My happy place is being out of the office seeing the amazing businesses, and meeting business leaders and their staff around the Hutt Valley. That’s not to say I don’t like being in my office because I do. But being out and about is one of the best things about my job. When I am out driving around the Hutt Valley it makes me think about what different businesses do, what their challenges are and what opportunities there are to support the business community. I also think about how I am travelling and what I can do to reduce my impact on the environment. I try to combine meetings in a particular area for example or walk to meetings if possible. Recently, several businesses have raised questions about how their staff can get to work using public transport. As part of the work on RiverLink, you can tell them about how you travel to and from work around the Hutt Valley by completing the survey here. Transport questions, and many other questions, will be on the minds of our current and prospective Mayors and Councillors in the run-up to the Local Elections this year. There will be a number of opportunities to hear from them and ask questions between now and the elections, so I encourage you to take these opportunities up. Keep an eye out for these events in our newsletter today, and in the next few weeks. Finally, I just wanted to acknowledge the amazing women we have in our business community across the Hutt Valley. Tomorrow we are hosting over 70 women leaders at our “Women in Business Event Featuring Sharesies Co-Founder, Brooke Roberts". Brooke will be a fantastic speaker who will inspire everyone attending. The event is being hosted by our Chamber partner, iPayroll. As part of their support for the Hutt Valley, they have not only supported this great event but also come up with a great offer for our Members. You can check this offer out in this newsletter. In this edition of our Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
CHAMBER UPDATES
2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards - Key Dates for 2022 (UNDER 1 month until Nominations Close)With entries now open, here are some key dates for the 2022 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards. The awards are a time for businesses to celebrate their efforts, their teams, their drive and determination, and equally their contribution to jobs, the economy and our communities.
Last Call - Women In Business Lunch on TOMORROW August 18th at 12PMWe are fortunate to have Wellington-based, Brooke Roberts, co-founder, director and co-CEO of Sharesies along with 3 other Hutt Valley investment professionals share their knowledge, insights and experience at our Women in Business Lunch: 'Empowerment Through Investment' tomorrow August 18th at the Lower Hutt Events Centre. Guest Speakers:
This will include a Q&A session and lunch will be provided. This is the perfect opportunity to meet linked-minded people from the business community and an opportunity to take control of your finances to grow your personal wealth. There are only a few spaces left. Register here now so you don't miss out. Our Women In Business series is sponsored by our Bronze Partners iPayroll. They are recognised as a pioneer in cloud-based payroll solutions here in New Zealand. They are a well-established and trusted payroll provider with customers from all industries, and businesses of all sizes. They are currently offering a free personalised demo for you to see the benefits of changing and are offering set-up and training for up to 10 employees at NO COST. Redeem this offer here or find out more about this offer under the Members Offer section of this newsletter. When: Thursday 18 August Discover, Explore, Connect and ExperienceIn the work we do here at Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce to connect employers and schools in the Hutt Valley, we come across some very special people willing to help our students to discover, explore, connect and experience what the world of work is like and understand the different jobs and pathways that exist. This week we want to say a huge thanks to Mike Gould, Partner at Gibson Sheat Lawyers. Mike recently hosted Lashae Hauwaho-Tiopira for an informative talk regarding a career pathway in Law. Lashae, who is a Year 12 student at Heretaunga College, was interested in finding out further information regarding this profession, before choosing her final subjects for Year 13 study. Mike spoke with Lashae about the different parts of law including employment, litigation and property, as well as providing Lashae with useful advice regarding her first year of study. This meet-and-greet opportunity with a local employer has strengthened Lashae’s commitment to studying law when she leaves college. Thanks also to Hilary Lawrence, Gateway Coordinator at Heretaunga college for accompanying Lashae on this visit. If you’re a local employer, who is interested in participating in our Education to Employment programme, please contact Amanda Walters at Amanda@hvchamber.org.nz. Chamber of Commerce Members Go Behind-The-Scenes at WSP ResearchWSP opened the doors of its Petone Research and Innovation Centre last week - giving Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce members the opportunity to hear first-hand from some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s foremost research and innovation specialists. WSP National Research Manager Wendy Turvey says the Chamber of Commerce visit was a great opportunity for the WSP Research team to connect with other businesses based near its Petone facility and branch office. WSP Research is proud to be a part of the Hutt Valley Technology hub. After a health and safety induction, the visiting group heard from Wendy about materials testing. From steel and concrete to plastic, clients from across the country and abroad send material to WSP “to break”. In these kinds of tests, ever-increasing loads are applied to test samples often up to the point of failure. The group were given an overview of WSP’s ‘cast machine,’ (circular accelerated testing facility) which is used to test the durability of road and pavement materials - including some now being made from biomass and