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Kia ora ,
Last week, we celebrated outstanding achievements across various industries, recognising the businesses and individuals that drive our economy forward at the 2degrees Wellington Regional Business Excellence Awards 2024. Let's take a moment to honour their incredible contributions!
We would like to give a massive congratulations to the following winners:
Excellence in Construction, Trades, and Infrastructure sponsored by Morden:
Jarvis Plumbing & Gasworks
Excellence in Manufacturing sponsored by Woburn International:
Whakatiki Engineering (1984) Ltd
Pertronic Industries Limited Excellence in Technology and Innovation:
Sharesies Ltd
Excellence in Hospitality, Tourism, and Retail sponsored by PKF Kendons:
Wellington Phoenix Football Club
Excellence in Service and Support sponsored by THE SEBEL:
Queen Street Pharmacy
Excellence in Sustainable and Environmental Practices sponsored by CentrePort Ltd:
Pact Group Holdings Ltd
Excellence in Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Innovation sponsored by ACC New Zealand:
MJH Engineering Ltd
Diversity, Inclusion, and Growing People sponsored by Hutt City Council:
Empower Pacific Ltd
Best Small Business sponsored by Gallagher:
Prologic Skin Care
People’s Choice sponsored by ANZ:
Jarvis Plumbing & Gasworks
Hall of Fame sponsored by New Zealand Media & Entertainment (NZME):
J Tomlinson & Co Ltd / JT Group, Arrow Uniforms, & Black Diamond Technologies
Limited
Supreme Award:
Sharesies Ltd
Thank you to our amazing sponsors, including 2degrees, CentrePort Ltd, Gallagher, Hutt City Council, ACC New Zealand, ANZ, THE SEBEL, Woburn International, Morden, Pertronic Industries Limited, PKF Kendons, New Zealand Media & Entertainment (NZME), Lower Hutt Events Centre, Metco Engineering Ltd, Streamliner Productions, Obvious Brand Partners, Jolly Billboards, Cossie Club Upper Hutt, BlueStar, Waihanga Ara Rau, and Arrow Uniforms, for making this night possible!
Stay tuned for memorable moments from the night, and let's continue celebrating the remarkable businesses that contribute to Wellington's thriving economy.
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!
In this edition of the Hutt Valley Business Weekly:
- Upcoming Events
- National News
- Regional News
- Hutt Valley Manufacturing & Innovation News
- Te Awa Kairangi - Delivering Riverlink
- Seaview Business News
- Work Opportunities
- Member Offers
- Employment
OpenStar Technologies Produces First Plasma!
OpenStar recently celebrated a groundbreaking achievement—successfully producing plasma around “Junior,” their current magnet prototype. This milestone has been in the making since OpenStar’s inception, marking a pivotal moment in their journey to advance fusion technology.
The excitement among the OpenStar team is palpable, as this success represents a significant leap forward. However, the journey is far from over. The team is already hard at work, looking ahead to the next stages of development, pushing forward to bring fusion technology closer to reality.
This accomplishment opens a new chapter for OpenStar, sparking hope and ambition for what’s to come in the realm of sustainable energy.
The Future Makers Campaign
We’re excited to share the launch of the Future Makers campaign, a new initiative to highlight the incredible people, stories, and innovations within New Zealand's manufacturing sector. This is a unique opportunity to help raise awareness about the hidden gems of our industry – and showcase the world-class technology, craftsmanship, and problem-solving that are happening right here at home.
Many Kiwis are unaware of just how dynamic and innovative our manufacturing sector has become. This campaign aims to change that by connecting job seekers, investors, and even government leaders with the impressive growth and potential within our sector. From world-leading products to groundbreaking local technologies, New Zealand manufacturing has a lot to be proud of, and it’s time to share that with the world.
Here are three ways you can participate and showcase your stories:
Nominate a Story: Submit compelling, personal stories from your business, whether they’re about unexpected career journeys, industry-first innovations, or remarkable people. Think anecdotes that captivate and inspire!
Volunteer as a Hero: Put your story in the spotlight through video interviews, case studies, or other features as part of the campaign’s hero content.
Engage with Fun Challenges: Contribute to user-generated content and join exciting challenges that make sharing stories fun and engaging (no influencer skills needed!).
Ready to Share?
Submit your stories or nominate someone by clicking THIS LINK by Monday, December 2nd. Our team will review all entries and get in touch to discuss next steps.
Let’s shine a light on the people, ideas, and innovation that make New Zealand manufacturing extraordinary!
