News
The world is ever-changing.
Keep up-to-date with the latest business news, industry developments, successes, submissions and media releases.
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.
Response - ODT article Zero Carbon Alliance
You may have seen an article in the Otago Daily Times, regarding Business South’s position on the Zero Carbon Alliance. We want to take this opportunity to clarify our position and reaffirm our strong support for the sustainability journey many businesses across our region are already on.
Business South fully supports the goal of achieving a zero-carbon future and recognises the outstanding progress many businesses are making in sustainability and emissions reduction. We are proud to support and champion our members in these efforts.
Webinar: using AI to maximise marketing
Watch the webinar with Kale Panoho, founder of K&J Growth and Managing Director of Rugby Bricks and Protocols.
It was a great session, full of practical insights into how Kiwi businesses can start using AI tools to improve marketing results—without needing big budgets or complex systems.
Datacom announced as principal sponsor for Mindz in Action 2025
Mindz in Action, Otago’s largest and most future-focused business conference, is proud to announce Datacom as the official principal sponsor.
In addition to being the event’s principal sponsor, Datacom will take the stage with two speakers;
Angela Millward; The evolution of user experience in the era of AI agents: From navigation to collaboration.
Richard Kenyon (HR stream): Embracing AI in our future: Navigating digital transformation with AI
New Health and Safety changes for Otago and Southland businesses
Business South welcomes the recent announcements by Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon Brooke van Veldon outlining a series of reforms to New Zealand’s health and safety legislation. These proposed changes aim to improve clarity, reduce unnecessary compliance obligations, and provide more targeted guidance for businesses.
Quarterly Survey Results | February 2025
Business South Expands YES Programme to Queenstown and Wanaka
Business South is excited to announce the expansion of its Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) programme to Queenstown, alongside its long-standing Dunedin programme for the 2025 school year.
YES, offers high school students the chance to develop their own business ventures, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge that will set them up for future success in the business world.
Helping Precious Collaborative Grow a Sustainable Fashion Business
Precious Collaborative, a sustainable fashion start-up in New Zealand, creates high-end clothing using local materials and designers while also making ethical fashion more accessible through its social enterprise, Precious Coats.
Founder Claire O'Connell sought support from the Otago Regional Business Partner Network (ORBP), which connected her with business mentors, training programs, and funding opportunities. ORBP's guidance has been instrumental in helping Claire navigate marketing, sustainability, and business growth, providing her with valuable resources to establish and expand her brand.
Enterprise Partners
Pivotal Partners
