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Kia ora ,
‘It’s OK’ is the answer I get the most when I ask businesses how they are going at the moment. Most businesses are having to manage their costs with some unfortunately having to reduce staff numbers to keep on top of things. Losing staff is a very hard decision for any business. And very few businesses are recruiting right now.
BUT confidence is starting to appear in the outlook for some businesses.
The NZIER’s quarterly survey of business opinion (QSBO) has showed a marked improvement in business confidence. It shows businesses are lifting their heads and looking to next year.
This is also reflected in the Hutt Valley Business Confidence Survey September 2024, sponsored by Red Hot Business Consulting. Looking 12 months out 66.7% of businesses are saying that conditions for their business will be somewhat or much better, and 70.4% somewhat or much better for business in New Zealand. Time will tell of course but across many surveys now business confidence is showing signs of improvement. But right now is it tough, businesses are generally not recruiting and costs are still going up.
P.S. We have a whole bunch of new offers at the bottom of the email, so go check them out and support our local businesses!
A Huge Thank you to all our Partners for your continued support.
Shoutout to these amazing Sponsors for supporting the 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Awards!
Semper Semper Business Spotlight EP .2 - Supported by Darryn Gray Consulting
In this episode, Darryn Gray sits down with Sam Ashby, the creative director at Semper Semper, to explore his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he faces as a business owner, and the innovative design solutions he brings to his clients. Sam shares insights about what it’s like running a creative agency in the Hutt Valley, the vision driving his studio, and the story behind the unique name, Semper Semper. He also opens up about the rewards and hurdles of transitioning from a practitioner to a business owner, and how he’s helping local businesses build brands that thrive on the global stage.
Discover how Sam’s passion for design and branding is helping shape the future of Kiwi businesses, and listen to his candid advice for fellow entrepreneurs. Plus, learn more about his journey from London to New Zealand and how he continues to adapt in a rapidly evolving market.
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with valuable takeaways, and don’t forget to subscribe to hear more from local business leaders making an impact in the community.
Visit Semper Semper Branding & Design Studio: https://www.sempersemper.studio/
Connect with Darryn if you'd like your business in the spotlight!
Wellness in the Workplace with Nohi
In this webinar hosted by the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, we dive into the importance of wellness at work with Moira McGrava-Ratapu and Anaru Ratapu from Nohi, a wellness platform dedicated to improving workplace wellbeing.
Topics Covered:
- Moira’s journey from social work to founding Nohi
- How personal resilience and challenges shaped their approach to wellness
- Nohi's data-driven tools for monitoring physical, mental, social, and spiritual health
- Misconceptions about wellbeing in the workplace
- The importance of regular self-assessment to maintain overall wellness
If wellness in the workplace is something you are interested in, be sure to also check out our upcoming event on Holistic Wellbeing in the Workplace, presented by Moira McGarva-Ratapu (BASS) and Anaru Ratapu (BA Māori).
The Very First Art Trail in Lower Hutt!
Mark your calendars for Lower Hutt's inaugural Art Trail on October 19-20, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM! This exciting weekend will showcase the creativity of over 50 local artists from Taita to Eastbourne, as they open their studios and pop-up galleries to the public.
With 30 stops along the trail, you'll encounter a rich variety of artistic disciplines, including painting, pottery, printmaking, collage, textile arts, weaving, woodwork, glass art, jewellery, metalwork, and mixed media. This pilot event aims to establish the Art Trail as a permanent annual celebration of the arts in Lower Hutt.
What’s in store for visitors?
- Engage with artists and gain insight into their creative processes.
- View and purchase unique artworks or even commission pieces directly from the creators.
- Explore exhibitions at notable venues like Hutt Art, The Learning Connexion, and the Petone Depot.
- Enjoy drop-in workshops hosted by both The Dowse and Hutt Art throughout the weekend.
Don't miss this chance to celebrate local talent and immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of Lower Hutt. Join us for a weekend of creativity, connection, and community!
In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
- Upcoming Events
- Member News & Events
- National News
- Regional News
- Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
- Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi (Delivering RiverLink) Updates
- Seaview Business News
- Member Offers
- Employment
8th Annual Charity Fishing Contest
The 8th Petone Charity Fishing Competition is being held on Waitangi Weekend 2025 (7th - 9th February 2025) in support of the Child Cancer Foundation and Coastguard Wellington.
Entries are open, register at www.charityfishing.co.nz or by coming into the Petone Club.
