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Auckland Chamber of Commerce

196 posts | 3 images

The Auckland Chamber of Commerce has provided 150 years of support for small and medium sized businesses in the Auckland region. 

Joined August 2007
10,810 profile views
News Images
Council 4 Aug 2011
MICHAEL BARNETT – "Film Studio Ownership Not Core Council Business"

Film studio ownership not core Council business….

119 views

Film 4 Aug 2011
Film studio ownership not core Council business

AUCKLAND — Having achieved 100% ownership of Auckland Films Limited for $1.5 million, Auckland Council should look at options to on-sell the facility to the private sector, Auckland Chamber head Michael Barnett said today.

245 views

Opinion 3 Aug 2011
The best plan - keep it simple

AUCKLAND — Planning is important.

376 views

Opinion 28 Jul 2011
An Open Letter to Parliament

The purpose of this letter is to give you the strongest possible support to take immediate decisive action when Parliament resumes next month (2nd August) to urgently pass legislation banning the sale of untested party drug products.

302 views

Economy 22 Jul 2011
Another tax is not a plan for growth

“If New Zealand is to own its own future, as Phil Goff wants, we will need to learn from past mistakes…..

151 views

Economy 15 Jul 2011
'Another tax is not a plan for growth.... ' - Michael Barnett

AUCKLAND — “If New Zealand is to own its own future, as Phil Goff wants, we will need to learn from past mistakes…..

267 views

Business 12 Jul 2011
Tim Groser Address to third Japan-New Zealand Partnership Forum: Japan and New Zealand - Overcoming Adversity, Building the Future

Minister of Trade, Tim Groser addressed political and business leaders from Japan and New Zealand at the third Japan-New Zealand Partnership Forum in Tokyo, on the 11th of July, 2011.

114 views

Business 15 Jun 2011
New Zealand Chambers Conference 2011

AUCKLAND CITY — The conference takes place over three days, Tuesday 2nd August (registration 12.00pm for a 1.00pm start) through to Thursday 4th August 2011 (closing 12.30pm) at the Rendezvous Hotel.

102 views

Business 3 Mar 2011
Auckland needs to be strong and passionate to build the best city it can ......

AUCKLAND — The best thing Auckland can do for New Zealand right now is be successful.

91 views

Business 22 Feb 2011
Business confidence stays flat with 'more of the same' predicted.....

AUCKLAND — The slow decline in business confidence that began a year ago has continued in a survey of about a thousand business respondents undertaken electronically by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce late last week.

94 views

Economy 26 Jan 2011
Our real economic challenge – making the pie bigger

The issue for the Government this year is not just to borrow and spend less.

161 views

Business 22 Sep 2010
Auckland Business Confidence Slides

The Auckland Chamber of Commerce survey of the region’s businesses has revealed a massive drop in confidence for the coming months as businesses cope with consumers who are cautious with decision making, local bodies and institutions who are delaying the start of new projects, and access to affordable finance.

102 views

Council 12 Jul 2010
Great expectations in the new Auckland

AUCKLAND — Unless Aucklanders begin to make demands on what they want from their mayoral and other Auckland Council and Local Board candidates at the local government elections in October, they will get more of the same.

153 views

Transport 1 Jul 2010
At last - light at the end of the tunnel

AUCKLAND — Auckland has been waiting 45 years for a modern motorway network with options.

133 views

Business 21 Jun 2010
Confidence of business owners falls yet again

AUCKLAND CITY — While Auckland businesses are signaling a marginal lift in the general business environment, confidence in their own situation is continuing to fall.

147 views

Politics 14 Jun 2010
Balancing all foreshore interests critical to any lasting solution

AUCKLAND — Before the Government locks in new arrangements to replace the Foreshore and Seabed Act, the interests of other community groups with a justifiable foreshore access interests also need to have their rights and entitlements thoroughly assessed and protected.

