Our story
Since 2017, The Business Hive has been part of Ōamaru’s business infrastructure - providing a stable base for local businesses, solo operators and organisations. Find out what we do and why here.
Our reason for being
The Business Hive exists to provide practical, professional infrastructure for people doing business in and around Oamaru.
Our role is simple and deliberate: to offer well-designed workspaces and meeting rooms, and to provide the conditions that make it easier for people to work well, connect when it’s useful, and develop their own momentum.
That includes the obvious things – reliable desks, meeting spaces, technology and amenities – and it also includes the less visible work. We pay attention to flow, rhythm and fit so the space feels calm, capable and welcoming, without pressure to perform or participate.
We don’t try to manage outcomes or direct how people use the Hive. Instead, we focus on providing a steady environment that people can opt into when it suits their work.
Our workspaces
Located in the heart of Oamaru’s CBD, The Business Hive offers a range of affordable, flexible spaces inspired by local industries and ways of working.
These include:
The Bank, a large communal coworking space including informal meeting zones and The Vault for quick private calls
The Farm and The Works, two boardroom-style meeting, workshop or training rooms
The Bureau and The Foundry for smaller meetings, training, interviews or as a short term private office
The Locker Room as a treatment, counselling, meeting or interview space
Individual room or multiple-room hire options for small conferences or events
Privately leased offices
Making things easy
We’ve taken care of the details so you don’t have to.
Our spaces are air-conditioned and individually ventilated, with high-speed WiFi, free tea and coffee and intentional design. The tech is plug-and-play, and online booking makes it easy to reserve a space or manage your membership without fuss.
The aim is a place that works quietly and reliably in the background, so you can focus on what you’re here to do.
Developed over time
Founded in 2017, The Business Hive is a privately operated business led by Cara Tipping Smith and Alex Regtien, and their team. Over more than eight years, our offerings have evolved through real-world use and changing economic conditions.
That evolution has sharpened our focus.
People bring their own goals, ideas and ambitions. We provide the space, systems and consistency that help those efforts take shape. Whether you’re looking for a regular base or somewhere to drop in when needed, the Hive can be a practical business home away from home.
You’re welcome to explore the spaces, take a tour, or sign up to hear about what’s happening.
Take a virtual tour
Check out the video below to get a feel for The Business Hive in action.
Credits
Photography – Rachel Wybrow Commercial
Video – Aynsley Martin Videography / Photography
New to coworking?
Coworking is really just a group of independent professionals sharing space and resources. It’s smart, cost-efficient and also can be sociable. Our job at The Business Hive is to enable you to work your way. Find out what that looks like, here.
What to expect at The Business Hive
For first-timers, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect from coworking.
At its simplest, it’s a professional way to work independently, with access to good space, reliable infrastructure and other people who understand the rhythm of getting work done.
That’s the approach we take at The Business Hive.
If you’re new to coworking, here’s what that looks like in practice.
A professional workspace you can use your way
The Hive is designed for people who take their work seriously, whether they’re running a business, working remotely, freelancing or juggling a mix of roles.
You’ll find:
Desks where you can plug in and get started
Quieter areas for more focused work
Informal open spaces where conversation is fine
Bookable meeting rooms when you need privacy
Fully equipped meeting, training and workshop spaces
You choose the environment that suits what you’re doing that day.
Calm, not open-plan chaos
Coworking is often assumed to mean noise, interruptions or constant interaction. That’s not how this space operates.
People work quietly and respectfully.
Different zones exist for different kinds of work.
Focus is normal here.
Conversation happens when it’s appropriate, not by default.
Friendly, but not intrusive
The Hive is a shared space, not a social obligation.
Regulars are welcoming and polite, but no one expects introductions, explanations or participation. Many people come here precisely because they want to work independently, without being isolated.
You can:
Keep to yourself
Work with headphones on
Come and go without ceremony
Let connection happen naturally, or not at all
You choose when and how you interact on any given day.
Help when you need it
If it’s your first visit, staff will show you around, help you get set up and answer any practical questions.
After that, the space is yours to use - teas and coffee included.
There’s no script to follow and no pressure to engage beyond what’s useful to you.
Coworking without commitment
You don’t need to change how you work to try coworking.
Some people use the Hive occasionally.
Some come a few days a week.
Others make it their primary work base.
You can start small and adjust as you go. Flexibility is built in.
Why people choose coworking
People usually come to coworking because it’s a low cost, inclusive way of working that offers the best of independent work: freedom to work as yourself, with company available when you want it.
Often, they’re looking for:
A professional environment outside the home
Better focus and structure
Light, everyday human contact without obligation
A place that respects autonomy as much as connection
That’s what we aim to provide.
A local business enabler
Think of The Business Hive as your local business enabler: a place that supports how you work, without telling you how to be.
If you’re new to coworking, you don’t need confidence or experience to walk through the door. You just need a professional workspace that meets you where you are.
When you need that, we’re here for you.
New to booking rooms with us?
Booking space at The Business Hive is easy to do with our 24/7 online booking system but what’s it actually like? Who shows you around? Can you turn up early? Can someone help me with tech? Find out how we work and what to expect, here.
What to expect at The Business Hive
If you haven’t booked a space with us before, the process is straightforward and designed to give you clarity before you arrive.
Here’s how it works.
How to book
The easiest way to book a space is via our website.
You’ll be able to:
See room capacity and amenities
Check real-time availability
Book instantly for the time you need
For members, space hire is added to your monthly invoice.
For casual users, an invoice is issued at the time of booking and can be paid by bank transfer or card.
