A wealth of business opportunities awaits in Wellington, New Zealand, as Canberra businesspeople from various industries have recently discovered. Photo: Canberra Business Chamber.
Canberra businesses have had a glimpse at a whole new world of opportunities across the Tasman Sea, thanks to a recent initiative by the Canberra Business Chamber.
The ACT and Canberra Region’s peak body for business took 22 businesspeople on a trade mission to Wellington, New Zealand, for a whirlwind two-day trade mission packed with networking, tours and deep insights into the business landscape of our cross-Tasman neighbours.
From data specialists to legal firms, technology firms to hospitality businesses, corporate advisory firms to distilleries, delegates represented diverse industries with one thing in common — each had identified the chance for national expansion not far beyond Aussie borders.
“Everyone was really keen to get across and explore the opportunities there might be for doing business in New Zealand,” Canberra Business Chamber CEO Greg Harford said.
Delegates connected with New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins and local government members, and received briefings from government relations companies and law firms covering a range of topics, including government procurement.
Delegates also visited individual businesses in various industries, ranging from science and technology to manufacturing facilities.
The trip culminated in a function on the HMAS Canberra, which happened to be in port during the trip.
“The primary purpose of the trip was to help businesses make connections and build relationships on the other side of the Tasman Sea — and we certainly did that,” Greg said.
“The feedback has been that there is lots of opportunity in the Wellington market, and I know of at least one business that has firm plans to establish a presence in Wellington and market in New Zealand.”
A not-for-profit organisation, the Canberra Business Chamber advocates on behalf of the business sector, helps ACT and Canberra region businesses connect, and provides resources, insights, and thought leadership on business issues.
Members have access to trade missions throughout the year in Australia and overseas.
“It’s our vision to make Canberra the greatest place in Australia for business, and that means helping local business reach their potential,” Greg said.
“As part of that, we do a bit of work in relation to international trade and helping members begin their exporting journey.
“We will certainly be looking at more trade missions in future and are exploring other markets. If Canberra businesses want to get involved, I encourage them to get in touch with the chamber — we would be happy to keep in touch about those missions.”
For more information, visit the Canberra Business Chamber.
