Kia ora ,
Here we are in 2023 and it's almost February already. Aotearoa has a new Prime Minister. I think we should all be proud it's one of our own from the Hutt Valley. Well done Chris Hipkins. We also have an election date (14th October) confirmed.
But there is lots of talk about our economy, including how this year will be impacted by the rising inflation, cost of living and doing business. The recent NZIER survey said that 73 percent of businesses expect general economic conditions to deteriorate over the coming months.
How are you feeling in the Hutt Valley? Please take 30 seconds to complete our short survey here.
We have some great things planned for 2023 including:
- Informative and interesting speakers from the Hutt Valley’s leading technology and innovation firms in our BNZ Technology and Innovation Series
- Our political leaders visiting the Hutt Valley before the election in our Gibson Sheat Lawyers Political Series
- Training and networking events throughout the year
- Supporting our schools and employers to connect through our Education to Employment work
- Women in Business series
- Keeping you informed about the major projects like RiverLink through the year
Fair Pay Agreement Webinar – What questions to you have? – The Fair Pay Agreements system is up and running. Whether you’re an employee or an employer, this may be important for you. We have some experts lined up to answer your questions. Do you have any questions that our experts can answer? Send your questions to patrick@hvchamber.org.nz by 7th February and we will get them answered on our upcoming webinar.
There are already a couple of events that will be of interest to you
- Impact of Crime and Disorder on Businesses in the Hutt Valley - The Police and The Hutt City Mayor will offer an update on what they are currently seeing happening, what preventative measures they have in place, and future plans. There will be a chance to ask questions about your concerns. Register here.
- Welcome to 2023 Business After 5 Networking Event - Join us to enjoy Upper Hutt’s newest contemporary eatery while catching up and networking with colleagues and friends. Register Here.
As always if you have anything that you would like us to do, feedback about what we could do better or issues and challenges you are having let me know at patrick@hvchamber.org.nz or call me on 021 248 1203.
In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
- Chamber Updates
- Get Savings and Support Local Business Today
- Student Visits with Hutt Valley Businesses – Can You Help?
- Local & Regional News
- Staff Training Pays Dividends for Resene Paints
New Shipping Line Arrives at CentrePort
- National News
- Fair Pay Agreement System Webinar - Ask Us Your Questions
Vanuatu Economic Briefing (Online Event)
Supporting the Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics Industries to be Successful
Supporting New Zealand Employers - Financial Support
- Events
- Impact of Crime & Disorder on Businesses in the Hutt City
- First Business After Five Networking Event of The Year - New Venue
- Women in Business: Inspiring Stories From Exceptional Leaders
- Training Workshops
- Smash Your Revenue Goals in 2023 With Smarter Marketing Workshop
- B2B Planning For 2023 Success Workshop
- Employment Opportunities
- Supply Chain Manager - Full Time
- Accounts Administrator - Part Time
- Member Offers
- Open for Business 2023 Networking Event: Jumpstart Your Business for Success
CHAMBER UPDATES
“I saved over $900 on my rental car using the Hutt Chamber App” - Get Savings and Support Local Business Today
Are you making the most of our free Hutt Chamber App? Rental cars from Hertz are one of the many businesses that provide savings to users of the Hutt Chamber App. This one transaction by one of our users saved them over $900.
Join now and start getting savings at businesses across the Hutt Valley.
Over 2,000 savings coupons have been accessed by members of the Hutt Valley Chamber so far, allowing users to get savings from businesses all over the Hutt Valley.
Request access today using the link here.
The App is free for members of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce to make offer for your business and access offers from businesses across the Hutt Valley.
Ask us about membership and get saving today.
Student Visits with Hutt Valley Businesses – Can You Help?
Showcasing your business to students is a great way for you and your business to help them discover, explore, and connect to their possible future jobs. Seeing people and jobs helps students understand the skills and attributes they need to be successful in work.
During term 1 this year, we are focusing on coordinating industry visits between businesses and students. These visits were extremely valuable last year with our rangatahi, giving them an insight into careers that they hadn’t previously thought about as well as actual practices in a workplace.
What’s involved?
These visits are not long. We aim for between 45 mins and 1 hour, with small groups of students. The students are accompanied by a Teacher and our E2E Coordinator. We usually start with an introduction to the host for the students, some information about the company, types of roles available, and the skills needed to enter into your industry. This is followed up with a tour of your workplace.
Can you help?
