Podcasts about business nz

At the time of preparing this show Craig Renney and the CTU have been banned by Treasury to attend the budget lock up for the first time ever. Along with other third party, non-media groups such as the TPU, Business NZ and the NZ Initiative have also been banned. The company that makes BHN applied for access to the lock up and we'll tell you the whole sordid story tonight after 9pmMarama Davidson joins us LIVE at 9pm to talk the Green Party Alternative Budget. The Green Party is proposing an "income guarantee" that would give everyone who is out of work at least $395 a week, and to completely overhaul the Working for Families scheme. It is one of the announcements in its alternative Budget revealed this morning.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of ⁠⁠#BHN⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews⁠=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social

Joe Slater co-founded Six Barrel Soda, turning a small idea into one of New Zealand's most recognisable beverage brands. In this episode, we dive into the journey of building Six Barrel Soda from the ground up, the challenges of scaling a niche business, and how Joe handled a competitor blatantly copying their brand. We also talk about the process of selling Six Barrel Soda, the lessons Joe learned along the way, and his best marketing hacks for businesses operating in niche markets. As well as advice for young entrepreneurs out there, this was a really fun one!  An episode packed with insights for entrepreneurs, brand builders, and anyone who loves a good business story. Joe Slater – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-slater-nz/ Moana Road – https://moanaroad.co.nz/ Kaboose Media – https://www.kaboosemedia.co.nz/ Beyond the Surface Insta – https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_surfacenz/ Beyond the Surface YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@beyondthesurfacenz

An advocacy group for New Zealand business owners says planned changes to the Overseas Investment Act will send a positive signal to the rest of the world. BusinessNZ Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard spoke to Corin Dann.

On the Early Edition Full Show Podcast for Monday the 24th of February 2025, The Government's announced an overhaul of the Overseas Investment Act, Business NZ's Catherine Beard shares reaction from businesses. The Prime Minister is heading to Vietnam this week for bilateral talks, Chief Executive of the NZ Asia Foundation Suzannah Jessep tells Andrew Dickens what she'd like to see from the meeting. Andrew shares his thoughts around the Chinese Navy planting ships around the Tasman Sea. The Vatican announces the Pope's condition has worsened and continues to be "critical" after suffering a "prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis" Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey shares the latest. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government is making it easier for wealthy foreign investors to get residency in New Zealand. Business New Zealand chief executive Katherine Rich spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

New Zealand remains in the dark about Donald Trump's tariff plan, as new data shows the US has overtaken Australia as our second largest destination for exported goods. Business NZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard told Andrew Dickens blanket tariffs wouldn't have the same impact as targeted tariffs. She says it would mean the cost will be passed on to the US consumer rather than having to be absorbed by exporters, and we would still be competitive against other markets. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand remains in the dark about Donald Trump's tariff plan, as new data shows the US has overtaken Australia as our second largest destination for exported goods. Business NZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard told Andrew Dickens blanket tariffs wouldn't have the same impact as targeted tariffs. She says it would mean the cost will be passed on to the US consumer rather than having to be absorbed by exporters, and we would still be competitive against other markets. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Small businesses want the Government to rethink regulations it describes as a burden. A new report from Business NZ claims small Kiwi businesses are bogged down by compliance hurdles and complicated regulations, which it says cost time and money. Business NZ CEO Katherine Rich told Mike Hosking politicians need to ease the burden, and not politicise it. She says too often the debate around small business involves politicians promising to cut red tape, but she says they need to be more specific about what will actually change. Rich says they've provided a practical shopping list of possible regulation changes that would help businesses almost immediately. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Small businesses want the Government to rethink regulations it describes as a burden. A new report from Business NZ claims small Kiwi businesses are bogged down by compliance hurdles and complicated regulations, which it says cost time and money. Business NZ CEO Katherine Rich told Mike Hosking politicians need to ease the burden, and not politicise it. She says too often the debate around small business involves politicians promising to cut red tape, but she says they need to be more specific about what will actually change. Rich says they've provided a practical shopping list of possible regulation changes that would help businesses almost immediately. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Tuesday 29th of October, Treasury has put three options on the table to raise Kiwibank's capital and make it a stronger competitor against the big banks. Massey University Banking Expert David Tripe talks through the options with Ryan. They're a Kiwi staple, but the number of dairies across the country could be on the decline. Business NZ's Ann-Marie Johnson has the reasons why. It's been another busy weekend of sport - Liam Lawson raises eyebrows at the Grand Prix and the Black Caps beat India in India for the first time. Andrew Alderson has your weekend sport wrap. Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acceptance that reviewing the way fees are charged for PayWave and online card transactions in New Zealand is a positive for all. The Commerce Commission is consulting on regulation it says could save Kiwis $250 million. People spend $1 billion each year on fees in-store and online. Small Business New Zealand founder and BSP advisory group director Phil Wicks is questioning whether some retailers are taking advantage. “There is quite a variation in fees. I mean at the end of the day, the retailers shouldn't really be making profits from their EFTPOS. They should be making their profits from the goods and services that they sell.” LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Service sector activity has plummeted to its lowest level outside the Covid lockdowns.  The BNZ-Business New Zealand Performance of Services Index (PSI) fell 3.6 points in May to 43.0.  Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Heather du Plessis-Allan “It's consistent with other data – like profit margins being below pre-Covid rates.”  Hope said “Corporate insolvencies are around the same level as during the GFC – it's a pretty tough time.”  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business NZ is welcoming a rise in spending on infrastructure, saying it has the potential to improve economic growth. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Unemployment is continuing to rise.  New figures from Stats NZ show the unemployment rate was 4.3% in the March quarter, up 0.3 percentage points from 4% in the December quarter.  The unemployment rate has been steadily rising since reaching a record low of 3.2% in the December 2021 quarter.  Business NZ Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that the biggest problems businesses are seeing is a slowdown in demand from consumers as opposed to unemployment.  It's a bit of a crunchy time we're going through, she said.  LISTEN ABOVE   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oliver and Michael talk about Germany's dual education system with Rachel Simpson, Manager for Education, Skills and Immigration at Business NZ. Recently, Michael and Rachel were on a business delegation to Germany to find out about their dual education system first-hand. In this episode, they discuss what this system looks like in Germany, what makes it successful and what might be stopping us from doing it here in NZ.

