Whanganui Business Chamber

Hon Chris Bishop MP: Post Budget Briefing
2025-07-04 12:00 - 13:15 (Pacific/Auckland) | Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, 4 Pukenamu Drive, Whanganui, Manawatu-Wanganui, 4500, New Zealand
Join us for a special Post-Budget Briefing with Hon Chris Bishop MP, Minister of Housing, Minister of Transport, Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Minister for Infrastructure, Associate Minister of Finance, and Leader of the House.
Hear firsthand insights into the 2025 Budget and what it means for business, infrastructure, and regional development, followed by a Q&A session.
At the conclusion of the Minister’s session, you are invited stay on for a stand-up finger food lunch and the opportunity to connect with fellow business and community leaders.
Don’t miss this important discussion on the future direction of Aotearoa’s economy.
Bookings essential.
Note: Member rates apply for group bookings and hosting client/customer guests.
Payment: Non-members – please ensure payment for tickets is received by Business Whanganui prior to the event date unless by prior arrangement.
Thanks to local MP Carl Bates and team – hosts of the Minister’s visit.

2025-07-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
If you would like to find out more about Book Club, get in touch – email events@businesswhanganui.nz

Business for Breakfast @ FRANK.
2025-08-12 07:00 - 08:30 | FRANK., 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui, 4500, New Zealand
The perfect blend of coffee, kai, and conversation to kick-start your day.
Enjoy good food, great coffee, and even better company. Whether you’re new to the business community or a familiar face, this is your chance to connect, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships.
Missed out on our speed networking event? Bring your business cards, and take this opportunity to connect with others and let them know what your business can do for them.
Choose your breakfast from FRANK.’s delicious menu — order on the day or pre-order if you’re short on time. Check out the menu here and let us know your choice in the booking form if you’d like to pre-order. PLEASE NOTE: Food and drinks are at your own cost.
Got morning family commitments? No problem! Bring the whole whānau along and seat them at a table nearby — there’s plenty of room, and everyone’s welcome.
Whether you’re growing your network, swapping ideas, or simply enjoying a relaxed start with like-minded local business people, this is your place at the table.

Coming along? Give us a heads-up so we can save you a seat.

Whanganui Safety Managers Forum
2025-08-13 11:00 - 12:00
This is a closed group event.
For more information and requests to join email us at events@businesswhanganui.nz

Maker or Breaker: How Not to Accidentally Sabotage Your Own Business
2025-08-18 12:00 - 15:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
A practical (and slightly uncomfortable) guide for solopreneurs who are their business.
Success Is an Inside Job. You Are Your Business.
You’ve done the courses, hired the coach, posted on social media, launched the thing… and yet, something still isn’t quite working.
You love your work — but it’s starting to feel heavy.You’re putting yourself out there — but not being fully received.You’ve invested time, money, and heart — but something’s still off.You’re doing everything — and wondering why it still isn’t working.
What if it’s not your strategy?What if it’s you — but not in the way you think?
This is not another business planning session.This is a business constellation workshop — a space to uncover the hidden dynamics that are shaping your results behind the scenes.
We’ll explore questions like:

What part of me might be resisting success?
Am I loyal to outdated identities or beliefs?
What unfinished business or energy am I still carrying?
Is my business trying to become something I’m not letting it be?

Through experiential systemic processes, you’ll gain a snapshot of what’s really going on in your business — the stuff no spreadsheet, sales funnel, or vision board can touch.
🧭 This Workshop Is For You If:

You’ve done “all the right things” but still feel stuck, exhausted, or unclear
You are your business, and you know your energy matters
You’re open to exploring the emotional and energetic undercurrent of your work
You want realignment, not just another action plan

🛠️ You’ll Walk Away With:

Insight into your unconscious business dynamics
Clarity on what needs to shift for flow and alignment to return
A renewed connection to your business — and to yourself as its leader

🕒 3-hour workshop📍 in-person 🎟️ Limited spots for depth and personal attention
BOOK DIRECTLY ON YEE LEY’S WEBSITE HERE

Members Business Book Club
2025-08-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Our Members’ Business Book Club isn’t just about ticking off required reading — it’s a space where the group explores ideas, shares learning, and enjoys thought-provoking conversations. The books spark discussion, but it’s the collective insight and connection that make Book Club — and the people in it — something special.
Interested? The group meet on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 10.00am.
If you would like to join Book Club, let us know via email events@businesswhanganui.nz
If you just want to check out some suggestions for reading and resources, head to our Book Club page in the Members Lounge

