Taking the next step - Export Hawke's Bay

Taking the Next Step

Hawke’s Bay businesses have access to free advice and information through skilled business advisors. By attending the export-related events organised by Export Hawke's Bay, businesses can also learn from others that are exporting. Details on events can be found in the Calendar of Events. In addition, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) has a local office with staff that can provide advice and help with funding and services to build business capability and begin exporting.

These advisors can help businesses navigate the risks and challenges of exporting. For example, looking first to Australia, which is close to New Zealand and has a familiar culture and business practices, can make exporting seem more manageable. Businesses are often advised to begin exporting to countries or regions with exchange rates that trade consistently with the New Zealand dollar, to reduce exposure to fluctuating rates. Australia and countries in the European Union using the Euro meet this criterion.

It is usually better for businesses to broaden their domestic distribution before embarking on exporting. However there are exceptions, particularly with very innovative or highly differentiated products or services, where it may be better to start exporting sooner rather than later. Much will depend on the characteristics of an individual market – is it driven by fashion for example or is there a likelihood of rapid market change, as in the technology sector?

Greater exporting activity is the key to making Hawke’s Bay a successful region that is outwardly focused and less reliant on the fortunes of the New Zealand domestic economy or commodity prices.

For more information, contact us today.