recycled materials. They also eyeballed WSP’s ‘shake table’ – used to simulate the resilience of structures to earthquakes. Principal Instrumentation Engineer Mike Lusby talked through sensing systems being developed and deployed by WSP to monitor the long-term structural resilience of bridges, and buildings plus to keep an eye on unstable slopes. WSP’s sensing kit marches in lockstep with the advance of technology. Much of it is now wireless, miniaturised, camera-equipped and battery-powered. Decision making insights from monitoring data are increasingly being made available in real time to clients through web dashboards. At WSP's wind tunnel, Research Leader Neil Jamieson cranked the dial on a scale model of Wellington CBD - simulating the highest annual average wind speed experienced in the city centre. The wind tunnel is one of two commercial wind engineering facilities in Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s used to help clients assess the impact of new buildings on wind flow around city streets, investigate how wind affects the sway of tall buildings, and to test surface cladding. Rounding out the tour, Research Manager of People Louise Malcolm spoke about how WSP brings together human-centred design, data, and research to improve people’s lives through the design of places, transport and infrastructure. From shaping the layout of rail control rooms and public transport facilities to how emergency and evacuation routes can best be lit and signposted, WSP’s 10-strong behavioural science team provide valuable insights into the drivers and motivations of how people interact with the built and natural environment. Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Patrick McKibbin says the Chamber's series of visits to Hutt Valley businesses in 2022 is all about sharing the great work that happens in the Hutt’s research, manufacturing, innovation and technology sectors. "The visit to WSP was another showcase of the people, hard work, and inspiring work that is being undertaken every day in our region. The business leaders who attended were blown away by the work and knowledge of WSP's staff. "It was a chance to learn what WSP Research do, reconnect with other businesses and develop new relationships. The collaboration by businesses across our region is something very special, and WSP is an important part of this collaborative community,” he says. More information about WSP’s Petone research facility can be found here. More information on how the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce supports and connects the local business community is here.
LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS
Upper Hutt Mayoral Debate 2022 – 14th September 2022With Upper Hutt’s mayoral election approaching, we know there are a few contenders ready to take the position and it is crucial for the city to understand who the candidates are. Brought to you by Upper Hutt City Council and hosted by current affairs correspondent and facilitator Jehan Casinader, hear from Upper Hutt mayoral candidates on topics such as supporting communities, planning for growth, business support, Covid-19 recovery and infrastructure. You’ll have the opportunity to listen to each candidate, understand their intentions if elected, and ask questions during the interactive Q&A session. To keep the event accessible for all, we’ll incorporate a livestream* and take questions in person and online. If you choose to attend online, the livestream will be available on our website and social media. *Registration is required if you wish to attend in person as spaces are limited. Registration is not required if you plan to view the livestream.
Light refreshments provided. NOT ABLE TO ATTEND - if you are unable to attend but would like to ask a question, the Hutt Valley Chamber CEO, Patrick McKibbin will be there. Send him your question to patrick@hvchamber.org.nz and he will ask it for you. Corporate Badminton League - Kicks Off This Friday!Would your team be keen to enter a team? To register, email Nikki: developmentofficer@bhv.org.nz. Just two per team and kicking off this Friday. Great for building teamwork and improving physical and mental wellbeing! Brought to you by PaySauce one of our incredible members.
RIVERLINK UPDATES
RiverLink Info Session with the Project Director - Your Personal Event InvitationJoin us to hear more about the RiverLink project from the RiverLink Project Director. Light breakfast will be provided. As the RiverLink project progresses we will be hosting a series of information sessions giving you the opportunity to stay informed about the project. It will be an opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions and understand the opportunities and challenges that the project will present for local businesses. RverLink is a programme of three separate but interdependent projects:
RiverLink will make Lower Hutt more resilient, more connected and more vibrant. When: Thursday 01 September
NATIONAL NEWS
MyACC For Business Puts You In Control Of Your ACC AccountACC knows that when you’re self-employed, there’s a lot to stay on top of, MyACC for Business can help. It’s ACC's online platform that puts you in control of your information, so you know what to expect and get invoiced correctly. With MyACC for Business, you can check and update:
Check out this video to view how MyACC for Business provides you with a fast and secure way to manage your ACC account online. If you’re not registered yet, visit MyACC for Business and sign up using your ACC or IR number and email address. Now’s the time to check your ACC details are correct If you’re self-employed, you’ll likely receive a levy invoice from ACC from September onwards, so checking and updating your policy details now in MyACC for Business will mean that your invoice will be right, the first time. Log in or register for MyACC for Business to check your details are correct and update your communication preference to email. You’ll be joining the hundreds of thousands of other businesses who have already made the move online to receive their ACC levy invoice via email. For more information on ACC levy invoicing for 2022 visit the ACC website.
