News

Annual Plan submission - Queenstown Lakes District Council

Business South has lodged a formal submission on the Queenstown Lakes District Council Draft Annual Plan 2026–2027. The submission draws on our Quarterly Business Survey and reflects the views of businesses of all sizes across the district. 

Annual Plan submission - Waitaki District Council

Business South has made a formal submission to the Waitaki District Council on its proposed Annual Plan 2026/27, which puts forward rates increases of between 19% and 45% to address a $14 million structural deficit.

Our submission represents the views of Waitaki business members and draws on findings from our February 2026 Quarterly Business Survey and a targeted pulse-check survey on rates impacts conducted ahead of the consultation. 

Annual Plan submission - Clutha District Council

The Clutha District's proposed average rates increase of 20.58% in 2026/27, building on 16.67% in 2025/26, represents a cumulative increase of approximately 40% across two years. Business South urges Council to balance necessary cost recovery with measures that protect business confidence and support economic growth. 

Annual Plan submission - Dunedin City Council

Article feature in the ODT:

"There is insufficient urgency from the Dunedin City Council in its planning around what the city needs to do to grow its economic base, attract and retain talent, Business South says."

Back the India deal: Business leaders call for cross-party support

The BusinessNZ Network (including Business South) and leaders across New Zealand’s export sector are calling on all political parties to back the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement, warning the country cannot afford to miss a major economic opportunity.

Minimum wage increase now in effect

From 1 April 2026, New Zealand’s minimum wage has increased by 2% to $23.95 per hour.

The increase was signalled in December 2025, providing businesses with advance notice to plan for the change. It has been described as a moderate adjustment, intended to balance income growth with business sustainability.

This comes at a time when many businesses are managing a range of cost and operational pressures, including fuel volatility, supply chain disruption, and broader global economic conditions.

Supporting not-for-profits across our region

Great news for our community! We’re proud to share that we’ve once again received funding from the Otago Community Trust. This backing allows us to keep investing in the capability of organisations across our region; making it easier to access the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to grow and adapt.

The funding allows us to offer 50% off Business South training for our not-for-profit community.

Government update: Release of National Fuel Plan

he Government has unveiled a new National Fuel Plan in response to ongoing global fuel supply uncertainty, driven in part by geopolitical tensions overseas.

While there is no immediate change to fuel access in New Zealand, the plan provides a structured framework outlining how the country would respond if supply disruptions escalate.

For businesses across Otago and Southland, understanding this plan is important. Not because action is required now, but because it signals how future fuel availability could be managed.

Press release - Major reform package signals significant shift for business regulation

Business South says a new package of reform bills introduced to Parliament could mark a meaningful shift in the regulatory environment for New Zealand businesses.

The Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, Planning and Natural Environment Bills, and Employment Leave Bill have recently been introduced, with the Government signalling a focus on simplifying regulation, improving clarity, and reducing compliance complexity across several areas that directly affect businesses.

Export NZ Update on US Tariffs, Post-Supreme Court Decision

Key Points for NZ Exporters:

• The Trump Administration has announced a new 15% tariff under Section 122 of the US Trade Act 1974, which is expected to apply to the majority of New Zealand goods exported to the United States.
• This 15% rate replaces the previous IEEPA “reciprocal tariff” and is the same headline rate New Zealand exporters were facing prior to the Supreme Court ruling.
• and more

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.