If you prefer, you can also:
Email us with what you need and a contact phone number, or
Call us to talk it through
Getting here and getting set up
Parking is available behind our building, on nearby on-street metered parking, or in a nearby council car park.
All rooms are clearly identified by name once you’re inside. If you’ve provided setup instructions, your room will be arranged accordingly and is available from 15 minutes before your booking time.
If you’re unsure where to go when you arrive, our team is on hand to help.
During your booking
Our spaces are scheduled carefully so each booking has the time and attention it needs.
If your session looks like it may run over, let us know before your scheduled finish and we’ll extend your booking where we can - our aim is to avoid rushing you while ensuring any following bookings get our signature high standard of care.
Cancellation policies are clearly outlined at the time of booking, so you know exactly where you stand.
Food, catering and timing considerations
Food and catering can be accommodated with prior notice and agreement.
Because catering involves additional setup, clean-up and spacing between bookings, a minimum 3-hour booking time applies when food is involved. This allows us to prepare the space properly and maintain the standard of experience we aim to provide for everyone using the building.
We’re happy to recommend catering from local providers, and additional spaces can be hired if you need a separate area for catering or social time.
Early access and after-hours use
Early access or after-hours use can sometimes be arranged, depending on availability and the nature of your booking. If this might be useful, call us to make a booking so we can talk through what’s possible.
Technology, guests and accessibility
Room amenities are listed online, and we’re available to help with setup on the day if needed. Our aim is for meetings and sessions to start smoothly, without unnecessary fuss.
Guests are welcome to arrive independently. If there’s anything unusual about timing or access, just let us know in advance.
Our ground-floor spaces are fully accessible, including ramp access, an accessible car park and accessible toilet facilities. First-floor spaces are accessed by stairs only. If you or your guests have accessibility requirements, we’re happy to help you choose the most suitable space.
Privacy and professional use
Our spaces are used every day by local businesses, organisations and professionals for confidential and professional discussions.
They’re set up to be reliable, comfortable and easy to use, without unnecessary complexity.
If you haven’t hired a space with us before, you don’t need to prepare anything beyond knowing what you need the room for. We’ll take care of the rest.
A local business enabler
Think of The Business Hive as your local business enabler - a place that supports how you work, without telling you how to be.
When you need a well-run, professional space, we’re here for you.
Shift Happens
Amanda Fleming - one of Aotearoa’s most respected transformational facilitators - is offering three exclusive half-day workshops in Ōamaru. Designed for busy people who want real tools and big gains, these short-format sessions deliver deep insight, practical skills and the chance to reset with purpose. Places are limited. Don’t miss out.
Introducing - Mini Momentum Builders
NEW! Half-day workshops with Amanda Fleming
“Loved Amanda’s full-day and multi-day intensives? These half-day formats are your chance to top up, reconnect, or dive in for the first time — in bite-sized bursts.”
If you’re already familiar with Amanda Fleming’s work, you’ll recognise this as the win it is.
If you’re not already familiar with her, Amanda is one of New Zealand’s leading transformational facilitators - best known in Waitaki for her organisational facilitation and multi-day intensives that have helped people develop the kinds of interpersonal skills that make high achievers and changemakers deeply effective.
These skills have never been more in demand and Amanda’s 2025-26 schedule is packed.
So, we’re thrilled to have now secured a small handful of half-day session, thanks to her ongoing commitment to local capability building.
Carefully curated and intentionally short, these high-impact sessions offer deep access to the foundations of Amanda’s work - authentic personal development in practice.
You have three distinct chances to learn, grow and reset:
AUGUST 19 - Rolling with the Punches
Staying Steady in a Shifting WorldSEPTEMBER 9 - Pain-Free Presenting (Part One)
The Confidence BuildOCTOBER 21 - Pain-Free Presenting (Part Two)
The Competence Build
We’re hoping more will follow in 2026 - but if you’ve ever thought “I should do one of Amanda’s workshops”, seize this moment, now.
Short sessions. Big gains. Only in Ōamaru.
Shorter formats make places strictly limited. Reserve your space now.
Not all business networking is created equal
Business networking that works - check out our three types of regular networking events and choose which one (or all) that work(s) for you:
The Exchange - Purposeful networking with themed speaker
Industry Co-Labs - connect with others in your industry
BNI - structured referrals
We all know business networking can be a powerful tool for growth—but only when it’s done right.
Too often, it’s reduced to small talk and business cards, with little follow-through or value. Worse, sometimes it’s not even that, but rather an obligation to show up and observe the usual cliques being cliquey.
We believe good networking is about something more: connection, relevance and shared purpose.
That’s why we offer a variety of business networking options, designed to suit different styles and goals.
Exchange: the power of purposeful connection
Our monthly Exchange event is built for those who want more than a handshake and a hello. Held in The Bank, Exchange is a relaxed, after-work event that blends genuine connection with expert insights.
Each month, we invite a local speaker to share their experience or market knowledge, followed by time to ask questions, meet others and explore opportunities.
It’s not about selling—it’s about learning, sharing and moving your business forward with the support of others in the same boat.
BNI: structured referrals that get results
We’re also proud to initiate a local chapter of BNI (Business Network International), the world’s largest structured networking organisation.
BNI is ideal for business owners who want a clear system for referrals, strong accountability and weekly momentum. With over 38 years of results behind it, BNI helps members grow through regular connection, shared goals and a 'giver’s gain' approach.
It’s a format that works—especially for those who thrive on consistency and structure.
Industry Co-Labs: connect with people who get it
Sometimes, you just want to talk to someone who understands your industry.
Industry Co-Labs are informal, sector-based sessions where you can swap stories, test ideas and ask the questions that only peers will understand. It’s a chance to meet others in your field, stay across trends and find potential collaborators—without the pressure of a pitch.