138 views

Council 24 May 2010
Chamber welcomes measures to strengthen Auckland Council control over CCOs

AUCKLAND — The changes to Auckland’s governance reforms to make it explicit that Auckland Council can remove CCO directors from day one were today welcomed by Auckland Chamber of Commerce CEO, Michael Barnett.

109 views

Politics 20 May 2010
Budget comment from Michael Barnett

Changes to the tax treatment of investment property invite a behaviour change by New Zealanders away from investing in property to investing more in NZ and productive activity.

181 views

Politics 3 May 2010
Australia's corporate tax change keeps pressure on upcoming budget

Australia’s intention to reduce the corporate tax rate from 30% to 28% by 2014 puts pressure on the upcoming Budget to ensure New Zealand stays in close range.

127 views

Transport 3 May 2010
Assess 'long game' viability for building Auckland's new trains locally

AUCKLAND — Building Auckland’s new electric trains locally should be assessed against the viability of a long-term rail infrastructure upgrade strategy for the whole of New Zealand, agrees Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.

130 views

Transport 28 Apr 2010
Call to bring forward Auckland Airport Kirkbride Road Grade Separation project ahead of Rugby World Cup

AUCKLAND — The early completion announced recently of the new Manukau Harbour Bridge currently under construction creates a great opportunity to bring forward other long-planned road improvements on the main route between central Auckland and Auckland International Airport.

192 views

Business 24 Apr 2010
Admin staff doing more and getting snapped up, fast!

AUCKLAND — Throughout next week, New Zealanders will recognise the contributions of secretaries, personal assistants and office staff in one of the largest workplace observances across the globe, Administrative Professionals Week.

148 views

Business 21 Apr 2010
Thanking the unsung office heroes on Administrative Professionals Day

Today organisations across the globe will celebrate the contributions personal assistants, receptionists and administrative staff make to their workplaces for the annual Administrative Professionals Day.

390 views

Council 11 Mar 2010
Function of Auckland's 21 Local Boards needs clarifying ASAP

AUCKLAND — Confirmation that the new Auckland Council will have 170 elected politicians representing 21 Local Boards, 13 wards and an executive mayor reinforces the case for their functions and responsibilities to be clearly spelt out in legislation, said Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.

316 views

Council 15 Feb 2010
Auckland Chamber of Commerce submission on the local government (Auckland law reform) bill

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce strongly supports Government's governance decision to establish a single, Auckland unitary authority to overcome long-standing fragmentation and coordination problems.

347 views

Business 9 Feb 2010
Chamber supports moves to a growth enhancing tax systems

AUCKLAND — The Government’s intentions to stop tinkering with the tax system and create one that is certain and easy to comply with is a move in the right direction, said Auckland Chamber CEO Michael Barnett.

197 views

Transport 2 Feb 2010
Auckland Transport "will be ready" for RWC

AUCKLAND — A huge amount of work has been done over the past year and will continue this year to make sure Auckland transport is ready for the Rugby World Cup 2011– "and I have total confidence we will be ready and able to provide a first class service for visitors and get maximum benefit from hosting the event," said Auckland Chamber of Commerce CEO Michael Barnett. 

300 views

Transport 22 Dec 2009
Waterview Connection project set to move into fast lane

AUCKLAND — Confirmation of a final alignment for the SH20 Waterview Connection with 160 fewer properties required is welcome Christmas news, said Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

236 views

Business 16 Dec 2009
A sobering drop on business confidence

AUCKLAND — A drop in business confidence is the sobering news from the Auckland Chamber of Commerce’s survey taken this week from almost 900 firms.

166 views

Trade 25 Nov 2009
NZ-Taiwan initiative reveals new opportunities for Kiwi businesses

AUCKLAND CITY — Taiwan's Vice Minister of Economic Affairs will share insights for Kiwi exporters in Taiwan during his special visit to New Zealand on Friday December 11.

588 views

Business 20 Nov 2009
10th time lucky to fix Easter trading "nonsense"

Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett today called on all Parties in Parliament to put aside political differences and unite to pass legislation to allow any shop across New Zealand wanting to trade over Easter to do so.

