The Supreme Court has today ruled that four rideshare drivers should be classified as employees and not contractors, a decision with far-reaching implications for the economy at large, BusinessNZ says. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says if this becomes the status quo, then the gig economy could collapse as a result....
The Government’s announced changes to procurement rules should give local and small businesses an edge in winning valuable contracts and further boosting the economy, BusinessNZ says. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says Government spending and procurement can be a powerful economic lever. “Each year, government agencies spend approximately $51.5 billion on...
Policy changes, some incremental, some bold, continue to berolled out in support of a better business environment.BusinessNZ’s recent advocacy has been aimed at enhancedpublic sector efficiency, restraint in council spending, moreaccurate seismic protection, and beefed-up vocationalsubjects in secondary schooling – all areas that have thepotential to contribute to higher growth....
Two new immigration pathways for skilled trades and technicians reinforces the value of trades as part of New Zealand’s economy, BusinessNZ says. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says immigration works alongside local workforce development to better our economy. “By bringing in experienced trade and technical people, businesses can expand their...
Future investment intentions indicate a reasonable level of business confidence, BusinessNZ says. BusinessNZ’s 2025 Business Sentiment Survey shows uncertainty is a key challenge for businesses, but also shows companies planning more investment than last year. The survey of 130 businesses shows 68% intend to authorise the same or more capital...
Today’s announcement from government to reduce regulatory red tape for exporters means competing on the world stage will soon be easier for some Kiwi businesses. By the end of the month, food exporters will no longer need to apply for exemptions from New Zealand rules if their products already meet...
Moves announced by the Government today to modernise New Zealand’s universities will ensure graduates leave with the skills to better innovate and boost our economy, BusinessNZ says. Education, Skills and Immigration Director Rachel Simpson says BusinessNZ supports the introduction of a new tertiary education strategy that places economic growth at the centre of higher...
The BusinessNZ Planning Forecast for the September quarter reports on a divide in the NZ economy, with growth in the rural and regional economy, but a downswing in some large urban sectors including Auckland and Wellington. BusinessNZ Chief Economist John Pask says the divide is reflected in a range of...
BusinessNZ recent advocacy has focused on NZ’s ability to export goods and services and import needed skills – including NZ exporters’ performance in the face of US tariff moves, and the potential for new international visas to fill staffing gaps in seasonal industries. Proposals to improve councils’ consenting of new...
The announcement of measures making it easier for supermarkets to establish and expand in New Zealand is a step in the right direction, and BusinessNZ would like to see the Government’s approach applied in other sectors of our economy. Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says encouraging investment and growth in...