Why it matters
Not all networking event types work for everyone—and that’s okay.
You might not feel super confident about business networking, quite possibly because you’ve had a poor experience or have been given a fixed idea of what it’s “supposed to be”.
We’ve come to understand that a good experience usually comes down to a few key ingredients:
Clear expectations about the type of event you're attending
Good hosting, so you're not left standing around looking at cliques
Recognition that there isn't one right way, you just need to be yourself
Whether you're looking for leads, knowledge or connection, our networking line-up gives you the chance to show up in a way that feels authentic and worthwhile.
Done well, networking can change the course of a business. It’s how we find new opportunities, gain perspective and remember that we’re not doing this alone.
Grow Your Business in 2025 BNI-Style
BNI is the most effective networking organisation we have come across, by far. We’re looking to form a group here in Waitaki and looking for people who great at what they do, focused on growing their business and looking for new opportunities locally. Find out more here.
About a thousand years ago, when I first went out on my own as a copywriter in the UK, I joined a networking organisation that within a year, produced 90% of my revenue. Now I’m going to introduce that organisation to you.
Regular revenue wasn’t the only benefit I gained. I got to work in new ways that developed my craft and I got outstanding business advice that helped me increase my charge-out rate AND my overall profitability.
I was a business of one.
Some people in the group came from far bigger businesses.
All of us turned up week after week because it was REALLY good for business.
Returning to New Zealand I tried some different networking groups - women’s ones, informal ones, breakaway versions of the one I joined in the UK but ultimately the only one that reliably worked for me home in NZ was the one I first found in the UK - BNI.
What I came to recognise is that over four decades, all around the world, across vastly different cultures (including over 25 years in New Zealand), BNI has stuck to its knitting because it works.
It works to grow businesses.
It works to grow expertise.
It works to support incredible connections.
I know from experience that BNI is not a magic bullet for everyone.
But if you’re the sort of person who does what you say you will, are good at what you do, are focussed on growing your business and looking for some new opportunities - it could be for you.
If you’d like to know more, fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch.
Professional Workspaces Useful to Businesses
Remote working has a whole range of benefits. Post-pandemic numbers of people ‘working from home’ are still multiple times higher than pre-pandemic. But working from home has its down-sides. Coworking may be the real hybrid solution you’re after.
The era of remote working is far from over. With increasing cost pressures on businesses and workers, real estate costs could be a huge factor in how and where we work in the future.
Last month, Apollo Technical reviewed the work-from-home trend and concluded that it’s here to stay. It’s fair to say that some of the data they cited dates back to 2020 and 2021 which we have to recognise as peak work-from-home era thanks to old mate, global pandemic.
Headlines towards the end of last year captured the might of big global companies forcing workers to return to the office including Amazon, Microsoft, Disney, UPS, Boeing, Google, Meta and Zoom (yes, that video communications company, Zoom).
Look a little closer and those headlines generally referred to a two or three-day-a-week return, not a full-time return, making hybrid working (partly remote, partly on-site) increasingly common.
In NZ, Seek’s stats showed 8.9% of Kiwi job ads indicated that the role could be done from home. Pre-pandemic, very few of us worked from home. The industry breakdown of remote workers is as you’d expect - white collar desk-based workers by far leading the trend.
What is more interesting for regional towns like ours is that InternetNZ’s Internet Insights Survey at about the same time, suggested that half of Kiwis whose jobs allow work-from-home would consider moving somewhere if they could relocate their current job.
Turns out, New Zealand is the top destination for digital nomads in Australia. A digital nomad is someone who has the ability to work from anywhere. We are still the world’s best country for life-work balance according to Remote’s ranking of the world’s top 60 GDP countries. We have at least one digital nomad working from our place regularly, their employer being off-shore.
Hybrid working (being part-time office-based) may not easily work for people based in Ōamaru if the company is in Auckland but hey, if they’re in Dunedin or Timaru - at least a day a week here in town with us makes sense for both parties in terms of cost and travel time (that’s productivity, right there).
We’ve also hosted many people who are managing to move between towns and cities on at least a semi-regular basis. There’s no question that Waitaki offers a host of attractions that benefits remote workers who can be paid city-rates and enjoy the best of what our region has to offer.
Another group of our regulars live just far enough outside of town that they have to rely on expensive rural or satellite internet. That won’t last forever (the pricing will get increasingly competitive) but in the meantime, a membership at our place is a fraction of the cost, more reliable and likely, faster.
We’ve looked into it and there’s easily ten good reasons people here and everywhere choose to work out of places like ours - and that’s before you even factor in company’s ongoing operatoinal costs. Check them out.
Increased Productivity
Coworking environments often lead to higher productivity levels. The presence of others working alongside you can create a motivating atmosphere and reduce distractions.Enhanced Focus
The structured environment of a coworking space helps improve concentration. With dedicated areas for focused work and professional surroundings, it becomes easier to stay on task.Boosted Creativity
Collaboration and idea-sharing in coworking spaces can spark creativity. Diverse perspectives and spontaneous brainstorming sessions often lead to innovative solutions and new ideas.Networking Opportunities
Coworking spaces provide access to a broad network of professionals. This networking can lead to valuable connections, partnerships and business opportunities.Reduced Feelings of Isolation
Working alone can be isolating. Coworking spaces offer a sense of community and interaction, helping to combat loneliness and create a supportive work environment.Access to Resources and Amenities
Coworking spaces often come with professional amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and office equipment. These resources enhance your work experience without the overhead costs.Cost-Effective Solutions
Renting space in a coworking environment is typically more affordable than maintaining a private office - even one at home. It offers flexible plans and scalability, reducing operational costs.Work-Life Balance
Coworking spaces help maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life. The professional setting aids in creating a routine and a clear separation from home responsibilities.Opportunities for Learning and Development
Many coworking spaces offer workshops, events, and networking activities that can contribute to personal and professional growth. This fosters continuous learning and skill development.Increased Flexibility
Coworking spaces often provide flexible membership plans, allowing you to choose the level of access that suits your needs. This flexibility helps accommodate various work styles and schedules.
