Thursday 11 June 2026 | 5:00pm – 7:00pm
📍 The Icehouse, Textile Centre, Level 4, 117 Saint Georges Bay Road, Auckland
AI is everywhere – but what technology is actually delivering real value for SMEs right now? Join NZBusiness for a panel discussion unpacking all things business tech and AI.
Entries are now open for the 2026 David Awards, with this year marking a new chapter for the long-running small business awards programme as NZBusiness steps into the role of Official Steward.
Thursday 28 May 2026 | 7:00am – 9:30am
📍 New Zealand International Convention Centre, 101 Hobson Street, Auckland
Join us for a practical, insight-led morning exploring how Kiwi businesses are navigating today’s conditions and unlocking new growth opportunities in 2026.
As New Zealand businesses enter a new financial year, the economic outlook remains mixed.
MTF Finance is putting people back at the heart of lending. With a growing national network and a strong focus on SMEs, the New Zealand-owned lender is proving that local knowledge and personal relationships still make all the difference.
Satisfaction among SMEs with the Coalition Government has declined for the second consecutive year, according to new research from MYOB.
When consumers start watching every dollar, many businesses reach for familiar tactics: Bigger discounts, louder promotions and more urgent calls to buy.
Nyssa Waters explains where SMEs are missing out on AI gains, and how to turn funding support into measurable business impact.
From freeing up time to unlocking data insights, AI isn’t replacing people—it’s helping them work smarter, grow faster, and compete on a whole new level.
Trish Oakley and Kirsten (KP) Patterson explore what BYO-AI means for productivity, risk, culture and the future of work.
CEO Mark Callander shares how 2degrees is supporting SMEs around New Zealand with reliable, cost-effective telco services.
When consumers start watching every dollar, many businesses reach for familiar tactics: Bigger discounts, louder promotions and more urgent calls to buy.
As brands compete for attention in a crowded market, Marvel Experiences is helping businesses reconnect through thoughtful, high-impact real-world moments.
As AI changes how customers research and choose brands, traditional marketing is being upended. Auckland’s The Optimisers highlights the rise of AI answers, agent-led recommendations, and the need for “machine legibility” to stay visible and relevant.
Customer loyalty programmes are not just for retail and hospitality. Here's why your service or trade businesses should consider it.
Coalition loyalty schemes promise scale and savings, but in reality they erode brand identity, dilute data advantages and lock retailers into costly, restrictive models.
Discover practical tips to build trust through authentic sustainability communication, and examples of businesses leading the way.
An Auckland-based start-up is literally growing a new form of sustainable packaging that could one day replace polystyrene.
A bold pivot to NZ wool has led Autex Acoustics to create Embrace - a regenerative, carbon-negative acoustic wall system reshaping sustainable design.
Aotearoa’s sustainability pioneers are already reshaping our future, and now we need to back them writes Rachel Brown.
As household budgets tighten, food rescue app Foodprint is helping Kiwis save money and reduce waste.
Entries are now open for the 2026 David Awards, with this year marking a new chapter for the long-running small business awards programme as NZBusiness steps into the role of Official Steward.
The winners of The David Awards 2025 have been announced via a special online presentation, celebrating the country’s most innovative, resilient, and community-focused small businesses.
The David Awards have today announced the finalists for 2025, shining a spotlight on some of New Zealand’s most determined and dynamic small businesses.
The David Awards 2025 are now officially open for entries, offering small and home-based business owners across Aotearoa the chance to gain well-earned recognition.
Hair Art & Beauty has established itself as a cornerstone of Christchurch’s beauty landscape for over 25 years.
Read the March issue of NZBusiness, focused on intentional growth — with practical insights, expert perspectives, and real-world stories.
Thursday 28 May 2026 | 7:00am – 9:30am
📍 New Zealand International Convention Centre, 101 Hobson Street, Auckland
Join us for a practical, insight-led morning exploring how Kiwi businesses are navigating today’s conditions and unlocking new growth opportunities in 2026.
Inside the issue
Following the publication of their book Money, Money, Money – How to reset your money mindset and find financial freedom – every woman’s guide in March, NZBusiness sat down with authors Rachel Davies and Angela Meyer for a discussion on shifting your financial mindset.
Profit can wait, cash can’t. Master your cashflow with these five strategies to keep your business thriving.