If you’re keen or able to take part, we are looking for employers who could host students during a school day, in late February or March. Please contact our E2E Coordinator, Amanda Walters – amanda@hvchamber.org.nz to support this important work.
LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS
Staff Training Pays Dividends for Resene Paints
Experienced trainer Dr Dorothy Nightingale supported the Manufacturing Manager at Resene Paints to upskill their staff with great success. Here is what Michael McInnarney, Manufacturing Manager, Resene Paints Limited had to say about his experience.
Resene Paints undertook a 17-week journey across both manufacturing sites, with a TEC funded literacy and numeracy training course for members of our team who spoke English as a second language. We had a wide variety of backgrounds from the people who chose to take up the opportunity, Pasifika, Thai and Lao.
Dorothy Nightingale was the facilitator for both sites, spending a part day at each site every week. Very quickly she achieved a high level of rapport and engagement with the team on each site. Unlike similar work we had tried in the past, the team members were eager to attend each week, with several who had turned down the opportunity, keen to try to get a belated place.
The areas Dorothy covered were very relevant to the participants, both at work and in their life outside of work. Areas such as Health & Safety procedures and financial literacy were covered. There was a very strong real-world focus with SOPs being used in the workshops, as well as an example of a pay slip. There was also an exercise where staff would sit down with me and discuss their work and a particular concern they wished to raise. The metrics of the individual’s literacy at the start of the program, then at several stages throughout to the end, showed good steady improvement for all participants.
The net result – A higher level of confidence from all participants, who are all now happy to directly engage both collegially as well as when they have something they want to discuss, rather than thinking they had no way of expressing themselves. The quality of their work has improved, being able to better understand written instructions and record information as well as having stronger numerical skills. And of course, we are getting very timely H&S concerns raised and discussed. Anecdotally I am hearing that they are using their skills in their lives outside work.
Dorothy is a highly skilled and professional educator whom I thoroughly recommend for any employer looking to do a similar exercise.
Dorothy is available to support your business. Get in touch with her at:
Dr. Dorothy Nightingale
MA TESOL,PhD NCAET,NZCALNE
Workplace Coach: Communication, Language, Literacy & Numeracy
Mobile: 021 203 1037
Email: d_nightingale2002@yahoo.com
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dorothy-nightingale-b83451b2
New Shipping Line Arrives at CentrePort
Wellingtonians may notice a new visitor to the harbour, with the arrival of container service T.S Lines, to CentrePort.
Early Wednesday morning, the T.S Tianjin made its maiden call into Te Whanganui-a-tara, as CentrePort tug ‘Tiaki’ put on a warm welcome with its fire-fighting equipment. CentrePort pilot Royston Skucek provided expert local guidance from the Tianjin’s bridge to aid its first ever journey into Wellington harbour.
The T.S Tianjin is part of the fleet that will be calling into Wellington regularly, giving importers and exporters of the central New Zealand region increased access to Chinese based ports.
CentrePort General Manager - Commercial and Break Bulk, Andrew Locke, says:
"Haere mai T.S Lines and thank you for calling into CentrePort.”
"Our team are proud to have secured T.S Lines as a new service and we recognise the potential trade benefits for the wider region."
"It's been a very difficult time for New Zealand’s supply chain, and what we know is that shippers are looking for options to build resilience into their trade pathways, so via T.S Lines, importers and exporters now have a new option to use CentrePort’s increased capacity which became operational in early 2022."
NATIONAL NEWS
Fair Pay Agreement System Webinar - Ask Us Your Questions
The Fair Pay Agreement (FPA) system is up and running as of 1 December 2022. This means that eligible unions are now able to apply to the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) for approval to negotiate an FPA for an industry or occupation.
Next month, our Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce CEO, Patrick McKibbin will sit down with Senior Associate at Gibson Sheat, Michael O'Flaherty, and Director of McKone Consultancy, Tony McKone to discuss the new Fair Pay Agreements Act. They will be answering your questions.
Have a question you would like answered? Please send your questions to patrick@hvchamber.org.nz or reply to this email with your question before the 9th of February. We will keep you updated once the webinar goes live.
Vanuatu Economic Briefing (Online Event)
Are you a business that is or would like to export to Vanuatu?
Join this online event and hear from experts that can support you.