Mill Street Stopbank Upgrade: Stage 1 Completion – Public Viewing Event
Mill Street Stopbank Upgrade: Stage 1 Completion – Public Viewing Event
Join us onSaturday 30th November between 9am and 11am at Mill Street Stopbank for an exclusive look at the completed first stage of the stopbank upgrade as part of Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi flood defence works.
Event Details:
- Location: Access via Melling Bridge (Riverbank Car Park) or Mills Street.
- Important: Last entry by 10:45am. Wear sturdy shoes and note that the site is uneven and potentially wet.
- Parking: Available at Riverbank Car Park.
- Pets: Dogs on leads are welcome.
For more details, visit teawakairangi.co.nz/mills-st-stopbank.
Update on Sludge Backlog Reduction Efforts
Work continues to reduce the backlog of dewatered sludge, before bringing the sludge dryer back into service. This is scheduled for early next week, but earlier if possible.
We’ve increased the amount of sludge being transported to landfill, from around 8 tonnes to 50 tonnes per day. This helps us reduce the sludge backlog quicker, support efficient plant operations and minimise odour as we head into summer.
The sludge backlog was a result of the sludge dryer outages that happened in September and October.
The sludge transportation is likely to result in increased odour as we load the trucks. We have moved one of the odour neutralisers at the plant to where we are loading the trucks to reduce the odour as much as possible.
We apologise for any increased odour that you may have experienced at the plant since this work started. We expect odour to improve early next week when we bring the sludge dryer back into service.
Our team are also investigating potential issues with one of the primary sedimentary tanks and one of the blowers at the plant. These issues could impact the overall performance of the plant. We are working as fast as we can to have these issues resolved as soon as possible.
Please be assured we are doing all that we can to reduce odour levels. We have brought in an external expert to provide additional support and focus on plant operations and to provide recommendations to accelerate the solids removal process.
We’ll continue to closely monitor the situation and have another update to share early next week.
Do you supply to Government? Important news about payments!
Pre-qualification and pre-conditions
When it comes to tendering, especially if you are new to it, there are some key tasks you need to complete before submitting a tender. Many businesses are unaware of pre-qualifications or pre-conditions you need to meet until the tender is released.
Some of these take time and will limit the time to focus on writing a compelling response before the deadline. Many tender requirements specify a set of pre-conditions that businesses must meet before responding. If you do not meet these conditions, your response will not be evaluated, no matter how good your solution or price is.
Here is a checklist of standard pre-conditions that many organisations, especially government, request.
- Health and safety | +Impac PREQUAL, NZ Local Authority Pre-qualification Scheme (SHE), Totika certified, and many more
- Business insurance | The amount varies, but as a recent example for a civil contract, the RFP stated a minimum of $2 million for public liability, $50,000 for plant, $1,000 for motor insurance and other requirements. Professional indemnity is another requirement in many tenders, especially in the professional services industry.
- Evidence of solvent and profitable | A letter from your accountant or audited accounts to show that your business is profitable and that there is no risk of dissolving during the contract term. Smaller businesses normally provide a letter rather than full accounts.
- ISO certification for Quality, Environmental, or Health and Safety | This can be a requirement and takes time and investment to complete. It is not often a pre-condition but a nice to have on most tenders.
There are many other conditions for different industries, so it is good for you to research the typical requirements within your industry.
BidABLE can help prepare you for tendering and give you more specific examples for your industry. Book a free discovery call to find out more.
For help and advice with your RFPs and Tenders please contact:
Deal of the Year on a Car of the Year
Have you heard? You can now own the impressive 2022 Car of the Year, Hyundai IONIQ 5 EV demo, from only $44,990 drive away. No, we’re not kidding, while stocks last you can save a whopping $35k on a Hyundai IONIQ 5 100% EV 58 kWh demo. Popular for home and business, the IONIQ 5 is a dream to drive and has a driving range of up to 384km so you can say goodbye to range anxiety. Not only is it high-tech and powerful, the IONIQ 5 is made from recycled materials to reduce your carbon footprint even more!
A hot deal like this is not going to hang around for long. It’s only available while existing stock lasts. Don’t miss out on this rock-bottom demo deal on an incredible car from a brand you know and love. Come and see our Hyundai experts at Railway Ave, Lower Hutt. We’re open 7 days a week.
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.
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.
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
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
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!
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!
Upgrade your fleet this year and pay nothing until March 2025
Right now, you can finance ANY Brendan Foot Supersite used, demo or new car with ZERO deposit and pay nothing until March 2025*. This offer is exclusive to Brendan Foot Supersite. We’ve never done this before, and we may never do it again – so take advantage of this unmissable deal before it ends on 31 December 2024
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.