In an election year where confidence is fragile but opportunity is emerging, sustainable growth will depend not just on ambition, but also on disciplined cash management, productivity gains and, above all, policy certainty.
Five years, three pivots, a bank loan, a diagnosis, and one determined New Zealand founder. Julia Ford’s premium cocktail brand Opyn is built on a simple but radical idea: Everyone deserves a considered drink.
As brands compete for attention in a crowded market, Marvel Experiences is helping businesses reconnect through thoughtful, high-impact real-world moments.
From international advertising to architectural interiors, Susannah Matheson, a Founder of Island Interiors, has built a name at the top end of New Zealand’s design scene.
Denise Bellingham launched Go Cover in 1998 after recognising a major gap in the market. Here's her story.
A bold pivot to NZ wool has led Autex Acoustics to create Embrace - a regenerative, carbon-negative acoustic wall system reshaping sustainable design.
Gen Z entrepreneurship isn’t just about tech start-ups or chasing scale. For young Kiwis like Stuart Savage, it’s about creativity, culture, and community – building ventures that carry meaning, craft, and legacy.
A hygienist troubled by the volume of plastic waste in the dental sector, Laura Nixon founded Solid with her husband Adam McConnochie.
Ho Lee and Mark Callan are reinventing Korea’s iconic soju with Jagiya Soju, a carbonated RTD that sold out its first batch in weeks.
In this powerhouse episode, Lilah McDonald sits down with Brianne West, celebrated Founder of Ethique and now the brains behind Incrediballs.
The founder of Got A Gap, a brand-new online platform aimed at filling last-minute appointment gaps for small businesses, shares her vision for a helping businesses with limited marketing budgets.
From international advertising to architectural interiors, Susannah Matheson, a Founder of Island Interiors, has built a name at the top end of New Zealand’s design scene.
Kiwi entrepreneur Greg Chapman has transformed a personal passion project into one of New Zealand’s most trusted bullion businesses.
What started as a Napier bakery’s idea has grown into Lunchonline, delivering 3.3 million school lunches nationwide while supporting local food providers.
Queenstown-based Magic Memories has emerged as the leading global player in the personalised digital experience market. Founder John Wikstrom shares a snapshot from 30 years of business.
With the support of a BNZ scholarship, Christchurch business owner Kerryn Stokes has invested in herself to complete the Icehouse Owner Manager Programme.
Over 300 entries mark another milestone year for the 2026 NZ Hi-Tech Awards, with the Gala Dinner set for May in Auckland.
New Zealand’s boldest innovators and sustainability leaders have been celebrated at the 2025 Sustainable Business Awards.
Kami co-founders Alliv Samson and Hengjie Wang have been named the EY Entrepreneur of the Year New Zealand 2025.
Harrisons Flooring and The Coffee Club Ōmokoroa named Supreme Winners at the Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards in milestone 30th year.
Deloitte has announced the finalists for the 2025 Deloitte Top 200 Awards, recognising New Zealand organisations and leaders who are driving resilience.
A former delivery driver who started at HELL Pizza straight out of school has become one of the brand’s youngest franchise owners, taking over the Kāpiti store at just 21
A new survey reveals most SME operators are already taking action as Middle East tensions push fuel costs higher.
Over 300 entries mark another milestone year for the 2026 NZ Hi-Tech Awards, with the Gala Dinner set for May in Auckland.
As New Zealand businesses enter a new financial year, the economic outlook remains mixed.
Joseph Darby is reshaping investment management and financial advice for goal-driven Kiwis, here’s what he believes it takes to achieve financial freedom.
Payroll changes from 1 April 2026 will affect wages, KiwiSaver contributions, and ACC levies. Shannon Goodwin and Brendan Clough of Baker Tilly Staples Rodway explain what SME owners need to check now to stay compliant and avoid surprises.
While New Zealand SMEs are up on confidence, Elise Balsillie says this alone is not enough to secure growth, and that credibility is key.
What really drives business growth, and why do so many well-planned strategies fall short?
Elise Balsillie explains why cultivating “decision velocity” is becoming the defining edge for growth, responsiveness and customer trust in 2026.
When petrol prices surge, the national conversation usually focuses on motorists. But the real economic risk isn’t the family car, it’s the systems that keep the country moving.
Many successful SMEs rely heavily on their founders, leaving businesses vulnerable if key decisions suddenly can’t be made. Clear governance and succession planning are crucial to protect both the company and the family.
