01 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1084 views
Open Banking will be expanded to business banking channels, enabling businesses to share banking data with trusted providers to access faster loan comparisons, automated accounting, and improved cashflow management. This initiative aims to save businesses time on administrative tasks, boost competition, and enhance productivity, particularly benefiting small businesses by providing clearer financial insights and reducing manual work. While large corporates are exempt due to limited demand, the government prioritizes Open Banking as a key tool to support small business growth and efficiency.
06 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1108 views
The New Zealand Government has introduced a two-track system under the Overseas Investment Act to speed up investment decisions, aiming to process most applications within five to 15 working days, significantly faster than before. This reform, along with increased Active Investor Plus visa applications, is expected to bring billions in overseas capital, supporting economic growth, productivity, and high-paying jobs by providing access to international capital, expertise, and technology. The Government emphasizes that attracting foreign investment is essential for New Zealand’s future as a high-income economy and is committed to removing barriers to help businesses grow and create opportunities for Kiwis.
08 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1165 views
New rule changes reduce sampling and testing requirements for small-scale meat processors, lowering costs while maintaining high food safety standards. These adjustments, developed after consultation with micro operators, aim to ease barriers for small businesses and support local food supplies without compromising safety. The government is committed to balancing oversight with practicality to foster innovation and help primary industries succeed.
02 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1040 views
The Wellington District Court's Disputes Tribunal has transitioned to electronic case files to provide faster, more flexible justice, allowing referees and staff to securely access and manage cases remotely. Following successful implementations in Christchurch and upcoming plans for Auckland, this digital shift aims to reduce delays and improve the system nationwide. The move supports small businesses and consumers by enabling quicker dispute resolutions, helping them recover losses and maintain operations efficiently.
20 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1161 views
Acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop welcomes latest figures showing inflation within Reserve Bank's target range, with annual CPI inflation rising from 2.7% to 3% in the year to September 2025. Expectations are for inflation to decline towards 2% in the first half of next year, easing pressure on households and businesses. Top contributors to the annual increase were electricity (up 11.3%) and local authority rates and payments (up 8.8%), emphasizing the need for increased electricity supply and competition and the impact of local government rates on New Zealanders' finances.
09 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1319 views
Changes to government procurement rules in New Zealand aim to give local businesses a better chance at winning contracts by introducing an economic benefit test, effective from 1 December. These new rules, resulting from feedback received during consultation, include simplifying processes, reducing the number of rules, and emphasizing the economic value and job creation for Kiwis. The changes are designed to make it easier for both local and international businesses to compete for government contracts while upholding international trade commitments and ensuring responsible use of taxpayer money.
23 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1400 views
The New Zealand Government is introducing two new skilled migrant residence pathways to help businesses attract and retain the workforce they need. These pathways include the Skilled Work Experience pathway for migrants with at least five years of relevant work experience and the Trades and Technician pathway for migrants with specified qualifications and work experience. The government aims to balance attracting higher-skilled workers with managing migration levels responsibly, prioritizing New Zealanders for jobs, and ensuring that skilled and experienced migrants are placed in occupations where they are most needed.
18 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1202 views
Finance Minister Nicola Willis appointed Hayley Gourley to the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), responsible for setting the Official Cash Rate (OCR) in New Zealand. Gourley's diverse experience in corporate, rural, and financial sectors will enhance the Committee's discussions, following the recommendation of the Reserve Bank's Board. She will succeed Professor Bob Buckle on 1 October 2025, who will retire at the end of September after making significant contributions to the MPC.
18 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1256 views
Finance Minister Nicola Willis highlighted the impact of global uncertainty on consumers and businesses based on released economic data. Stats NZ reported a 0.9% decline in real Gross Domestic Product in the second quarter following an initial increase. Willis attributed this downturn to international turmoil and tariffs affecting investment decisions. Looking ahead, there are positive signs of economic recovery, with lower interest rates, increased mortgage lending, and a forecasted strengthening of economic growth as tariff-related uncertainty diminishes.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1329 views
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones praised the collaborative effort between Buller District Council, Development West Coast, and Endura in building 10 new units at Reefton Campground using local labor and businesses. The project aims to enhance accommodation options for both locals and tourists. The initiative not only provided employment for 50 local workers but also boosted the local economy, with Endura leasing the units initially for its staff before repurposing them for visitor accommodation.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1296 views
The Government is investing $1.6 million to repair and reopen Tasman’s Great Taste Cycle Trail, damaged by recent storms, aiming to boost tourism and support local businesses. The funding will address flood and wind damage by repairing sections, replacing infrastructure, and creating alternative routes. Reopening the trail will benefit the Nelson-Tasman region, reconnect communities, and provide opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1364 views
The Government is providing $50k to Nelson Tasman for domestic tourism marketing to support local businesses impacted by severe weather events, according to Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston. Nearly 70% of tourism and hospitality businesses in the region have suffered revenue losses due to cancellations and a drop in visitors. The funding will be used for a domestic marketing campaign to promote tourism in Nelson Tasman, emphasizing its importance for the local economy and encouraging visitors to explore the region.
20 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1468 views
Finance Minister Nicola Willis highlights the benefits of falling interest rates, including support for growth, businesses, job creation, and mortgage holders. The Reserve Bank has reduced the Official Cash Rate (OCR) from 3.25 to 3 percent, with further decreases expected. Lower interest rates stimulate economic activity, reduce mortgage repayments, and are seen as a positive response to economic challenges, signaling improving conditions and effective economic management by the government.
10 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1638 views
The Government is introducing two new seasonal visa pathways to assist New Zealand businesses in accessing necessary workers during peak periods, while also prioritizing job opportunities for New Zealanders. The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is a three-year visa for experienced seasonal workers in various industries, while the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) is a seven-month visa for short-term roles. Visa holders must spend time offshore before returning, and employers must advertise roles and engage with MSD to prioritize New Zealand workers.
07 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1810 views
Ministers Seymour and Simpson have announced a Ministry for Regulation review to address the high costs and complexities of New Zealand's product labelling regulations, which hinder affordability and global competitiveness. The current system, comprising over 30 codes and standards, imposes unnecessary compliance burdens on businesses, leading to increased prices and limited wage growth. The review aims to streamline regulations, reduce compliance costs, and enhance Kiwi goods' competitiveness internationally, with a focus on benefiting both businesses and consumers by simplifying the labelling process.