UPCOMING EVENTS
2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards 2022 - Finalists FunctionJoin us to find out who has made the finals of the 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards. Mix & mingle with other businesses, sponsors and supporters of the 2022 Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards. Our Finalists Function is proudly sponsored by Waihanga Ara Rau (Construction & Infrastructure) Workforce Development Council who represents industries including Construction, Concrete, Plumbing, Infrastructure, Water, Gas, Electricity, Telecommunication, and Roading. When: Thursday 27 October 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards 2022 - Gala DinnerThis black-tie Gala Dinner event is the celebration of Business Excellence in the Wellington Region. It provides a welcome opportunity to enjoy the region’s finest hospitality and recognise leading businesses and business leaders across the Wellington region. 2degrees is proud to support the 2022 Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards, now in its 14th year. This prestigious award ceremony provides an opportunity to showcase many examples of successful businesses throughout the entire Wellington region. The gala event, which takes place on 18 November, is expected to attract up to 500 guests and will be held at the Lower Hutt Events Centre. The gala event is a great way for many businesses to show their appreciation to the staff and customers by hosting them to a fabulous night out with plenty of entertainment, glitz, great company and of course, a very special dining experience that is sure to wow. When: Friday 18 November
UPCOMING TRAINING
Spring Reset: Step Into Spring Stress-FreeIt’s been a wicked winter. We all deserve to hit our reset button and step into Spring feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and restored. Classes cover:
Invest in your well-being & performance while giving back. When: New Date - Cyber Resilience, Risk Remediation and Cyber Insurance SeminarProtecting your business from cyber attacks is more than having cybersecurity tools or an IT team. A successful cyber attack could cost you operational downtime, loss of data, reputational damage, and lost revenue. Being cyber resilient means knowing what needs to be protected, what risks you face, and having plans for threat detection, response, and most importantly, knowing how to recover as rapidly as possible from cyber incidents. There will be a panel Q&A session after the presentation where representatives from IT Works, Intelligensia and Crombie Lockwood will be available to answer your questions about:
When: Wednesday 05 October
MEMBER OFFERS
No Set Up Cost, Training and Personalised Demo for up to 10 EmployeesiPayroll is New Zealand’s leading online PAYE Intermediary (PI) and can manage and pay the PAYE, process payday filing on your behalf and pay your employees if you choose. They are offering a free personalised demo available for you to see the benefits of changing over to them. This special Chamber members offer includes free set-up and training for up to 10 employees valued at $100. Discounts are available for larger organisations. iPayroll's software includes the following features: Quick, easy data transfer from your current payroll into iPayroll, Easily manages all types of leave, Unlimited payments and deductions including reducing balances and Court Fines, HR functionality, store documents and training info, Managing your PAYE and KiwiSaver payments for you (optional) plus payday filing, Great suite of reports, Employee Kiosk - view payslips, leave requests, projected leave plus more, Export to accounting systems including Xero, MYOB, plus more, Integration with other HR, time and attendance and rostering systems, Rural top-up tool, Scalable, grows with you plus MANY MORE! To receive a comparison demo with a specialist from iPayroll’s team visit this link here. Let them know that the Chamber referred you. If asked for a code use our code: HVCCIP One Hour Photoshoot OfferNew members, Excio, are offering Chamber members a special deal to help promote your business. Get a one-hour photoshoot at an incredible price, that can be used for headshots, office shots, products etc. To redeem this offer, contact ana@excio.io with your preferred booking. Want More Members Offers?To see a list of all our member's offers visit our Members Marketplace on our website here to see a variety of deals we have from our members for both members only and anyone.
EMPLOYMENT
Current VacanciesGROUNDSPERSON Chamber member Mexted Sports Turf, is looking for a Groundsperson to join their team to work at Fraser Park in Lower Hutt. Mexted Sports Turf is a family-owned business, with a long history of delivering top-quality service to their clients. They're looking for a Groundsperson who takes pride in their work, is passionate about sports field maintenance and preparation and who has the drive to deliver excellent customer service. To view the job description on Trade Me click here. FACILITIES CARETAKER Chamber member Laura Fergusson, is looking for a Facilities Caretaker to join their team to ensure that the buildings, facilities, equipment, furniture, fixtures and resources at the Laura Fergusson Trust are clean, orderly and tidy and in accordance with maintenance requirements. Laura Fergusson is an independent, charitable organisation driven to help our clients achieve independence, inclusion and quality of life after a brain injury. To view the job description on Seek click here. Do You Have A Role That You'd Like To Get Filled?If you have a job suitable for a student get in touch with our Education to Employment Coordinator Amanda Walters at amanda@hvchamber.org.nz or call 049399821. To view our vacancies, click here. Thank you to all our Partners As always, special thanks to all our Members and Partners for your ongoing support. |