As Hawke’s Bay positions itself to Thrive in 2025, the region’s business and community leaders are cautiously optimistic, pointing to falling interest rates and early signs of economic revival across key sectors.
In wide-ranging interviews with business leaders, council executives, and iwi representatives, common themes emerge: a focus on infrastructure renewal, sustainable growth, and the critical importance of water security for the region’s future prosperity. While acknowledging ongoing challenges, particularly in the primary sector and property market, these leaders share a commitment to innovation and adaptation.
From Pan Pac’s renewed production capacity to Unison’s embrace of AI technology, from Tūpore’s sustainable infrastructure investments to Williams Harvey’s evolving valuation practices, businesses are positioning themselves to thrive in the year ahead.
The impact of Cyclone Gabrielle continues to shape strategic planning, with Hastings District Council implementing an $800 million rebuild plan, while Ngāti Kahungunu drives community recovery through housing initiatives and economic development.
What emerges is a picture of a region at a pivotal moment – facing challenges head-on while actively investing in infrastructure, technology, and community resilience to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for Hawke’s Bay.
NOW chief sees bright future as business market beckons – Hamish White
While many businesses are feeling the economic pinch, Now’s CEO Hamish White is distinctly upbeat about 2025, seeing strong signs of improving business confidence on the horizon.
“Absolutely,” says Hamish when asked about economic improvement in 2025. “I think it’s the combination of OCR reductions and a government that is showing a strong resolve to getting the economic growth engine moving again that is starting to change business and consumer confidence – there’s a positive vibe out there.”
The telecommunications company, which operates across Hawke’s Bay, Tauranga, and Christchurch, is pivoting strongly toward the business market, having spotted a gap in the market. “NOW was founded on the belief that Kiwi homes and businesses had long been deprived of good service,” Hamish explains.
“The opportunity in the business market is even more pronounced given the complexity of these environments – and there lies the opportunity – we’ve got something that Kiwi businesses value.” The company has been investing heavily in infrastructure, sales, and service capability, even expanding into mobile services to complement its fixed-line voice and data offerings. A loosening employment market has helped NOW attract top talent across all its offices.
However, Hamish is mindful of the challenges ahead. “Ensuring growth is aligned to the expansion of our operating overheads – it’s about getting that balance right in maintaining business profitability while realising our growth aspirations,” he says. Customer advocacy remains central to their growth strategy, making existing customer satisfaction a top priority and maintaining its position in award winning accolades. In 2024 it was awarded Best business broadband provider at the NZ Compare telecommunications awards and has won many customer service awards over the years.
On the technology front, NOW is carefully embracing AI, working with vendors to bring AI-enhanced contact centre phone solutions to customers. “AI will without doubt play an increasingly more significant role in our business as it relates to operational efficiency,” says Hamish.
However, he’s quick to add that it won’t replace the human element of their service, instead playing a complementary role in enhancing customer experience, particularly in proactive service delivery. When it comes to boosting the Hawke’s Bay economy, Hamish advocates for greater business collegiality and closer cooperation between local government and industry.
It’s a perspective shaped by Now’s position as a provider of ‘necessary’ commodities that, while not entirely immune to economic cycles, maintains tability through market ups and downs. On a personal note, Hamish is planning to broaden his horizons in 2025.
“As much as I love living and working from Hawke’s Bay, you can become a little insulated,” he admits. He’s also planning more time exploring developments in the Northern Hemisphere that could be brought to New Zealand. And it won’t be all work – he’s also looking forward to more mini-breaks with his wife and “hopefully catching a few more waves.”