The Government is being advised to invest in immigration data gathering as record levels of arrivals and departures continue.   In February more than 253,000 migrants arrived and about 122,000 left, putting net migration at almost 131,000.  Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking that where they come from isn't a problem as long as skills meet labour market needs.   He says this is one the of the big data gaps the Government needs to look at, to find out exactly which people and skills are coming in versus who is leaving.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tariffs across the ditch are getting scrapped to lower living costs and some are asking if New Zealand should follow suit.  Australia will remove import taxes on a wide range of goods from July to bring cost-of-living relief.  It will streamline $9 nine billion worth of annual trade and save businesses over $30 million yearly.  Business NZ's Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that we got rid of most tariffs in the 1980s, there's just a few left.  She says it's a legacy of the past —as most of them left are between 5-10%— and aren't doing much.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's latest unemployment figure didn't quite land where many expected.  Stats NZ figures show it's risen to 4% in the three months to December.  Business NZ Advocacy Director, Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that the numbers feel wonky.  She says they expected the figure to be higher after the Employment and Manufacturers Association highlighted the rise in enquiries about restructures and redundancies.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The former boss of Business NZ says it's past time for a proper government strategy regarding immigration. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says current immigration settings are unsustainable, and position echoed by the Labour Party. New Zealand had a net gain of nearly 120,000 migrants over the year to September, putting serious pressure on housing and infrastructure. Iron Duke Partners managing director Phil O'Reilly says immigration settings are now too loose, and he's encouraged by the Prime Minister's comments that an immigration strategy was needed. O'Reilly spoke to Corin Dann.

An embarrassing leak from the Christopher Luxon led cabinet after months of Luxon telling NZ he will lead a stable government; he already has members undermining him and his desire to be secure in cabinet conversations. Seems someone on the inside doesn't like that Minister Brooke van Velden didn't take advice on the fair pay agreements from anyone other than Business NZ.

The Workplace Relations Minister says she's disappointed unions are mis-characterising plans on Fair Pay Agreements. Elements of the Government's moves to repeal the policy were leaked to media last night. CTU President Richard Wagstaff subsequently told press he was upset unions had not been consulted about the plans. But Brooke Van Velden says his comments are not true. "Look, I was sworn into Government on Monday, and on Wednesday I sat down with both Business NZ and the Council of Trade Unions." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Workplace Relations Minister says she's disappointed unions are mis-characterising plans on Fair Pay Agreements. Elements of the Government's moves to repeal the policy were leaked to media last night. CTU President Richard Wagstaff subsequently told press he was upset unions had not been consulted about the plans. But Brooke Van Velden says his comments are not true. "Look, I was sworn into Government on Monday, and on Wednesday I sat down with both Business NZ and the Council of Trade Unions." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business leaders want to see quick changes from the new National-led government, scrapping fair pay agreements and reintroducing 90-day trials. Unions say that's nothing but bad news for workers. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope, and Council of Trade Unions president Richard Wagstaff spoke to Corin Dann.

There are hopes Christmas will bring businesses a cash bounce.  The latest Retail NZ sales index —for the third quarter— shows many retailers sat in a holding pattern before the election.   59% reported increasing prices and just 57% felt confident their businesses would survive the next year.  Business NZ CEO, Kirk Hope, told Kate Hawkesby that there's a lot more certainty after the election.  He said that there is a very clear pathway for businesses and a lot more clarity around what policy is going to be.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sick leave is becoming an increasing issue for employers.  Business Desk reports bosses are noticing that people are not shy about using up all their sick leave entitlements.  Data shows that on average people take 5.5 sick days a year, a big jump from where it was at 4.5 pre-pandemic.  Business NZ's Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that everyone's position on illnesses has changed.  She puts it down to a shift in attitudes towards sickness following the pandemic, as well as a more progressive view of mental health.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the lead up to the election, National was clear that they would be rolling back a number of policies that Labour introduced, including fair pay agreements.  Business NZ has called for the fair pay agreement to be scrapped sooner rather than later, and they would also like to see 90-day trials reintroduced, and a commitment to a long-term programme of infrastructure.  Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope joined Kerre Woodham to discuss the proposals.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National could have its work cut out for itself following its latest trade promises.  The party is vowing to double the value of exports in the next decade, pursue Free Trade Agreements, increase trade missions, and make India a focus.  Business NZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that it's a heroic goal.   She says it would be great to get the gulf, the UAE, and particularly India under our belt, but they're not easy.   Beard says geopolitics, particularly what is being seen in the Middle East, makes these areas challenging.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National outplays Labour according to this year's rankings from business leaders.  More than 100 CEOs and business leaders have ranked MPs in the Herald's Mood of the Boardroom survey.  Luxon comes out on top with 3.24 out of five, compared to Chris Hipkins' 2.95.  Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking that National still has to do more, with one boss saying he's too corporate and has no real connection.  He says Nicola Willis is favoured from a finance perspective, and Luxon still has a bit of work to do with the business community.    LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business New Zealand is predicting a gloomy outlook for the economy.   It says economic growth is likely to be marginal over the next year in New Zealand.   It's also predicting global growth to be slow over the next few years.   Advocacy Director Catherine Beard says that alongside China's economic slowdown, other factors are adding to the disappointing predictions.   She says other factors like increasing oil prices and the Reserve Bank's battle with inflation will contribute.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food and fibre export revenue has hit new heights. It's drawn $57.4 billion for the year to June 30, bringing $1.2 billion more into the economy than was originally forecast. Dairy, horticulture, seafood and processed food exports have driven the record increases. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope told Francesca Rudkin these are good headline numbers, but there are underlying factors. He says, for example, while dairy by value is up the milk price is down by what was forecast from $8.30 to between $7 and $7.75. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food and fibre export revenue has hit new heights. It's drawn $57.4 billion for the year to June 30, bringing $1.2 billion more into the economy than was originally forecast. Dairy, horticulture, seafood and processed food exports have driven the record increases. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope told Francesca Rudkin these are good headline numbers, but there are underlying factors. He says, for example, while dairy by value is up the milk price is down by what was forecast from $8.30 to between $7 and $7.75. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation has finally fallen to six percent but how are we looking in the domestic front? Businesses are continuing to struggle with less demand and less spending. But with China's market back open the pressure may start lifting. Business NZ CEO Kirk Hope joined Kate Hawkesby to discuss the topic. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation has finally fallen to six percent but how are we looking in the domestic front? Businesses are continuing to struggle with less demand and less spending. But with China's market back open the pressure may start lifting. Business NZ CEO Kirk Hope joined Kate Hawkesby to discuss the topic. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're looking for profit-led inflation you should probe consumer facing industries rather than look across the whole economy, says UBS chief economist Paul Donovan.Speaking in the Of Interest podcast, the London-based Donovan says profit-led inflation, whereby companies are able to expand profit margins and convince customers it's fair to do so, is the third wave of inflation experienced in developed economies since the Covid-19 pandemic. It follows a demand shock as developed country economies reopened and consumers had a "stockpile of savings" they spent on durable goods such as furniture, electronics and cars, and an energy supply shock after Russia invaded Ukraine, energy prices surged and demand reduced."What it [profit-led inflation] has really done is prolong the inflation. If we had not had the war in Ukraine I don't think we'd have got the profit-led inflation because Ukraine has been an important part of the story that companies have told to convince people to accept higher prices. I think if we hadn't had the war in Ukraine we would be sitting here talking about falling prices today," Donovan says."Right now we're starting to see profit-led inflation be challenged in a number of countries. But I'd say that it has probably accounted for about half of the inflation that we've experienced over the last six-to-eight months."Lobby group Business NZ issued a report itcommissioned from consultants this week on profit-led inflation, or "greedflation" as it put it, saying it was "an imported narrative not supported by the evidence." Looking at data from 14 industries over the three years to December 2022, the report said 71% of price increases came from input costs, 15% labour costs and 14% gross profit increases.Donovan says three years is too long of a period to look at for profit-led inflation, and you wouldn't expect to see it across the economy as a whole."I think this is one of the problems with a lot of the analysis that we've seen on profit-led inflation. There is this assumption that every company is raising profit margins and that absolutely isn't the case, it's a subset of companies that raise margins. And so if you look at economy-wide data you're going to find less evidence of profit-led inflation," says Donovan."In the case of New Zealand, if you're going to get profit-led inflation coming through, you don't look at the entire economy, you look at the consumer facing sectors [such as retail, restaurants, clothing brands or food brands], and see what's happening with margins there. That's the critical story."In the podcast he also talks about how to spot profit-led inflation, consumers' naive views about what causes inflation, why he doesn't like the greedflation term, why central bankers should talk more about profit-led inflation, why it took off in the wake of Covid-19, and the role of social media."Two things made profit-led inflation easier this time. Consumers did have more savings, sort of a windfall of savings during the pandemic. No one's going to describe the pandemic as a lottery win but it was a bit like that. You got a sudden influx of cash that you weren't expecting to have. So that meant that people perhaps became a little bit more indifferent to prices," says Donovan.*Donovan published a report on profit-led inflation earlier this year which we covered here. *And you can find all episodes of the Of Interest podcast here.

