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Kia Ora ,
In recent years, businesses have been fully immersed in their operations, with the economy naturally taking precedence. As a result, prioritising climate action hasn't always been at the forefront.
Businesses, both small and large, face a number of real and perceived barriers to taking climate action. However, the evidence shows that there are substantial advantages to taking action.
Businesses leading on climate action are discovering significant benefits to climate change investments. Sustainability is fast becoming essential for business, and there’s an opportunity now for businesses to get ahead of the game. Initiatives can support:
- Cost savings - reduce operating costs through energy efficiency and fuel switching.
- Social license - improve your reputation with socially responsible consumers and investors.
- Brand value - tap into new markets, spark innovation and create business opportunities.
- Employee engagement - attract and retain talent.
- Compliance - stay ahead of regulation for climate change mitigation.
But where to start?
Your Chamber of Commerce has partnered with leading sustainability and environment strategy organisation Thinkstep ANZ to help get you Uncover, Plan and Act.
Join our 2 hour workshop to find out and get started with your own plan. thinkstep-anz will facilitate a workshop to support you to:
- Understand the social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainability.
- Identify where to focus to make your business more sustainable and have the greatest impact.
- Identify who you need to work with (your stakeholders)
- Develop a simple plan for action (or update your existing plan)
This will be an interactive session where you get hands on and walk away with the start of a plan. We will use the UN Sustainable Development goals to guide the session.
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
- Additional Events
- Member News/Events
Member Offers
Employment Opportunities
Utilities Investigation | Pharazyn and Marsden Streets
Utilities and ground condition investigations are continuing on Pharazyn and Marsden Streets from Thursday 9th May – Wednesday 15th May between 9am to 4pm.
The work will be undertaken in phases, so that the whole street(s) is not impacted at the same time. Traffic will be managed using stop / go controls, and speed limits reduced to 30km/hr.
Please take extra care when travelling through this area.
National News
The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date.
NZ and the UAE launch FTA negotiation
Minister for Trade Todd McClay today announced that New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA).
Minister McClay met with his counterpart UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Dubai, where they announced the launch of negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and discussed strengthening economic ties between New Zealand and the UAE.
Trade agreements are an important tool in this Government’s plan to rebuild our economy and a strong economy means we can provide the quality public services New Zealanders expect.
“The UAE is an important bilateral partner for New Zealand, and today’s launch of negotiations is an exciting step towards growing our significant trade and economic relationship” Mr McClay said.
OECD reinforces need to control spending
The OECD’s latest report on New Zealand reinforces the importance of bringing Government spending under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
The OECD conducts country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The 2024 New Zealand survey was presented in Wellington today by OECD Chief Economist Clare Lombardelli.
Nicola Willis says the survey notes that “spending overruns” and “slippage” after the pandemic “led to a permanent increase in the government spending to GDP ratio, resulting in a substantial deterioration of New Zealand’s fiscal position” with the levels of macroeconomic stimulus “more inflationary than elsewhere”. The report goes on to recommend that “the government should set operating allowances and tax policies that will gradually reduce the fiscal deficit to reach budget balance”.
The Kiwi labour market is softening, following a recession. Unemployment will rise further.
- Today's jobs report was weak. The unemployment rate rose to a 3-year high of 4.3%, with the participation rate falling to 71.5%. People are stepping away from the labour market, as demand from employers wanes. We expect more of the same in the coming quarters.
- Wage inflation continued to rise, but at a slower pace. Annual wage growth has slowed to 3.8%, moving further – albeit slowly – away from the 4.5% peak. Weaker wage inflation should help drive an easing in domestic inflation.
- Amid the slowing economic landscape, the labour market should continue cooling in the coming year. As demand for labour wanes, the unemployment rate is still on track to exceed 5% by year-end. It’s some distance form the 3.2% low, but we’d deem it a widely-desired ‘soft-landing’.
Trade and Economic Updates - Global outlook
- The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) upgraded its global economic outlook on the back of stronger-than-expected growth in the United States and China. The OECD now expects global growth of 3.1 percent this year and 3.2 percent in 2025. This represents an upgrade from the OECD’s projections in February of 2.9 percent and 3 percent. The OECD noted the continuing divergence in growth across countries, with softer growth in Europe and most low-income countries, contrasted with strong growth in the United States and many large emerging-market economies such as India.