From freeing up time to unlocking data insights, AI isn’t replacing people—it’s helping them work smarter, grow faster, and compete on a whole new level.
Trish Oakley and Kirsten (KP) Patterson explore what BYO-AI means for productivity, risk, culture and the future of work.
Why good governance goes a long way in developing SME directors in a rapidly changing business environment.
The thriving Māori economy and workforce are shaping New Zealand’s future, with professional development, leadership, and Māori values driving transformative opportunities across industries.
If your sustainability training doesn't mention resilience and reconnection, you're doing it wrong. Here are some pointers.
Discover how Spark’s AI Foundations course is equipping New Zealand’s SMEs with the tools and confidence to embrace artificial intelligence.
With the support of a BNZ scholarship, Christchurch business owner Kerryn Stokes has invested in herself to complete the Icehouse Owner Manager Programme.
Why good governance goes a long way in developing SME directors in a rapidly changing business environment.
The thriving Māori economy and workforce are shaping New Zealand’s future, with professional development, leadership, and Māori values driving transformative opportunities across industries.
If your sustainability training doesn't mention resilience and reconnection, you're doing it wrong. Here are some pointers.
Discover how Spark’s AI Foundations course is equipping New Zealand’s SMEs with the tools and confidence to embrace artificial intelligence.
With the support of a BNZ scholarship, Christchurch business owner Kerryn Stokes has invested in herself to complete the Icehouse Owner Manager Programme.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept or a futuristic experiment, it’s here, reshaping the way businesses operate and hire talent.
Stratalign Managing Director Matthew Prestige on how the company is leading the charge on smarter and safer lifting technology as it eyes international growth.
James Stevenson, MD at Grada Recruitment talks navigating economic uncertainty, internal business culture, and what job seekers and businesses need to know for the year ahead.
Recruiting firm: AI can be used to aggregate large sets of data, to support people to be able to be more human-led.
Pete Burdon shares practical strategies to manage emotions, prepare effectively, and turn tense discussions into opportunities for growth.
After 13 years of growth, Heart Saver’s Helen and Mike Mander are scaling new heights in 2025 - expanding into training, mental health support, and Australia.
Since equity crowdfunding was given the green light in New Zealand in 2013, PledgeMe’s ‘chief bubble blower’ Anna Guenther has been one of the country’s strongest advocates for the highly successful business fundraising platform.
Wendy Thompson is a highly successful entrepreneur and business owner with ambitious goals and an enviable track record for building brands across the globe.
As brands compete for attention in a crowded market, Marvel Experiences is helping businesses reconnect through thoughtful, high-impact real-world moments.
From hyper-growth to near-collapse, Ārepa co-founder Angus Brown shares the hard lessons, tough calls and strategic pivots that helped steer the business through crisis and back toward stability.
Gen Z entrepreneurship isn’t just about tech start-ups or chasing scale. For young Kiwis like Stuart Savage, it’s about creativity, culture, and community – building ventures that carry meaning, craft,
Nyssa Waters explains where SMEs are missing out on AI gains, and how to turn funding support into measurable business impact.
Discover practical tips to build trust through authentic sustainability communication, and examples of businesses leading the way.
When consumers start watching every dollar, many businesses reach for familiar tactics: Bigger discounts, louder promotions and more urgent calls to buy.
As more Kiwi businesses gear up for expansion, KiwiSpan is delivering future-ready commercial builds that go far beyond basic sheds.
CEO Mark Callander shares how 2degrees is supporting SMEs around New Zealand with reliable, cost-effective telco services.
New Zealand natural health brand Tracel is taking its wellness mission global, showcasing innovation and transparency at CIIE.
From airport kiosk hustle to global eSIM success, SimCorner is redefining how travellers stay connected across borders.
Thursday 11 June 2026 | 5:00pm – 7:00pm
📍 The Icehouse, Textile Centre, Level 4, 117 Saint Georges Bay Road, Auckland
AI is everywhere – but what technology is actually delivering real value for SMEs right now? Join NZBusiness for a panel discussion unpacking all things business tech and AI.
Entries are now open for the 2026 David Awards, with this year marking a new chapter for the long-running small business awards programme as NZBusiness steps into the role of Official Steward.
Thursday 28 May 2026 | 7:00am – 9:30am
📍 New Zealand International Convention Centre, 101 Hobson Street, Auckland
Join us for a practical, insight-led morning exploring how Kiwi businesses are navigating today’s conditions and unlocking new growth opportunities in 2026.