The primary industry has outperformed expectations as annual exports reach a new record high of more than 56-billion-dollars. The December forecast expected 55-billion in exports, but led by a growth in dairy, seafood and processed food exports, the result is 1-point-2-billion-dollars higher than thought. The government thinks primary industry exports could rise to 62-billion-dollars by 2027, and are praising new Free Trade Agreements as opening the door for more sales. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope represents Export NZ and is with us now

Cabinet is seeking advice on whether a Covid "test to work" scheme would work. Business NZ CEO Kirk Hope says that could allow some workers back sooner than seven days. "Of course, you know your employer's going to say- only come in if you're capable of working, we don't want you here if you're still, in fact feeling quite sick." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister says there are numerous moving parts to consider when Cabinet debates later today whether to remove all remaining Covid-19 restrictions. Most of the outstanding rules were scrapped in September last year, but a mandatory seven-day isolation period remains for those who test positive. Chris Hipkins told Morning Report the Government needs to consider not only the health implications but also how any decision affects schools, businesses and communities. Epidemiologist Michael Baker says the restrictions should remain in place, while Business NZ is urging the government to follow other countries and dump them.

Cyclone-ravaged businesses are set to lean on the Government for cashflow support. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope says that the 50 million dollar package is great, but businesses need more help through things like a wage subsidy. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are concerns the hike to minimum wage could be devastating for businesses. The Government has announced the minimum wage will rise by $1.50 to $22.70 from April. Business New Zealand CEO Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking the ability for businesses to pass this cost on is very low. He says if a business has no capital left effectively to pay this, and can't increase prices because then they'll face a decrease in demand, they're in a difficult position. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are concerns the hike to minimum wage could be devastating for businesses. The Government has announced the minimum wage will rise by $1.50 to $22.70 from April. Business New Zealand CEO Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking the ability for businesses to pass this cost on is very low. He says if a business has no capital left effectively to pay this, and can't increase prices because then they'll face a decrease in demand, they're in a difficult position. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Businesses are hoping that the new Prime Minister will change the Government's agenda. Former Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O'Reilly told Tim Dower that he wants to see the new PM focus on the policy changes businesses have been asking for. On the other hand, the Council of Trade Unions is hoping for a smooth transition of power. President Richard Wagstaff says that he wants the Government to continue building on its momentum it has when it comes to reforming New Zealand. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This time last week I reckon even die-hard Labour supporters would have been starting to accept that Labour was looking like being dog tucker in the election later this year. I don't know how many times I had to remind myself that the party was only in its second term of government because, for quite a while now, it's looked like a government nearing the end of its third term. Worn out and overly familiar. Which was probably inevitable given the last few years we've been through and how, for much of that time, the Prime Minister and other ministers were on one of the highest rating TV shows day-in, day-out - the old one o'clock COVID briefings. And, as it turned out last week, Jacinda Ardern wasn't just “looking” worn out. She is worn out and is stepping down. And yesterday, Chris Hipkins was confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party and will be sworn-in as Prime Minister on Wednesday, with Carmel Sepuloni Deputy Prime Minister. Straight away, Hipkins was talking about taking what he's calling a "bread and butter" approach to fighting inflation. Or, as he's putting it, the “inflation pandemic”. Which is, obviously, going to be Labour's label for the cost of living crisis. Which can be interpreted two ways. Either as just another one of these slogans that get thrown around all the time. Or another way of Labour saying that the cost of living crisis isn't its fault - just like the COVID pandemic wasn't its fault. And that's why I think Hipkins is talking that way. He was on Newstalk ZB this morning saying that inflation is a global thing, just like COVID is a global thing. “Not our fault - but we're here to help”. That's the message that's been coming through since he was confirmed as leader yesterday afternoon. Although, if you heard Phil O'Reilly who used to run Business NZ on Newstalk ZB this morning, you will have heard him say that the Government isn't completely innocent and some its spending is playing a part in inflation going northwards. Which highlights to me the tricky balancing act Chris Hipkins has to deal with. For starters, he's saying that he wants to look at policies and reforms that might not be essential to help deal with the inflation issue. The public media merger and Three Waters are two that people are already saying should be taken off the table. And yes, that would mean less spending by the Government on one side of the ledger. But, if Hipkins is true to his word, and the Government is going to help those struggling most in the current economic environment - I see that as a neon sign on top of the Beehive saying “more government spending on the way”. Another thing Phil O'Reilly mentioned this morning was immigration and that if Labour wants to get business back on side it's going to have to make it easier to get workers here from overseas sooner rather than later. But with the election just under nine months away - and the time for the Government to make serious policy changes even shorter than that - Hipkins has a serious sell-job