So if any of that sounds like a little bit of what you need, check out our website and talk to us. The way we work has changed. A professional environment is a real asset - it just doesn’t have to be in the same place as the company or even in the same place all the time. Can your business afford not to be flexible?
Microsoft Skills Training
If you or someone in your team needs some help to become more proficient with Microsoft tools, we may have the solution for you. Local training that saves you money? Check it out here.
Training staff definitely costs but possibly not as much as the productivity deficit when your team isn’t using their tools most efficiently. That’s why we’ve found a trainer who is willing to come to Oamaru to deliver first class Microsoft skills training.
All we have to do is put enough people in the room to make it worth their while. So, if you or someone in your team needs to upskill, let us know using the form below.
Once we get an idea of who needs what, we can start to put together a training plan that will save everyone a bit of coin.
Industry Co-Labs
The Business Hive is launching a series of Industry Co-Labs to give local and independent businesses the opportunity to network with allied professionals in your industry.
Let us know what industry you’re interested in connecting with, and we’ll get you connected.
The Business Hive is launching a series of Industry Co-Labs to give local and independent businesses the opportunity to network with allied professionals in your industry. Knowing who does (and doesn't) do what is a huge asset when you're looking for a partner in a project, or a (sub)contractor with a specific skill set.
So, let us know what industry you’re in and interested in connecting with, and we’ll keep you in the loop!
Young Enterprise Scheme
We’re inviting community to help support our young people who undertake the Young Enterprise Scheme programme which gives them a chance to start and run a business during the school year.
Learn about the programme and how you could get involved here.
On Thursday 26th October we hosted a community discussion around the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) - a programme that’s been running for 40 years, usually via New Zealand high schools.
It’s a programme that our local schools have found difficult to reliably deliver in Waitaki. We get it, regional schools have to ‘cut their cloth’ with their resources which affects the programmes they can provide. And, let’s face it - if business isn’t your passion, it’s always going to be harder to inspire young people to push through the hard bits that we all experience.
YES is not an academic exercise (although it can give academic credits). It's a real-world business opportunity and we can help our youth succeed with wrap around support - that means you!
Which is why we hosted that community discussion - to see if our community has an appetite for supporting the YES programme more directly.
Gratifyingly, everyone in the room was willing to get involved and support YES in our schools. BUT, it has to be said, there were no young people in attendance.
As a community, I have no doubt that we can help drive an enterprising spirit in our young people; already lots of good ideas were mentioned. The question has to be how important is it to us, to do this?
YES provides our young people with an opportunity to learn about business and gain a bunch of essential skills along the way. They won’t all succeed. Some of them will drop out. Every one of them will learn something about the world and themselves. Some might be exceptional.
So without pressure, we’re asking you to tell us what you are happy to do, to help develop young entrepreneurs locally - all the while knowing it’s all (ultimately) in their hands to try and / or succeed.
Download a summation of our discussion here. Tell us if and how you want to be involved by taking our survey here.
Every generation has the same complaints about the newest one… plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose!
Career Catalyst - Igniting Career Potential
Struggling to find suitably skilled people? So are many. We know they’re out there but it is time to look harder at what people can offer. Join us for this expert presentation on how to find the hidden talent in your job applicants as well as your existing team.
Let’s talk about talent, the very real competition for it in Waitaki at the moment and how we can more effectively unlock the potential in our existing community.
Three things happened in close succession in August.
Business South’s Waitaki Pathways Leadership Breakfast had schools, businesses and agencies gather to discuss ways to attract talent to a hugely diverse range of sectors, now and in the near future.
Waitaki App’s survey of 42 job listings on Waitaki App indicated that just three vacancies had found their perfect matches.
Infometrics released the June 2023 quarter employment data for Waitaki.
Bottom line, recruitment relief is nowhere in sight - check out the data below.
We all know that doing the same thing and expecting a different result doesn’t work. We’ve got to look harder for the hidden gold in the people we have!
That’s why we’ve asked Jenny Bean, Ōamaru’s only professional Career Development Association of New Zealand (CDANZ) member, to lend us her expertise and help us understand how to uncover hidden capability in candidates’ as well as existing employees’ CVs.
This will be a fast-paced presentation followed by an informal Q&A. We’re so pleased Jenny’s agreed to do this for us - don’t miss this opportunity.
Introducing…
Career Catalyst: Igniting Career Potential
This is a one-hour expert presentation designed to empower local businesses and local people to unlock their own and others’ hidden potential.
What You'll Gain:
Learn how to identify the career potential in yourself, your existing team and job applicants.
Discover the strategies to better recognise as well as present indicators of hidden potential.
Understand how to harness principles of career development to elevate your own, your team member’s or your loved ones’ pitch for that new role or promotion.
Who Should Attend:
This presentation is a must for employers, employees, parents and young people alike. Whether you're seeking to support your team’s growth, advance your career or more effectively guide your child's career journey, this session is for you.
Join Us for the Presentation:
DATE: Tuesday 5th September
TIME: 5.15pm
VENUE: The Business Hive, 120 Thames St, Ōamaru
Don't miss this opportunity to ignite the career potential in the people you have and more effectively source the people you need!
