🦜 RNZ Business Headlines
@www.rnz.co.nz.news.business@rss-parrot.net
I'm an automated parrot! I relay a website's RSS feed to the Fediverse. Every time a new post appears in the feed, I toot about it. Follow me to get all new posts in your Mastodon timeline!
Brought to you by the RSS Parrot.
---
The Latest Business headlines from RNZ News
Your feed and you don't want it here? Just
e-mail the birb.
'It's a shock': Kaitāia's Northland Mill closes down two weeks early
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/925802/it-s-a-shock-kaitaia-s-northland-mill-closes-down-two-weeks-early
Published: August 7, 2026 00:51
A skeleton crew had committed to keeping the mill operating until 21 August, "but the workers themselves are a bit relieved", a union organiser says.
Raising GST threshold just shifts the problem, tax expert says
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/916336/raising-gst-threshold-just-shifts-the-problem-tax-expert-says
Published: August 6, 2026 21:16
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said it would make changes designed to help small businesses, if it becomes the government.
Ballentynes Fashion Central closing after more than 50 years in business
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/920252/ballentynes-fashion-central-closing-after-more-than-50-years-in-business
Published: August 6, 2026 20:13
Ten of its 23 stores around the country will stay open and become part of the Caroline Eve chain.
The business of Ooshies - who really benefits?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/lifestyle/the-business-of-ooshies-who-really-benefits
Published: August 6, 2026 20:00
Woolworths offers one of the Disney movie characters for every $30 spent, while New World has knife sets.
Consumer NZ calls foul on Hello Fresh price increases
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/915755/consumer-nz-calls-foul-on-hello-fresh-price-increases
Published: August 6, 2026 18:50
But the meal-kit company says its customers had clear, advance notice and could make informed decisions about their subscriptions.
Work hard and success will follow? Gen Z isn't buying it
https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/lifestyle/work-hard-and-success-will-follow-gen-z-isn-t-buying-it
Published: August 6, 2026 18:43
Not because they're lazy or entitled, but because they no longer believe the deal applies to them says journalist Emi Nietfeld.
Human Rights Commission calls for human rights-centred, Te Tiriti-based approach to AI
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/te-manu-korihi/916383/human-rights-commission-calls-for-human-rights-centred-te-tiriti-based-approach-to-ai
Published: August 6, 2026 18:30
The commission's new report, AI and Digital Technologies: A Human Rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi Approach, was released on Friday.
GST expert sounds warning about Labour's tax plan
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/916336/gst-expert-sounds-warning-about-labour-s-tax-plan
Published: August 6, 2026 18:29
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said it would make changes designed to help small businesses, if it becomes the government.
Timeline to implement new school subjects 'unrealistic', teachers' union warns
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/education/907105/timeline-to-implement-new-school-subjects-unrealistic-teachers-union-warns
Published: August 6, 2026 08:18
But industry leaders are enthusiastic about the nine new secondary school subjects announced on Thursday.
Nelson businesses offered rates deferral amid ongoing city centre roadworks
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/907810/nelson-businesses-offered-rates-deferral-amid-ongoing-city-centre-roadworks
Published: August 6, 2026 06:46
The Nelson City Council has agreed to defer rates for businesses affected by city centre infrastructure works.
Industry leaders praise nine new secondary school subjects
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/education/907105/industry-leaders-praise-nine-new-secondary-school-subjects
Published: August 6, 2026 05:57
But the teachers' union warns timelines for their development and introduction are extremely tight.
Pilot scheme involving police, metal recyclers aims to identify, deter copper thieves
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/crime-and-justice/906750/pilot-scheme-involving-police-metal-recyclers-aims-to-identify-deter-copper-thieves
Published: August 6, 2026 05:22
Little is safe from thieves who put themselves at risk and cause huge damage stealing copper and other metals.
Why free-range eggs might not actually be from free-range hens
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/905619/why-free-range-eggs-might-not-actually-be-from-free-range-hens
Published: August 6, 2026 03:32
The threat of bird flu hangs over the industry.
Kea Aerospace opens new hub in Christchurch
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/904484/kea-aerospace-opens-new-hub-in-christchurch
Published: August 6, 2026 01:42
A company building solar-powered aircraft has marked a major milestone by opening a new manufacturing and operations hub in the city.
'Wrong people are getting the wrong housing in the wrong places' -Salvation Army
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/904004/wrong-people-are-getting-the-wrong-housing-in-the-wrong-places-salvation-army
Published: August 6, 2026 00:54
In Salvation Army's recent report it noted over the last five years the housing stock grew 9.1 percent.
