As the summer sun begins to dip a little lower in the sky and the kids settle back into school, those of us running small businesses in New Zealand start to feel that familiar “March 31st” energy. It’s a bit like a New Year’s resolution for your professional life—a time to clear the decks, reflect on the wins, and perhaps tidy up those piles of receipts that seemed so manageable back in July.

New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes, innovative spirit, and supportive business environment, and it offers a fantastic place to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into a reality. Starting a small business, or "pakihi iti" as it's known in Māori, can be an incredibly rewarding journey. However, navigating the initial setup can feel daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps, from initial concept to understanding your tax obligations, ensuring you're well-equipped to launch your successful venture in Aotearoa.

As the festive season approaches, many New Zealand businesses embrace the spirit of giving—offering gifts to clients, suppliers, and employees to show appreciation and strengthen relationships. While generosity is commendable, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of gift giving, especially around Christmas when such gestures are more frequent. The rules apply year-round, but the holiday season often brings them into sharper focus.

If you’ve been following the news, you’ve probably heard a lot about falling mortgage rates in New Zealand. But what about business lending? While the spotlight’s been on homeowners, business owners are quietly navigating a changing credit landscape of their own—and it’s a mix of opportunity and caution.

New Zealand’s Inland Revenue (IRD) has significantly intensified its debt collection activity, signaling a clear end to the lighter touch used during the pandemic. With the nation’s overdue tax debt estimated to be around $10 billion, the department is now moving "full throttle" to recover these outstanding amounts from both individuals and businesses.

New Zealand’s 2025 'Growth Budget' signals a strong governmental pivot toward boosting business productivity and investment. The centerpiece of this strategy is the Investment Boost tax incentive, designed to encourage firms of all sizes to acquire new productive assets.