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Kia Ora ,
I often get asked by businesses if we can help with an issue that they are having. This includes:
- Connecting them to a subject matter expert in the Hutt Valley that can help them work through their problem.
- Understand what is happening with a particular piece of work in our region.
- Help them connect with our local MPs and government Ministers.
- Help them engage with the right people in our local councils.
Indeed, it can be all sorts of things related to business. We will often know of someone who can help directly; if not, we probably know someone who knows someone. What is fantastic about our business community is the passion for our region and the willingness to collaborate and help each other.
I had the pleasure of catching up with some friends one night over the weekend. We got on to talking about the Hutt Valley and business here. They know it's an easy subject for me to talk about as there are so many great stories and good businesses and people to talk about.
But one thing struck me when they asked about business leaders and who is talking to them if they have an issue. Personally, I am probably your typical person (or bloke) and will, more often than not, just keep these things to myself. But it was great to talk to them about my challenges and get their perspectives.
So, I just wanted to put it out there. If you need to talk, just come in or call, and we can do that. I don’t promise wisdom, but I do promise to listen.
Have a great week.
In this week's "Capture the Essence of the Hutt Valley" feature, we're delighted to share "Daybreak on Rail Replacement" by Alan Wickens from the Tranzit Group. This striking photo showcases a serene Hutt Valley morning, where the start of a new day meets our local transport. We invite you to explore more about Tranzit Group at www.tranzit.co.nz.
Don't forget, we're still accepting submissions - your view of the Hutt Valley could be next to grace our pages. Click the button below to email Olivia and submit your picture today!
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 Innovation News
- Featured Events
Member Offers
Employment Opportunities
Service Utilities and Pavement Investigations
A number of site investigations are being undertaken within the project area. They would like to advise that they will be undertaking work in your neighbourhood. The streets highlighted above may have investigation works and traffic management in place at times throughout the work period. Please note that not all streets will be impacted at the same time. Work will move between locations, and traffic management will be set up in each location. The Riverbank carpark will remain accessible at all times.
Construction setup underway for crucial Mills St stopbank
Construction to upgrade the stopbank from Melling Link Bridge to Mills Street is scheduled to start in late February, with completion targeted for early October 2024. This project is critical for enhancing flood protection in the Hutt Valley, addressing an area with the lowest level of flood defence.
During construction, the community will notice site preparation activities, including the establishment of a site office, installation of fencing around construction zones, and gravel extraction operations. The Riverbank reserve, Hutt River Trail, and adjacent recreational areas between Melling Link Bridge and Kennedy Good Bridge will be temporarily closed, with wayfinding signage directing to alternative routes. Traffic management will ensure local road access is maintained for residences and businesses.
Updates will be available on the website www.teawakairangi.co.nz
Demolition properties put to good use
Demolition continues on Pharazyn and Marsden streets, with cleared sites on Mills and Pharazyn being repurposed for construction support facilities. These areas will serve as a base for site offices, welfare amenities, and storage, aiding personnel in stopbank construction and further investigations.
The demolition of a warehouse on Rutherford Street began in January, part of the preparations for new stopbank works. This demolition is staged, starting with utility disconnections and interior clearance. In February, the focus is on removing the structure's roof, walls, and foundation, with care taken to protect nearby properties and structures.
Service utilities and geotechnical investigations continues
Geotechnical investigations resumed along the river corridor in January. These involve the use of large drilling and probing equipment, such as geotechnical drill rigs and thrust machines, to explore up to 35 meters below the surface. These investigations are conducted sequentially, with the duration at each site varying based on the encountered ground conditions. Safety measures, including fencing and barriers, are being implemented at each investigation site to protect both the public and the work teams.
These critical investigations will extend through to May 2024 for geotechnical aspects and June 2024 for service utility and pavement site investigations, laying the groundwork for the stopbank project's success.
National News
The following news is provided to keep our business leaders up to date.
