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Guest Speakers
Budget 2026 Lunch with Hon Nicola Willis - Dunedin
Guest Speakers
Afternoon Business Briefing with Chlöe Swarbrick
Special Events
South Island Election Conference 2026
Health & Safety
Health and Safety for Managers - Cromwell
Health & Safety
Health and Safety Representative Training (Stage 1) - Invercargill
Business Support
AI for Business: Microsoft Copilot Basic - Online
New Zealand’s political leaders have reached a notable consensus on climate adaptation, spearheaded by the Minister of Climate Change. This cross-party agreement is set to significantly influence how Aotearoa New Zealand prepares for and respond to climate change.
A select committee has been formed to draft a framework for climate adaptation, focusing on key objectives and principles, as well as the financial implications of implementing such strategies. This is particularly relevant where adapting to changing environmental conditions is crucial for sustainability and economic stability.
BusinessNZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard says the agreement is a significant achievement and all political parties should be congratulated for working together on a long term challenge where a consistent approach will be required.
"New Zealanders want to see cooperation and collaboration brought to bear on the big intergenerational issues facing us, rather than political division and uncertainty.
"BusinessNZ has been advocating strongly for consensus on long-term issues that will affect New Zealanders’ lives to 2050 and beyond, and we are delighted to see moves in that direction - kudos to all parties involved," Catherine Beard said.
This collaborative approach among Aotearoa New Zealand’s political parties aims to provide a blueprint for other regions globally, demonstrating that cooperative governance can lead to practical solutions for managing climate risks. As these policies develop, they promise to create a more resilient Aotearoa New Zealand, where businesses can thrive in a sustainable and forward-thinking environment.
24 Jul 2026
Hear directly from Finance Minister Hon Nicola Willis on what Budget 2026 means for the southern business community, and what comes next.
10 Aug 2026
Chlöe Swarbrick, Green Party Co-Leader, joins Business South for an afternoon conversation on the Green Party's election year policies and what they mean for businesses across Otago and Southland.
14 Aug 2026
Shaping the Future of the South Island Economy
Ahead of the 2026 General Election, business leaders from across Te Wai Pounamu South Island will gather in Christchurch to engage directly with political leaders on the issues shaping the South Island economy.
DIRECT POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT
Hear directly from political leaders and challenge them on the issues impacting South Island businesses.

SOUTH ISLAND FOCUS
A dedicated discussion on the infrastructure, workforce and economic priorities specific to our region.
HIGH-VALUE NETWORKING
Connect with senior business leaders from across the South Island.
ELECTION -YEAR RELEVANCE
Gain insight into the policies, priorities and economic direction that could shape the years ahead.
22 Jul 2026
This course will guide you through your legal obligations and introduce strategies to ensure your business is as healthy and as safe as possible.
Registrations close 16 July.
04 Aug 2026
This two-day course will help you to understand the Health and Safety at Work Act, and its associated regulations, to maintain a safe working environment.
Duration: 2 Days ► 9.00am - 4.30pm
Delivery: Ascot Park Hotel, Corner of Tay Street & Racecourse Road, Invercargill
04 Aug 2026
This training series is designed to build Copilot and generative AI capability across Otago organisations. Each session includes clear learning objectives, hands-on activities, and resources to support ongoing learning and responsible AI adoption.