• Published date: 25 April 2024
• Publication title: Mountain Scene

This is just one of the observations and learnings I’ve had over the past year

A big part of our job is listening, and when you boil it all down, there are some common themes.

Relationships are critical.

In the past couple of months, the Chamber has met with the Prime Minister and coalition partners, government ministers, our Aspen sister city mayor and counterparts, community leaders, guest speakers that are subject-matter experts, thought leaders and the like.

The common theme we share: Queenstown business is critical to New Zealand’s success.

And business is community.

It’s simple, really: a clear vision, united message and then collaboration helps us all to get things done.

However, there are some big barriers, and government funding alone is not working.

Why are we always asking for help?

No one else cares more about the future of our place (or business) than us.

We know what we need and to keep asking ... frankly, it’s boring and a bit of a handbrake to productivity.

Isn’t the definition of insanity to keep doing the same thing and expect a different result?

Advocacy is part of our job, and one of our most important parts.

Clear, united messaging works — yes, government does listen.

Here are some examples:

●Parking: Looks like we’re set to get some new CBD parks at the Stanley St site. Thanks, QLDC. This will help many businesses and their employees, and we look forward to learning more.

●Rules for renting (aka the Residential Tenancies Act): We’re soon going to return to fixed-term tenancies that work for the seasonal nature of our district and just may unlock more rental properties. Pre-winter would be especially helpful. Thank you, Housing Minister.

●Accommodation supplement: Disappointingly, maybe not now. But it’s high on the agenda (credit to the Salvation Army, Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust, Southland MP Joseph Mooney, ex-mayor Jim Boult, mayor Glyn Lewers, council and all those involved to date).

●Immigration: A work in progress. The latest reform to the immigration system is basically adding more ‘red tape’ which is puzzling as the government is pretty insistent they want to minimise that. The ‘one rule for them all’ policy in this space doesn’t work for our town. Our international and seasonal workforce is part of our...