 new police officers.
- $408 million to upgrade Defence equipment and infrastructure
- $140 million to deliver 1,500 new social housing places.
- $103 million to meet emerging cost-pressures in Health NZ’s infrastructure pipeline, which includes $11.6 billion of investments over the forecast period.
Regional News
SH2 Petone Barrier Works
Plan ahead for OVERNIGHT CLOSURES of SH2 between Petone off and on-ramps and Dowse Dr Interchange, beginning Monday 3 June on the following schedule:
- Monday 3 June NORTHBOUND CLOSURES of SH2 between Petone off-ramp and Dowse Dr Interchange, 11pm to 4:30am
- Tuesday 4 June to Wednesday 5 June – NORTHBOUND CLOSURES of SH2 between Petone off-ramp and Dowse Dr Interchange, 9pm to 4:30am each night
- Thursday 6 June – NORTHBOUND CLOSURE of SH2 between Petone off-ramp and Dowse Dr Interchange, 10pm to 4:30am
- Sunday 9 June to Wednesday 12 June – SOUTHBOUND CLOSURES of SH2 between Dowse Dr and Petone on-ramp, 9pm to 4:30am each night
- Thursday 13 June – SOUTHBOUND CLOSURES of SH2 between Dowse Dr and Petone on-ramp, 10pm to 4:30am
This closure is to replace the safety
barriers under the Petone Overbridge.
A detour will be available via Lower Hutt. Please allow extra time for your journey.
These works are dependent on various factors and may be rescheduled at short notice and an update will be provided in the comment section below.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while these works take place.
Safety upgrades at various locations on Seddon Steet
John Fillmore Contracting Ltd (JFC) will be completing work to install a new safety platform and do remedial works at the recently installed raised crossing and raised safety platform on Seddon Street. Works will be completed in stages to minimise traffic disruptions with an estimated completion date by mid-July (weather dependent). This date may change if there are unforeseen delays.
- Date: Week commencing early June 2024 Working
- Time: 8.00am - 5.00pm (Monday to Saturday)
- Note: While work is being completed there is going to be a 24-hour detour in place.
No work will take place on public holidays.
During the construction period, some medium level noise will be made by our equipment, however, we will endeavour to be as unobtrusive as possible.
To facilitate the construction works, reduced lane widths and reduced speed (30kmph) will also be in place. A detour will be in place for most of the works.
Akatea Road Safety Improvements
From Tuesday, 4 June, London Road will be temporarily one-way uphill only for all vehicles due to slip repair work. The one-way section begins at the bottom of London Road and ends just before Stanhope Grove. All vehicles exiting any part of London Road must travel uphill and then down Maungaraki, Singers, and Korokoro Roads to reach the valley floor.
This is in addition to the one-way traffic management already in place for Akatea Road works further up the hill. The works are expected to be completed by the end of July.
Letters have been delivered to the local community, and more information is available through the button below.
Road Works | Boulcott/High Street
Starting on 4 June, the intersection near the Hutt Hospital entrance will be upgraded to:
- Install traffic lights
- Improve pedestrian crossing facilities
- Install a raised safety platform
- Reconfigure lanes within the intersection
Traffic management will begin setting up at 8am and will operate from 9am to 4pm on weekdays. Traffic delays are expected, so please plan your travel and avoid the area during peak times where possible. Emergency vehicles will have priority access.
The work is expected to take four months, weather dependent.
Plan Change 50 (PC50) Submissions Open
Plan Change 50 – Rural Review is part of the rolling review of the District Plan and seeks to implement national and regional direction while considering the local rural context in Upper Hutt.
If a submission was made on PC50, it is now time to review the summary and make a further submission on the decisions requested by submitters.
Anyone can make a further submission; however, further submissions can only be made in support of or opposition to an original submission.
Submissions close at 5.00 pm on Thursday, 13 June.
Join us for CareerFest 2024!
CareerFest 2024 is an exciting event hosted by the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, bringing together businesses and over 14 schools from the Hutt Valley to explore dynamic career opportunities. This is your chance to engage directly with the next generation of talent, showcasing your business and industry innovations. Highlight your latest projects, connect with enthusiastic rangatahi, and even feature the women in your team within our dedicated Women in Trades section. Don’t miss out on this unique platform to shape the future workforce and elevate your business profile. Register your interest today and secure your stand at CareerFest 2024!
Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
EMEX 2024: Showcasing Hutt Valley's Innovation in Auckland
EMEX 2024, New Zealand's leading industry trade event, took place in Auckland last week, spotlighting the latest developments in manufacturing, engineering, machinery, robotics, and technology. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the innovation and ingenuity that Hutt Valley businesses bring to the table. It was inspiring to witness so many local companies representing our region with cutting-edge products and services. Here’s a glimpse of some of the standout participants from Hutt Valley:
PaySauce Simplifies Payroll Management for Businesses
PaySauce showcased their innovative payroll solution designed to streamline payroll management for businesses. Their platform automates employee payments, tracks time, manages payroll processing for annual and public holidays, and handles PAYE deductions effortlessly. By simplifying these complex processes, PaySauce enables businesses to focus on growth and productivity without the administrative burden. For more information, visit PaySauce.