Implications of shipping disruptions in the Red Sea - Update February 2024
Attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea are currently disrupting goods trade between Europe and New Zealand, leading to many shipping companies now avoiding transit through the Suez Canal. Exacerbating these global maritime trade challenges, the events in the Red Sea come at a time when shipping via other routes (namely the Panama Canal) are also facing capacity constraints. Some New Zealand exporters are already reporting shipping delays, rising transport costs, and in some cases cancelled export orders. These impacts are likely to worsen as we move into New Zealand’s peak exporting period to Europe from April to May.
Please talk to your shipping and logistics suppliers. May are adapting to current disruptions by increasing long-haul shipping between Europe and Asia, utilising a land bridge over the Arabian Peninsula, and setting up new transhipment hubs in the Mediterranean.
Government tackling high construction cost
The Government is focused on reducing sky-high construction costs to make it more affordable to build a home, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.
Stats NZ data shows the cost of building a house has increased by 41 per cent since 2019, making housing even more unaffordable for Kiwi families.
“Further analysis shows building costs are consistently higher in New Zealand than several overseas jurisdictions, with comparisons showing the cost to build a standalone house is around 50 per cent more expensive than it is in Australia. This must change.
“Tackling out-of-control construction prices is one of the keys to reducing the cost of living and providing Kiwis with the high-quality, affordable housing they deserve.
“Kiwis pay too much for building materials. We will ensure more high-quality building products are approved to increase competition, lower building material costs, and support our resilience to supply-chain disruptions.”
“This Government will reform the building consent system by streamlining the consent process, making product substitutions easier, and clarifying roles and responsibilities within the system. Removing unnecessary barriers and giving greater certainty to businesses means better productivity and less delays when building a home.
Inflation news from Chamber member Kiwibank
Here’s some good news. Inflation expectations are falling, and have come a long way from the post-Covid peak. According to the RBNZ’s latest survey of forecasters (like us) and business leaders (like you), inflation expectations dropped a notch. Expectations of inflation in 1 year’s time fell to 3.22% from 3.6%, and a peak of 5.1%. Over 2 years, expectations dropped to 2.5% from 2.76%, and a peak of 3.62%. The 2-year estimates are more important, as they reflect the more medium term return to the target mid-point of 2%. The longer term expectations, which reflect the credibility of the RBNZ, eased as well. The 5- and 10-year ahead estimates fell to 2.25% and 2.16%, respectively. The RBNZ should take some comfort. They are winning the war, and the hearts and minds.
Like all inflation targetters, and the RBNZ were the first, policymakers put a lot of emphasis on expectations. Expectations tend to follow actual inflation, but it’s the persistance that’s key. If you see high inflation, you expect high inflation, you price accordingly, and you get high inflation. The same can be said in reverse. Inflation expectations fall, reducing price pressure, and inflation eases. And that’s exactly what we’re hearing anecdotally.
Firms are telling us that inflation is still a problem, but it is not as intense as it was this time last year. Wage pressures are easing with the influx of ready-to-work migrants. Business owners are telling us that their wage bill, while still increasing, is becoming more palatable. When there was a chronic shortage of workers, staff were turning up with job offers from elsewhere and hefty wage demands. Now, wage demands are lessening and workers are becoming “more loyal” again. It is a pleasant development for employers. The labour force is much better balanced. The supply of workers has surged, through migration, as the demand for workers has eased, with a cooling economy.
Regional News
Impacts for businesses in the event of Level 3 & 4 water restrictions
The following information has been provided by the Hutt City Council and Upper Hutt City Council to clarify the impacts on business in the event of level 3 or level 4 water restrictions coming into place.
Level 3 restrictions
There is a ban on all residential outdoor water use.
Businesses can continue to operate as normal, but please be pragmatic and responsible when watering. We’ll also continue to encourage other water conservation measures where possible.
Level 4 restrictions
This will depend on the situation and how bad it is as to any additional measures we take outside of the standard advice, i.e. there is a ban on all outdoor water use, and we need to reduce indoor water use to ensure there is enough water for everyone. At the moment, Wellington Water Limited is focusing on working with the larger water users to reduce water where they can.
