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In this edition of YOUR news

     

Red light halts positive start

Kia ora tatou, 

The recent introduction at short notice of the Red setting of the NZ COVID-19 Protection Framework has brought an abrupt end to what was a positive start to the year for many members. The uncertainty surrounding Omicron and its possible effects are top of mind for most businesses as we try to delay the almost inevitable surge in community cases. 

Business and consumer confidence have both taken another hit due to this uncertainty which remains a constant challenge for businesses as they try to plan for both the short and longer term. Some will face the challenges associated with staff having to isolate for extended periods in addition to the ongoing challenges of the supply chain, rising material and fuel costs and current staff shortages, all of this in the face of reduced financial support from the government wage subsidy. There is no silver bullet available to make life easier, but I would encourage as many members as possible to support each other by connecting and trading with other local businesses whenever the opportunity arises. 

I would like to acknowledge the ongoing support from all of our Gold, Silver and Event Sponsors during these difficult times which is much appreciated, as collectively we look to navigate through what are indeed challenging times.

Ngā mihi mahana,

Kevin O'Leary 
General Manager, Business North Harbour
     

Consultation begins on income insurance scheme 

Consultation is now open on the proposed New Zealand Income Insurance Scheme, jointly designed by Government, Business New Zealand and the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, which would see workers made redundant, laid off, or who have to stop working because of a health condition or disability, receive 80 percent of their usual salary for up to seven months, up to the current ACC cap. The proposal includes up to twelve months of support for re-training. The full press release from Hon Grant Robertson can be read here with the proposals being available to view at www.mbie.govt.nz/incomeinsurance. You can have your say by completing a short survey or by providing a submission with consultation to close on Tuesday, 26th April 2022.
     

Upcoming Workshops, Webinars & Events

BNH would like to advise that all in-person BNH events scheduled to run from February through to May 2022 are currently being postponed as under the current Red traffic light setting BNH is unable to operate these.
     

BNH Secure Plates service

Due to the steadily increasing price of petrol at the pumps, there has been a corresponding rise in the number of thefts involving the stealing of number plates from parked vehicles by offenders who subsequently perform petrol drive-offs using these stolen plates. Dave Loader, BNH's crime prevention officer advocates that all BNH members should contact him and arrange for their company and employee vehicles to have their number plates secured for free. Members interested in this service can email Dave here
     

 Imagine you’re back at work

Incredible isn’t it…2022! You know there will be challenges. However, you recognise the importance of looking after your people. Retention is key. Performance reviews should be part of your strategy to ensure staff are happy. If you need to recruit here are our predictions on the candidate market. If you want to find people who fit, call Eclipse Recruitment on 09 973 1879, or simply stay informed with our QuarterlyFIT newsletter.
     

The squeaky wheel gets the oil

With AT receiving many daily complaints due to the nature of their business, it really is the case that the more complaints they receive for a specific concern the faster they will act. We need to combine our voices to achieve improvements in our locality. If there is an area causing major congestion or is dangerous and which you believe that AT needs to review, please do let us know along with your recommendations. If we see there is merit, we will post the recommendations for further comment on our social media and E-newsletter channels. 

To start the ball rolling we need your help with Constellation Drive (northern side between Apollo Drive and East Coast Bays Road) with the removal of the T2 lane. With no continuation of the T2 on East Coast Bays Road, the lane becomes obsolete after Apollo Drive, with left turning cars being stuck in the right lane until the T2 ends. Your voice would help clear the traffic back-up along Apollo and Constellation Drives in the key evening peak times. If you would like to make your voice heard, please provide your AT feedback here and quote case number: CAS-271084-K7R4J0 
     

Chinese Lunar New Year 2022 - Year of the Tiger

Tuesday 1st February marked the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year. Each Lunar year is represented by a cycle of 12 zodiac animals with 2022 being the Year of the Tiger. The Tiger zodiac symbol is commonly associated with strength, bravery, courage, confidence and optimism. Business North Harbour would like to wish our wider Asian community a very prosperous and happy Lunar New Year!
     

Make the most of your journey back to work

If you’re returning to your workplace, now’s the perfect opportunity to explore better ways to make your commute more enjoyable and/or efficient. The AT network is the perfect way to get back to seeing friends, enjoy cafes and restaurants, and explore new spots to relax in the summer sunshine. You can also use our online journey planner or download our real time travel app, AT Mobile, to find more active and sustainable travel options, such as walking and cycling routes.
     

Taking Kiwi Food & Beverage to the world - virtual event

New Zealand Food and Beverage makes up 46% of the country's exports and this growing industry can provide big opportunities for businesses. In association with BNZ Partners and Kea, members and other interested parties are invited to join this virtual event on Wednesday 16th February at 2.30pm. For more information please click here and to register please email: bnz_growth_sectors@bnz.co.nz

This event is ideal for Food and Beverage businesses looking to export or for those already exporting and wanting to extend their reach.
     

Albany Work & Income Service Centre upgrade

The Albany Work and Income Service Centre at 44 Corinthian Drive will be closed for three weeks in February for refurbishment. The office will be temporarily closed from 5.00pm on Friday 11th February until 8.30am on Tuesday 8th March. The refurbishment includes establishing dedicated employment spaces in front of house areas to help New Zealanders to keep working. During the upgrade, the Albany Work Brokers, Reema Batra (M: 029 917 0853 / E: Reema.Batra001@msd.govt.nz) and Ange Tina (M: 029201 3794 / E: Ange.Tina001@msd.govt.nz) will continue to provide employment services to help fill your vacancies. Otherwise, please contact the Employer Services Team from Monday to Friday, between 8.00am and 6.00pm by phoning 0800 778 008 or by visiting: www.workandincome.govt.nz/employers
     

CONTACT: 09 968 2222 WEBSITE: www.businessnh.org.nz

EMAIL: admin@businessnh.org.nz OFFICE: Level 1, Unit 2, 322 Rosedale Road, Rosedale 

POSTAL: PO Box 303126, North Harbour