223 views

Architecture 31 Oct 2009
Queen's Wharf designs

Chamber Chief Executive Michael Barnett has expressed huge frustration at criticism surrounding design concepts for Queen’s Wharf.

303 views

Council 29 Oct 2009
Business-like councils good for rate payers and business

AUCKLAND — Requiring councils to behave in a business-like way is common sense and long overdue, said Michael Barnett, Auckland Chamber CEO.

209 views

Trade 27 Oct 2009
Trade opportunity for the taking

AUCKLAND — The Free Trade Agreement signed with Malaysia today is a great opportunity for NZ businesses if they choose to take it, suggests Michael Barnett, Chief Executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce.

293 views

Transport 11 Sep 2009
Waterview Connection 'to go ahead' - another step in moving Auckland into the fast lane

AUCKLAND — Today’s announcement that the $1.4 billion Waterview Connection is to proceed as a surface-tunnel project is great news – “ it is a pragmatic decision that Auckland needs for moving forward,” said Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

229 views

Transport 27 Aug 2009
Increased NZTA funding programme welcomed - but vital 'cross city' projects remain unfunded

AUCKLAND — Provision of funding for the design and construction start on the SH20 Waterview project was today welcomed by Auckland Business Form chairman, Michael Barnett.

417 views

Employment 5 Aug 2009
Employers make the best trainers!

AUCKLAND — There is plenty of evidence confirming that learning on the job is more likely to motivate and engage younger unqualified workers than sitting in a class room or drawing a benefit, says Auckland Chamber head Michael Barnett.  “Employers make the best trainers for youth.

214 views

Migration 28 Jul 2009
Freeing up business migration: "smart move and timely"

The Auckland Chamber of Commerce is urging businesses to take full advantage of the Government decision to free up the business migration scheme.

254 views

Employment 24 Jul 2009
Supporting a 'new class' of unemployed

On Monday the Auckland Chamber launches a new campaign to provide support for a new class of unemployed – those with skills; have probably not experienced unemployment before; are more used to being tapped on the shoulder than writing a CV, and who may have to consider lesser roles and lower titles if they are to re-enter the workforce quickly.

270 views

Trade 17 Jul 2009
NZ Business Council assist MPs to visit Washington

The New Zealand United States Council is sponsoring a visit to Washington DC by Hon Shane Jones and Craig Foss MP, respectively Chair and Vice Chair of the New Zealand United States Parliamentary Friendship Group in the 49th Parliament.

226 views

Council 6 Jul 2009
Give rural communities voting power to protect special character, says Chamber of Commerce

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce wants a provision added to Auckland’s governance legislation to give rural communities a voting power in respect of land use applications and decisions.

219 views

Council 6 Jul 2009
Elect all Auckland Councillors from Wards, says Chamber of Commerce

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce wants all 20 Auckland councillors elected from wards – rather than 12 from wards and 8 at-large as currently proposed.

180 views

Business 18 Jun 2009
Latest business confidence survey

AUCKLAND — Over 1000 Auckland businesses have responded to the Chambers business confidence survey that was undertaken electronically this week.

149 views

Politics 29 May 2009
A business-like scene set budget to curb debt

Like any business when the market gets tight, we have to tighten our belts.

100 views

Technology 18 May 2009
Revolutionise IT at Right Click 2009

AUCKLAND — The Chambers most highly anticipated IT event of the year is back this June and better than ever.

362 views

Transport 13 May 2009
SH20: Waterview connection by 2015 - on track!

AUCKLAND CITY — Friday's opening of the SH20: Mt Roskill Extension on the Western Ring Route reinforces the urgency of completing the Waterview Connection by 2015 or sooner.

518 views

Finance 6 May 2009
Bank support for SMEs could be a lot better

In a Chamber survey taken over 24 hours.