Jenny Bean
MIntSec (Distinction), BA, Dip, MBTI Practitioner, Hogan’s Interpreter, CDANZ Professional
Jenny’s trade and passion is developing people – changing the way people think, how they behave and the results they get in their lives.
Her expertise lies in talent management and talent development, with over 20 years’ experience in career coaching, career assessment and group facilitation work. She is excited by developing strong and thriving organisational and team cultures, working with organisations in change and helping people in transition.
Her credentials include a Master's degree in international security (with Distinction), a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Sociology), a Diploma in Career Guidance at Level 6 and a National Certificate in First Line Management at Level 4 and a whole bunch of other really cool stuff.
Jenny is additionally a certified MBTI® Practitioner, a qualified Hogan's Interpreter and a professional member of the Career Development Association of New Zealand (CDANZ).
She loves being back in Oamaru with her family and of being of service to the community.
Infometrics’ key employment indicators.
In Waitaki, employment growth surged by 3.1% year on year, outpacing the national trend (2.6%). Our unemployment rate of just 2.4% is at a near 10-year low, well below the national average (3.4%), while jobseeker support recipients have dropped 12% in Waitaki, reflecting a national trend but at almost double the pace (6.6% reduction nationally). Prefer images? See the data below.
For the full story, click here.
Employment growth outpaces the national average.
Unemployment sits well below the national average.
Jobseeker support recipients reduced by almost double the national average.
Looking for a job or know someone who is?
Do you require help creating a CV? Do you need advice on cover letters or interviews? Do you lack confidence approaching employers?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then Dawn and Sandra from Workbridge would love to hear from you 😊
Could you use a hand in creating a CV? Do you need advice on cover letters or interviews? Do you lack confidence approaching employers?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then Dawn and Sandra from Workbridge would love to hear from you 😊
And the GREAT news is that they are at The Business Hive every Monday from 11am to 12pm!
What does Workbridge do? They link the right people to the right jobs, matching abilities with employment. They do this at no cost for jobseekers or employers and also provide up to 24 months of support to find and remain in work.
Workbridge specialises in working with people with health, learning or disability related problems.
Come over and have a chat with Dawn or Sandra! Simply flick them a text or give them a ring to let them know you’re coming and pop in on Monday between 11am and 12pm at The Business Hive.
Phone: Sandra 021 190 2418 or Dawn 021 442 725
Email: sandraf@workbridge.co.nz or dawne@workbridge.co.nz
The Business Hive - 120 Thames Street, Oamaru (next to Countdown)
The future is literally... in your hands! With the robots at your fingertips!
Let's chat Chat GPT. If you haven't heard of it, it's the Artificial Intelligence (AI) rock star of the moment… and it’s already changed your actual world (not just the way you view it).
Brace yourself, the speed of evolution is going to be epic.
Let's chat ChatGPT. If you haven't heard of it, it's the Artificial Intelligence (AI) rock star of the moment… and it intends to, is about to, has already changed your actual world (not just the way you view it).
We’ve been playing with ChatGPT for a while now and by playing, I mean refining our questioning skills.
Simply put, it is the current AI leader in a class of at least 31. That class will very quickly become a class of many, many, many. Brace yourself, the speed of evolution is going to be epic.
Why should we care about AI? It’s been coming since forever…
We should care because the future is right here in our hot little hands now… and it’s a time and money spinner!
Today, chatting with one of our fabulous Hive members, we wondered if it could write grant applications.
Together, we posed the first question by typing in the following;
"Can you write a grant for lotteries for [charitable cause] funding in Waitaki?"
Response "As an AI language model, I can provide guidance on how to write a grant proposal, but I cannot write the proposal for you. Here are the general steps you can take to write a proposal for funding…"
That was a “no”, then. But as I mentioned, I’ve been “playing”… Second question;
"[charitable cause website url] can you write a proposal for money?"
Same response.
Third question;
"What's a good argument for funding for [charitable cause website url]?"
And boom;
"There are many compelling arguments for funding [charitable cause name]. Here are a few:..."
And it wrote seven, coherent and compelling reasons.
Then I asked it for statistics.
It gave me some.
Then I asked it for references for those statistics.
It broke.
Temporarily.
A couple of minutes later I tried again. It gave me five. Four from the website I'd provided and one from another site.
Better than your average 12 year old? Yes..
Better than your average over-worked, not-for-profit grant application writer? It still needs checking and refining but it’s fairly solid bit of writing… and guess what - it took seconds!
Reality check, if you think AI can’t replace you, you might be kidding yourself. It’s at least as good as the average human at lots of things already.
It’s learning mastery, astoundingly quickly and not just the world’s mainstream stuff. Dr Karaitiana Taiuru, Mātauranga and Tikanga Māori Ethicist wrote about how capable (and not) its responses regarding mātauranga (Māori knowledge) were back in January - that’s like three centuries ago in AI years!
Where we people get the win is in using it. There’s a thing called “overemployed” where people work multiple full-time jobs for multiple full-time salaries and tools like ChatGPT are helping them do it.
No wonder Elon Musk is already re-planning his own version. The irony isn’t lost in that he was a co-founder of ChatGPT’s maker-company Open AI, until he stepped down in 2018. He won’t be kicking himself though, I’m not sure that man ever looks back.
So here’s the kicker for us.
ChatGPT is free.
It’s kicking us forward whether we like it or not.
It does a passably good enough job for many things already and it’s only going to get better.
Our job is to learn to ask the right questions and be thoroughly discerning about its responses.
