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As the country’s attention turns to economic growth initiatives, Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) is scaling up its Growth Academy programme to give 1,400 businesses nationwide more tools and technology to drive strategic growth.

After a successful pilot with 250 businesses last year, BNZ is expanding its Growth Academy across New Zealand in partnership with growth navigation software company D/srupt. The Growth Academy combines hands-on workshops with sophisticated AI-powered digital tools that help businesses refine their strategy, enhance performance, and create new pathways for growth.

BNZ General Manager, Growth Sectors, Brandon Jackson says it’s a solution to the challenge most business owners face when growing their enterprise – moving from working ‘in’ their business to working ‘on’ their business.

“As New Zealand’s largest business bank, we’ve seen time and again how successful businesses thrive when owners can step back from daily firefighting to focus on strategy,” he says.

“With this expanded programme, business owners will leverage the power of AI to help them cost effectively assess their strategic drivers, understand their growth potential, future funding needs, and opportunities to strengthen their market position.”

Driving real results

The Growth Academy has already delivered meaningful results for businesses like BlueDoor, a boutique internet service provider offering a range of services to residential and business customers. As a growing company looking to strengthen their market position, they saw the Growth Academy as an opportunity to develop a more structured approach to their future expansion.

“The Growth Academy helped us take our strategic thinking to the next level,” says BlueDoor Director Mark Anderson.

“Like many businesses, we had ideas about where we wanted to go, but the programme gave us powerful tools to evaluate options effectively and build a robust strategy.”

Following their participation, BlueDoor secured nearly half a million dollars in financing from BNZ to fund their strategic expansion plans – a direct result of the clarity and confidence gained through the Growth Academy process.

“Our workshops cut through the complexity that often makes strategic planning feel overwhelming,” says Debbie Humphrey, founder of D/srupt.

“We combine practical guidance with technology to help turn big-picture thinking into concrete action plans you can actually implement.”

Leveraging AI

D/srupt’s Growth Navigation program uses AI to make strategic planning faster and more accessible for small to medium businesses.

“Our AI technology personalises recommendations for each business’s specific industry and helps owners express their strategy in language that really connects with their teams and shareholders,” explains Humphrey.

“We see this making a real difference because so many business owners struggle with applying high level business frameworks to their specific situation, and they often find it hard to put their vision into words that drive real operational change.

“What might have taken a full day of workshops can now be done in minutes. For time-poor business owners constantly juggling priorities, this means strategic planning actually happens instead of being perpetually pushed to the bottom of the to-do list.”

The 2025 Growth Academy launches on 31 March, with applications opening on March 10. It includes in-person workshops in 16 locations from Whangārei to Invercargill. Online options further extend the programme’s reach, ensuring accessibility for businesses throughout New Zealand.

The programme will run for 12 months and includes:

• In-person workshops or online learning, reaching 1,400 businesses nationwide
• Access to D/srupt’s advanced growth navigation platform and expertise to assess strategy, find opportunities, and build practical growth plans
• Guidance on funding pathways, from traditional banking to grants and growth capital
• Direct connection to BNZ’s business banking expertise and support

For more information, visit the BNZ website BNZ Growth Academy – BNZ

The post Work ‘on’ your business, not just ‘in’ it: BNZ rolls out AI-driven Growth Academy nationwide appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

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BNZ today announced it is cutting its advertised 6-month fixed home loan rate to 5.89% p.a, effective from tomorrow.    

BNZ Executive Customer Products and Services Karna Luke says over the past six months, we’ve seen a spike in customers choosing shorter terms with approximately 60% of customers choosing to float or fix for 6-month terms.   

“With more customers looking to fix for shorter terms, BNZ is actively looking for every opportunity to meet customer demand.”   

“This change will be welcome news for many of our customers who are looking to take advantage of the falling interest rate environment.”   

BNZ’s new advertised 6-month rate is the joint-lowest of the five major banks* and will be available for new and existing customers to select online and in the BNZ app from tomorrow.  

Lower interest rates have also sparked more home loan activity, with more potential buyers making enquiries and seeking home loan pre-approval.   

“For all our home loan customers, our in-house Home Loan Partners provide personalised service and can deliver a 24-hour decision on new home loan applications once we’ve received all required information and completed responsible lending checks,” says Mr Luke.  

*As at 3pm, 18 February 2025.   