- The report presented a downbeat picture of the New Zealand economy. The OECD expects growth of just 0.8 percent in 2024 before accelerating to 1.9 percent in 2025. This is well below the economy’s potential growth rate of 2.7 percent according to the New Zealand Treasury.
The Pulse of NZ Business
Forsyth Barr Business Survey - Bifurcation
- In this third Pulse of NZ Business survey with ~550 respondents, three things stood out; (1) there has been a major positive
shift with regards to respondents view that the economy is heading in the right direction. From an extremely negative
position to a largely neutral one. Overall this more positive sentiment towards NZ in general and the government
specifically is illustrated across several questions. (2) Demand, rather than inflation, regulation or labour shortages has
emerged as the number one challenge facing businesses for the first time. (3) There is a clear and widening spread between
more cyclical business (e.g. freight, construction and manufacturing), all of which are experiencing weak and weakening
demand versus less cyclical sectors (primarily aged care and utilities) which are experiencing improving demand and expect
profits to improve over the next 12 months. The mix of respondents are very similar to previous iterations, with a good
spread across sectors and size of businesses as well as positions held by respondents.
Trade and Economic Updates -Domestic outlook
- New figures from Stats NZ showed that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 4.0 percent to 4.3 percent in the March quarter. The underutilisation rate – which is a broader measure of spare labour capacity than unemployment alone – jumped from 10.7 percent to 11.2 percent.
Treasury productivity analysis makes grim reading
- A new Treasury paper published on Friday suggests that productivity growth will likely continue to lag in the coming years, potentially creating challenges for New Zealand’s long-term fiscal and economic outlook. The paper noted that while there are some reasons to think productivity could accelerate, such as the arrival of artificial intelligence technologies, there are several risks that could continue to hinder productivity growth. This includes weak innovation, a slowdown in global trade, and poor educational outcomes.
Regional News
Celebrating the 'Skills for Mahi' Programme
We're thrilled to share that the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, with incredible support from J.P. Morgan, has launched the 'Skills for Mahi' programme! This initiative empowers rangatahi to explore career pathways in engineering and manufacturing, two pivotal industries in our region.
At our recent event, it was inspiring to hear directly from rangatahi participants about their aspirations and gratitude. We were also privileged to hear from Empower Pacific's Mani Malaeulu, the Naenae College Principal, and our local MP Christopher Bishop, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Education and MSD.
It's a true celebration of collaboration and vision for a brighter future!
Water Update | Wellington Water
Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt and Porirua will move to Level 1 on Wednesday May 8th.
If the situation remains stable, Wellington, Porirua, and Lower Hutt will move out of water restrictions entirely on Wednesday May 15th.
Upper Hutt remains at Level 1 year-round.
River levels remain low, which means it’s vital we monitor the situation closely. This gradual approach means we don’t move too quickly.
Meet the Funders | Upper Hutt City Council
Upper Hutt City Council's Meet the Funders event is back, they have lined up 12 funders to meet you in person to discuss funding needs for your organisation.
When: Monday, 13 May 2024
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Where: Ōrongomai Marae
This is a registration-needed event. It is a great opportunity to network with other community groups and learn about what they are doing in their funding space.
Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
Supporting Schools: Hutt Valley Businesses Empower Rangatahi through Donations
Last week, the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce saw an inspiring act of community spirit as Chris Kooge and Dean Murphy from Steel E.D. & Patton generously donated aluminium and stainless steel pieces to the Hutt Valley Engineering Academy at Naenae College. This meaningful contribution helps rangatahi hone their skills with various materials, providing them with practical, hands-on learning opportunities that will pave the way for their future careers.
The donations of steel will be instrumental in enriching the students' educational experience, allowing them to practice and perfect their craft on a range of metals. Such experiences are critical for the development of technical expertise and confidence among these students, ensuring they emerge better equipped to meet the demands of the engineering and manufacturing industries.
It’s inspiring to witness businesses like Steel E.D. & Patton stepping up to invest in the next generation of engineers and tradespeople. Their support exemplifies the proactive, community-oriented spirit that thrives in the Hutt Valley. By working together with schools, our local businesses are helping build a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chris Kooge and Dean Murphy for their invaluable contribution to our community's rangatahi. Their generosity serves as a shining example of the positive impact that local businesses can have when they commit to supporting education and development.