Hutt City Council commits to big investment in water
Hutt City Council has today agreed to continue its significant investment in water infrastructure and transport in its draft 10-year plan which will go out for community consultation in April. "This is the largest capital delivery programme in our city’s history. Our draft Long Term Plan [LTP] today prioritises spending $1.5 billion over 10 years to safeguard our city’s drinking water network and to provide effective stormwater and wastewater systems for our people," says Mayor Campbell Barry.
"Wellington Water has advised they could deliver up to $2.5 billion in water infrastructure over the next 10 years, but without reform or central Government funding that is completely unaffordable for our ratepayers."
Mayor Barry has also gained support from councillors to include an extra $2.8 million in the draft LTP so Wellington Water Ltd can eliminate the current backlog of leaks in Lower Hutt by December 2024. The measures are designed to mitigate the risk of an acute water shortage next summer. "The situation this summer is not sustainable year on year. While pipe renewals are the only long-term fix in stopping leaks, we need to be doing everything we can to avoid an acute water shortage in the short term."We are declaring a crackdown on leaks in Lower Hutt," he says. "We have asked Wellington Water to work with the private sector to help clear the current backlog."
This significant investment in water and transport infrastructure, alongside the pressures of inflation, insurance increases and other unavoidable cost increases means Hutt City Council will be consulting on higher levels of rate increases and borrowing. Cost increases have been offset through savings of around $35M over the ten years of the LTP which have a favourable rates impact. The draft LTP, which maps the Council’s spending priorities over the coming decade, proposes a 16.9% rates revenue increase (after growth) for the year starting on 1 July 2024.
Mayor Barry and Councillors are conscious of the rates impact on low-income households. With that in mind, a new Rates Remission Policy (RRP) is included in the draft LTP for public comment.
The proposal would see a rates remission of up to $250 a year for low-income households. It's in addition to the Government's rates rebate scheme and uses the same criteria.
Other key issues the public are invited to comment on in the draft LTP include:
The future of Petone, particularly how to prioritise spending on the Petone Wharf, the Petone Library and the earthquake-prone Petone Recreation Ground grandstand.
A new weekly kerbside service to collect food scraps and green organics in one bin. The service is proposed to start in July 2027, but would only go ahead with government funding.
The public has the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft LTP from Tuesday 2 April through to Friday 3 May 5pm.
Elected members will consider the feedback as part of the process to adopt the new LTP which will take effect on 1 July 2024.
For more information contact:
Communications Team, Hutt City Council
Email: communications@huttcity.govt.nz
Phone: 027 248 9230
UHCC to start an organisational review amid a challenging financial environment
In a recent announcement to staff, Upper Hutt City Council Chief Executive Geoff Swainson signalled the need to reduce operational costs as the council prepares its draft 2024-34 Long Term Plan.
“As a result, we will be reviewing our structure, systems, and processes to ensure they are fit for purpose and that we are as efficient and effective as we can be to deliver on Council’s priorities.”
The challenging operating environment is further compounded by affordability constraints, high inflation, and the need to enhance the Council's financial resilience.
Would you love Kiwi in your backyard?
That’s right! A group of students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the United States are in Upper Hutt working with Pest Free Upper Hutt to help prepare residents of Upper Hutt for the arrival of kiwi and they'd love to hear from you! Since 2006, the kiwi population in Remutaka Forest Park has been steadily growing, expanding their habitat towards Upper Hutt.
Recently, residents in Whiteman’s Valley on the border of Upper Hutt have reported hearing kiwi calls at night, signalling the kiwi's proximity.
To ensure the safety of these unique birds in Whiteman’s Valley and Upper Hutt, we're conducting a public survey to understand the community's interest in kiwi conservation.
Share your thoughts and let's work together to protect these precious birds. Please keep your dogs on a lead or away from kiwi areas.
Hutt Valley Innovation News
Cornering Innovation: Sanderson Machines' in Hutt Valley
"They said it can't be done" - Malcolm Sanderson, Managing Director at Sanderson Machines.
Well if there was anywhere in New Zealand that things can be done, it is right here in the Hutt Valley.
Solving problems, leading manufacturing, and developing new ideas is honestly what I see every day here in the Hutt Valley. Hutt Valley manufacturers, like Sanderson Machines, quietly get on with solving problems and making world leading technology.
