Southland Business Talent Showcased During Minister's Visit

Southland’s business enterprises were front and center when the Minister of Small Business and Manufacturing, Andrew Bayly, visited Invercargill yesterday.

"I had a really interesting day in Invercargill, meeting a range of successful businesses with my wonderful colleague, Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds," said Mr. Bayly. "Many people don’t appreciate how significant Southland’s economy is to New Zealand."

After touring the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter, Mr. Bayly visited prominent local businesses, including boat builder Stabicraft, 3D printing company F1 Innovations, waste management business Kiwi Bins, and Kiwi Skips. The local waste management firm, Kiwi Skips, provides a variety of waste solutions for residential and commercial customers across the region.

Mr. Bayly also engaged with local economic development agencies, the Southland Business Chamber and Great South, to discuss the future of the region’s industries and the opportunities for further growth.

Ms. Simmonds expressed her pride in showcasing the talent of Southland's business community to the Minister.

“We have some exceptional and innovative businesses here in the South. Yesterday was a great opportunity to showcase that local talent and ensure that the creativity and business entrepreneurship we are fostering in our region does not go unnoticed further north,” she said.

Mr. Bayly commended the local businesses for their innovative use of technology, such as 3D printing with both powders and resins, which has applications in industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. He highlighted that Southland’s cooperative business culture is a key factor in the region’s success. “Everyone knows everyone and seems to support each other, which allows them to compete on a global scale,” he said.

Southland’s collaborative spirit and focus on innovation serve as an example for the rest of New Zealand. Mr. Bayly praised the region for demonstrating the benefits of local businesses working together and sharing resources to drive economic growth.

“Of course, a trip South wouldn’t be complete without some Southern sushi, so I made sure that Andrew Bayly also enjoyed a tasty cheese roll while in our city,” Ms. Simmonds quipped, referring to Southland’s iconic food offering.

The Minister’s visit was a valuable opportunity to put Southland’s business achievements in the national spotlight and encourage continued investment and support for the region’s economic development.