$65 per Adult, $30 for Juniors (14 and under) or sign a Family up for $150 (2 Adults & 2 Juniors)
Last year’s recipients who received $16,000
Odour from Seaview Wastewater Treatment Plant
Reports have surfaced over the weekend regarding heightened odour levels from the Seaview Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Council acknowledges community frustration and appreciates the distress this has caused.
The plant's operations were normal over the weekend, but the odour issues stem from a backlog of wet sludge due to two unrelated outages of the sludge dryer in September. The first outage was due to a minor fire on September 2, followed by a mechanical failure on September 15. This failure impacted the unit responsible for crushing dried sludge for recycling, resulting in the need to transfer de-watered sludge to landfill.
The sludge dryer has now been repaired and is back in service; however, there is a backlog of sludge that needs to be cleared, a process that may take up to two weeks. Planned refurbishment work on the primary sedimentation tanks is also underway, which will help improve odour control once completed.
The Council anticipates that odour levels will begin to decrease this week as the backlog is addressed and is actively working to mitigate these issues. Residents can expect improvements soon, and the Council apologises for any inconvenience caused.
Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Board meeting heads to Seaview
The Seaview / Gracefield area of the Hutt Valley is full of amazing businesses that are involved in all sorts of industries.
So it was great to take the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting on the road to Seaview in September. The meeting was held at Titan Cranes who have been in business in the Hutt Valley since 1965. Jan Coton. Managing Director of Titan Group, spoke to the Board before the meeting about the history of Titan Cranes.
The Board of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce is chaired by Mark Skelly who is the President and made up of local business people and representatives from our two local councils.
Mark was delighted to have the opportunity to host the meeting in Seaview due to the significance of this business community to the Hutt Valley economy.
Bore me to the core
Ground conditions around the project area are being tested to ensure large structures, like bridge piers, are well-supported. The team is drilling up to 36 metres below the surface to collect soil and rock samples, while also measuring the strength of the ground. In some spots, instruments will be installed to monitor groundwater levels, temperature, and movement. Special care is being taken to protect the Waiwhetū Aquifer, which supplies up to 70% of Wellington's water during summer.
5% discount to all Chamber members on our current lunch bags and platters
Looking for fresh, flavorful catering options? Blue Carrot offers a variety of lunch bags and platters, beautifully presented and catering to all dietary needs. Perfect for meetings, events, or a special lunch!
Get in touch with Blue Carrot for your next order: 04 568 8838
October Job Orders: Win a 50% Refund, Support Local Food Banks, and Enjoy Exclusive Discounts!
All permanent job orders received in October go into a draw for a 50% fee refund. EQUIP Recruitment will donate the other 50% to Hutt Valley food banks.
15% discount on 1st 40 hours of new temporary placements in October.
Free use of the EQUIP BBQ trailer for a staff event or fundraiser.
Winning words for Hutt businesses. Award-winning copywriter turns his hand to local brands.
Big advertising agency skills, without the big cost. That’s the thinking behind Dan Moth’s new company, One Good Thought.
“Every business has a story to tell. Telling it right builds strong brands people come back to.”
In addition to ad campaigns, Dan can write for websites, brochures, help you build your brand or write bids and tenders that win contracts.
See how Dan can help your brand at https://www.onegoodthought.nz/
Build AI Capability Beyond ChatGPT
If you’re considering AI but worried about costs and complexity, our tailored training program is here to help you make informed decisions. Learn the ins and outs of AI before investing, create custom solutions using MindStudio—no coding required—and enjoy ongoing support to implement effective AI strategies. Choose between a full-day in-house session or three 2-hour online sessions, with a maximum of 12 participants for hands-on coaching. The investment is $3,000 + GST per course, with a special price of $2,700 + GST for Hutt Valley Chamber members. Limited spots are available, so contact Jussi at 021-999 652 or book a free meeting today!
Elevate your year-end conference with a high-performance experience!
As the official training base of the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Hurricanes, Poua, Wellington Lions, Wellington Phoenix, and Wellington Phoenix Women, our facilities offer the perfect blend of inspiration and excellence.
Situated on 18 hectares of park-like grounds, NZCIS offers the ideal environment for high-performance conferences and a chance to escape the city for the day.
For a limited time we are offering:
$120 inc gst per person (min 20 guests, max 80 guests). Includes morning & afternoon tea, all day coffee station and cooked buffet lunch, plus an immersive tour of our Performance Institute.