Sanpro Industries Introduces SMT: Revolutionising Automation
Sanpro Industries made a significant impact with the introduction of their new division, SMT. This division brings exclusive technology to the New Zealand market, featuring a new line of automation and workholding products. Known for their brand Sanderson Machines, Sanpro Industries continues to deliver the same Kiwi ingenuity, simplicity, quality, and reliability that have earned them an international reputation. Their presence at EMEX underscores their commitment to enhancing New Zealand's industrial capabilities with cutting-edge solutions. For more information, visit SanPro.
RF Test Solutions: Provider of Test and Measurement Tools
RF Test Solutions, New Zealand’s premier provider of test and measurement tools and services, impressed attendees with their comprehensive range of offerings. As an official partner for leading international brands and manufacturers, RF Test Solutions ensures that New Zealand businesses have access to top-tier tools and technologies, bolstering their capabilities in various industries. For more information, visit RF Test Solutions.
Datum Machines: A Testament to Kiwi Craftsmanship
Datum Machines made a significant impact at EMEX 2024 with their DGM-S1 CNC machine, designed and manufactured in New Zealand. Here's what Datum Machines had to say about their experience:
“Our new business has received a lot of help, positive support, and advice from local businesses we have met. Many people have gone above and beyond to help us, using their contacts to find what we needed and extending their services to help us get to EMEX. It’s been a real eye-opener to realise there is such a supportive network of small businesses in the Hutt region, and we are now part of that.
The show was a great success. The contacts we made with other NZ businesses, potential suppliers, future collaborators, and prospective customers were worth it alone. Everyone was impressed with the DGM-S1 CNC machine and even more impressed to realise it is New Zealand designed and manufactured.
The whole experience will have a positive influence on how Datum Machines grows as a business and operates going forward. We have been planning since getting back from Auckland, looking to the near future, and exploring many opportunities."
Featured Events
Sustainable Solutions: Uncover, Plan, Act. Thinkstep ANZ
When: Wed, 5 June
Time: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Breakfast with Rt Hon Chris Hipkins | Leader of the Opposition
When: Fri, 7 June
Time: 7:00am - 9:30am
Where: Silverstream Retreat, The Pillars, 3 Reynolds Bach Drive, Stokes Valley
Cost: Chamber members: $35.00 + GST, Non-Chamber members: $40.00 + GST
View Q-Space | Quality Flexible Workspace Located in the Heart of Hutt City
When: Wed, 12 June
Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Where: Q Space, 134 Queens Drive, Lower Hutt
BNZ Tech Series | From Hutt Valley to the World: Biology, Chemistry, Technology
When: Thurs, 13 June
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Where: BNZ Partner Centre, 45 Knights Road
Lower Hutt
Cost: Chamber members: Complimentary, Non-Chamber members: $25.00 + GST
Business Systems that work so you don't have to
When: Mon, 17 June
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Synthesis Marketing Workshop | Win Your Next Tender with a Standout Proposal
When: Tues, 18 June
Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
"The Great Wealth Transfer" and common myths about protecting wealth
When: Mon, 24 June
Time: 9:30am - 11:00am
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt Cost: Chamber members: $15 + GST, Non-Chamber members: $20.00 + GST
Crafting Success | The Sprig + Fern Brewing Co Journey
When: Wed, 26 June
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Where: Sprig & Fern Petone, 146 Jackson Street, Petone Cost: Chamber members: $10 + GST, Non-Chamber members: $15.00 + GST
Digital Accessibility | Business Skills Lunch Series
When: Wed, 3 July
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Member News/Events
Futurebound Academy Roadshow
Join the Futurebound Academy Roadshow and take charge of your financial future!
Futurebound is all about empowering Kiwis with expert advice and education to secure your financial future.
During this LIVE, in-person event, you'll discover 36 incredible tips, tricks, and hacks to free up more cash, so you can travel more, live abundantly, and retire comfortably.
Here's a Sneak Peek at What You'll Learn at the Futurebound Academy Roadshow 2024:
💥 36 Simple, Yet Powerful Ways to Lower Your Cost of Living AND Elevate Your Lifestyle in 2024... without giving up your coffees
💥 3 Practical Tips to Master Your Money Mindset
💥 Be in to win a Luxury 2-Night Rotorua Getaway for Two
⭐ Date & Location:
Wellington: Thursday, 13 June 2024 @ Boulcott's Farm Heritage Golf Club
Register now and secure your spot!
Masters of Software Development - Mentorship Programme
Te Wahanga Ahunui Pukaha – Wellington Faculty of Engineering is seeking individuals interested in engaging in their mahi. Specifically, they are looking for people in the ICT space who are keen to participate in their mentor programme.
The new cohort begins in the second week of July, with the mentorship programme starting with a breakfast on 6th September 2024 at 8 am at Rutherford House.
To join or recommend someone for the programme, please complete the Mentorship Registration form to assist with initial planning. For any questions or further interest, feel free to reach out. Te Wahanga Ahunui Pukaha is happy to arrange a coffee meeting to discuss details.
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.
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
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:
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EMPLOYMENT
Current Job Availabilities
Real Estate Sales person - Professionals Redcoats Limited
Professionals Lower Hutt are on the lookout for new 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, where you get to work for YOU! Reap the benefits of our experience, community standing and the lion's share of the housing market to begin your journey into a highly rewarding career.
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.
