Author: Nikki Watt
Business Chamber launches ‘Reece McDonald Local Legend Award’
The Southland Business Chamber has launched a special new award as part of the 2025 Datagrid NZ Southland Business Excellence Awards — the Reece McDonald Local Legend Award. This people’s choice award honours the late Reece McDonald, former Board President of the Southland Business Chamber, who was not only a respected business leader but also […]
Southland exporters looking for opportunities in new US tariffs
Many Southland exporters are taking a “wait and see” approach to the United States’ new tariff regime, but believe the region won’t be as heavily impacted as others. US President Donald Trump has introduced a 10% tariff on top of existing tariffs to swathes of industries, but confusion reigns as exporters around the world try […]
Southland Business Chamber Board Announced for 2025/26
The Southland Business Chamber is pleased to unveil its newly elected board members for the 2025/26 term, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to fostering robust leadership and meaningful representation within the local business community. Following a strong turnout and competitive election process, the Chamber welcomes Breidi McStay, Marketing Manager at Windsor Architectural Hardware, as a newly […]
Datagrid eyeing 2028 opening of new data centre
Datagrid NZ is aiming to open the first phase of its US$2 billion (NZ$3.5b) data centre at Makarewa by 2028, but it’s still awaiting resource consent. The company is hoping that upcoming changes the to Resource Management Act will mean it’s resource consent to build on the land — which is classified as highly productive […]
Networking a walk in the park
Connecting with like-minded business-people in Invercargill is now as easy as a stroll in the park, thanks to a new networking initiative. NetWalking, the brainchild of Southland Business Chamber events manager and Young Enterprise Scheme regional co-ordinator Leanne Humphrey, involves twice-monthly lunchtime walk-and-talk sessions around the city’s Queens Park. Humphrey said the aim was to […]
Let’s Rally Behind SIT and Rebuild Together
Southland has always been synonymous with resilience, innovation, and an unshakable sense of community. We’re a region that knows how to adapt, rise to challenges, and create opportunities. As the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) regains its independence, we have a unique opportunity to rebuild not only its reputation but also the economic engine it represents for Southland’s growth and prosperity.
Housing Challenges Persist as Fiordland Housing Project Paused
As the end of 2024 is fast approaching, the Fiordland Business Association (FBA) wishes to provide an important update regarding the Fiordland Housing Project. Despite strong community interest and dedicated efforts to address local housing needs, we regret to announce that the initiative is being placed on hold as the required minimum number of contracts has not been secured.
Southland Team Wins Top National Award at Young Enterprise Scheme Awards
Southern Regional Co-ordinator, Leanne Humphrey, applauded the team’s achievement, saying: "It’s incredible to see a rural Southland team win on the national stage. These students have worked so hard, and their passion and dedication truly paid off. Their win is a testament to the innovation and talent in our region."
Amazing Chase Southland: City Edition
The Southland Business Chamber are issuing a warning to the public this week ahead of the inaugural Amazing Chase Southland: City Edition. The Amazing Chase: Southland Edition will see teams from workplaces throughout Murihiku descend on the Invercargill CBD for two days of action-packed festive fun.
Govt loan to boost Southland’s aquaculture industry
Southland Business Chamber chief executive Sheree Carey also welcomed the announcement, saying investment would be needed to achieve the $1.5b goal. “This is a good start.” The work at the Ocean Beach site was working because all the people involved in aquaculture were sharing ideas and resources, she said.
History made with entrepreneurial talent’s second straight win
The YES program in the Southern regions, which spans Southland, Queenstown, and Wanaka, has provided a platform for students to explore the world of business. The YES (Young Enterprise Scheme) Regional Finals, held on October 22 at SIT CentreStage Theatre, showcased the impressive entrepreneurial talent from across the southern regions. With 160 students, 51 teams, […]
‘Disappointing’: Air New Zealand scraps Wellington-Invercargill route
Those in the deep south will soon have fewer options to get to the North Island as Air New Zealand pulls the pin on its Invercargill to Wellington service. The flights will stop from January 19, 2025, the airline has announced. Air New Zealand general manager domestic Scott Carr said the decision has come down […]
Southland innovator’s bipod products gets ultimate SEAL of approval
A Southland engineer’s hunting rifle bipods have have been given the ultimate seal of approval after he received an order for his products from the US Navy – home of the Navy Seals. Ethan Todd, entrepreneur and founder of Backlanz, a company that manufactures a range of innovative bipods and accessories, also won the NZAS […]
Southland Business Chamber building te ao Māori connections
The Southland Business Chamber is working to bridge a gap between the Māori and Pākeha business communities in Murihiku, and the first step is for its own staff to begin on a te reo Māori journey themselves. “We realised there was a missing puzzle piece in our business community,” membership and stakeholder engagement manager Adam […]
Celebrating 5 Years of Jet Service Between Auckland and Invercargill: A Milestone in Connectivity and Growth
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the historic direct jet service between Auckland and Invercargill — a service that has transformed connectivity, driven economic growth, and created new opportunities across Southland. Invercargill Airport, alongside its regional partners — including business, community, funding, iwi and civic leaders — is thrilled to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on […]
Red Sea Situation & Impact on Global Shipping
Rising rates from Asia, particularly China, impact global shipping as spot rates reach record highs Economic & Demand Outlook Increased order volumes and early surge in demand on Transpacific route and Europe, with strong inbound volumes from Middle East and LATAM. Supply & Capacity Conflict in the Red Sea absorbs additional capacity, causing delays, congestion, […]