Inland Revenue calls out horticultural tax dodgers
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/903791/inland-revenue-calls-out-horticultural-tax-dodgers
Published: August 6, 2026 00:39
Inland Revenue is warning it's cracking down on dodgy practices in the horticultural sector.
Mortgage lending growth stalls
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/903432/mortgage-lending-growth-stalls
Published: August 6, 2026 00:11
Growth in mortgage lending was near zero in May and June, Cotality says, and the lowest in three years.
New FMA chairperson James Miller appointed amid workplace culture inquiry
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/903177/new-fma-chairperson-james-miller-appointed-amid-workplace-culture-inquiry
Published: August 5, 2026 23:20
James Miller replaces Craig Stobo, who resigned after an independent review found his public commentary failed to meet the standards of required political neutrality for the role.
Investigation into runway incident involving Qantas flight from Queenstown to Sydney
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/903100/investigation-into-runway-incident-involving-qantas-flight-from-queenstown-to-sydney
Published: August 5, 2026 22:57
A "breakdown in communication" is being blamed for a close call involving a flight from NZ arriving at Sydney Airport.
New primary industry ventures revealed for foreign investors in New Zealand
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/country/902275/new-primary-industry-ventures-revealed-for-foreign-investors-in-new-zealand
Published: August 5, 2026 21:42
Tens of billions of dollars of foreign capital entered New Zealand last year, led by forestry.
ASB joins ANZ and BNZ in lifting interest rates
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/902131/asb-joins-anz-and-bnz-in-lifting-interest-rates
Published: August 5, 2026 21:06
It is lifting its six-month home loan rate to 4.79 percent, while its one-year rate will rise to 4.99 percent.
Commerce Commission takes Foodstuffs South Island to court
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/901322/commerce-commission-takes-foodstuffs-south-island-to-court
Published: August 5, 2026 19:30
The commission is alleging "far-reaching anti-competitive conduct that deprived customers of cheaper prices".
How does your pay compare to the average?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/901237/how-does-your-pay-compare-to-the-average
Published: August 5, 2026 18:21
Most New Zealanders aren't getting pay increases that keep up with the rate of inflation, new Stats NZ data shows.
'There are no jobs': Support services warn unemployment crisis driving rising violence
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/901231/there-are-no-jobs-support-services-warn-unemployment-crisis-driving-rising-violence
Published: August 5, 2026 18:20
Northland has overtaken Auckland as the region recording the highest unemployment at 8.8 percent, up from 5.1 percent.
Commerce Commission needs more firepower to boost competition and wages - economist
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/901230/commerce-commission-needs-more-firepower-to-boost-competition-and-wages-economist
Published: August 5, 2026 18:20
Cameron Bagrie says he doesn't see any political party attempting to address the cost of living and low wages by creating more competition.
Job seekers describe fear and frustration as unemployment soars
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/900576/job-seekers-describe-fear-and-frustration-as-unemployment-soars
Published: August 5, 2026 17:13
The latest statistics show unemployment has climbed to its highest level in more than a decade.
What will cold snap mean for your power bill?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/895326/what-will-cold-snap-mean-for-your-power-bill
Published: August 5, 2026 06:35
Power consumption has hit record levels already this week and with no end in sight for the frigid temperatures, it's likely to just get worse.
Salvation Army: Youth unemployment stats a 'call to action' for the country
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/895237/salvation-army-youth-unemployment-stats-a-call-to-action-for-the-country
Published: August 5, 2026 05:04
The jobless figures have hit a new high and the Salvation Army says that needs to be seen as a call to action.
Hunt on for private overseas investment in NZ's second rocket launch pad
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/888333/hunt-on-for-private-overseas-investment-in-nz-s-second-rocket-launch-pad
Published: August 5, 2026 02:38
The National Aerospace Centre says it expects to tap intense global demand for rocket launches.
Christchurch medical tech company secures milestone sale of CT scanner
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/893500/christchurch-medical-tech-company-secures-milestone-sale-of-ct-scanner
Published: August 4, 2026 23:21
The company says it will keep manufacturing the scanners in Christchurch, even as it expands into the US.
Unemployment rises to 11-year high of 5.6%
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/892951/unemployment-rises-to-11-year-high-of-5-point-6-percent
Published: August 4, 2026 23:02
Economists had been expecting the rise as the job market struggles to gain momentum.