165 views

Business 4 May 2009
Banks can do better in passing on low interest rates

AUCKLAND CITY — Banks have a major role to play to pass on lower wholesale rates to their small business customers, and help the economy to recover.

177 views

Finance 30 Apr 2009
Banks can do better in passing on ow interest rates

Banks have a major role to play to pass on lower wholesale rates to their small business customers, and help the economy to recover.

169 views

Government 8 Apr 2009
Government response to Auckland Governance

AUCKLAND — The Government’s response provides finality in that change will occur and quickly, it provides fairer representation and clarity on service delivery, and removes some of the “rules for Auckland but not for the rest of NZ” that was suggested in the Royal Commission version, says Michael Barnett, Chief Executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce.

481 views

News 3 Apr 2009
Victoria Park Project accelerates - moving Auckland into the fast lane

AUCKLAND — Today’s announcement that the Victoria Park project is to be accelerated by a year is exactly the news Auckland needs and wants to hear, said Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

249 views

Business 31 Mar 2009
More than a billion dollars can be saved by abandoning the proposed SH20 Waterview Connection tunnel for a surface option

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Business Forum has sent a report to Transport Minister Steven Joyce detailing how a mainly surface option at grade similar to the neighbouring Mt Roskill section now under construction would cut the cost of the Waterview Connection from more than $2.5 billion to around $1 billion.

179 views

Business 27 Mar 2009
Business signalling a long flat slowdown

AUCKLAND — Auckland businesses are signalling a long flat slow down rather than a deep recession according to a survey of over 1450 business respondents undertaken electronically by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce last week.

136 views

Business 9 Mar 2009
Business opportunity for Rugby World Cup

A resource showing businesses how to take advantage of Rugby World Cup 2011 will be released this week, coinciding with the Game and Host City Allocation draw this Thursday.

116 views

Transport 11 Feb 2009
Auckland State Highway programme can also be accelerated

AUCKLAND — Commenting on the Government announcement to accelerate State Highway projects in five regional centres, Michael Barnett, chairman of the Auckland Business Forum, said there are also at least two projects in Auckland’s 2015 network completion programme that should be accelerated in the next round of announcements.

237 views

Business 8 Feb 2009
Good response to government business package

AUCKLAND — Over 500 requests for information have been received from businesses wanting to make sure that they are prepared for an economy that is expected to get more challenging later this year.

119 views

Business 5 Feb 2009
SME relief package for business

AUCKLAND — The Small Business Relief Package is a welcome investment in the small-business (SME) sector, said Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.

144 views

Electricity 4 Feb 2009
Today's repeat of substation failure -

AUCKLAND — For years all that business has asked of energy infrastructure providers is that they ensure continuity of supply.

409 views

Transport 30 Jan 2009
SH20: Waterview Review 'understandable' but should identify ways to accelerate vital project

AUCKLAND — The Government decision to review the SH20 Waterview project is understandable given the $1 billion increase in its cost, said Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

285 views

Finance 29 Jan 2009
Chamber comment on Reserve Bank OCR cut

AUCKLAND — The leadership of the Reserve Bank to cut the Official Cash Rate (OCR) a record 150 points from 5 percent to 3.5 percent was praised by Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett.

234 views

Business 15 Dec 2008
Economy gets 'no confidence' vote

AUCKLAND — Despite lower taxes, interest rates and fuel prices, businesses in the Auckland region have given a no confidence vote to the economy over the next 3-6 months.

97 views

Business 27 Nov 2008
Chamber Members meet China Counterparts at FHC

The Auckland Chamber of Commerce will lead a first time delegation of select companies to Food and Hospitality China (FHC) trade show in Shanghai this December.

132 views

Business 14 Nov 2008
Business sentiments surveyed

AUCKLAND — A poll of local business conducted by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce this week has showed some surprising sentiments in the business community and clear calls for action.

113 views

Business 12 Nov 2008
Tech package leads the way forward says Chamber CEO

AUCKLAND — Michael Barnett, Auckland Chamber of Commerce CEO, is applauding Microsoft’s new initiative offering start up businesses free technology as an example of timely leadership.