on his hands if he's going to have any hope in hell of making sure he's Prime Minister after October 14. But I reckon he's got a much better chance of doing that than Jacinda Ardern would have if she'd decided to stick around. The other week, I was passing through Geraldine, in South Canterbury. I saw a ute on the side of the road with a sticker that looked like the old COVID signs. But when I looked closer at it, I saw that it said “Ardern-23. Stop the virus”. And this is the head of steam that the former Labour leader would've been dealing with. Which, until late last week, probably had the most die-hard Labour supporters coming around to the fact that a third term in government for their party was looking very unlikely. But Hipkins is not Ardern. Yes, as a lot of people have been pointing out, he has been a significant part of the Ardern regime. But he's also a part of the Ardern regime that people seemed to have had a lot of time for. He's become known as Mr Fix-It, hasn't he? And people like that. He's also shown that he can laugh at himself a bit. And people love that. They loved that about John Key - and they love that about Chris Hipkins. Which is why I think that with him as leader, Labour has a much better chance of winning the election than it did this time last week. It's not going to be easy for Labour by any means. But I reckon it's on to a potential winner with Hipkins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anxiety across the economy, about the business year ahead. New figures from NZIER show business confidence has plunged to its lowest level since records began more than half a century ago. Almost three quarters of businesses expect economic conditions to worsen in the coming months. BusinessNZ chief executive Kirk Hope Tim Dower inflation and rising interest rates are taking their toll on consumer spending, as the world grapples with the war in Ukraine and global trading instability. He says businesses are also putting off investment decisions until after the election. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anxiety across the economy, about the business year ahead. New figures from NZIER show business confidence has plunged to its lowest level since records began more than half a century ago. Almost three quarters of businesses expect economic conditions to worsen in the coming months. BusinessNZ chief executive Kirk Hope Tim Dower inflation and rising interest rates are taking their toll on consumer spending, as the world grapples with the war in Ukraine and global trading instability. He says businesses are also putting off investment decisions until after the election. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner is investigating the ransomware attack on information technology company Mercury IT. It's potentially compromising sensitive data for clients including Business NZ, the Nurses Organisation and the Ministry of Justice. AUT computer expert Kenneth Johnson told Mike Hosking data is being compiled throughout the world about the motivation of these attacks, who is doing them and why. He says they hope this provides more information about how these attackers behave, which will aid people in defending against them. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner is investigating the ransomware attack on information technology company Mercury IT. It's potentially compromising sensitive data for clients including Business NZ, the Nurses Organisation and the Ministry of Justice. AUT computer expert Kenneth Johnson told Mike Hosking data is being compiled throughout the world about the motivation of these attacks, who is doing them and why. He says they hope this provides more information about how these attackers behave, which will aid people in defending against them. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A business leader doubts the Royal Commission of Inquiry into our Covid response has the right scope. It kicks off February and will look at vaccine mandates, border closures, quarantine and community care. A report is due mid-2024. Australian-based epidemiologist Tony Blakely will chair it, alongside former National party minister Hekia Parata and former Treasury secretary John Whitehead. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking no one from business was talked to about the scope. He says the exclusion of operations into the private sector from the scope of inquiry is disappointing. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand Herald Wellington Business Editor Jenée Tibshraeny joins Nick Mills to discuss BusinessNZ now helping its members negotiate Fair Pay Agreements, the OCR hike expected today and good news on the horizon for airlines.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on The Huddle: Cas Carter from Cas Carter Communications and Phil O'Reilly, former CEO of Business NZ and current Managing Director at Iron Duke Partners joined in on a discussion about the following topics- and more! The New Zealand Aged Care Association has launched some billboards today to raise awareness of the crisis facing the aged care sector. What do we think of these? And why doesn't Labour seem to want to address the staff shortage directly?  The Reserve Bank has recently put out a financial review praising themselves for how they handled their Covid-19 response. Would an independent review have played better for Adrian Orr? Are the days of Donald Trump behind us? His chosen candidates were unexpectedly weakened in the midterm elections. Do we think he'll make it to the 2024 elections?  Clothing company Moochi allegedly threatened to call the police on an Auckland charity store owner for taking stock that the label had dumped in a rubbish skip. Was this justified? LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legislation setting up a legal framework for collective bargaining across industries is set to become law. The Fair Pay Agreements Bill has passed its third reading in Parliament, with the support of Labour, the Greens and Te Pāti Māori.  The bill provides a framework for collective bargaining across occupations - like cleaners, supermarket workers and security guards - rather than just between unions and employers. National and Act oppose the measures, which they say will hurt small businesses, and vow to repeal the law if elected next year. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope and New Zealand Council of Trade Unions president Richard Wagstaff spoke to Corin Dann.  