Jetstar to charge new fees for using overhead lockers for carry-on
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/892811/jetstar-to-charge-new-fees-for-using-overhead-lockers-for-carry-on
Published: August 4, 2026 22:40
The budget airline scrap its 7-kilogram carry-on weight limit, and charge customers money for using overhead lockers.
Transpower issues power warning
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/891854/transpower-issues-power-warning
Published: August 4, 2026 22:14
Transpower says Wednesday morning's peak saw the highest-ever electricity use.
BNZ increases home loan rates
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/890537/bnz-increases-home-loan-rates
Published: August 4, 2026 20:25
It follows ANZ, which said increases were due to rising wholesale rates.
Hunt on for private overseas investment in NZ's second rocket launchpad
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/888333/hunt-on-for-private-overseas-investment-in-nz-s-second-rocket-launchpad
Published: August 4, 2026 18:38
The National Aerospace Centre says it expects to tap intense global demand for rocket launches.
Weight loss drugs could boost chances of getting a job
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/health/888315/weight-loss-drugs-could-boost-chances-of-getting-a-job
Published: August 4, 2026 18:37
International research suggests losing weight may help people get a job - and their New Zealand counterparts say it can't be ruled out here, either.
Should customers pay less when they use a self-checkout?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/887580/should-customers-pay-less-when-they-use-a-self-checkout
Published: August 4, 2026 17:38
The supermarkets are saving money through less staff resourcing, but those savings are not being passed on to shoppers.
Transpower expecting record electricity demand in cold snap
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/weather/887448/transpower-expecting-record-electricity-demand-in-cold-snap
Published: August 4, 2026 17:23
It's warned power generators of potential shortfalls on Wednesday and Thursday.
Unemployment expected to push up to near 11-year high, economists warn
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/884023/unemployment-expected-to-push-up-to-near-11-year-high-economists-warn
Published: August 4, 2026 04:52
Major bank economists expect the unemployment rate to inch up to 5.4 or 5.5 percent for the three months ended June.
What you need to know about complaining when things go wrong
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/882993/what-you-need-to-know-about-complaining-when-things-go-wrong
Published: August 4, 2026 03:13
The first place to start is with the business you were dealing with, MBIE says.
MBIE starts investigation into Financial Markets Authority
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/882422/mbie-starts-investigation-into-financial-markets-authority
Published: August 4, 2026 02:32
The investigation will focus on workplace conduct and culture.
Employment Leave Bill, explained: How annual and sick leave entitlements are changing
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/881987/employment-leave-bill-explained-how-annual-and-sick-leave-entitlements-are-changing
Published: August 4, 2026 02:21
Explainer: A major change to how leave is calculated in workplaces is becoming law - so, what's changing and how does it affect you?
Gentailer separation plan may help deliver $30 billion energy goal - business groups
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/881681/gentailer-separation-plan-may-help-deliver-30-billion-energy-goal-business-groups
Published: August 4, 2026 01:32
Two leading North Island business groups are calling for the retail and generation arms of the major energy companies to be divided up and run as different legal entities.
Retail workers received an average pay rise of 1 percent in 2026
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/880992/retail-workers-received-an-average-pay-rise-of-1-percent-in-2026
Published: August 4, 2026 00:43
Workers received an average pay rise of 1 percent in 2026, according to newly released data from Retail NZ.
Air NZ passenger numbers fall as jet fuel price rises hit
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/880114/air-nz-passenger-numbers-fall-as-jet-fuel-price-rises-hit
Published: August 4, 2026 00:03
However revenue increased on long-haul routes.
KiwiSaver providers can sell your investments to pay fees, dispute scheme rules
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/879163/kiwisaver-providers-can-sell-your-investments-to-pay-fees-dispute-scheme-rules
Published: August 3, 2026 23:20
A disputes resolution service says it's allowed as long as the process is clearly disclosed.
ANZ to increase interest rates on some fixed home loans, term deposits
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/878251/anz-to-increase-interest-rates-on-some-fixed-home-loans-term-deposits
Published: August 3, 2026 22:37
ANZ says it will increase a number of its fixed home loan and term deposit interest rates.
Who's feeling job market recovery? And where has downturn hit hardest?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/875742/who-s-feeling-job-market-recovery-and-where-has-downturn-hit-hardest
Published: August 3, 2026 17:51
Data this week is expected to show the unemployment rate still hovering around the highest level it's been in a decade.