As New Zealand businesses enter a new financial year, the economic outlook remains mixed.
MTF Finance is putting people back at the heart of lending. With a growing national network and a strong focus on SMEs, the New Zealand-owned lender is proving that local knowledge and personal relationships still make all the difference.
A former delivery driver who started at HELL Pizza straight out of school has become one of the brand’s youngest franchise owners, taking over the Kāpiti store at just 21 years old.
Satisfaction among SMEs with the Coalition Government has declined for the second consecutive year, according to new research from MYOB.
Entries are now open for the 2026 David Awards, with this year marking a new chapter for the long-running small business awards programme as NZBusiness steps into the role of Official Steward.
When consumers start watching every dollar, many businesses reach for familiar tactics: Bigger discounts, louder promotions and more urgent calls to buy.
As New Zealand businesses enter a new financial year, the economic outlook remains mixed.
A new survey reveals most SME operators are already taking action as Middle East tensions push fuel costs higher.
Over 300 entries mark another milestone year for the 2026 NZ Hi-Tech Awards, with the Gala Dinner set for May in Auckland.
As brands compete for attention in a crowded market, Marvel Experiences is helping businesses reconnect through thoughtful, high-impact real-world moments.
When petrol prices surge, the national conversation usually focuses on motorists. But the real economic risk isn’t the family car, it’s the systems that keep the country moving.
Canterbury has claimed the title of New Zealand’s strongest-performing region for the second quarter running according to ASB report.
New data from small business platform Thryv reveals that while AI adoption among New Zealand SMEs is now mainstream, the majority are still struggling to turn experimentation into real productivity gains.
Many successful SMEs rely heavily on their founders, leaving businesses vulnerable if key decisions suddenly can’t be made. Clear governance and succession planning are crucial to protect both the company and the family.
From hyper-growth to near-collapse, Ārepa co-founder Angus Brown shares the hard lessons, tough calls and strategic pivots that helped steer the business through crisis and back toward stability.
Joseph Darby is reshaping investment management and financial advice for goal-driven Kiwis, here’s what he believes it takes to achieve financial freedom.
Payroll changes from 1 April 2026 will affect wages, KiwiSaver contributions, and ACC levies. Shannon Goodwin and Brendan Clough of Baker Tilly Staples Rodway explain what SME owners need to check now to stay compliant and avoid surprises.
Gen Z entrepreneurship isn’t just about tech start-ups or chasing scale. For young Kiwis like Stuart Savage, it’s about creativity, culture, and community – building ventures that carry meaning, craft, and legacy.
As AI changes how customers research and choose brands, traditional marketing is being upended. Auckland’s The Optimisers highlights the rise of AI answers, agent-led recommendations, and the need for “machine legibility” to stay visible and relevant.
EMS says the introduction of the Employment Leave Bill to Parliament marks a long-awaited step toward resolving ongoing issues with New Zealand’s Holidays Act.
While New Zealand SMEs are up on confidence, Elise Balsillie says this alone is not enough to secure growth, and that credibility is key.
MTF Finance Board Chair Mark Darrow will retire at the end of his current term in mid-2026, bringing to a close a six-year tenure at the New Zealand-owned lender.
Discover practical tips to build trust through authentic sustainability communication, and examples of businesses leading the way.
Small business sales in New Zealand climbed to a three-year high at the end of 2025 according to the latest data from Xero.
Nyssa Waters explains where SMEs are missing out on AI gains, and how to turn funding support into measurable business impact.
Expert says designing franchise systems around head office convenience rather than franchisee success is a mistake.
New research commissioned by Experian reveals that 58 percent of New Zealand organisations have experienced a year-on-year increase in fraud losses.
When Simon Squibb visited New Zealand earlier this year, he helped turn a local café worker’s dream into reality – and shared why small businesses, courage and community matter more than ever.
Pattern’s 2026 Marketplace Consumer Report reveals the sector is entering a new phase – and it’s one increasingly defined by global scale rather than local competition.
New Zealand’s economic direction takes centre stage at the New Zealand Economics Forum 2026, themed Big Choices for a Small Nation.
New report speaks to the “emotional tax” end of financial years has on entrepreneurs across the country.
Health and safety experts have criticised the Government’s proposed changes to workplace safety law, warning they will not improve safety outcomes for small businesses.
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