Well done Malcolm Sanderson and the whole team at Sanderson Machines in developing a new machine to perforate around a corner.
Featured Events
Auspicious AI Master Class
When: Thurs, 22 Feb
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Planning for your business future | WCBE
When: Wed, 28 Feb
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Where: Upper Hutt Libraries, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt
Building Resilience - The Leadership Challenge: Driving our businesses and people in a dynamic and turbulent environment
When: Tues, 5 March
Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Cybersecurity and Privacy | Business Skills Lunch Series
When: Wed, 6 March
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Unleash Winning Strategies: NZME Business After 5 with Sports CEOs
When: Wed, 6 March
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Women in Business | Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women Redefining Success
When: Thurs, 7 March
Time: 9:00am - 11:00am
Where: Boulcott Farm Golf Club, 33 Military Road, Lower Hutt
Synthesis Marketing | Click to Conversions: Facebook Posts: Boosts, and Ads
When: Tues, 12 March
Time: 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Where: Upper Hutt Libraries, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt
BNZ Technology and Innovation Series | Celebrating Tech Excellence
When: Thurs, 14 March
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Where: BNZ Partners Lounge, Level 2, 45 Knights Road, Lower Hutt
Grazie: Inspirazione | Where Ambition meets Amore
When: Thurs, 21 March
Time: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Where: The Sebel Hotel, Grazie Restaurant, 72 High Street, Lower Hutt
Long Term Plan Consultation Workshop | Hutt City Council
When: Wed, 10 April
Time: 8:00am - 9:00am
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Lvl 3, 15 Daly Street, Lower Hutt
Member News
Hurricanes Team Naming | Round 1 | 2024
After an exciting and successful pre-season game vs. Moana Pasifika at NZCIS last Friday, the team jumped a flight to Perth to prepare for Western Force this Friday and Round 1 of Super Rugby Pacific 2024.
Coach Clark has named a formidable line-up for game 1, including a debut for Jordi Viljoen and a 50th cap for Billy ’the kid’ Proctor!
Tyrell Lomax and Cam Roigard start from the bench, with TJ having 1 more week off to complete his recovery process after 20 minutes of game time last Friday.
This Week's Super Rugby Fixtures:
Sky Sport 1
Friday | 6.15pm | Chiefs v Crusaders
Friday | 9.30pm | Rebels v Brumbies
Friday | 11.55pm | Force v HURRICANES
Saturday | 4pm | Blues v Drua
Saturday | 6.40pm | Highlanders v Moana Pasifika
Saturday | 10.05pm | Reds v Waratahs
Join the Hurricanes Travel Club: First Stop, Melbourne Super Round!
The Hurricanes have just launched the Hurricanes Travel Club, with its maiden voyage heading to Melbourne for the Super Round. For those eager to experience the thrill of rugby up close, 'HurriPlane' is your ticket to the action.
Orbit Travel, the trusted partner for this adventure, has everything sorted from the moment you click the link.
For more details and to book your place on the 'HurriPlane', contact Orbit Travel and embark on a rugby trip of a lifetime with the Hurricanes Travel Club.
Get ready to cheer on the Hurricanes and create unforgettable moments!
Wellington Centre of Business Excellence | Make a difference, and a new friend
The NZELTO 2024 programme, supported by Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, invites Hutt Valley locals to volunteer as conversation partners. Help officials from South-East Asia and Africa enhance their English, while you gain a global perspective right from our neighbourhood.
Meet weekly with an international scholar, and participate in engaging events throughout the year.
Make a lasting impact and forge new friendships. Contact Emily Lake at 022 016 1415 or email MNZ-ELT-Scholarships@vuw.ac.nz.
Member Offers
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.
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!
For More Offers:
View Our Member Marketplace:
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EMPLOYMENT
Are You Hiring?
If you have a job suitable for a student, get in touch with our Education to Employment Coordinator at Hera@hvchamber.org.nz or call 04 9399821.
Thank you to all our Partners
As always, special thanks to all our Members and Partners for your ongoing support.