Business New Zealand is poking holes in the proposed Fair Pay Agreements legalisation. The rules mean if a thousand employees, or 10 percent of a workforce, agree to start the collective bargaining process, that process is automatically triggered. The Fair Pay Agreements legislation is expected to pass its third reading in Parliament later today. Business New Zealand Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking driving wage rates up to boost productivity up won't work. He says the threshold to trigger the agreement is too low. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business New Zealand is poking holes in the proposed Fair Pay Agreements legalisation. The rules mean if a thousand employees, or 10 percent of a workforce, agree to start the collective bargaining process, that process is automatically triggered. The Fair Pay Agreements legislation is expected to pass its third reading in Parliament later today. Business New Zealand Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking driving wage rates up to boost productivity up won't work. He says the threshold to trigger the agreement is too low. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank's dual mandate has received a frosty reception, after it completed the first stage of public consultation on its monetary policy remit. Most submitters believed inflation should have a bigger focus over the maximum sustainable employment, or the objective should be removed altogether. Business NZ was one of the submitters and CEO Kirk Hope joined Mike Hosking. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank's dual mandate has received a frosty reception, after it completed the first stage of public consultation on its monetary policy remit. Most submitters believed inflation should have a bigger focus over the maximum sustainable employment, or the objective should be removed altogether. Business NZ was one of the submitters and CEO Kirk Hope joined Mike Hosking. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business leaders feel the Government isn't listening. The NZ Herald's annual Mood of the Boardroom survey has found chief executives and senior directors' confidence in the Government's leadership in falling. They have scored Jacinda Ardern just 1.61 out of five when it comes to building confidence with the business community. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Kate Hawkesby the Government is pushing ahead with things like fair pay agreements, which are the exact opposite of what businesses want. He says they want more flexibility when it comes to employee relations. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business leaders feel the Government isn't listening. The NZ Herald's annual Mood of the Boardroom survey has found chief executives and senior directors' confidence in the Government's leadership in falling. They have scored Jacinda Ardern just 1.61 out of five when it comes to building confidence with the business community. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Kate Hawkesby the Government is pushing ahead with things like fair pay agreements, which are the exact opposite of what businesses want. He says they want more flexibility when it comes to employee relations. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of Business New Zealand doesn't support a public holiday to mourn the Queen. Both the UK and Australia will hold public holidays next week, and Cabinet is considering the point today. Kirk Hope told Morning Report a holiday would impose extra costs on businesses already struggling. "Even if it's only a one off, it's going to impose more costs on businesses at a time when they've sustained some some pretty heavy costs and losses as a result of the pandemic." One public holiday has already been added to New Zealand's calendar this year, with Matariki celebrated in June.

Small businesses are hoping to enact change in this year's local body elections. More than nine in 10 small to medium sized business owners are planning to vote next month, with one in three believing council support for them is worse than three years ago. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Kate Hawkesby he's not surprised by the numbers. He says if you think about the worsening of CBDs around the country it's no wonder businesses want to try to make a difference. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Small businesses are hoping to enact change in this year's local body elections. More than nine in 10 small to medium sized business owners are planning to vote next month, with one in three believing council support for them is worse than three years ago. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Kate Hawkesby he's not surprised by the numbers. He says if you think about the worsening of CBDs around the country it's no wonder businesses want to try to make a difference. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Managing Partner of Prime Strategies Group, Rob Drower. A business advisory group focused solely on creating business excellence in the Small to Medium (SME) business market in New Zealand. ____________________________________________ ►Ryan J Melton is an

The debate on Fair Pay Agreements is rife again, with it currently in select committee stage.It's expected to become law by the end of the year, but the likes of Business NZ and Retail NZ remain extremely opposed to it.Retail NZ's Greg Harford who spoke today at select committee joined Heather du Plessis-Allan.LISTEN ABOVE  

The debate on Fair Pay Agreements is rife again, with it currently in select committee stage.It's expected to become law by the end of the year, but the likes of Business NZ and Retail NZ remain extremely opposed to it.Retail NZ's Greg Harford who spoke today at select committee joined Heather du Plessis-Allan.LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ILO have dismissed Business NZ on FPAs. The He Waka Eke Noa plan has been released and is far too weak. The National Party are polling better & better under Luxon.https://www.patreon.com/1of200

In the wake of COVID-19, a recent Business NZ survey shows confidence across several sectors plunging. It found 70 percent of manufacturers surveyed were feeling negative about the future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How have businesses coped with Covid? Have there been success stories? Who has struggled the most? What can we learn from this experience? In this interview we talk to Kirk Hope, the CEO of Business NZ to get his inside perspective on how businesses in New Zealand have been coping with the pandemic. We also talk about why some businesses achieve far greater success than others in competitive industries.0;37 Kirk Hope's role at Business NZ4:00 Is it as simple as just pivoting to navigate through Covid?10:44 Mental Health concerns for business owners going forward.12:55 To what extent does the government listen to Business NZ?17:00 Examples of businesses responding to the challenges and thriving.20:00 To what extent are members expecting changes to buyer behaviour to become permanent?24:58 Working from home versus an office.31:54 How does New Zealand (NZ) rate in supporting entrepreneurs particularly when they fail?40:15 With Small to Medium Enterprises (SME's) where do we need to fill the gaps in NZ?43:30 To what extent are small business owners guilty of not spending enough time working on their business rather than in them?45:44 Offering free digital training - is it a good thing that it is free?51:55 Why do some businesses excel above all others in an industry?56:50 To what extent are NZ businesses being held back by staff shortages?For more great content, go to:https://www.isintosuccess.comhttps://www.instagram.com/insightsintosuccess/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVRkDL7gZSP98vnVyZ5445ghttps://www.tiktok.com/@insightsintosuccessEmail us at: paul.d@msofmarketing.comThanks for supporting us in our journey to find the secrets to success!

Business NZ says New Zealand's on a shortlist of countries breaching international law due to the Government's fair pay agreement bill. An International Labour Organisation committee will look at the policy next week in Geneva. This follows a complaint made by Business NZ, which believes the agreements will remove rights and freedoms from workplaces. Chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Corin Dann.

Business NZ says New Zealand's on a shortlist of countries breaching international law due to the Government's fair pay agreement bill. An International Labour Organisation committee will look at the policy next week in Geneva. Workplace Relations Minister Michael Wood spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Fiji is the latest country expected to sign an agreement with China this afternoon. The Chinese Foreign Minister is on a marathon tour around the region, showing up NZ's and Australia's lack of attention. How concerned are you about these developments? While the Australian foreign minister flew out to Fiji immediately, our Foreign Minister isn't even speaking publicly. Would you expect more? The Government's response to supermarket duopoly is out – they're bringing in an industry regulator, a mandatory code of conduct, compulsory unit pricing and more transparent loyalty schemes. Plus, the big operators will have to open their wholesale arms up for competitors or face more regulation. Will this change the bill at the checkout do you think?  Should we shorten traditional working hours to school hours – while keeping pay the same? The issue of Kamahl Santamaria's resignation from Breakfast TV – just a month after he started. There are questions both about the alleged events that led to his resignation, and also the appointment process. Does TVNZ need to explain more about what's going on here? After all, taxpayers are funding the operation. Phil O'Reilly, Iron Duke Partners and former chief executive of Business NZ, and Matthew Tukaki, Māori Authority, joined Heather du Plessis-Allan on the Huddle. LISTEN ABOVE 

Kyle, Paul and Philip discuss Business NZ's approach to FPAs, Tauranga by-election candidates and the Emissions Reduction Plan.