More people 'thinking twice' before borrowing for non-essentials - Centrix
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/875734/more-people-thinking-twice-before-borrowing-for-non-essentials-centrix
Published: August 3, 2026 17:13
Credit agency Centrix says 420,000 Kiwis are behind on payments - down from 432,000 in May - despite rising costs.
Ravensdown's return to profit prompts shareholder rebate as fertiliser prices spike on-farm
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/country/875730/ravensdown-s-return-to-profit-prompts-shareholder-rebate-as-fertiliser-prices-spike-on-farm
Published: August 3, 2026 16:33
The farmer-owned co-operative is paying a rebate this year, and warns prices will likely increase further as the Persian Gulf war drags on.
No need for Luxon to apologise over Rotorua business meeting comments, mayor says
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/875729/no-need-for-luxon-to-apologise-over-rotorua-business-meeting-comments-mayor-says
Published: August 3, 2026 16:33
Luxon has apologised for saying some businesses have a "parent-child mentality" and too often look to the government for help.
Minister refuses to say if fast-track application to bulldoze golf course has been filed
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/community/875620/minister-refuses-to-say-if-fast-track-application-to-bulldoze-golf-course-has-been-filed
Published: August 3, 2026 06:50
It remains unclear if a fast-track application has been made to bulldoze a golf course to make way for hundreds of homes.
Many businesses using AI to save time, but do they know what they're doing?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/874814/many-businesses-using-ai-to-save-time-but-do-they-know-what-they-re-doing
Published: August 3, 2026 03:25
Xero found almost two-thirds of small and medium businesses were already using AI.
Demand for Singapore travel on the rise amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/872036/demand-for-singapore-travel-on-the-rise-amid-ongoing-conflict-in-the-middle-east
Published: August 3, 2026 00:30
Many New Zealanders are choosing to go through Singapore rather than Dubai to get to Europe.
Briscoe Group's sales grow for third consecutive quarter
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/871340/briscoe-group-s-sales-grow-for-third-consecutive-quarter
Published: August 2, 2026 23:40
However economic conditions were still challenging and second quarter sales rose just a quarter of a percent to $193.4 million, the retailer said.
Business leaders equal to government, Christopher Luxon says, days after 'parent-child mentality' comments
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/871109/business-leaders-equal-to-government-christopher-luxon-says-days-after-parent-child-mentality-comments
Published: August 2, 2026 23:17
The PM told a business audience last week some of them had a "parent-child mentality" and too often looked to the government for help.
'SaaSpocalypse' avoided as software catches angel investors' eyes again
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/870704/saaspocalypse-avoided-as-software-catches-angel-investors-eyes-again
Published: August 2, 2026 22:41
Software has regained its position as the largest angel investment category despite first quarter predictions of a looming 'SaaSpocalypse'.
What's going on with Xero's share price?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/870343/what-s-going-on-with-xero-s-share-price
Published: August 2, 2026 22:22
The cloud accounting software company's share price has steadily declined since from its peak in June 2025.
Explainer: What is a data centre and why is everyone freaking out now?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/science-and-technology/868752/explainer-what-is-a-data-centre-and-why-is-everyone-freaking-out-now
Published: August 2, 2026 18:26
Explainer - Data centres have existed for decades, so what's the big deal now?
Hoyts Cinema's IMAX plans for New Zealand
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/868726/hoyts-cinema-s-imax-plans-for-new-zealand
Published: August 2, 2026 18:23
As Gen Z helps drive up box office sales, the Hoyts cinema chain has plans to roll out IMAX with Laser cinemas in this country.
NZ wheelchair designs go around the world
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/868408/nz-wheelchair-designs-go-around-the-world
Published: August 2, 2026 17:43
A Christchurch firm's custom-made wheelchairs have been used by Commonwealth Games lawn bowling and basketball players.
Jump in KiwiSaver switches: Should you move to a new provider?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/868405/jump-in-kiwisaver-switches-should-you-move-to-a-new-provider
Published: August 2, 2026 17:43
The amount of fees and the investment style are two of the factors that should be considered by any Kiwisaver looking to move to a new provider.
Support for data centres goes back 40 years
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/866389/support-for-data-centres-goes-back-40-years
Published: August 2, 2026 09:21
There are more than 60 data centres in New Zealand, but a new report says growing concerns over their proliferation could harm the country's potential to become a regional hub serving Australia and the Pacific.
Can working make me worse off? - Ask Susan
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/863103/can-working-make-me-worse-off-ask-susan
Published: August 2, 2026 03:21
RNZ's money correspondent answers your questions.