Expert presenters include:
- David Dewar - NZ Trade Commissioner for the Pacific
- Gareth Coleman - ANZ Bank's Head of Trade and Supply Chain for NZ and the Pacific
- Terence Low - ANZ Country Manager - Vanuatu
Date - Saturday 14th
February 2023
Time - 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Those interested in participating should send their email address to Charles Broad - cbroad.pen@gmail.com who in turn will ensure that they receive registration details from NZTE closer to 14th February.
PEN is a Wellington-based volunteer group that seeks to significantly increase the level of NZ's exports to Pacific Island countries. Their aim is to play a constructive role in achieving the export target of the Government's Business Growth Agenda - namely to increase NZ's exports from the current 30% to 40% of GDP by 2025.
Supporting the Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics Industries to be Successful
Hanga-Aro-Rau Workforce Development Council (WDC) who represent the manufacturing, engineering, and logistics industries are seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from interested industry representatives to form new National Industry Advisory Groups (NIAGs).
The NIAGs will hold a unique position supporting Hanga-Aro-Rau operations and guiding our priorities. They will be sector-specific and validate workstreams and test the thinking of new concepts and initiatives for their respective industries.
Group members would be expected to provide a specialist perspective of their sector's current and future workforce needs and help influence how Hanga-Aro-Rau better supports their sector.
Interested? You can read more here and apply here.
Applications close on Friday 10 February 2023.
Supporting New Zealand Employers
Thinking about taking on a new employee or a recently graduated school student?
There are lots of things the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) may be able to do to support you, including:
- a financial contribution to wages and pre-employment, in-work or short-term training
- ongoing support and advice to help new staff settle into your workplace
- supporting candidates with a health condition or disability into work, through a financial contribution to wages, workplace modifications or on-the-job support.
Check our options like Flexi-Wage ($6,624 over 24 weeks or $9,936 over 36 weeks), or Mana in Mahi (your business may get a wage subsidy of up to $18,400). All programmes are subject to discussion with MSD.
See the flyer here for more information and then contact www.workandincome.govt.nz/employers to find out more and to connect with the MSD to have a confidential discussion.
EVENTS
Business Meeting: Impact of Crime & Disorder on Businesses in the Hutt City
When: Thursday 09th February 2023 | 8:00am - 9:00am
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber, Level 3, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Cost: None
We are hosting a meeting for the local business community to hear from the Local Police and Mayor Campbell Barry on the current levels of crime & disorder within Hutt City.
The Police and The Mayor will offer an update on what they are currently seeing happening and what preventative measures they have in place along with future plans.
There will then be an opportunity for participants to ask questions or voice any concerns.
Welcome To 2023: First Business After Five Networking Event of The Year
When: Thursday 09th February 2023 | 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Where: Arcadia at the Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club, 11 Logan Street, Upper Hutt
Cost: Members $25 | Non-Members $35
2023 is here and what better way to start the year than an opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues as well as meet new like-minded people in an informal setting. Experience great hospitality and food at the newly opened Arcadia at the Upper Hutt Cossie Club.
Includes BBQ Food & Drink on arrival. Hosted by Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Gold Partners, Upper Hutt Cossie Club.
Women In Business: Inspiring Stories From Exceptional Leaders
When: Thursday 16th February 2023 | 9:00am - 11:00am
Where: Silverstream Retreat
Cost: Members $35 | Non-Members $45
There are many views on what makes a great leader. What is often more fascinating, and inspiring is to hear how people became leaders and what they learnt along the way.
For some being a leader comes naturally, while for others it requires more work. This could include surrounding yourself with great mentors and support as well as understanding your own strengths & weaknesses and how you can leverage that to your advantage.
Be inspired. Join us to hear from three leaders in our community about their journeys and experiences.
Featured Speakers:
- Ana Lyubich, Founder of Excio
- Jo Jensen, Founder of Strictly Savvy
- Paula Clarke, Founder of Go Architecture
- Vikki Lust, Owner of Belle La Vie
TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Smash Your Revenue Goals In 2023 With Smarter Marketing
When: Wednesday 22nd February 2023 | 5:15pm - 7:30pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, Level 3, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Cost: None
As 2023 gets into full swing, now is the time to prepare for the year ahead and put in place the marketing strategies and tactics that will ensure that you smash your revenue goals over the next 12 months!
In this workshop, Richard (Director of Synthesis Marketing) and his team will cover the following areas:
- Marketing your business in 4 easy steps
- Where to put your marketing effort and budget
- Tips on creating a successful action plan
- Marketing trends to watch for
- These sessions are not only informative but they are also a great opportunity to network with others in the room and share ideas.