Christopher Luxon is against welfare -- corporate welfare, that is. The National Party leader came out swinging this week against taxpayers having to underwrite the cost of profitable businesses reducing their emissions. He says the government is sending business the wrong message. Business New Zealand chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Corin Dann.  

The Government is expected to announced soon that our border will reopen in July - as opposed to October.The Prime Minister and the Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi will address a Business NZ lunch in Auckland this afternoon. RNZ immigration reporter Gill Bonnett explains.

The government has tried to stem the bad crime headlines with a half-billion-dollar announcement on law and order. They've promised action on ramraids but don't have much detail on that yet. Talk is the Government is going to continue the public transport subsidy – but if they do that should they also continue with the discount on the fuel tax. What do you make of climate activists who deflate SUV tyres? Prince Harry has an announcement to make on Māori Television tonight. Is it ok to leave a message in your neighbour's letterbox to tell them to mow their berm? Hayden Munro, former Labour Campaign Manager, and Phil O'Reilly, former Chief Executive at Business NZ, joined Heather du Plessis-Allan on the Huddle. LISTEN ABOVE 

Business NZ is warning that a brain drain is already underway at a time when businesses can least afford to lose young talented staff. And evidence that junior workers are indeed a high flight risk is captured in new research showing millennials - aged 24-34 - are more likely to feel unhappy in their work than any other age group. Skills Consulting Group surveyed 1800 people about their attitudes to work - Wellbeing General Manager Jane Kennelly joins us to discuss the results.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The controversial Fair Pay Agreement Legislation gets its first airing in Parliament. The Defence Minister wanted to send military hardware to the Ukraine but Cabinet refused. The Crown accounts, Robertson says show the resilience of the economy, but does it? Political editor Barry Soper joined Andrew Dickens. LISTEN ABOVE 

Rotorua locals want the government to commit to stop sending out-of-town homeless to stay in emergency housing. Is that a fair request? The Defence Minister wanted to send lethal aid to Ukraine – but Cabinet has said no. Should it reconsider? The bank of mum and dad – is the extent to which we're subsidising our kids a problem?  Wimbledon is looking to ban the world's Tennis No 2 Daniil Medvedev because he hasn't given tournament organisers a written declaration that he's not getting money from Putin, Russia or Belarus, nor will he be making supportive comments of them. Can we expect high profile Russians to speak out against Russia – and possibly put themselves at risk? Phil O'Reilly, Iron Duke Partners and former Chief Executive and Business NZ, and Ali Jones, Christchurch Community Board Member and PR Consultant at Red PR, joined Andrew Dickens for The Huddle. LISTEN ABOVE 

The labour shortage is not just tight - it's critical - that's according to new data out today. The report by Sense Partners for Business NZ shows in most parts of the country, including the entire South Island, there is only one able worker for every two jobs advertised. It also signals once the border reopens New Zealand will be playing catch-up in a global warfare for talent. Financial Analyst at Sense Partners Shamubeel Eaqub talks to Lisa Owen.

Business New Zealand says it's not interested in a government payment in exchange for support of fair pay agreements.  The bill was introduced into parliament today and would enable 10% of a workforce to get together and force employers to negotiate better pay conditions. The government is promising Business NZ and unions $250,000 a year each to support the compulsory bargaining. Michael Wood, Minister for Workplace Relations, joined Andrew Dickens. LISTEN ABOVE 

Not with us – that's essentially the message from Business NZ in response to the government introducing Fair Pay Agreement legislation in parliament today.  Under the law, employees would be able to force employers to negotiate pay and working conditions if 10% of their workforce or 1000 workers get together.  The government would give the unions and Business NZ $250,000 a year to help with the bargaining but Business NZ wants nothing to do with it.  Chief executive Kirk Hope joined Andrew Dickens. LISTEN ABOVE 

The Government has taken another step towards fulfilling its pre-election promise to lift incomes and improve working conditions of everyday Kiwis. The Fair Pay Agreements Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday and is expected to pass into law later this year. Under the bill, employees will be able to force their employers to negotiate working conditions and pay if at least 10% of their workforce or 1000 staff agree to it. Objectors believe the legislation will only drive up costs for businesses and it's the type of legislation we would've expected to see in the 70s and 80s. In favour of Fair Pay Agreements is the early childhood sector - they believe FPAs will help retain more teachers. The Council of Trade Unions' say Fair Pay Agreements would put New Zealand on par with the rest of the world. CTU President Richard Wagstaff says Australia's modern awards system has been in operation for years - and its wages outstrip New Zealand's. Richard Wagstaff and Business New Zealand Chief Executive Kirk Hope joined Kerre McIvor. LISTEN ABOVE 

The Government has taken another step towards fulfilling its pre-election promise to lift incomes and improve working conditions of everyday Kiwis. The Fair Pay Agreements Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday and is expected to pass into law later this year. Under the bill, employees will be able to force their employers to negotiate working conditions and pay if at least 10% of their workforce or 1000 staff agree to it. Objectors believe the legislation will only drive up costs for businesses and it's the type of legislation we would've expected to see in the 70s and 80s. In favour of Fair Pay Agreements is the early childhood sector - they believe FPAs will help retain more teachers. The Council of Trade Unions' say Fair Pay Agreements would put New Zealand on par with the rest of the world. CTU President Richard Wagstaff says Australia's modern awards system has been in operation for years - and its wages outstrip New Zealand's. Richard Wagstaff and Business New Zealand Chief Executive Kirk Hope joined Kerre McIvor. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advocacy group Business NZ says ending Covid-19 mandates is a step in the right direction. From April 5 businesses will no longer be required to check vaccine passes and mandates will only be compulsory in certain sectors. Chief executive Kirk Hope says the government needs to provide more clarity on some aspects of the Covid-19 roadmap. He spoke to Corin Dann.

