Latest news with #KatherineRich
Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
National Direction In Support Of Growth
Press Release – BusinessNZ BusinessNZ supports the intention of transitioning these changes into a new RMA framework based on clearer property rights and long-term certainty to encourage investment and growth. BusinessNZ welcomes the Government's proposed consultation on national direction under the Resource Management Act, as a step towards a better planning system. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says the proposed updates in direction on infrastructure, renewable energy, housing, mining, and primary sector development, recognise New Zealand's need both to grow the economy and protect the environment. 'This is the most comprehensive overhaul of national direction we've seen, and it reflects many of the changes BusinessNZ has advocated for. We're encouraged by moves to simplify consenting for energy, housing and farming, and to replace overly complex freshwater rules that have frustrated producers without delivering better environmental outcomes,' Mrs Rich said. BusinessNZ supports the intention of transitioning these changes into a new RMA framework based on clearer property rights and long-term certainty to encourage investment and growth. 'We look forward to engaging constructively during consultation to help ensure the final package delivers on its promise to reduce red tape, restore balance, and support economic recovery,' Katherine Rich said.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
National Direction In Support Of Growth
BusinessNZ welcomes the Government's proposed consultation on national direction under the Resource Management Act, as a step towards a better planning system. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says the proposed updates in direction on infrastructure, renewable energy, housing, mining, and primary sector development, recognise New Zealand's need both to grow the economy and protect the environment. "This is the most comprehensive overhaul of national direction we've seen, and it reflects many of the changes BusinessNZ has advocated for. We're encouraged by moves to simplify consenting for energy, housing and farming, and to replace overly complex freshwater rules that have frustrated producers without delivering better environmental outcomes," Mrs Rich said. BusinessNZ supports the intention of transitioning these changes into a new RMA framework based on clearer property rights and long-term certainty to encourage investment and growth. "We look forward to engaging constructively during consultation to help ensure the final package delivers on its promise to reduce red tape, restore balance, and support economic recovery," Katherine Rich said.
Scoop
4 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
BusinessNZ Welcomes Regulatory Trim
BusinessNZ welcomes today's announcement by Minister for Regulation Hon David Seymour that Cabinet has approved the revocation of the outdated Health (Hairdressers) Regulations 1980. Small business owners in the hairdressing and barbering sector will no longer have to operate under unnecessary regulations, including mandatory chair spacing and regulated lighting levels, with dogs banned from salons and restrictions on refreshments served. With the hairdressing regulations revoked, local authorities will no longer be required to monitor the industry. The industry will still be required to meet health and safety regulations, with any risks managed under general legislation applying to all businesses. This slashing of regulations follows BusinessNZ's October 2024 report Reducing Compliance Burden on New Zealand Businesses, which outlined red tape burdens in a number of sectors including hairdressing and barbering. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says the outcome for the hairdressing sector bodes well for the Ministry for Regulation's ongoing work reducing unnecessary and restrictive red tape. "BusinessNZ applauds the methodical and evidence-based approach the Ministry for Regulation has taken in this review. It's a model for how to tidy up the rules across other sectors. The engagement with businesses, councils and industry bodies was thorough, and the end result is a commonsense solution that still protects public health while removing duplicative and inconsistent regulation," Mrs Rich said. The Ministry for Regulation's next review will be of the telecommunications sector.
RNZ News
22-05-2025
- Business
- RNZ News
BusinessNZ welcomes Investment Boost in Budget
business economy 10 minutes ago BusinessNZ is welcoming the new budget, saying it's credible and growth-oriented. BusinessNZ chief executive Katherine Rich spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Budget '25: A Credible, Growth-Oriented Path To Surplus
Press Release – BusinessNZ Overall the 2025 Budget outlines a credible path back to surplus, even as net debt is projected to rise in the short term. BusinessNZ continues to support a broader review of national savings policy to ensure it is fit for the future. 'BusinessNZ welcomes the Government's 2025 Budget as a credible and growth-oriented package that supports economic growth while reinforcing a pathway back to fiscal sustainability. Chief Executive Katherine Rich says this Budget rightly focuses on economic growth, productivity and investment. 'Overall the 2025 Budget outlines a credible path back to surplus, even as net debt is projected to rise in the short term. Treasury has made it clear that risks to the global and domestic outlook remain, and this Budget's focus on discipline – while still prioritising growth is appropriate and timely. 'The introduction of the Investment Boost, which allows businesses to immediately deduct 20 percent of the cost of new plant, machinery, equipment, and even commercial buildings – is a significant and forward-looking move that will incentivise capital upgrades and improve competitiveness. 'Likewise, the continuation of a 15 percent research and development tax incentive reinforces the importance of innovation for sustained economic growth. 'BusinessNZ Economists John Pask and Stephen Summers note the current environment remains tough for many businesses, but the 2025 Budget provides the policy settings to support future planning, particularly for larger and capital-intensive businesses. 'Increased investment in general infrastructure across health, regional development, and transport, including a $1 billion upgrade to hospitals and major new funding for rail and road recovery is welcome news. These investments contribute directly to the infrastructure pipeline that supports business logistics, workforce mobility, and long-term productivity.' Rich says. 'It's also encouraging to see investments in education and skills development, including further support for tertiary providers and targeted training initiatives. A strong education and skills pipeline is essential to lifting productivity, meeting future labour market needs, and ensuring that businesses can access the talent they require to grow. 'Targeted support for the primary sector, adjustments to thin capitalisation rules to encourage foreign investment, and funding to help start-ups through improved employee share scheme tax settings all show the Government's willingness to back productive enterprise. We also welcome ongoing investment in trade access, and tourism recovery. Rich says changes to KiwiSaver, including a gradual increase in contribution rates and a more sustainable approach to Government contributions, will have cost implications for employers, 'However, the phased approach to changes will provide time to plan, and we recognise the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of New Zealand's retirement savings system.' 'BusinessNZ continues to support a broader review of national savings policy to ensure it is fit for the future.' BusinessNZ congratulates Finance Minister Hon. Nicola Willis on delivering a measured, business-aware Budget that responds to current challenges while laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and a stronger, more resilient New Zealand economy.