Business After 5 with Noel Leeming Whanganui
2025-08-28 17:30 - 19:00 | Noel Leeming, 273 Victoria Avenue, Whanganui
Hosted by Russell Burney and the Noel Leeming Whanganui retail team
Join us for a great evening of connections, conversations, and a few surprises at our next Business After 5 — hosted by Russell Burney and the team at Noel Leeming Whanganui.
Russell will be a familiar face to many in the business community from his time leading the local Warehouse Stationery branch, and he’s looking forward to welcoming you in his new role. Also joining us is Vicky Hibbard from Noel Leeming Commercial, who will share insights into what Noel Leeming Commercial does and how they support businesses across the region.
Take a look around the store, meet the team, and prepare to be astonished by the exclusive Chamber member discounts available to you.
There will be prizes, plenty of opportunities to connect (and reconnect), and a warm welcome from the Noel Leeming crew.
It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event — we’ll see you there!
Complimentary, thanks to our hosts.

Connect with the Candidates - Fast-Track Networking for Whanganui Business
2025-09-18 17:30 - 19:00 | The Burrow Cellars, 49 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, Manawatu-Wanganui, 4541, New Zealand
NOTE VENUE CHANGE
This event will now be held at The Burrow Cellars – Taupo Quay entrance. Buy your own drinks.
An Invitation to Our Business Community
With local body elections just around the corner, we’re inviting you to a special Business Whanganui networking event — your chance to connect directly with the candidates standing for election to Whanganui District Council.
This is your opportunity to share what matters to your business and hear their vision for our district. In a fast-paced, speed-networking style, you’ll have a few minutes with each candidate to ask questions, raise priorities, and exchange ideas on the issues that matter — from economic development, rates, and infrastructure to innovation, resilience, and council decision-making.
This isn’t a debate, and there are no speeches — just relaxed, one-on-one conversations designed to connect business with the people who want to represent you at the Council table.
Whether you’ve got something to say or simply want to listen, this is your chance to be informed, be heard, and be connected.
📌 Please note: This is a private event for Whanganui businesspeople and candidates, hosted by Business Whanganui. We welcome open conversation and diverse perspectives and ask that all participants engage in respectful, constructive dialogue throughout the evening.
Booking essential — spaces are limited.

Lunch & Roundtable Discussion with the British High Commissioner
2025-10-01 12:30 - 14:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Business Whanganui and Carl Bates MP for Whanganui hosted lunch and roundtable discussion with Her Excellency, the British High Commissioner, Iona Thomas OBE.
This is a chance for businesses to share insights and experiences on:

Trading with the UK — importers and exporters
Making use of the UK–NZ Free Trade Agreement (the benefits and the challenges)
Opportunities Whanganui businesses see in the UK market

The High Commissioner has indicated her interest in hearing directly from local business leaders importing from the UK, exporting to it, working with British expertise, or exploring new opportunities. The intention of the discussion is to help build a clearer understanding of the opportunities and challenges in the UK–NZ relationship and highlight the strengths and potential that Whanganui businesses can bring to it.
The session will be facilitated by Business Whanganui, with opening remarks from the High Commissioner, followed by an open discussion over lunch.
Optional reading: The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025 — useful context but not required.
Contact Helen Garner for more information.
email. ceo@businesswhanganui.nz
mobile. 021 771 643

Business for Breakfast @ Frank.
2025-10-14 07:00 - 08:30 | FRANK., 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui, 4500, New Zealand
Join us at Business for Breakfast — where the coffee, food, and company are all excellent. Whether you’re new to the business community or a familiar face, this is your chance to connect, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships.
Bring your business cards and make the most of the opportunity to connect with others and share what your business has to offer.
Choose your breakfast from FRANK.’s delicious menu — pre-order (recommended) or order on the day.📋 Pre-orders: Let us know your food and drink choices in the booking form.☕ Please note: Food and drinks are at your own cost.
Check out the menu here
Whether you’re growing your network, swapping ideas, or simply enjoying a relaxed start with like-minded local businesspeople, this is your place at the table.
Voice of Business – Guest Speaker
Real people. Real businesses. Real experience.
Each month at Business for Breakfast, we shine a spotlight on local business leaders who share their stories, insights, and lessons learned from real-world experience. Our Voice of Business speakers bring practical tips, personal stories, and inspiration you can take back to your own business.
This month, our Voice of Business Speaker is Business Whanganui Chair, Glenda Brown, speaking on “Blending Business with Purpose – and why it matters”.
Glenda will share how she combines business leadership with community purpose — what that looks like in practice, why it matters, and how doing good can strengthen both people and performance.
Coming along? Give us a heads-up so we can save you a seat — and start your day with good food, good company, and great conversation.