It’s our job to think, AI’s job to be a tool. Get playing. It’ll surprise you and I think you’ll be amazed at the value-add too. Check it out. You’re welcome.
Why coworking spaces like ours really matter!
[…] the three pieces of necessary infrastructure that rural communities need for thriving digital economy ecosystems;
broadband,
coworking and entrepreneurship spaces,
and local leadership capacity.
It's gratifying because that's the heart of our actual business - not in theory but in practice...
You likely know the story of how The Business Hive started... me a recently-landed freelancer needing to find people like me when we first arrived. You might not know that I'm a perpetual student - last year, I completed a degree in why our kind of business infrastructure is so critical in communities like ours. I got a distinction - which is not so much a testament to my academic prowess but our passion.
A couple of years ago, I read this article which (for once) described the wellbeing and economic impacts of coworking-type spaces in plain english. It's from the Center on Rural Innovation in the US - a country that's becoming expert at fighting failing small town economies. What's particularly gratifying to us is that they identified the three pieces of necessary infrastructure that rural communities need for thriving digital economy ecosystems;
broadband,
coworking and entrepreneurship spaces,
and local leadership capacity.
It's gratifying because that's the heart of our actual business - not in theory but in practice...
the high-speed broadband that often our rural communities can't access from home,
the space for people to work, meet, engage and inspire new opportunities and new partnerships,
and Amanda Fleming - one of New Zealand's leading transformational facilitators, and her ground-breaking professional development programmes (yes, including leadership).
There's heaps of research before and since then, a recent one is from January this year - the Journal of Rural Studies published a largely British-based research paper confirming the importance of coworking spaces in rural communities there. What's clear from the research is that, all over the world, people (including local authorities) are starting to wake up to the ongoing benefits in their communities. So a huge thanks to everyone who's been supporting us - you are genuinely supporting our whole community - which is also our reason for being!
Monthly, Friday Free-for-All - Work from our place FREE
Need a change of scene, join us on the last Friday of every month - completely free. You just make yourself at home, help yourself to a cuppa and stretch those social muscles a little bit while getting some work done.
Every last Friday of the month is Friday Free for All, that means if you’re a remote worker, freelancer, business owner or contractor - you’re invited to come in and enjoy our communal business lounge, The Bank, for FREE!
Come in, plug in and connect. It couldn’t be simpler.
This is your chance to leave your home office for the day, come use this incredible space, catch up with like-minds and remind us about what you do and the clients you’re looking for.
We believe the more connected we are, the more work opportunities we can share and that helps everyone to get more work that falls into their sweet spot.
There’s no catch to this offer but we do strongly encourage you to sign up to our portal and add your details to our directory (get step by step instructions here). That way more of our members will be able to see what you offer, 24/7. 🐝
Want to know more? Just get in touch.
Waitaki and the Land of App
Once upon a time in a land called Waitaki (ok, January 2022 to be precise), a local woman (called Pip Sutton of Sport Waitaki) sent an email to gauge interest in a database of events / activities that happen in the Waitaki. Long story short, last month we launched it. It’s called Waitaki App and we think it’s a game-changer!
Once upon a time in a land called Waitaki (ok, January 2022 to be precise), a local woman (called Pip Sutton of Sport Waitaki) sent an email to gauge interest in a database of events / activities that happen in the Waitaki. Long story short, last month we launched it. It’s called Waitaki App and we think it’s a game-changer!
Short story, long… Pip’s email said, “At the moment nearly all of you have your own events page going and then there are multi Facebook groups that post things etc.. It is everywhere and difficult to manage for ourselves to ensure there are no clashes but also for people to know what really is going on in the community. I was wondering if we could have a chat about this sometime to discuss options moving forward?”.
Now Pip wasn’t the first person to raise the subject. She was right about the need but people had attempted solutions many times, long before we arrived and after - including us.
Back in November 2019, I started the Waitaki Events Calendar on Facebook after Mel Jones (then Business Development Manager at Tourism Waitaki) and I had chatted about the very same problem - no central community diary - to;
a) know what’s going on, or
b) avoid clashes when planning an event.
That idea was that everyone who was hosting an event on Facebook could co-host with the Waitaki Event Calendar, so that it would become a default directory of everything going on (at least, everything going on in Facebook land). I passed Waitaki Event Calendar to the hands of Tourism Waitaki but neither they, nor we, had budget to widely promote it.
What happened in March 2020? Oh yeah. Covid-19. Lockdowns. Restrictions.
Events? Not so much.
Budget to promote? Not so much.
Tourism in Waitaki? Not so much.
Look, the Waitaki Events Calendar page has quietly sat there, attracted a thousand followers but its never been taken up by community hearts and minds.
Back to Pip’s group… in February 2022, we had our first meeting. Lots of previous attempts were discussed. Suggestions were made but the longest memories in the room swatted most of them away as having already been tried (and failed).
March 2022, we met again. Pip’s email summed it up nicely, “For those that weren’t in the meeting, we discussed a range of things which was great. We have decided that it needs to be independent of anyone in terms of a business, council etc.. That it needs to have a website component of it to be sustainable with the moving times and not part of a fad”.
She shared the app we’d discussed as being a good example of what we might ultimately aspire to have - iAppDesktop (centralapp.nz) - noting that “we have decided that we need to keep it simple at first to make it sustainable and maybe look at adding to it later as things progress”.
April 2022, Pip was incapacitated by Covid and unable to initiate our scheduled online meeting. By May, the group’s interest was elsewhere (although Rebecca Finlay of Business South, Pip and I did manage to have a three-person discussion on it).