Trade Minister Damien O'Connor is today travelling to Europe and the Middle East to advance trade. The trip is a milestone of sorts, a return to face-to-face negotiations that were an essential part of the diplomatic mix until two years ago. He will have meetings in the United Kingdom, Belgium, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Business NZ director of advocacy Catherine Beard spoke to Corin Dann.

The business advocacy group that helped design the income insurance scheme is kicking National Party criticism of it to the kerb. Business New Zealand boss Kirk Hope told Lisa Owen the scheme is needed to insulate industry and workers against future shocks. People can have their say on the proposal on the MBIE website. 

A furore is continuing over supply of rapid antigen tests for Covid-19. Some businesses are fuming - accusing the government of commandeering orders they had placed with suppliers. Director General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said he simply spoke to a global manufacturer and agreed they should prioritise the government's order. Business New Zealand director Kirk Hope.

How will critical businesses like food production and freight keep the wheels turning when the full force of omicron hits? One modeller predicts it could infect up to half the population and depending on who's considered a close contact that could mean many people off work and self isolating. Business NZ boss Kirk Hope talks to Lisa Owen.

Business New Zealand has stirred up an industrial hornet's nest by refusing to be a formal partner in the government's Fair Pay Agreements. The group said it had rejected the government's offer to be a default bargaining agent for employer and industry groups, having made it clear from the outset that the agreements - or FPA's - aren't needed. It's a move that has garnered support in some quarters but not in others. The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions backs the FPA legislation, saying it provides a minimum floor for wages and conditions - and prevents worker exploitation. Business New Zealand chief executive Kirk Hope and CTU president Richard Wagstaff spoke to Corin Dann.

Business New Zealand has stirred up an industrial hornet's nest by refusing to be a formal partner in the government's Fair Pay Agreements. The group said it had rejected the government's offer to be a default bargaining agent for employer and industry groups, having made it clear from the outset that the agreements - or FPA's - aren't needed. It's a move that has garnered support in some quarters but not in others. The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions backs the FPA legislation, saying it provides a minimum floor for wages and conditions - and prevents worker exploitation. Business New Zealand chief executive Kirk Hope and CTU president Richard Wagstaff spoke to Corin Dann.

Businesses, event organisers, and religious organisations have been encouraged to download the Ministry of Health's NZ Pass Verifier App. The app, which operates on an opt-in basis, allows businesses to scan and verify their customers' My Vaccine Pass or vaccine certificate. When new rules come into effect on 3 December, affected businesses which fail to enforce vaccine passes, will face fines up to $15,000. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Corin Dann.

Businesses, event organisers, and religious organisations have been encouraged to download the Ministry of Health's NZ Pass Verifier App. The app, which operates on an opt-in basis, allows businesses to scan and verify their customers' My Vaccine Pass or vaccine certificate. When new rules come into effect on 3 December, affected businesses which fail to enforce vaccine passes, will face fines up to $15,000. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Corin Dann.

Vaccinations make a lot of sense to BusinessNZ, which promotes them as a sure-fire way of easing conditions for those in its member businesses around the country, particularly Auckland. The termination clause in the latest announcement, allowing employers to fire non-vaccinated employees with minimal notice and little or no legal repercussions, is something his group lobbied the government for. The network's chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Vaccinations make a lot of sense to BusinessNZ, which promotes them as a sure-fire way of easing conditions for those in its member businesses around the country, particularly Auckland. The termination clause in the latest announcement, allowing employers to fire non-vaccinated employees with minimal notice and little or no legal repercussions, is something his group lobbied the government for. The network's chief executive Kirk Hope spoke to Susie Ferguson.

No jab, no job is to become reality for tens of thousands of people. The government has expanded the vaccine mandate to cover all workers at businesses where customers will need to show a Covid vaccine certificate. That includes cafes, restaurants, gyms and close contacts businesses like hairdressers. Those that are not vaccinated will be given a four-week notice period to get their shots before employment can be terminated. Business NZ chief executive Kirk Hope told Checkpoint that having the simplified risk assessment process underpinned by law is very important and helpful for businesses that don't currently require vaccine certificates. He says the feedback from businesses to today's government announcement has been overwhelmingly positive.

Officials have urged the Government not to pursue fair pay agreements, warning the plan did not appear to meet international standards and may create more costs than benefits.Fair pay agreements were a manifesto promise of the Labour Party in the 2017 and 2020 elections, but legislation to give effect to the changes is yet to come to Parliament. The agreements aim to set standards within sectors or industries above the legal minimum.The process would be triggered once a representative test has been met, at which point unions and employer representatives would take part in compulsory bargaining. If an agreement cannot be reached, the Employment Relations Authority would make a binding determination.The Government has acknowledged the change - which will put the union movement at the heart of negotiations for sector-wide agreements - would represent the biggest change to industrial relations since the passing of the Employment Contracts Act in 1991.On Thursday, documents were released showing the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said its preferred option was to drop plans for FPA and instead improve collective bargaining mechanisms. Further, the Government should empower a government body to set minimum standards for various sectors "where it establishes that there is a labour market problem".A regulatory impact statement from MBIE said the Government's preferred option of unions and employers bargaining to set minimum pay and terms and conditions across sectors or occupations had "significant downsides".Once an FPA process is started, there is no option for employers to pull out or for workers to take industrial action."Although the outcome is difficult to predict, we anticipate in many cases the system is likely to result in bargaining stalemates and determinations fixing terms by the Employment Relations Authority, so the added benefit of bargaining may be limited."The Government's preferred option was "not well targeted", MBIE said."This means the proposed system may create significant labour market inflexibility and costs when it is used in sectors without a demonstrable labour market issue."MBIE said the system was likely to lead to an improvement in conditions for workers, but that overall it may impose more costs than benefits."The low threshold for initiation means that the system could be used in situations where the marginal improvement in terms and conditions for existing workers are achieved at a significant cost to employer flexibility."Given that the main benefits to workers are effectively a transfer from employers, we think there is a significant risk of setting up a system which has net overall costs if the other benefits to workers are less than the cost to employers and of providing the system."MBIE's approach, of modifying collective bargaining rules and having the government set minimum standards would, it considered, provide "a way to address the underlying problems in a way that is more consistent with the current regulatory framework and international requirements relating to collective bargaining".As well as being better targeted, MBIE said its preferred option "involves a less complex process and outcomes".Because the option was less developed than the Government's preferred option, more policy work and consultation was required.'Widely consulted'Workplace Relations Minister Michael Wood said the Government was delivering on a policy which Labour took to the election and consulted on "extensively" in the last Parliamentary term."These kind of sector-wide agreements are common across the OECD, including in Australia and Germany," Wood said in a statement."We have a low wage economy and Fair Pay Agreements will improve wages and conditions for employees, as well as level the playing field so that good employers don't get undercut and disadvantaged."We expect this will help out those essential workers who have served the country so well throughout the pandemic by gi...