Whanganui Safety Managers Forum
2025-10-15 11:00 - 12:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
The Safety Managers Forum brings local health and safety leaders together to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and strengthen practices across our region. Each session offers the chance to connect with peers, hear from guest speakers, and explore practical ways to build safer, healthier workplaces.
This month, we’re in conversation with Tim Crowe, Emergency Manager for Whanganui District Council, talking about how we as safety leaders can respond and support one another when unexpected events affect our organisations.
If you’re responsible for health and safety, this forum is for you. To make sure you’re on the invitation list, email events@businesswhanganui.nz.

Book Club
2025-10-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Business Book Club isn’t just about ticking off required reading — it’s a space to explore ideas, share learning, and enjoy thought-provoking conversations.
The books spark discussion, but it’s the collective insight and connection that make Book Club something special — and a valuable source of inspiration and practical ideas for business.
If you would like to join Book Club, register below or contact us via email if you have questions events@businesswhanganui.nz
If you just want to check out some suggestions for reading and resources, head to our Book Club page in the Members Lounge

Exporter & Importer Lunch with CentrePort
2025-10-23 11:30 - 13:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Business Whanganui, on behalf of CentrePort Wellington, invite you to a special lunch and presentation for local exporters and importers.
This event is a valuable opportunity for Whanganui businesses involved in freight, importing, or exporting to hear directly from CentrePort Chief Executive Anthony Delaney and General Manager Commercial Andrew Locke.
They will share insights on:

New Trans-Tasman shipping opportunities, with COSCO Shipping and OOCL commencing direct, weekly calls into Wellington from mid-September 2025. This service currently calls into Auckland, Tauranga, and major Australian ports, and will now also include CentrePort Wellington.
Recent expansion of international connections, including MSC’s Noumea Service (regular calls into Wellington from July 2025, linking Central New Zealand directly with New Caledonia and wider Pacific trade routes).
Recent announcement that the MSC Eagle Service will commence service in February 2026 connecting New Zealand and Wellington directly to the East Coast of North America, West Coast via Transhipment, and into Europe.
The wider opportunities CentrePort can provide for imports and exports in and out of Central New Zealand.

With multiple new services now calling at Wellington, these developments offer greater choice, efficiency, and expanded access to key international markets — opening fresh opportunities for Whanganui businesses to move goods more effectively across the Tasman and beyond.
This is a chance to hear first-hand how these changes could benefit your business, ask questions, and connect with the CentrePort team.
A light lunch will be provided courtesy of CentrePort.
Spaces are limited. Please RSVP to secure your place.

Skills Highway – Fully Funded Training to Build Better Business
2025-11-05 12:00 - 13:30 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Better business starts with people who have the skills and confidence to do their jobs well. That’s where Skills Highway, funded by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), comes in.
This programme provides fully funded, tailored workplace training to build essential literacy, numeracy, and communication skills — the everyday capabilities people need to work safely, accurately, and confidently.
What it helps your team do:

Communicate clearly with customers, colleagues, and supervisors

Understand health and safety instructions and workplace systems

Follow production schedules, complete paperwork, and record information correctly

What it does for your business:

Increases productivity

Reduces mistakes, rework, and wasted time

Improves quality, efficiency, and retention

Builds confidence, engagement, and teamwork

Training is delivered on-site, over 25–80 hours, and is fully funded for eligible workforces — including teams with lower levels of reading, writing, or maths, or where many staff speak English as a second language.
Join Us – Find Out How It Works
We invite you to join Aaron Megchelse from TEC in Whanganui to explain:✔ What Skills Highway offers✔ Who qualifies✔ How to bring this into your workplace at no cost
Lunch is provided, thanks to TEC. No charge to attend — just your time, and the opportunity to build a stronger workforce.
Find out more about Skills Highway on the TEC website: tec.govt.nz/skillshighway