The changes to BNZ’s 6-month fixed home loan rate will be effective from 19 February 2025 for both new and existing customers.   

All home loans are subject to our lending criteria (including minimum equity requirements), terms and fees. An establishment fee of up to $150 may apply. 

The post BNZ cuts key 6-month rate ahead of OCR announcement appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

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An act of generosity during the Great Depression is still supporting people today. In 1936, banker William Hartley Hargreaves left £12,000 to establish a trust for the families of his colleagues at the Bank of New Zealand – a fund that has grown to over $1.45 million today.

Originally created to support “indigent widows of bank officers” – it has evolved through High Court decisions in 1989 and 2023 to help BNZ staff members and their families facing financial hardship.

“The trust’s journey reflects the changing face of New Zealand society,” says Frances Ronowicz, BNZ’s Head of Social Impact.

“What began as support for widows during the Depression era now helps our people and their families in tough times. The trust has provided over $320,000 in assistance to staff and their dependents in the past decade alone.”

“Recent grants have helped colleagues access urgent family support, cope with serious health challenges including mobility needs, and rebuild their lives during personal crises. The trust also assists with essential costs during unexpected life events that can create financial strain.”

The trust’s founder, William Hartley Hargreaves, was a prominent figure in colonial New Zealand, managing BNZ branches from Thames to Temuka after joining in 1867.

Deeply connected to the communities he served, his retirement in 1913 drew what local papers called “perhaps the largest gathering of citizens ever accommodated in the Borough Council.”

Through careful management and investment, the trust has grown into a sustainable $1.45 million fund that generates ongoing returns to support future generations. This ensures the trust can continue providing assistance without depleting its capital base.

“Hargreaves’ gift has left a lasting legacy, and we’re proud to continue administering the trust in his name, providing support to our people in times of need,” says Ronowicz.

The post Depression-era bequest still helping 88 years later appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

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After last week’s dose of wet and windy weather, Aucklanders are getting a bit of a reprieve for Anzac Day but may see rain over the weekend, most likely Sunday. We’re reminding people to check drains and gutters again; plan travel carefully and stay up to date with weather forecasts.

Auckland Emergency Management General Manager Adam Maggs says Aucklanders did a great job preparing for the impacts of ex-tropical Cyclone Tam and responding to the weather conditions over the Easter weekend.

“Aucklanders across the region experienced heavy rain, strong winds and flooding in places just days ago, over the Easter long weekend.

“While there’s still a high degree of uncertainty, we could see some wet weather in parts of Tāmaki Makaurau over the Anzac long weekend.

“We understand Aucklanders may be sick of hearing about the weather, but it doesn’t take long to do a few important things – a quick check of gutters and drains on your property, and a regular update on the weather forecast over the weekend,” says Adam.

Keep up to date with the weather forecast

MetService has not issued any current weather watches or warnings for the weekend as it’s too early to predict how the weekend weather will pan out. A top tip is to download the MetService app from the App Store or Google Play and sign up for push notifications to your phone.

“At this stage, it looks like we’re in for rain overnight on Saturday and into Sunday morning – right about the time when people may start heading home from school holidays or long weekend breaks.

“There is still uncertainty about when and where bad weather will hit, so make sure you check the forecast when planning any weekend travel or activities and check it again for any changes before you go out. Don’t forget, if you’re heading to another region, check the weather there too.

“With soil saturation levels now very high, there is always the possibility of flooding if heavy rain eventuates.

“If you’re on the roads, drive to the conditions, take care and give yourself plenty of time,” he says.

Add property prep to your weekend checklist

Taking half an hour to make sure your home and property are prepared for bad weather could prevent unnecessary damage and disruption.

“Securing or storing outdoor furniture and umbrellas ahead of bad weather doesn’t take much time and could stop these items from getting damaged or damaging your property.

“If we get gusty winds, these can easily pick up small or loose items, flip trampolines or lightweight outdoor furniture and play equipment,” says Adam.

Checking drains, gutters and trees or plants on your property that can lose branches or clog drains is a good idea at this time of year.

“Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters team has again been out this week checking hot spots and clearing drains. It’s important that residents do this too.

“Anything on your property that may wash into the stormwater system and cause blockages should be removed. Clearing gutters and drains on your property will also help prevent damage, leaks and flooding. 