The Climate Change Commission's final report spells out a plan for a "cleaner future" - including phasing out coal boilers by 2037. But to fully de-carbonise the country's energy and industrial sectors won't be an easy feat BusinessNZ's Energy Council says the country can't simply stop using fossil fuels - they will still be needed in some areas. It's executive director Tina Schirr spoke to Susie Ferguson.

The Climate Change Commission's final report spells out a plan for a "cleaner future" - including phasing out coal boilers by 2037. But to fully de-carbonise the country's energy and industrial sectors won't be an easy feat BusinessNZ's Energy Council says the country can't simply stop using fossil fuels - they will still be needed in some areas. It's executive director Tina Schirr spoke to Susie Ferguson.

There is dissappointment from the business sector over Budget 2021.$44 million over the next two years will go towards training courses, for about 30,000 SME sized businesses to digitally upskill.The Government's also pledging almost $4 billion dollars for rail, education infrastructure, DHBs and a redevelopment of Scott Base.BusinessNZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Simon Barnett and Phil Gifford it's pretty much what they expected."There's not enough really in there to boost economic growth."This Budget has been all around mostly about redistribution."LISTEN ABOVE

The response to the 2021 budget is testament to the fact that you can't please everyone. Changes to benefits and investment in Maori housing are being welcomed in some quarters - while others say Labour has missed a chance to do more for the most vulnerable in New Zealand society. At the same time, plans are being laid for a social insurance scheme that will make payments to people who lose their jobs. Is it a radical idea that will protect workers from upheavals, or an expensive piece of middle-class welfare? There are complaints from business that they've been left in the cold in the midst of the Covid-19 recovery. Kirk Hope is the chief executive of Business NZ, Dr Lara Greaves is a political scientist at the University of Auckland, and Janet McAllister is from the Child Poverty Action Group.

The response to the 2021 budget is testament to the fact that you can't please everyone. Changes to benefits and investment in Maori housing are being welcomed in some quarters - while others say Labour has missed a chance to do more for the most vulnerable in New Zealand society. At the same time, plans are being laid for a social insurance scheme that will make payments to people who lose their jobs. Is it a radical idea that will protect workers from upheavals, or an expensive piece of middle-class welfare? There are complaints from business that they've been left in the cold in the midst of the Covid-19 recovery. Kirk Hope is the chief executive of Business NZ, Dr Lara Greaves is a political scientist at the University of Auckland, and Janet McAllister is from the Child Poverty Action Group.

Is this government listening to itself? In an unbelievable move, it has just announced that it's going ahead with Fair Pay Agreements. Now I'll run you through the details in a tick, but the main gist of it is that the government is re-introducing collective bargaining.So that, if enough workers in one sector, let's say cleaners, agree to a pay and conditions deal with their employers, then that will be binding on all employers of cleaners. Even if the employers weren't part of negotiations and didn't say yes to the pay increase, even if they can't afford it.Even if they are based on the West Coast and not bringing in the same kind of money as the Auckland employers.They still have to pay it, it's binding. That is a major overhaul of employment legislation.Business NZ reckons it's not even in line with international law, because collective agreements are supposed to be voluntary. But the real kicker here is that the government is doing this because it says it wants to make sure that those workers who got us through the pandemic are getting ‘a fair go again.' Is this government listening to itself? Three days ago it just froze the pay of 75% of its workers who got us through the pandemic.Defence force staffers manning the MIQ hotels, nurses administering the jabs, teachers who taught throughout lockdowns. This government has no moral authority to tell private sector employers that they have to quote ‘improve wages,' when they themselves are not going to do it for the next three years. Something's going to have to give; either this government abandons the wage freeze or abandons the fair pay agreements.But they cannot tell businesses around this country to do something they are not prepared to do. The hypocrisy is blinding. 

Business leaders are going to have to be a little more courageous if they want anybody to care about the struggles that they're having with the government at the moment.Because from what I can see, they're pulling their punches.This morning, the embargo lifted on the fact that some of our most distinguished and senior members of the business community - Joan Withers, chair of The Warehouse Group, Patrick Strange, chair of Auckland Airport and Chorus, Rob Campbell, chair of SkyCity and Tourism Holdings - have joined together to call on the government for more transparency on how the government plans to get us back out into the world operating normally again. But if you liste4ned to the interviews they gave, read the press release they wrote, you'd have no idea what's really going on. You'd think most things are pretty good, but they just want to help a little bit and have a bit of a plan.That's not what's going on. The business community is extremely frustrated.  They are often being ignored when they make suggestions or try to help. They have no clarity on basic plans like even when there might be a trans-Tasman bubble. They are unable to get key workers into the country. And they have watched the power shift to Wellington bureaucrats who have no idea how to run an economy. But you wouldn't know that from listening to them this morning. They just said they'd like to see the plan and know when the vaccines are and we really want to be included in helping. Now I understand that there is a general fear of taking on this government because of the popularity of the pm and the health response. And I have been watching for nearly a year as more and more critical voices stop being critical. You tell me when the last time was that even Business NZ had something tough to say. I get that there is concern that if you go too hard you will get blowback. I hope that this is just the start of a campaign from these guys and that they will increase their criticism to a most honest level, because I'd like to see some courage form business leaders.There are holes all over the place here. Auckland is in its eleventh week of lockdowns.That's nearly three months, that's unacceptable when you compare us to Australia's New South Wales, as I did yesterday, that hasn't had a single lockdown across the entire state or even across Sydney - just ongoing restrictions. Unless our leaders are prepared to say it out loud and draw attention to the failings, people won't know that we can do better and that others are doing better.