Business for Breakfast @FRANK
2025-11-11 07:00 - 08:30 | FRANK., 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui, 4500, New Zealand
Join us at Business for Breakfast — where the coffee, food, and company are all excellent. Whether you’re new to the business community or a familiar face, this is your chance to connect, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships.
Bring your business cards and make the most of the opportunity to connect with others and share what your business has to offer.
Choose your breakfast from FRANK.’s delicious menu — pre-order (recommended) or order on the day.📋 Pre-orders: Let us know your food and drink choices in the booking form – drink and food☕ Please note: Food and drinks are at your own cost.
Check out the menu here
Whether you’re growing your network, swapping ideas, or simply enjoying a relaxed start with like-minded local businesspeople, this is your place at the table.
Voice of Business – Guest Speaker
Real people. Real businesses. Real experience.
Each month at Business for Breakfast, we shine a spotlight on local business leaders who share their stories, insights, and lessons learned from real-world experience. Our Voice of Business speakers bring practical tips, personal stories, and inspiration you can take back to your own business.
Coming along? Give us a heads-up so we can save you a seat — and start your day with good food, good company, and great conversation.

Unleashing an Improvement Mindset: Products
2025-11-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Continuous improvement for productivity in manufacturing and product-based environments
🚀 A Fresh Look at How You Work
In just two hours, this session helps your team see their work through a new lens.
We’ll spark energy, curiosity, and confidence — showing how small changes can lead to big gains straight away.
Continuous improvement isn’t just for managers or specialists — it’s something everyone can be part of, every day.
Your team will leave with:✨ A fresh mindset for improvement🔍 The ability to spot problems and opportunities🧩 Simple tools to make change happen
🎯 What You’ll Learn
💡 Lean vs Continuous ImprovementClarify what each means, why businesses invest in them, what’s involved, and the results they deliver.
⚙️ Four Key Steps to Better PerformanceLearn the simple, proven steps that drive improvement — and the principles that make them work.
👥 Leadership and Team CultureSee what effective leaders do to support improvement, and how to build a culture that makes it part of everyday work.
🤖 AI and the Future of ImprovementExplore how current AI tools can help teams work smarter, faster, and more efficiently.
👩‍🏭 Who It’s For
This session is open to everyone — from the factory floor to the front office.It’s perfect for teams who are:✅ New to continuous improvement✅ Looking to refresh their understanding✅ Keen to find better ways of working together
We recommend that as many of your team attend as possible. When everyone shares the same learning, it’s easier to embed the mindset, speak the same language, and make progress together.
🔧 At a Glance
⏱ Duration: 2 hours📍 Format: Interactive, practical, and energising👨‍🏭 Audience: All team members and leaders🎯 Outcome: A motivated team ready to see, solve, and improve💰 Cost: No charge to attend🗓 Booking: Essential — spaces are limited

Unleashing an Improvement Mindset: Services
2025-11-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Continuous improvement for productivity in service-based organisations
⚡ A Fresh Look at How You Work
In just two hours, this session helps your team see your work from a new perspective.We’ll spark energy, curiosity, and confidence — showing how small improvements in daily processes can lead to big gains in service delivery and customer experience.
Continuous improvement isn’t just for managers or specialists — it’s something everyone can be part of, every day.
Your team will leave with:✨ A fresh mindset for improvement🔍 The ability to spot issues and opportunities🧩 Simple tools to make meaningful change happen
🎯 What You’ll Learn
💡 Lean vs Continuous ImprovementUnderstand the difference between these approaches, why service organisations invest in them, what’s involved, and the rewards they bring.
⚙️ Four Key Steps to Better PerformanceLearn the simple, proven steps that improve service quality, reduce friction, and boost efficiency.
👥 Leadership and Team CultureSee how effective leaders support improvement, and how to build a culture where everyone contributes to better outcomes.
🤖 AI and the Future of ImprovementExplore how current AI tools can enhance service delivery, streamline processes, and help teams work smarter.
🧑‍💼 Who It’s For
This session is open to everyone — from frontline teams to management.It’s perfect for those who are:✅ New to continuous improvement✅ Looking to refresh their understanding✅ Keen to find better ways to deliver great service every day
We recommend that as many of your team attend together as possible. When everyone shares the same learning, it’s easier to embed the mindset, speak the same language, and make progress together.
🔧 At a Glance
⏱ Duration: 2 hours📍 Format: Interactive, practical, and energising👥 Audience: All team members and leaders in service-based organisations🎯 Outcome: A motivated team ready to see, solve, and improve💰 Cost: No charge to attend🗓 Booking: Essential — spaces are limited