Along with:
- Full-day venue hire from 8am to 6pm
- 6 monitors for presentations
- 2 separate breakout rooms for brainstorming sessions
- Accessible bathrooms onsite
- Speaker system, microphone, and lectern
Plus enjoy complimentary onsite parking, and with Heretaunga Station right out front, getting here is a breeze.
We can provide team-building activities, and high-performance guest speakers if required at an additional cost.
BRING YOUR CONFERENCE AND STAY THE NIGHT PROMOTION
As part of this special offer we have reduced our Village apartments by 15%! Your conference guests can stay in our beautifully appointed two bed apartments for $272 per night for a twin share. Use the code STAYNZCIS24 when making your booking.
Email: lauren.kennedy@nzcis.co.nz or phone 021 440 848
Are you stuck in the 90’s?
Ah, the 90's. A time when dial-up internet was the height of technology, video stores were the go-to for weekend entertainment, and everyone had a Nokia brick phone that could survive just about anything. We danced the Macarena at every party and took care of our Tamagotchis like they were real pets. The good old days, eh!
Just like these nostalgic memories, sales advice from the 90's has also become outdated. Take the classic sales mantra, "Always Be Closing." This piece of advice was all the rage in the 90's, but we're not in the 90's anymore. It's time to move with the times and adopt a more modern approach to sales.
Always Be Qualifying: The New Sales Mantra
In today's ever-changing business world, "Always Be Qualifying" is much better advice. Instead of focusing solely on closing deals, it's crucial to continuously qualify leads throughout the sales process. This means understanding your prospects' needs, pain points, and decision-making processes to ensure that you're providing the right solutions at the right time.
By always qualifying, you can build stronger relationships with your customers, tailor your approach to their specific needs, and ultimately close more deals in a way that feels natural and mutually beneficial. It's about being a trusted advisor rather than just a salesperson.
So, let's leave "Always Be Closing" in the 90's where it belongs and embrace "Always Be Qualifying" as the new standard for sales success. Just like we moved on from dial-up internet and video stores, it's time to move on from outdated sales advice and adopt strategies that work in today's world.
If you want to chat more about how to improve your sales qualification or sales team results, talk to us, Hear Say Do.
Experience the Kleen and Safe Difference—Complimentary Audit & Testing!
Are you ready to experience the Kleen and Safe difference? We want to offer you a complimentary audit and ATP testing session (valued up to $400). Our expert technicians will visit your premises, test surfaces (number to be determined)such as food preparation benches and cutting boards, and provide you with a comprehensive report and customised recommendations.
Another irresistible offer: Save 10% on supplies
Order your cleaning and hygiene products from Kleen and Safe by 31 October 2024 and for all orders over $200 save a further 10% on our already competitive pricing.
Don’t miss the opportunity to revolutionise your approach to hygiene.
Call or email us by 31st October 2024 to take advantage of this no-obligation offer and discover if your clean is really clean.
- rasik@kleenandsafe.co.nz
- 027 248 9462
Join forces with Kleen and Safe - where science meets service to create the ultimate clean ensuring the safety of all.
More than you expected – Rove Rentals – Commercial Fleet
Located in Wellington Region
Hutt Valley based Rove Rentals are local and have the flexibility to think on their feet and make productive decisions.
ROVE started after seeing an increasing demand for commercial vans as well as a real shortage of quality vehicles and flexible terms. Using their 25 years’ experience in the motor vehicle service and retail industry, they knew they could provide a unique and quality service to the community.
Meeting the demand for local businesses means they provide modern vehicles and flexible arrangements that make the perfect solution and can fill the gap for businesses needing an extra van but can’t justify buying one.
Rove Rentals now have more commercial vehicles to meet your needs with specialised trucks to meet your business requirements.
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
Looking for a better way to manage courses? | Arlo Software
If your business sells and delivers public or private courses then you need a training management system like Arlo. Effortlessly create courses, take online registrations, automate invoicing and communications, and manage your presenters across classroom, Zoom and blended learning.
Keen to learn more? Book and attend a demo before November 1st 2024 and get a $100 Amazon gift card.
Get cash back on your first home loan
Apply for a new Westpac home loan of $250,000 or more for your first home and you could get $5,000 or more cash back, to help make your home greater.
How it works
- All applicants must be first home buyers as determined by Westpac.
- Available on new Westpac residential home loans of $250,000 or more.