94 views

Employment 24 Oct 2008
Lure skilled global workers to New Zealand urges Chamber CEO

AUCKLAND — Kiwis should fight to bring the world’s most skilled workers to New Zealand – and now is a better time than ever, says Michael Barnett, Chief Executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce.

184 views

Employment 14 Oct 2008
Chamber expecting expat interest at London Job Expo

The Job Expo in London this weekend is expected to feature a greater than usual number of New Zealanders interested in job opportunities back in NZ, according to Chamber Chief Executive Michael Barnett, who says that the inquiry rate since the global financial crisis has risen to more than 40-50 expressions of interest per day from people wanting employment in NZ.

178 views

Politics 14 Oct 2008
Next Government urged to accelerate Aucklands Transport Infrastructure Programme

AUCKLAND — “There is no time like the present to fast-track vital Auckland roading and public transport projects,” says Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

113 views

Business 13 Oct 2008
What a wonderful web we weave

AUCKLAND CITY — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce warmly invites you to its next Creative Entrepreneurs evening to meet the dynamic founders of Silkbody and hear how their magical business story has weaved through the world to crack outdoor and lifestyle markets.

237 views

Business 13 Oct 2008
Gabrielle Hervey to wow Business Club

AUCKLAND CITY — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce is delighted to present Gabrielle Hervey, Chief Executive Officer of World of WearableArt, at its Business Club where she will share the breathtaking journey of a business she has transformed into a global icon.

Gabrielle Hervey, Chief Executive Officer of World of WearableArt

1,082 views

Trade 23 Sep 2008
NZ US Council welcomes US Trans-Pacific Announcement

The NZ US Council today welcomed the announcement of the launch of negotiations for the United States to join the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement or “Transpacific Agreement”.

339 views

Business 19 Sep 2008
Surge in business confidence

AUCKLAND — In a survey of almost a thousand Auckland companies taken this last week, those believing business conditions will improve during the next six months is at its highest level for over 12 months.

204 views

Business 16 Sep 2008
Here's something to tell your friends

AUCKLAND — Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett says amidst often negative business sentiment he is heartened by the inspirational service being delivered by many Auckland businesses.

243 views

Business 11 Sep 2008
Interest rate cut a bid to revive growth

AUCKLAND — Today’s 0.5% cut in the Official Cash Rate confirms the Auckland Chamber of Commerce’s assessment for some time of a domestic and global economy continuing to slow down and weaken.

237 views

Business 11 Sep 2008
It's easy to do business here

From a field of 181 economies NZ has been ranked second behind Singapore as a country in which it’s easy to do business.

247 views

Business 25 Jun 2008
Survey finds glimmer of hope in slowing economy

Over half of the 1000-plus companies surveyed by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce last week believe the general business situation in New Zealand will deteriorate further.

256 views

Politics 9 Jun 2008
Windfall gst from rising fuel prices

The large windfall GST revenue gain the Government is getting from rising fuel prices should be returned to the regions where it could be usefully used to accelerate transport projects, says Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.

161 views

Business 22 May 2008
Budget 2008

Initiatives identified by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce from todays Budget as being positive for business and an investment in the economy included

266 views

Business 3 May 2008
Business Club: motivation and inspiration for all

AUCKLAND — Auckland businesses seeking to invigorate their activities should look no further than the Auckland Chamber of Commerces cornerstone event, Business Club.

321 views

Employment 17 Apr 2008
Fisher & Paykel jobs safe for the mean time

AUCKLAND — Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett says he has been assured by Fisher and Paykel that it has no plans at this time to move its Auckland refrigerator production facility offshore.

407 views

Politics 11 Apr 2008
Airport decision damaging

MANUKAU CITY — Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett remains critical of the process used to stop the sale of shares in Auckland airport to the Canadian pension fund.

