News

Business South has welcomed Budget 2026 as a disciplined, growth-focused plan that puts New Zealand's finances back on track and positions the economy for a sustainable recovery.

"This is the kind of Budget business needs," says Business South Chief Executive Mike Collins. "Fiscal discipline, a credible path back to surplus, capital going into infrastructure, and a Government that understands you cannot spend your way to prosperity. After years of debt accumulation, getting the books in order is not optional. It is the foundation everything else is built on."

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

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

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

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

Article feature in the ODT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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