Kia ora

As we move into April, businesses here in Marlborough, like many around the world, are keeping a close eye on the evolving situation around global fuel supply and pricing.  We encourage you to think about your business resilience, and plan for disruption that may occur under the different levels, and have provided information below from business.govt.nz for support with this.

Closer to home, the recent Council decision around Easter Sunday trading provides more flexibility for Marlborough retailers. Importantly, opening remains entirely optional for businesses (and staff may choose whether they work) but the change does allow those who wish to take advantage of the Easter visitor period to do so.  As we send out this newsletter, legislation allowing alcohol sales over Easter for bars, pubs and restaurants passes it's third reading in parliament - we watch this with interest.

On another note, it was encouraging to see such strong engagement from members at our recent workshop with Marlborough District Council on the refresh of the Marlborough Economic Development Strategy. Member input is vital in ensuring the voice of local business is reflected in the region’s future direction, and we appreciate those who took the time to contribute to the discussion.

As always, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber and the role you play in our local business community.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Easter.

Ngā mihi

Kylie Cornelius

Executive Officer

kylie@mcoc.org.nz

Tuesday 7 April | 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM 

Join us on Tuesday 7 April for a catch-up & to hear from Margaret and Matilde from the Marlborough Multicultural Centre.

Wednesday 8 April | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 

Netwalking is a relaxed monthly walk where Chamber members can catch up, meet new people, and have a yarn while getting some fresh air.

Thursday 30 April | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 

Calling all Young Chamber members, It's Pub Quiz time! Come get amongst it Thursday April 30 for an energetic multidisciplinary information retrieval challenge (pub quiz). Graciously hosted and brought to you by Woodbourne Tavern!  (Registration opening soon)

Following consultation by Council on a draft Easter Sunday shop trading policy in accordance with the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, and the Local Government Act 2002 Special Consultative Procedure, the policy, giving retailers in Marlborough the option to open on Easter Sunday was adopted on 26 March 2026.

Further information of the changes can be found below:

Following the current fuel supply uncertainty across the country, we wanted to share the latest information provided through Business.govt.nz to help keep our business community informed.

In NZ the lead agency for the fuel response plan is MBIE.  They want to hear from you about which priority band your business may fit in if we move up the phases.  It's important the voice of Marlborough business is heard at a National level, so we encourage you to complete the form, particularly if you are are providing life-supporting services.

This isn't about panic, it's about preparedness.  We urge you to start planning for your business now to help you stay ahead of potential impacts and avoid reactive decision-making later.   The link below also has information on how to help you with continuity and contingency planning for your business.

Finding the right people, and supporting them to succeed, is one of the biggest challenges facing employers today. ChamberWorks is here to help. 

ChamberWorks is a free national programme supported by the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development. It connects employers with local, pre-screened candidates from New Zealand’s largest talent pipeline and provides access to practical tools and support – all in one place.
 
Businesses can get expert help to find talent faster, access free online learning to upskill teams, wellbeing support, and resources to strengthen hiring and build capability. 

Ready to get started? 
Find out how ChamberWorks can support your business or tell us about your job vacancy.

Early-stage entrepreneurs often ask:

• I have an idea, but where do I start?
• Is the problem I'm solving unique?
• Can my ideas actually scale?
• How do I fund my venture?

Startup Aotearoa is here to help you answer these questions and grow your idea into something extraordinary.  

You can contact Stephen at his startup coach email address, stephenwaters@startupaotearoa.org

Or register via the Startup Aotearoa website below...

One in six New Zealanders are disabled, yet many employers say their biggest barrier to inclusive employment is simply knowing where to start. OneinSix.nz is a free, practical resource hub designed to make that easier.

Developed by Whaikaha in partnership with the New Zealand Disability Employers’ Network (NZDEN), the site brings together clear, plain‑language guidance to support recruitment and early employment.

From role design and job advertising through to interviews, offers and onboarding, it is designed for real workplaces, with achievable steps that can be built into everyday business practice, without complexity or cost.

If you’re looking for practical tools, examples and support to widen your talent pool, OneinSix.nz is a great place to begin

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