WCCI 140th AGM
2025-11-21 16:30 - 18:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Whanganui Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated
140th Annual General Meeting to be held Friday 21st November 4.30pm
at Business Whanganui, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui
Members are advised that the 140th Annual General Meeting of The Whanganui Chamber of Commerce & Industry Incorporated (t/a Business Whanganui) will be held on the date and at the time and place stated above.
Business of the Meeting

Receive and adopt the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 July 2025.
Receive the Chair’s Report and Chief Executive’s Report.
Adopt the new Constitution of the Chamber, aligning with the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, replacing the Rules adopted in 2023.
Authorise the Board to complete the reregistration of the Chamber under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022.
Confirm Board Members in accordance with the Constitution.
Consider any other General Business properly brought before the meeting.

Special Resolution
That the draft 2025 Constitution of Business Whanganui Incorporated, as circulated to Members, be adopted in full to replace the existing Rules (2023), and that the Board be authorised to apply for re-registration of the Chamber under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 and take all necessary steps to give effect to this resolution.
Voting and Attendance
All current financial Members are entitled to attend and vote at the AGM. Proxy or electronic voting arrangements (if applicable) will be advised prior to the meeting.
Board Membership
Board Composition five (5) to eight (8) members. Five members of the current Board are continuing, which meets the minimum requirement under the Constitution. No further nominations are required unless a current Member wishes to stand for election.
A Nomination for Board Member form is included with this notice. Nominations close 12.00 noon, Friday 14 November 2025.
Attendance
Please confirm your attendance by registration below or by email or phone 021 345 385 before 5.00pm, Wednesday 19 November 2025.
For and on behalf of the Board,
Glenda Brown
Chairperson
The Whanganui Chamber of Commerce & Industry Incorporated
Please direct questions and registrations to: ceo@businesswhanganui.nz

Retail Crime Forum
2025-11-24 17:30 - 19:30 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
A Trusted Forum for Whanganui Retailers
Retail crime and anti-social behaviour are impacting many local businesses. This forum brings together business owners, Police, Mayor Andrew Tripe, MP Carl Bates, Mainstreet, Business Whanganui, and the Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime for an open, practical and solutions-focused conversation.
Hear updates on recent law changes, national initiatives, and tools available to support retailers. Share your experiences, ask questions, and help shape local responses that strengthen safety and confidence in our town centre.
Your voice matters — this is a safe, trusted space to be heard.
👉 Registration essential (venue may change depending on numbers)💼 For business attendees: retailers, business owners, managers and their representatives
After registering – take a few minutes to complete the Retail Crime Survey HERE
Note: Information collected in this survey will be used solely for the purpose of understanding the impact of retail crime and anti-social behaviour on businesses in Whanganui.
The findings will be presented at the Retail Crime Forum on 24 November to help inform discussion and provide clarity on local business experiences.
No personal or identifying information is requested — the survey is anonymous.

Business After 5 at J Thain Foundry - Whanganui's Premier Co-working Space
2025-11-27 17:30 - 19:00 | J Thain Foundry, 31 Taupo Quay, Whanganui, New Zealand
Join us and hosts Mark and Maddy for Business After 5 at the inspiring co-working space in the historic J Thain Foundry building. Nestled between the river and Taupo Quay, this unique venue blends heritage character with a fresh, creative energy. Come along, connect with others, and experience for yourself what makes this space so special.
About the J Thain Foundry
Set in a beautifully restored heritage building, J Thain Foundry blends industrial character with modern functionality. With high ceilings, exposed brickwork, and light-filled communal spaces, it’s a workplace designed to inspire.
Whether you’re a freelancer, start-up, or established business, the Foundry offers flexible short- and long-term workspace solutions to help you separate your home life from your professional pursuits. Just bring your device and choose a space that suits—no complex leases, no hidden fees.
Find out more on their website: www.jthainfoundry.co.nz
BA5 no charge thanks to our hosts.