I picked up the phone and called the app’s contact / owner, Tony of Wānaka App. Turned out, a license for an Oamaru or Waitaki or North Otago version had already been distributed. However, Tony said he’d contact that person and and see if they were open to him passing me their details. They were. He did. I rang.
Boom. Meet Vicki McLean of Central App and… licence holder of (what’s become) Waitaki App. She would be coming through Oamaru in May and was happy to meet with Pip’s group.
Pip and I met with Vicki. Good yarns. Dan (Lewis, Real Radio) jumped in for the next conversation.
What Pip’s group had already recognised was that we could go small and hope community grew an acorn into an oak, or go big and find a way to fund it. The in-between solutions had never worked. Frankly the small ones hadn’t either.
So if it was to be a go big solution, it needed a sustainable funding model and Vicki had one. Central App has been a resounding success, growing from a one-person operation when Vicki acquired it to now employing a full team of local journalists, admin staff and salespeople.
Things started to look doable. You know, there’s a magic that happens around the table when collective outcome is more important than personal gain. Vicki wanted the app to be locally run and championed, and was keen to find partners. Dan and I were keen to collaborate on a solution that would actually work and sustainably deliver.
Pip’s group had identified that a community diary would be at longer-term risk if it was an add-on to an existing business because the calendar function would necessarily be secondary to the organisation’s core goals.
The Central App provided a business model where a core function of the business is providing that community calendar. It was successfully delivering what we were all looking for - because it was central to its primary purpose of being.
It’s been months in the making and that’s months of hard work and long hours behind the scenes but it’s finally here… and it’s all here. We’ve backed the app to deliver. We have Ashley Smyth on board as our head of news (as everyone has told us, that’s “such a coup” and we think so too). We’re already recruiting for additional admin.
So now it’s up to you and our wider community. Download the app. Tell your mates. Add your information for FREE listings; your clubs and groups and of course the ‘What’s On Guide’.
Advertising is what pays the wages and we’ve launched paid for listings that start from just $19 per week. We’re asking businesses to sign up, knowing they’ll have a dedicated local audience and simultaneously be sponsoring community connectivity for all of us.
So, just in time for summer you get to join us in the Land of App. Waitaki App, that is. This is your last best chance for that elusive community diary. We can see its success in Wānaka, Queenstown and Southland. Now’s the time to get on board. Check out our slideshow below for more.
Is it burnout? Is it loneliness? No. It’s a need for respite.
I feel like I want a conversation that’s not about work, not about our business, not about Waitaki App and definitely not about what anyone else needs me to do for them.
Burnout?
Nah.
Just the cost of working from home.
Let me explain.
It’s been a week. Our dog is back in a cone and I’m working my butt off – at home! To be honest, it’s starting to feel weirdly familiar and not in a good way…
I feel like I want a conversation that’s not about work, not about our business, not about Waitaki App and definitely not about what anyone else needs me to do for them.
Burnout?
Nah.
Just the cost of working from home.
Let me explain.
I’m really good at keeping my own company. Most people know me as an extravert but life as a copywriter (my former career) is one of introversion – days spent sitting in your own thoughts and finessing the right words.
Yes, as a copywriter I’d talk to clients - intensely questioning them to fully understand their business, or more lightly (but very specifically) questioning so I could put together an estimate for the job.
Yes, I’d talk to project partners; other copywriters, web developers, graphic designers, printers – discussing what they needed from me and when, or vice versa.
Yes, I’d talk to suppliers – what I needed from them, when it would be available, how much it would cost.
At the literal end of the day, I’d be exhausted from all that intensity and task focus and I bet you know someone just like that. I’d have been juggling the laundry, planning tonight’s dinner and doing some housework partly because it needed to be done and partly because I just needed something a bit easier to do and / or think about.
This week, I’m necessarily focused. We’re launching Waitaki App very soon. I’m doing my best to deliver some digital learning. I’m doing my best to wear my many hats.
On Tuesday afternoon, I popped down to The Business Hive (breaking my dog sitting routine) for a meeting and to see if our place suited an (awesome) local author for his book launch. I had to be there to deliver our Digital Boost programme that evening and the plan was for Alex to scoot home to keep an eye on the pup.
I arrived feeling knackered and somewhat emotional. That was weird.
First thing out of my mouth was oversharing (I do do that anyway but this was in a “she really needs to get out more” kind of way).
First order of business; would we like to donate some space for a community initiative?
There was a discussion about other people’s stuff.
Then the meeting.
Then show author around.
That’s when I clocked it.
Having a cup of coffee and a chat with this author about his story, sharing reminiscences of India, how he started, some thoughts he had about how you set about writing a book and how publishing works... bingo... a conversation that wasn’t about work but rather about something that sparked passion in him... that’s what I’d been missing. Thank you Dr. David Whittet.
I think we all need connection. That’s not about loneliness or not being able to stand your own company. It’s about getting out of our own heads for a bit and finding some relief.
Anyone who works on their own, remotely or in a small team will likely recognise this truth; all work and no play makes Jack or Jill a very blunt tool.
That’s what coworking spaces are designed for. Yes, work. Yes, chatting with colleague-types, client-types and supplier-types. Also yes - getting that respite from spending too long in our own heads.
If you’re working for yourself or remotely, remember that every last Friday of the month is Free-lance Friday at ours. That means you’re welcome to come in and work from The Bank and it won’t cost you a cent. We’re a business that was founded for community and we (especially given my feelings this week) consider Freelance Fridays to be an essential investment in community wellbeing.
We have two more coming up this year, on November 25th and December 16th. So if you find yourself feeling like “you need to get out more”, do it. Pop in, try us out, get some work done and shake out your headspace.