- This limited offer may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Talk to our experts to see whether a Westpac home loan is right for you.
Low deposit options to help you get into your first home sooner.
You don’t always need a 20% deposit to buy your first home. Explore our range of low deposit options to get closer to a home you can call your own.
Complimentary Business Coaching Session
I would like to offer a complimentary strategy session of business coaching at "Success Engineering" by using the following link: Select a Date & Time - Calendly
Support Local Schools & Clubs with Linda and Ray Wallace from Ray White!
Looking to sell your property? Through the 'Locals Helping Locals' promotion, list your property with Linda and Ray Wallace Real Estate, and on the successful sale, they will donate $1,000 to a local school or club of your choice, in your name.
This is a fantastic way to give back to the community while achieving your real estate goals.
For a free market appraisal, contact:
Linda Goss-Wallace: 027 269 9605
Ray Wallace: 027 226 4046
Order Your Medical Supplies Today!
For all your medical supply needs, contact Medent. We offer a wide range of quality products to support your business or practice.
Call: 0800 263 3368
Email: enquiry@medent.co.nz
Visit: new.medent.co.nz
Location: Unit 4, 110 Whakatiki St, Upper Hutt
NZME | 50% discount off radio, digital, and print products for Chamber Members
Enjoy up to 50% off radio, digital, or print products in the Wellington market.
As part of this offer, NZME will provide a full business diagnostic session to tailor a campaign that meets your specific needs and delivers the results you’re looking for.
To take advantage of this fantastic offer, contact Hannah Doile at hannah.doile@nzme.co.nz today and mention you are a member.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to boost your business with NZME’s top-tier advertising solutions!
Terms and conditions may apply. This offer is only available to new NZME clients.
Centre of Business Excellence Complimentary Strategy Session
Are you a small or medium business owner concerned about the current business climate? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help!
WCBE offers business coaching, mentoring, and planning services tailored specifically for New Zealand businesses. As part of his commitment to supporting local businesses, he provides a complimentary business assessment and strategy consultation.
What to Expect:
- A 60-90 minute onsite evaluation
- Identification of hidden profits and time-saving opportunities
- Custom ideas tailored specifically for your business
There’s absolutely no obligation to continue working together; all Chris asks is that you make a decision at the end of the session.
Limited Availability: Chris has only 1-2 slots available per week, so if you want to take advantage of this opportunity, contact him early!
Feeling bogged down by admin tasks?
Strictly Savvy’s Virtual Assistant services are designed to help you reclaim your time and focus on what matters most—growing your business. From inbox and calendar management to bookkeeping and more, our expert Virtual Assistants become an essential part of your team, taking care of the day-to-day tasks so you can focus on the big picture, strategic tasks that only you can do.
And right now, if you sign up for a service plan before 31st October, you’ll receive your onboarding investment COMPLIMENTARY! (valued at $299)!
Here’s what’s included:
- A personalised "Getting Started" Zoom meeting to ensure a seamless handover of your key tasks and processes.
- Initial setup of a custom handbook documenting your systems, allowing your VA to hit the ground running from day one.
Let us handle the admin while you focus on growing your business (and maybe even carve out some well-deserved downtime). Mention HVCC when you book your discovery call to take advantage of this limited-time offer!
Experience Better Ways to Work - 2-Week Complimentary Trial at Q Space!
Discover Q Space, Lower Hutt’s dynamic coworking hub designed for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. We offer flexible Workspaces, Meeting Rooms and a Welcoming Community of like-minded professionals.
With your 2-week complimentary trial, you’ll enjoy:
- Access to hot desks in our vibrant coworking space
- Complimentary coffee, tea, and kitchen facilities
- High-speed internet and soundproofed meeting rooms
- Connection to a community of like-minded professionals
Contact Deanna now to secure your trial and see how Q Space can elevate your workday. Reach her at 027 880 7821 or via email at Work@qspace.co.nz
Introducing the BTIT "Complimentary For Kiwi Business" Initiative!
BTIT has launched the "Free For Kiwi Business" program, aimed at supporting Kiwi businesses of all sizes.
This initiative provides access to a suite of hosted, ready-to-use back-office applications—completely complimentary of charge, with no gimmicks, catches, or hidden fees.
The Offering Includes:
- HR Management with OrangeHRM
- Customer Relationship Management with SuiteCRM
- Helpdesk, Ticketing, and Asset Management with GLPi
- Portfolio, Programme, and Project Management with OpenProject
- (New!) Business Invoicing and Online Payments with Invoice Ninja
- And more to come!
