News

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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

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. 

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.