Problems to Progress: Continuous Improvement in Action
2025-12-04 09:00 - 13:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Continuous Improvement for Productivity — with CILab
⚙️ Continuous Improvement Training
A practical session focusing on process mapping, root-cause analysis, and problem-solving.
This training is conducted using a live simulation, so the continuous improvement tools introduced in the session are applied in real time — giving participants practical experience in using the tools and understanding their impact.
This session complements the earlier Unleashing the Improvement Mindset 2-hour workshops, though you don’t need to have attended those to participate (doing so is helpful).
🎯 What You’ll Learn
A comprehensive overview of the essential mindset, steps, and tools of a continuous improvement initiative, with a particular focus on:
💡 Customer ThinkingUnderstanding how to view processes and outcomes from the customer’s perspective.
🧭 Framing and Articulating ProblemsLearning how to identify, describe, and communicate problems effectively — especially when raising issues with leaders.
⚙️ Core Improvement ToolsUsing process mapping and root-cause analysis to identify performance gaps and opportunities for improvement.
👥 Team and Leadership RolesClarifying how individuals can participate in and contribute to improvement initiatives led by others.
🧠 Outcomes
Participants will leave with:✨ A strong understanding of their role in continuous improvement.🔍 The ability to map and analyse how a process performs and where it can be improved.🧩 The capability to take part confidently in improvement initiatives across the organisation.
🔧 At a Glance
⏱ Duration: 4 hours📍 Format: Simulation-based, practical, and hands-on👥 Audience: All team members and leaders🎯 Outcome: Practical capability in process analysis and improvement💰 Cost: This is a funded learning opportunity – No charge to attend🗓 Booking: Essential — spaces are limited (max 20 participants)

Business Whanganui Christmas Lunch
2025-12-16 12:00 - 13:00
Solopreneur? Part of a small team? Or just keen to break free of the office or workshop and mix it up with other business owners and professionals?
Join us at FRANK on Tuesday 16 December for a relaxed Christmas lunch with good company.
Buy your own — order on the day or check out their menu HERE and order ahead — either way, let us know you’re coming and we’ll save you a seat.

Brains! and Business for Breakfast
2026-02-10 07:00 - 08:30 | FRANK., 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui, 4500, New Zealand
Business for Breakfast is a monthly event featuring a guest speaker from business, speaking on a topic of interest to the business community. Each session is paired with good food and coffee, and time to connect with other local business owners and leaders before the workday begins.
Food and drinks can be ordered in advance at the time of registration, or on the day. Buy your own breakfast. No charge to attend.
In February, we welcome Melita Farley, Learning Director at Double Farley Creative Partners, as our Business for Breakfast guest speaker. Melita has more than 25 years’ experience developing people and building capability in workplaces, and has trained hundreds of workplace trainers across New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific.
This month’s topic: Brains for Breakfast! Supporting your brain — and your team — through change.
Drawing on her extensive experience leading learning and change projects, Melita explores the intersection of human behaviour and biology, and what this means for leading change at work.
Bring your questions — whether you’re working through a specific challenge or simply curious about how your brain responds to change. This session will unpack how insights from neuroscience can be applied to everyday workplace and leadership challenges.
Choose your breakfast from FRANK.’s delicious menu — pre-order (recommended) or order on the day.📋 Pre-orders: Let us know your food and drink choices in the booking form – drink and food☕ Please note: Food and drinks are at your own cost.
Take a look at the FRANK. breakfast menu here: https://www.mintasfrank.co.nz/frankmenu
Reserve your spot below and order online or on the day.
AND Bring your business cards and make the most of the opportunity to connect with others and share what your business has to offer.

Book Club for Business
2026-02-19 10:00 - 11:00 | FRANK., 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui, 4500, New Zealand
About Book Club:
Book Club for business is a relaxed, facilitated space for business owners and leaders who value connection, ideas, and thoughtful conversation.
Shaped by member feedback, the Book Club continues in 2026 with a clarified purpose and a light structure that supports inclusive, purposeful discussion while keeping the focus on books, ideas, and meaningful conversation.
Sessions are theme-led rather than book-led. We’ll explore one theme at a time, drawn from topic areas such as Leadership, Strategy, Customers, and Workforce, using a range of ideas, readings, and perspectives to prompt discussion.
Reading is always optional. There’s no set text and no expectation to prepare. What matters is showing up, listening, and engaging in a respectful, well-facilitated conversation with peers who understand the realities of business.
If you value time to step back from the day-to-day and think alongside others, the Book Club will be a good fit.
What to expect:

Theme-led discussions, not a single set book
Light facilitation to ensure everyone has a voice
Optional reading — no homework pressure
A focus on ideas, perspective, and conversation