“It’s always a good time to check your emergency readiness supplies – in the unlikely event the power goes out or, for those in more remote parts of the region, you get temporarily cut off.

“Visit our website (aucklandemergencymanagement.govt.nz) or getready.govt.nz for good advice on getting your household prepared for an emergency,” says Adam.

Always in the know: top tips for wild weather

• Follow weather forecasts for regular updates – forecasts can change.
• Plan your travel carefully and never drive through floodwater.
• If life or property is at risk, phone 111.
• If you live somewhere prone to flooding, slips or power outages, ensure you have a supply of food and provisions in case you become isolated.
• Treat power lines as live at all times.
• Report flooding and blocked stormwater drains to Auckland Council on 09 301 0101.
• Visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz and click “Report a problem” to report trees down on public land.
• If your property is damaged, take photographs for your insurer as early as possible.

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If you’re dreaming of an affordable summer holiday by the beach that doesn’t involve hours of driving and having to pitch a tent, Auckland Council has a range of accommodation options to provide a dynamic experience. From caravans to cabins to backpackers, here’s a selection of options to suit whānau, large groups, couples and solo travellers.

Cosy cabins at Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park

Adorable is the word to describe the standard cabins at Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park with their teal-trimmed windows, wee balconies, and ply-lined interiors. Perfect for families, each cabin has rollaway / portable single beds or is also available for max occupancy with costs of $85-$100 a night.

The beach is right at your doorstep (no crossing the road) and tamariki will enjoy making new friends in the adventure playground. There are some great pedal cars available for kids to play with also.

If you’re after a bit more comfort, deluxe cabins are still great value for money at $145-$160 per night with two bedrooms, cooking facilities and a large covered deck.

Ease into the outdoors in a deluxe EcoStructure

Tired of the same camping experience? Why not book an EcoStructure at Ōrewa Beach ($190 per night) or Martins Bay Holiday Parks. With amazing views of the local scenery and a homely feeling to its interiors, the Ecostructure is an ideal alternative to your standard camping experience.

They’re eco-luxe with attractive rattan furniture, a double bed and a separate room with two bunk beds. You don’t even need to bring your own bed linen. And if you’re a group of five, the Martins Bay Holiday Park EcoStructures ($180-$220 per night) have a foldaway bed for a fifth person.

Please note that Ecostructures may vary in style or experience depending on location.

Host everyone at Huia Lodge

Looking for a location for a get together? Holding up to 30 people and only $385 a night, it would be hard to find accommodation cheaper than Huia Lodge. This old schoolhouse, which was built in 1893, looks out across the beautiful tidal waters of Huia Bay in the Waitākere Ranges and contains six bunk rooms with two double bunk beds and one single bed in each. Book it for large family and friend gatherings.

Rent a retro caravan

Everyone should sleep in a caravan at least once in their life. The caravans at Martins Bay Holiday Park have oodles of personality with their 70s colour schemes, petite light fittings and ingenious cubbies for storing your stuff.

They’re fully furnished with cooking facilities and crockery – all you need to bring is bed linen and towels. They sleep up to six and range in price from $160-$180 per night. Or head further north up the coast to Whangateau Holiday Park near Leigh, and stay in one of their equally-sweet beach-front caravans.

Cross the water to Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

If you fancy some time alone, Waiheke Backpackers Hostel overlooks the stunning white sands of Onetangi Beach. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland and a short taxi, shuttle or bus ride away, the hostel contains a range of rooms, including single-bunk rooms for two or four, an assisted-mobility room with a queen-size bed, or nab the room with a queen-size bed and an ensuite. Prices range from $45 per person for a room in a mixed dorm to $170 per night for the ensuite.

Bach it up out south at Āwhitu House

With its mint green exterior and French doors, this three-bedroom 1930s house in Āwhitu Regional Park is a charming escape (and a former rangers house). Enjoy countryside views (the park is also a working farm) then take a five-minute stroll to the safe, sandy beach on the southwest shores of the Manukau Harbour and visit the Āwhitu Golf Club close by for a round or two.  Prices per night for accommodation at range from $105-$169 depending on the time of year.

Baches and other accommodation at Auckland’s regional parks and holiday parks can be booked on the Auckland Council website, where you’ll also find more information about amenities and check in/out times.

Enjoy seaside and countryside views by booking accommodation at Āwhitu House in Āwhitu Regional Park.