Welcome to Business South
Connect.Navigate.Empower.Business South is your Southern Business Association.
We believe that every business should have the best chance at being the best it can be, we optimise employers' health and growth potential through a wide range of support services, training and networking opportunities for whatever stage they are at and advocate for businesses with decision-makers in local and central government.
Business South is plugged-in, live and connected. Put simply, we're the region's go-to people around ways to accelerate business growth.
INVEST ŌTEPOTI DUNEDIN
Shaping Growth for Ōtepoti Dunedin's Future
Invest Ōtepoti Dunedin is a new growth plan developed by Business South, a bold plan to attract investment, back our businesses, and unlock new opportunities for our city. From health and education, to innovation, tourism, and sustainability, this is Ōtepoti Dunedin’s blueprint for a thriving future.
Part of a wider community
Stronger Together
When you join Business South, you also become part of an expansive national business network with expertise in all areas of business.
As a collective, our voices are amplified. We engage directly with decision-makers, meeting regularly with the Prime Minister, Government Ministers, MPs and other officials to champion your interests and to stay ahead of developments that affect business.
50% off for Not-for-Profits
Business South is proud to support organisations that make a difference in the community. For limited time only our yearly membership is just $250 per year and 50% off on training courses, thanks to the Otago Community Trust. Eligibility criteria apply.
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Phone App
Download the Business South phone app to get access to local discounts and hear about the latest updates!
Members App
Business Advocacy
We are your voice. We are here for businesses to share your insights (what keeps you awake at night) so we can advocate for you to minimise barriers, ideally before they arise. By activating your voice Business South advocates your business issues with decision-makers in local and central government.
Business Advocacy
Advertise With Us
Grow your business with our paid promotions for Business South members.
Advertise with us
Exportation Support
Exporting can be complex, time-consuming, and full of red tape especially when dealing with shifting regulations, tariffs, and the pressure to meet international requirements. At Business South, we’re here to take the stress out of the process. Our export documentation support is designed to help Otago businesses keep goods moving, reduce delays, and stay compliant in global markets.
Learn Moreof businesses believe their region is focusing on the right kinds of projects and initiatives to ensure a vibrant and sustainable business community.
of businesses are clear what their region will be known for in 10 years' time.
of businesses believe there is a clear vision and aspiration for their region that is well articulated and understood.
Who are you?
At Business South, we support a wide array of organisations, people and communities.
Select one to be directed to relevant services:
Who are you?
At Business South, we support a wide array of organisations, people and communities.
Select one to be directed to relevant services:
Mindz in Action Conference
Mindz in Action 2025 – Powered by Business South
In May, we brought business minds together at Mindz in Action, a full-day event packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tools for success. From leadership to workplace transformation, this conference is just one example of how we support our members to grow, connect, and lead with confidence.
Otago’s Young Entrepreneurs Shine at YES Regional Finals 2025
Congratulations to the Otago Regional Final’s Winner Natures Prime (St Hilda’s) and runner up Rhythm (OGHS)!
Business South celebrated the next generation of Otago entrepreneurs today at the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Regional Finals, held at the University of Otago’s Business School.
The event marks the culmination of months of dedication and creativity from secondary school students across the region. This year’s programme involved 338 students from 14 schools throughout Otago, guided by their teachers, mentors, and the Business South YES team.
Time to Move On from Copper: What Businesses Need to Know
The traditional copper network that has long carried our phone and internet services is being progressively retired.
In areas where fibre is available – mostly urban and semi-urban locations – this change is happening sooner rather than later. Chorus has confirmed that all copper services in fibre areas will be fully withdrawn by mid-2026.
Press Release - Business South joins forces with Xero
Business South today announced a new collaboration with Xero to bring the Know Your Numbers programme to its members - an initiative designed to strengthen financial literacy among small business owners and non-profits across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Know Your Numbers is a free programme that provides practical tools and support to help small businesses build confidence in managing their finances. It’s especially valuable for those who may not have access to traditional networks or resources to access support.
Support for newcomers in the business world
Business South, Business Mentors NZ, and Central Otago’s Welcoming Communities have joined forces to provide support to newcomers in the business world for those up and comers who are new to the Central Otago district.
“Moving to a new district, or halfway across the globe, is overwhelming at the best of times – let alone understanding an unfamiliar professional landscape,” Central Otago District Council Welcoming Communities Officer Heather Harries, said. “A business mentor can provide guidance, help build confidence and capability, provide industry knowledge, fresh perspectives, and a sounding board for new ideas.”
ExportNZ update - 15% US tariff rate
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order for new tariff rates on a wide swathe of US trading partners to go into effect in seven days (8 August 2025). The new tariff rate for New Zealand - 15% - is an increase from the “baseline” 10% that Trump announced during his “Liberation Day” event on April 2.
Quarterly Survey Results | May 2025
Business confidence in the south continues to increase according to Business South’s latest quarterly business survey, a sign of regional resilience and momentum. 81% believe Otago and Southland is heading in the right direction.
Ten Years On: Young energy leaders raise the profile
New Zealand’s brightest young energy professionals are focused on raising their collective voice and bringing the energy sector closer together.
After a decade of fostering connection and careers within the energy sector, the Young Energy Professionals Network (YEPN) welcomes two new co-Chairs, Beca’s Industrial Energy Lead Andrew Wallace and Aurecon’s Lead Energy Consultant Danielle Manners.
Central Otago Santana Minerals BA5
At the latest BA5 Networking event in Central Otago, hosted by Santana Minerals, over 120 businesses attended the event to discuss the proposed fast-track mining operation. It was an informative and respectful discussion, with diverse business sectors sharing their views.
An Update from Export NZ
We understand that recent US trade policy is causing uncertainty and making it hard for businesses to make decisions and plan.
It is often hard to keep track of rapidly-evolving situation in the US and understand exactly how your businesses may be impacted.
Read more to see as of today, 12th June 2025, the current status of New Zealand exports to the US.
Exclusive Icehouse Training Now Available
We are proud to bring Icehouse training to Otago, available exclusively through Business South. Icehouse is one of Aotearoa's most prestigious business development organisations, known for empowering New Zealand businesses through world-class training and their commitment to creating a high-performing New Zealand economy where businesses thrive.
Enterprise Partners
Pivotal Partners
