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 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...
A new Business Investor Visa will encourage more foreign direct investment and give New Zealand business owners greater succession options, says BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich. “This is a positive step in the Government’s programme to support foreign investment and attract international expertise, and will help ensure greater business continuity,...
BusinessNZ has welcomed today’s announcement by Immigration Minister Erica Stanford introducing two new seasonal visa pathways – the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and the Peak Seasonal Visa – as a pragmatic step to better match immigration settings with business needs. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says the new visa categories...
BusinessNZ says urgent and co-ordinated action is needed to avoid what gas users describe as a ‘devastating’ disruption to New Zealand jobs, services and manufacturing. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says New Zealand’s dwindling natural gas supply is an issue that must be taken seriously. “The assumption that industry can quickly...
The announced overhaul of New Zealand’s education system is a chance to ensure school leavers are better equipped for the modern workforce, says BusinessNZ. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says NCEA is failing students. “The current system of NCEA is not delivering what students, parents, teachers, or employers need. Change is...
As councils consider their spending and rates decisions for the coming year and as October’s local authority elections draw closer, business groups are calling for greater transparency on how councillors vote. “It is time for councils to make it easier to show how their elected members vote at each meeting...