Eighth recent SH3 Awakino Gorge closure: Businesses say they're hurting
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/860049/eighth-recent-sh3-awakino-gorge-closure-businesses-say-they-re-hurting
Published: August 2, 2026 01:21
Businesses on SH3 between Taranaki and Waikato face their eighth closure of the highway in recent times, while repairs are made to deal with water flowing on the road, but every closure hurts, they say.
Ninth SH3 Awakino Gorge closure for 2026: Businesses say they're hurting
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/860049/ninth-sh3-awakino-gorge-closure-for-2026-businesses-say-they-re-hurting
Published: August 2, 2026 00:11
Businesses on SH3 between Taranaki and Waikato face their ninth closure of the highway this year, while repairs are made to deal with water flowing on the road, but every closure hurts, they say.
Christchurch food truck operators sick of break-ins, beggars and abuse
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/857751/christchurch-food-truck-operators-sick-of-break-ins-beggars-and-abuse
Published: August 1, 2026 20:12
Three food trucks were broken into, but no one has been arrested yet.
Country Life: Hydroponics in Horowhenua
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/country/792553/country-life-hydroponics-in-horowhenua
Published: August 1, 2026 08:09
Husband and wife duo Tony and Lisa Dale-Low traded corporate life in the city for growing fresh herbs and salad greens under Waikawa Fresh.
Property market's 'longest and deepest downturn' in 30 or 40 years
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/855215/property-market-s-longest-and-deepest-downturn-in-30-or-40-years
Published: July 31, 2026 21:33
New Zealand's housing market is going through the longest and deepest downturn in 30 or 40 years, property data firm Cotality says.
The growing business of making snow from the sun
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/854482/the-growing-business-of-making-snow-from-the-sun
Published: July 31, 2026 03:17
Sunergise chief executive Paul Makumbe said the business had seen more growth in past 12 months than in the eight years before
Ngāi Tahu Farming chosen to operate country's largest farm, Molesworth Station
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/854409/ngai-tahu-farming-chosen-to-operate-country-s-largest-farm-molesworth-station
Published: July 31, 2026 03:10
The Department of Conservation, which administers the land, announced it will invite Ngāi Tahu Farming to apply for a concession to manage the land.
Wellington City Council proposes wide-ranging job cuts
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/854309/wellington-city-council-proposes-wide-ranging-job-cuts
Published: July 31, 2026 03:08
RNZ understands the proposals could affect about 50 people working in a range of council areas.
Consumer confidence perks up to best level in five months
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/853675/consumer-confidence-perks-up-to-best-level-in-five-months
Published: July 31, 2026 01:19
ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner says the US-Iran conflict and fuel prices is still influencing sentiment.
How to check if IRD has unclaimed money with your name on it
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/personal-finance/853519/how-to-check-if-ird-has-unclaimed-money-with-your-name-on-it
Published: July 31, 2026 01:13
The IRD is currently holding more than $600 million in unclaimed funds.
Brad Olsen steps down as chief executive at Infometrics
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/850322/brad-olsen-steps-down-as-chief-executive-at-infometrics
Published: July 30, 2026 22:23
Brad Olsen said he wants to focus on his principal economist role.
Squishy dumpling toy banned overseas can still be ordered in New Zealand
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/849508/squishy-dumpling-toy-banned-overseas-can-still-be-ordered-in-new-zealand
Published: July 30, 2026 20:47
A number of Squeezy Dumplings were recalled in the UK in June after testing found benzene in the outer layer.
South Island set for first direct international internet cable
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/849036/south-island-set-for-first-direct-international-internet-cable
Published: July 30, 2026 19:17
The agreement covers a new 2300-kilometre submarine cable between Invercargill and Melbourne.
Solar recommendations could speed up installations, lower household bills - industry
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/848075/solar-recommendations-could-speed-up-installations-lower-household-bills-industry
Published: July 30, 2026 17:33
Minister for Regulation David Seymour has laid out 15 recommendations to streamline solar uptake in a new review.
Is Australia losing its shine?
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/848050/is-australia-losing-its-shine
Published: July 30, 2026 17:21
A promise of a better life in Australia has drawn many New Zealanders across the Tasman in recent years. But economists say the tide may be about to turn.
FMA delivers offset loan warning for banks
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/848037/fma-delivers-offset-loan-warning-for-banks
Published: July 30, 2026 17:19
New Zealand's financial regulator is warning banks that offer offset mortgages to take notice of action in Australia.