The Kiwi approach to Business
Kiwi businesses have developed in response to the unique location, resources and challenges of our country. New Zealand’s approach to business has some defining strands:
- A culture of independence and inventiveness…
- which translated into the “No.8 wire philosophy”. Some great Kiwi businesses have sprung from this – Hamilton Jet and Gallagher Electric Fencing are two examples. The Unlimited magazine and web site is a great source of information about and for new and innovative Kiwi businesses.
- Smart farming…
- and more recently exploration of innovative new animals and crops. Some major innovative agricultural businesses include the frozen meat trade, innovative dairy products, deer farming and the explosion of the wine industry. New directions include Nutraceuticals and Biotechnology.
- Niche businesses
- specialising in small runs of products. The internet has enabled businesses to flourish providing specific and unusual products to the world – a great Canterbury based example is Campbell Aero Classics supply replica flying helmets and accessories for vintage and warbird enthusiasts.
- Māori business
- is developing a distinct identity around Māori culture, particularly in the areas of tourism and arts and crafts.
- Kiwi food and fashion
- Those unique products we identify as our own – hokey pokey icecream, green lipped mussels, Bluff oysters, Weetbix, lamb, Swanndri etc are increasingly being packaged into more sophisticated products for the world.
- Adventure
- Hillary climbing Everest gave us a great market profile and in recent years a dynamic adventure tourism industry has developed, accompanied by a lively outdoor equipment designing and manufacturing sector.
- Electronics
- Christchurch is home to a thriving electronics industry – again innovation and niche products are a feature.
Kiwi business resources
- See the Business section of this site for a wide range of online business resources and information on the range services we offer to businesses.
- Find business articles and stories using ABI/INFORM Global and Business Source and other business databases.
Our Internet Gateway also recommends the following sites:
- Tourism New Zealand
- The official site for tourism in New Zealand. Includes an extensive database of visitor information and forums. The definitive resource for visitors.
- New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
- Government agency supporting and facilitating trade, economic development, international investments and the exchange of knowledge into New Zealand and out into the world.
- Tech History.co.nz
- A history of technological innovation in New Zealand.
You may also like to browse the business resources in our libraries:
- Success in business – have you mastered the tricks of your trade?
- Creative ability in business – skills to think outside the square
- Organisational effectiveness – how to make your business run like clockwork
- Small business in New Zealand – setting up and running your own
- or search our catalogue for the specific subject you need information on