Book Club is a good fit if you:

Enjoy thinking about leadership and business beyond the day-to-day
Value discussion, listening, and learning from peers
Like structure without formality
Want ideas and perspective rather than problem-solving

If you’re after space to pause, reflect, and engage in good conversation with other business people, you’ll feel comfortable here.
It may not be for you if you’re looking for:

A mentoring programme
Hands-on business troubleshooting
A purely operational or technical session

Contact us for more information about this type of business support
Time and date:
Meets monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month from 10.00am-11.00am (1-hour)
Where:
Note: the venue for the February meeting is FRANK. 60 Ridgway Street, Whanganui.
Subsequent sessions will be held at Business Whanganui, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui (limited parking in the Courtyard, otherwise on-street parking please)
Register:
To join book club or sign up for book club updates, register below.

Attendance is complimentary and included as part of Business Whanganui membership.

Safer Business Forum Q1 2026
2026-02-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Retail and Business Owners and Managers Forum: Stay connected, informed, and ahead of emerging issues facing our business community. These short quarterly sessions focus on practical conversations – sharing what you are seeing on the ground, understanding current trends, and strengthening clear channels for reporting concerns and accessing support. Practical insight, not politics.
Delivered in partnership with Police, Safer Whanganui, and Mainstreet, the Forums bring retailers and the wider business community together for open, two-way discussion.
2026 dates – Mondays, 5.30 pm at Business Whanganui:• 23 February• 18 May• 17 August• 16 November
Contact us for more information: events@businesswhanganui.nz

Employment Relations Act Changes - what you need to know
2026-03-05 12:15 - 13:15
Recent changes to the Employment Relations Act took effect on 21 February following the passing of the Employment Relations Amendment Act 2025.
If you want to understand the practical impact for your business, this session will give you a clear overview of what has changed and what action is required.
Join Robyn Young from RYHR for a practical, plain-English briefing designed to bring you up to speed quickly. We’ll cover the key updates, what to review in your workplace, and what to do next, with time set aside for questions at the end.
Tea, coffee and snacks of dubious nutritional value will be available. Please feel free to bring your lunch with you.
Attendance is complimentary, thanks to the support of Robyn Young HR (www.ryhr.co.nz)
Places are limited. Register to reserve your spot.

Business for Breakfast
2026-03-10 07:00 - 08:30 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
​Business for Breakfast is a monthly event featuring a guest speaker from business, speaking on a topic of interest to the business community. Each session is paired with good food and coffee, and time to connect with other local business owners and leaders before the workday begins.
Food and drinks can be ordered in advance at the time of registration, or on the day. Buy your own breakfast. No charge to attend.
Choose your breakfast from FRANK.’s delicious menu — pre-order (recommended) or order on the day.📋 Pre-orders: Let us know your food and drink choices in the booking form – drink and food☕ Please note: Food and drinks are at your own cost.
Check out the menu here
Whether you’re growing your network, swapping ideas, or simply enjoying a relaxed start with like-minded local businesspeople, this is your place at the table.
Voice of Business – Guest Speaker
Real people. Real businesses. Real experience.
Each month at Business for Breakfast, we shine a spotlight on local business leaders who share their stories, insights, and lessons learned from real-world experience. Our Voice of Business speakers bring practical tips, personal stories, and inspiration you can take back to your own business.
Coming along? Give us a heads-up so we can save you a seat — and start your day with good food, good company, and great conversation.

Unleashing a Productivity Mindset: Manufacturing & Product-based Businesses
2026-03-12 09:00 - 11:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Improving Productivity through Continuous Improvement
This two-hour training session provides a practical introduction to continuous improvement for manufacturing and product-based organisations. It helps teams step back, look critically at how work is done, and identify opportunities to improve performance through small, practical changes.
Continuous improvement is not limited to managers or specialists. It is a shared approach that enables people at all levels to contribute to better ways of working, every day.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will leave with:

A clear understanding of continuous improvement principles
The ability to identify problems, inefficiencies, and opportunities
Practical tools to support meaningful and sustainable change

What the Session Covers
Lean and Continuous ImprovementAn overview of the two approaches, why businesses invest in them, and the outcomes they support.
Four Key Steps to Better PerformanceA simple, proven framework for improving processes and productivity.
Leadership and Team CultureHow effective leaders enable improvement, and how to build a culture where improvement is part of everyday work.
AI and the Future of ImprovementAn introduction to how current AI tools can support smarter, more efficient ways of working.
Who Should Attend
This session is suitable for all team members and leaders, from the factory floor through to management. It is ideal for organisations that are:

New to continuous improvement
Looking to refresh or strengthen existing knowledge
Seeking practical ways to improve how teams work together

We recommend multiple people from the same organisation attend. Shared learning helps embed the mindset, create a common language, and support progress back in the workplace.
At a Glance

Duration: 2 hours
Format: Interactive and practical
Audience: Manufacturing and product-based teams and leaders
Outcome: A motivated team equipped to identify, solve, and improve
Cost: No charge to attend
Booking: Essential — places are limited

Unleashing a Productivity Mindset: Offices and Service-based Businesses
2026-03-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
Improving Service Performance through Continuous Improvement
This two-hour training session provides a practical introduction to continuous improvement for service-based organisations. It helps teams step back, look objectively at how work is done, and identify opportunities to improve productivity, service quality, and customer experience through small, practical changes.
Continuous improvement is not limited to managers or specialists. It is a shared approach that enables people at all levels to contribute to better ways of working, every day.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will leave with:

A clear understanding of continuous improvement principles
The ability to identify issues, inefficiencies, and opportunities in service delivery
Practical tools to support meaningful and sustainable improvement

What the Session Covers
Lean and Continuous ImprovementAn overview of the two approaches, why service organisations invest in them, and the outcomes they support.
Four Key Steps to Better PerformanceA simple, proven framework for improving service flow, reducing friction, and lifting efficiency.
Leadership and Team CultureHow effective leaders support improvement, and how to build a culture where everyone contributes to better outcomes.
AI and the Future of ImprovementAn introduction to how current AI tools can enhance service delivery, streamline processes, and support smarter ways of working.
Who Should Attend
This session is suitable for all team members and leaders, from frontline staff through to management. It is ideal for organisations that are:

New to continuous improvement
Looking to refresh or strengthen existing knowledge
Seeking practical ways to improve service delivery and consistency

We recommend multiple people from the same organisation attend. Shared learning supports a common language, strengthens understanding, and makes it easier to embed improvement back in the workplace.
At a Glance

Duration: 2 hours
Format: Interactive and practical
Audience: Service-based teams and leaders
Outcome: A motivated team equipped to identify, solve, and improve
Cost: No charge to attend
Booking: Essential — places are limited

Mindset to Method: Continuous Improvement Workshop
2026-03-13 09:00 - 15:00 | Business Whanganui – Chamber of Commerce, 139 Guyton Street, Whanganui, 4501, New Zealand
NOTE: NEW DATE 13 March 2026
Continuous Improvement Training: Process Mapping, Root Cause Analysis and Problem Solving
This full-day training session provides a practical introduction to the core tools and mindset of continuous improvement, delivered through a hands-on simulation. Participants learn key improvement techniques and apply them directly within a simulated process, reinforcing learning through practice.
The session is designed for those who have not previously attended Business Whanganui’s continuous improvement workshops. It brings together all essential content from earlier sessions into one comprehensive programme, with the added benefit of simulation-based learning.
A Shared Learning Requirement
To support effective adoption back in the workplace, participants must not attend as the sole representative of their organisation. At least one other person from the same organisation must have either attended previous training or be attending this session. Shared understanding is critical to embedding continuous improvement practices and sustaining momentum.
What the Session Covers
This training focuses on the foundational elements of a successful continuous improvement approach, including:

Understanding the continuous improvement mindset
Process mapping to make work visible
Root cause analysis to identify what is really driving issues
Practical problem-solving techniques

A strong emphasis is placed on customer thinking and on improving how problems are framed and communicated — particularly when raising issues with leaders. This helps ensure improvement conversations are constructive, clear, and solution-focused.
Outcomes for Participants
Participants will leave with:

A clear understanding of their role in continuous improvement
The confidence to contribute to improvement initiatives led by others
Practical capability to analyse process performance and identify improvement opportunities

At a Glance

Duration: 6 hours (morning and lunch breaks included)
Format: Interactive and practical
Audience: All inclusive manufacturing, product, office and service-based teams and leaders
Outcome: A motivated team equipped to identify, solve, and improve
Cost: No charge to attend
Booking: Essential — places are limited

Funding
This session is fully funded through the Productive Whanganui partnership with Whanganui District Council.