As for Dr. David Whittet, author? Well, he’s written his second novel, ‘The Road to Madhapur’ (the first one, ‘Gang Girl’ was widely acclaimed) and he will be launching it at our place on Tuesday, November 29th. If you’d like to come, you can register here.
Meantime, take care of yourselves out there.
Cara
Pop Up Food Truck = Thursday Yum!
Hankering for something a bit different for lunch? “That Food Guy” is bringing his food truck experience to The Business Hive. Get all the details here.
Lunch time’s getting even better at The Business Hive. Starting next month, Mark Townsend AKA “That Food Guy” will be bringing his food truck to our back door. A regular at our local Farmer’s Market, Mark will be offering his legendary food including Banh Mi and BBQ Pulled Pork sandwiches on Thursdays.
Thai Spiced Lamb Bahm Mi | That Food Guy
BBQ Pulled Pork & Sesame Slaw Roll | That Food Guy
Lunch at our place is a blend of supporting local cafes, home-made sandwiches or last night’s leftovers. You’ll get no complaints from us - it’s inevitably delicious.
Every now and then though, we get a hankering for something a bit different. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that “That Food Guy” will be dishing up his (outstanding) take on lunch from our place one day a week.
Starting Thursday 24th November, “That Food Guy” will be parking their food truck at our kitchen door - open for business. He’ll be there each Thursday until December 22nd (and if everything goes well, we hope to have him back next year).
The food truck will be open to everyone each Thursday from around 11.30am until the food runs out. Don’t want to miss out? Order ahead of time online for collection.
"The Future of Work is Flexible"
In the war for talent, remote working might be a dealmaker. Check out the latest research on what Kiwi office workers think about working remotely some or all of the time.
This week, Employment Hero released their Remote Work Report. Obviously, we’re interested - we are all about remote work. Likely you will be interested too; whether you’re an employer or an employee because the “future of work is flexible”.
Here’s the headline - “less than half of New Zealand’s employees have fully returned to the office”. Wowser, worse than the number of kids not returning to school! Actually, it’s ‘knowledge workers’ specifically that haven’t returned to offices and that’s defined as “workers with jobs which require them to work primarily on a computer or with documentation, rather than a job which is predominantly physical or location-bound”.
Here’s the rub though… If you thought that let your business off the hook, the survey respondents came from a whole range of industries. Even restaurants, factories and shops can have office-based staff.
So, what’s the story?
Essentially, 40% of NZ knowledge workers “have embraced a hybrid working arrangement, and 21% work remotely all of the time”. Is it popular? All indications say yes, 81% of Kiwi knowledge workers “would consider working remotely permanently from now on”.
Given the skills shortage, the rising costs of living (and commuting), flexibility around where a person works from could be a dealmaker.
Employment Hero’s research showed 89% of respondents would work remotely at least one day a week. Here’s the clincher – 48% of people who were already working remotely at least some of the time, said they would consider quitting their job if their employers forced them back to the office full-time.
We’ve all seen the research around four-day weeks and increased productivity (if not, Google it, it’s massive). Remote working can also provide improvements in productivity and quality of work.
There is a question of age. The 18-24 year olds were 24% more likely than average to say they were happy to work remotely every day. Those aged 55+ were 80% more likely to say they wouldn’t choose to work remotely at all. It’s that elusive thing, work-life balance (at least that’s what my generation used to call it, younger generations call it ‘life’).
According to Employment Hero, 39% of the surveyed employees had returned to the office at the directive of their employer, but that’s not the only reason. Some people missed the office buzz; 25% of those returning said it was for the culture and 17% was because they were feeling isolated.
The reality check is that on an individual level, people have all sorts of reasons to want to work remotely. We see a real mix at The Business Hive. We see some people only in the school holidays because a) they’re visiting from out of town and leaving the kids with the grandies or b) they’re seeking refuge (from the kids at home) to get some work done.
While some of our people find being in a professional environment helps them focus on work, others come for the sociability or a mix of the two. The great thing is we have spaces for both – focused work with an extra screen in a quieter zone or a more social environment with an eye to everyone’s favourite gathering spot (when you want to be social) – our enormous kitchen island!
The trick for employers is going to be figuring out what your employees want and how often. Businesses are only going to save on overheads if they have flexibility in their property arrangements. A floor of mostly empty desks costs about the same to run as a floor at full capacity.
Equally, employees who shoulder the cost of working remotely (power, IT, heating, printing etc…) can’t claim those costs back in the same way self-employed people can. No business wants to pay twice.
The Remote Work Report also considers how remote work impacts on marginalised people and their perceptions of equity (remote working seems to be better for them) and what impact automation and AI (artificial intelligence) might have (we aren’t ready to trust it entirely).
In all, it’s worth a read. The difference in attitudes by age could indicate stage of life but it could also be tipping a nod to the way of work in the future. With the skills shortage impacting everywhere – the fight for the best people might yet come down to changing our expectations on the way they should work.
3 Steps for Life
3 Steps for Life is designed to give all of use the confidence and awareness to take action when somebody suffers a cardiac arrest. Did you know community help can double survival? Read on because classes are free…
Take 3 Steps for Life… and Save One!
3 Steps for Life is designed to give all of use the confidence and awareness to take action when somebody suffers a cardiac arrest.
Did you know community help can double survival?
Read on. We have a defibrillator at The Business Hive and we think we should know how to use it. So we’re donating our venue for the cause and arranging a 3 Steps for Life Awareness Session and you’re invited. We don’t have a time or date yet… but sign up to this list and we’ll let you know when we hear back. If there’s enough of you - we might run a couple.
Details below.
Cara & Alex