For more information and to get started, visit the BTIT website.
A MONTHS COMPLIMENTARY ADVERTISING with Jolly Billboards
Book any consecutive three month campaign with us and receive one month complimentary.
That’s 4 months for the price of 3.
This is for any campaigns starting in 2024
Christmas Corporate Gifting Special for Chamber Members
Help us Celebrate the launch of the new Stansborough historic mill with a Christmas Corporate Gifting Special - Hutt Chamber Members Only
Special Offer:
- Purchase 10 or more gift-boxed BW Throws and receive one free for yourself!
Support a 100% NZ team using NZ wool, all woven together with care.
Order Deadline: Applies to orders received prior to 30th November.
How much is your home worth?
One of the most common questions home owners ask me us, “What is my home is worth in today’s market?” As your local area specialists, we are offering our opinion of value on homes in the area.
Each appraisal will take approximately 15 minutes to complete, there is no charge and no obligation.
With our compliments you will receive:
- A comprehensive property appraisal report outlining the current value range for your property.
- Detailed market analysis on properties recently sold and currently on the market in your area.
- Helpful information about methods of sale, marketing strategies and presentation tips.
Naturally, strict confidentiality will be adhered to for each property owner.
Please note this is not a registered valuation.
To book a convenient time please contact us any time.
Complimentary CNC Machining Demo
Curious if a CNC machine can make your parts? DATUM CNC is offering a no-obligation demonstration with their versatile DGM-S1 Gantry Mill. Simply send your 3D files or drawings, and they’ll machine your component at no cost (some material costs may apply). The DGM-S1 can handle plastics, composites, brass, aluminum, or steel, and you'll receive a machined part.
Interested? Contact them today to book your demo!
Custom made bracket for OSMO DJI Pocket 2 camera.
Free Coffee & Chat - Let’s Talk Money | Helium
Successful business owners often face unique financial challenges and opportunities. We help you take control of your financial future, so you can focus on growing your business and living the life you want.
Get personalised financial planning and investment strategies to help you create a future filled with wealth, happiness, and freedom.
2025 Desk Calendars – Customised for Your Business
Give the perfect client gift! Our 2025 Desk Calendars feature stunning New Zealand landscapes and can be customised with your business logo. Ideal for staying top of mind with clients all year long.
Contact Jeshal today to place your order! - 021 206 2536
Semper Semper Studio 20% Discount for Chamber Members
Semper Semper Studio is offering 20% off all branding and design services, including strategic branding, graphic design, web design, print design, social media and campaign design to HVCC members. We're dedicated to helping Hutt Valley businesses grow and thrive, locally and internationally. The offer is valid indefinitely for current members.
Give Sam a call to see how we can help - 021 246 2707 | sam@sempersemper.studio
15% discount on any orders of $5000+ from Bluestar
Bluestar is offering a 15% discount on any orders of $5000 or more until the end of October 2024.
Explore their services at:
- www.bluestar.co.nz
- www.futures.bluestar.co.nz for Pacific Island opportunities.
Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer!
Looking to cut your energy costs? | Reliance Utilities
As NZ's fastest-growing energy broker, we secure the best deals for businesses, saving you up to 20% on your power bill. Simple, efficient, and reliable.
Reach out to Jigar from Reliance Utilities and start saving today.
Your best energy deal, on us.
2degrees Business Mobile| Chamber Member Deal
Join 2degrees 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.
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.
Inferno Outdoor Fireplaces Deal
Elevate your backyard this Spring and make dreams and memories come true with an Inferno Outdoor Fireplace & Kitchen.
$500.00 off any Fireplace in our range and free installation on any Kitchen. Promo expires 31st October 24.
- Pete@infernofires.co.nz
- 0272495288
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!
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!
Brendan Foot Supersite | All-new 2024 Suzuki Swift with a petrol and mild hybrid engine.
Now Suzuki’s most fuel-efficient car – the new Swift smashed the factory fuel efficiency scores. The shape has been tweaked with a more modern interior, larger infotainment system, safety tech, and more colours to choose from. Suzuki Swifts are one of the most popular fleets cars and the 2024 model is available now from only $25,990 + ORC. It’s currently on display at Wellington airport.
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:
View Our Member Marketplace:
Get Our App:
Are You Hiring?
If you have a job suitable for a student, get in touch with our Education to Employment Coordinator at Sam@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.
