Business Club opens global doors for Auckland companies

Mayor Len Brown is urging Auckland companies to take advantage of an opportunity to build valuable networks with international businesspeople as Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) looms.

The NZ2011 Business Club is a national hosting initiative that will connect New Zealand businesses planning to expand through capital investment, exports or innovation with international visitors who hold key roles in similar industries or who have common interests. Membership is free and open to all businesses at www.nz2011.govt.nz.

Auckland-based businesses can access the Business Club at www.auckland2011.com/businessclub. The website also offers a wide range of helpful information about preparing for RWC 2011 and how to make the most of the Auckland events.

Len Brown is issuing a personal invitation to the businesses of the region to take advantage of the “priceless” opportunity presented by RWC 2011 and the Business Club.

“There are 85,000 people coming to New Zealand for RWC 2011. We know a good number of those are likely to hold influential roles in business in many of the nations we have trading relationships with,” says Mr Brown.

“While they are here, they will certainly be looking at the local business environment. Business Club offers the chance to get alongside these people, show them some real New Zealand experiences away from the rugby and build valuable networks.”

Hosting opportunities might focus on a classic Kiwi experience, a tour of local industry facilities or a larger event such as those being organised through the REAL NZ festival of events.

“It might be about a day on the Hauraki Gulf hauling in snapper, a chance to shear a sheep on a farm, or hosting your visitors at a bigger event like the International Boat Show. Such an opportunity to engage with the right people from the right markets is priceless,” Mr Brown says.

Other showcase events are being organised for leading businesses in key sectors including food and beverage, biotech and marine industries, and will put both Auckland and New Zealand on show.

International visitor recruitment to the Business Club is through government and business connections, overseas events and ambassador presentations, relationship marketing and the Business Club page on the www.nz2011.govt.nz website.

“This is about seizing the opportunity to show the rest of the world what New Zealand is made of. In other words, highlighting all the things Kiwis love about this country and making sure these business visitors have a heck of a time,” Mr Brown says.