If your business is interested in making a difference in the lives of our young people, you can contact Patrick below if you are considering supporting initiatives like the Hutt Valley Engineering Academy. Together, we can foster a brighter future for the Hutt Valley community.
Featured Events
From Click to Conversions: Facebook Posts, Boosts, and Ads for Business Growth
When: Wed, 8 May
Time: 5.30pm - 7:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Pre-Budget Speech with Hon Nicola Willis | Minister of Finance
When: Thurs, 9 May
Time: 7:00am - 9:00am
Where: Silverstream Retreat, Grasslands, 3 Reynolds Bach Drive, Stokes Valley
Cost: Members: $20.00 + GST, Non-Members: $25.00 + GST
Unleash Cash Flow Like Never Before: Join Our Free Masterclass!
When: Tues, 14 May
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
If We Don't - Who Will?
When: Thurs, 16 May
Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Annual General Meeting | Hutt Valley Chamber
When: Tues, 21 May
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Adapting to the reality of business changes - building resilience for you and your business
When: Wed, 22 May
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Upper Hutt Libraries, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt
Navigating the Economic Currents: An Update from Kiwibank's Chief Economist
When: Thurs, 23 May
Time: 7:30am - 9:00am
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Team Building and Leadership | Wellington Centre of Business Excellence
When: Tues, 28 May
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Managing Projects Successfully | Business Skills Lunch Series
When: Tuesday, 4th June
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Emotional Culture Unveiled: Explore, Connect, and Thrive at Our Dynamic Lunchtime Workshop
When: Wed, 5th June
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Sustainable Solutions: Uncover, Plan, Act. Thinkstep ANZ
When: Wed, 5th 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: Friday, 7 June 2024
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
Additional Events
Business Continuity Planning Workshop | Upper Hutt
Could your Upper Hutt business be better prepared for a disruption?
Join Upper Hutt City Council for a free 90-minute business continuity planning workshop to create your own draft plan or update your existing plan.
June Level Up Workshops | One Day Training
Managing Your Time When: Thurs, 6 June
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, Lvl 3, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Upskilling and Re-skilling When: Tues, 11 June
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Member News/Events
St Bernard's College Sponsorship
Daniel Peckston, Sports Sponsorship Coordinator at St Bernard's College, is passionate about both sports and the opportunities they provide to the students at the school. He believes that sponsorship can significantly benefit the sporting programmes at St Bernard's and is calling for partners to help shape a promising future for the school's athletes.
"The benefits of sponsorship extend far beyond just financial support," says Daniel. "It’s about creating opportunities that positively impact the lives of our students."
Daniel invites interested partners to review the proposal and reach out with any questions or for further information. He is confident that together, they can build a partnership that creates a sporting programme that aligns with future goals and benefits the students.
"We look forward to developing partnerships that help us reach our goals while providing invaluable opportunities to our students," says Daniel.
For more details or to discuss partnership opportunities, please don't hesitate to contact Daniel directly. Let's work together to ensure the best sporting future for St Bernard’s College!
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
Unlock Your AI for your business Success
Elevate Your Business with Local AI Expertise! Are you ready to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to make your business more efficient, effective, and competitive while keeping costs low? Meet Jussi, your local AI Enabler with global insights and practical knowledge right here in the Hutt Valley.
With Jussi, you get more than just AI solutions; you benefit from real human interaction and personalised support that only a local expert can provide. Experience the difference with onsite meetings that ensure your specific needs are met and continuous local support to keep your operations smooth.
Take advantage of our exclusive offer for Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce members:
- A FREE scoping meeting to tailor AI to your unique challenges.
- A 10% discount on workshops, AI design, development, and ongoing support.
Stay ahead of the curve with AI. Contact Jussi today—your local AI Enabler!
Email: jussi@jussiluukkonen.com
Phone: 021 999 652
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.
Embroid Me| Chamber Member Deal
For More Offers:
View Our Member Marketplace:
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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
Full time Printer Apprentice - Label & Litho
Label and Litho is currently seeking a Full Time Printer Apprentice. This role involves setting up and operating printing machines that apply text and images to various materials, including paper, card, carton, plastics, and metal. If you have a student that is interested in a hands-on learning experience in the printing industry and have a passion for working with technology to create tangible products, this apprenticeship could be their perfect career opportunity.
Email your interest to our Education to Employment Advisor - Hera at hera@hvchamber.org.nz
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.