467 views

Politics 2 Apr 2008
Auckland Business Leader says NZ First Asian Bashing A Bad Joke

AUCKLAND — Auckland Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Michael Barnett says Asian New Zealanders should see New Zealand First’s latest round of Asian-bashing as a bad joke by a minor political on the ropes in an election year.

287 views

Finance 4 Mar 2008
Overseas Investment Amendment Raises Questions as to what are Strategic Assets

Urgent clarification is required as to what is meant by strategically important infrastructure and sensitive land according to the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce (Inc).

176 views

Cycling 28 Feb 2008
Publish Bridge Cycle Safety Risk Assessment

AUCKLAND — Transit New Zealand has been asked to publish a Bridge Cycle Safety Risk Assessment before work starts on altering the Waitemata Harbour Bridge to accommodate bicycles and pedestrians.

311 views

Business 26 Feb 2008
Did Telecom mobilise it's full army?

AUCKLAND — Auckland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Michael Barnett is asking new Telecom chief executive Paul Reynolds to explain the Franklin telecom outage, and why it has taken so long to repair.

157 views

Tourism 11 Feb 2008
Potential to to develop Queen's Wharf

AUCKLAND — The potential to develop Queen’s Wharf as a point of entry for the cruise ship industry is an exciting opportunity for our region’s visitor economy.

375 views

Business 10 Dec 2007
Slow start to 2008 expected

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Chamber of Commerce survey of business confidence reveals a bleak beginning to 2008 if the views of almost 1000 companies surveyed are to be believed.

162 views

Transport 3 Dec 2007
New harbour crossing – must cater for moving freight and commerce as well as commuters

AUCKLAND — long-term business and commercial transport needs must be a vital factor in the decision for locating a new harbour crossing location, the chairman of the Auckland Business Forum Michael Barnett said today.

262 views

Migration 25 Oct 2007
Immigration policy changes helps NZ compete for skills in global marketplace

AUCKLAND — The announcement by Immigration Minister David Cunliffe this week that international students will be able to stay in New Zealand for up to 12 months, instead of six, on a job search permit while they look for skilled work, is further evidence the Government is actively taking measures to address the severe skills shortage, says Auckland Chamber of Commerce CEO Michael Barnett.

553 views

Transport 19 Oct 2007
Motorway Network Completion by 2015

AUCKLAND — The Auckland Business Forum welcomes the increased integration and certainty that will result from the Land Transport Management Amendment Bill introduced to Parliament yesterday.

341 views

Transport 17 Oct 2007
Newmarket Viaduct Construction “ready for a pre-Christmas start”

AUCKLAND CITY — News that construction is ready to start on the $150 million duplication of the Newmarket Viaduct 12 months ahead of schedule is a welcome breakthrough in Auckland’s long struggle to fix its transport problems, says Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

419 views

Employment 16 Oct 2007
Strong United Kingdom interest in skilled job opportunities in Auckland

AUCKLAND — Nearly 700 people looking to immigrate to Auckland have registered at a UK Opportunities Expo held in London last week.

291 views

Economy 11 Oct 2007
Message to Dr Cullen: Tell us how you plan to spend it….

AUCKLAND — The huge $8.7 billion operating surplus and predictions of more to come reinforces the urgency for Government to address the fairness of the tax system and the strategy of how the money will be spent.

336 views

Business 9 Oct 2007
Port strike: Undermine business certainty, undermine Auckland

Ports of Auckland could lose business if the port strikes continue for much longer, warns Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.

183 views

Business 25 Sep 2007
Confidence survey signals cautious optimism

AUCKLAND — The decline in business confidence that hit a 12 month low in June appears to have bottomed out in a survey of over 750 business respondents undertaken electronically by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce last week.

220 views

Internet 23 Aug 2007
Telecom’s iconic brand and status under threat over ongoing email outage

AUCKLAND — Confidence in the Telecom brand is in serious trouble over persistent difficulties many business customers are having in restoring email services that were turned off by Telecom last weekend, the chief executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce Michael Barnett, said today.

397 views