Synthesis Marketing is the official Digital Partner of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce for 2023.
B2B Planning For 2023 Success:
Kick Start 2023 With A Planning Workshop Based on the Proven 4R Business Growth Framework
When: Thursday 23rd February 2023 | 9am - 4pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, Level 3, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Cost: $249 for the first person | $1 for the second person
What if you could make 2023 your best year ever?
Even if the economy is shaky,
Even if you have tons of competition,
Even if you don’t know what to do.
What if there is a B2B strategy for growth proven to work in our rapidly changing world and it is fully applicable to your business?
Without huge investment,
Without struggle,
With resources, you already have at hand.
What if there is expert help you can capitalise on and have an actionable plan developed and customised for you in just one day?
This is a personal invitation to a full-day Planning Workshop from the co-creator of the 4R Business Growth Framework, B2B sales and marketing expert Assia Salikhova.
Kickstart your 2023 with a Planning Workshop that is sure to give you novel ideas based on proven strategies on how to grow your B2B business in 2023. Discover a unique approach to Sales & Marketing which is a game changer for your industry. Make the most by getting the knowledge and expertise directly from the creators of the 4Rs Business Growth Framework themselves.
Who should attend this full-day Planning Workshop?
Business owners of established B2B & B2G companies
B2B startup owners or people planning to start a B2B business.
B2B includes consultants, professional services, manufacturers, wholesalers and everyone who deals with business or government as their customer.
For more info about the workshop from Smarketing Lab, click the button below.
EMPLOYMENT
Do you want to be part of a growing, industry-leading tech manufacturer? Chamber members Times-7 have two exciting new roles that have opened up.
Times-7 helps connect billions of items worldwide to the “internet of things” (IoT). They do this through the design, manufacture, and global distribution of fixed RAIN (UHF) RFID reader antennas from their campus in Petone, New Zealand.
Founded over 15 years ago, Times-7 has become a recognised leader in RAIN RFID products. They export to market leaders in RFID, competing globally with over 95% of their business outside New Zealand.
Supply Chain Manager - Full Time
The Supply Chain Planner is responsible for planning, forecasting, resourcing our components, and managing supplier contracts and relationships. This role will suit someone with strong planning, analytics, forecasting, and commercial management skills.
For a full job description, click here.
Apply now by emailing careers@times-7.com with your CV and a cover letter outlining what you would enjoy about this role.
Accounts Administrator - Part Time
The purpose of this role is to manage, process accurately, and record all accounts payable and receivable details for suppliers and customers. This is a part-time position with 25 hours per week, Monday to Friday (9:30 am and 2:30 pm), with some flexibility to work from home.
For a full job description, click here.
Apply now by emailing careers@times-7.com with your CV and a cover letter outlining what you would enjoy about this role.
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.
MEMBER OFFERS
Open for Business 2023 Networking Event: Jumpstart Your Business for Success
When: Thursday 23 February 2023 | 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Where: Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, Level 3, 15 Daly St, Lower Hutt
Cost: None
What If You Can Meet People In Business Planning 2023 as a Year of Success And Growth?
Come along for Smarketing Lab’s inaugural 'Open for the Business' 2023 networking evening.
Christmas and short weeks are well and truly over, and it’s time to get back to business.
Open for Business 2023 is a networking event to reconnect with local business owners, hear from great speakers, and learn how Process, People, and Perception can make a difference for your business. Plus enjoy activities, nibbles, and drinks.
Also on the night:
- Professional LinkedIn Photography:
- Free Personality Feedback by Team Fusion:
- Try Your Luck at Our Balloon Pop Game:
- Complimentary nibbles and drinks will be provided throughout the evening to keep you going. Vegan, GF, DF and Vegetarian options will be given so please don’t hesitate to join us!
Who should join us for 'Open for Business 2023' Networking event?
- Business owners of established B2B & B2G companies
- B2B startup owners or people planning to start a B2B business
- B2B includes consultants, professional services, manufacturers, wholesalers and everyone who deals with business or government as their customers.
Want More Member Offers?
To see a list of our member's offers visit our Members Marketplace on our website here or check out our Hutt Valley Chamber App to see a list of all the deals we have on offer for Chamber members.
You can download our Hutt Valley Chamber App from the Apple App Store here and the Google Play Store here. Please contact Patrick patrick@hvchamber.org.nz for account instructions or questions.
Thank you to all our Partners
As always, special thanks to all our Members and Partners for your ongoing support.
