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.
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)
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.
Stronger Waitaki Economic Development Working Group
Blair Middlemass, Business Lending Specialist at ANZ joined us for the Stronger Waitaki Economic Development Working Group with an update on business banking.
ANZ is also hosting a free series of workshops to support business owners.
Blair Middlemass, Business Lending Specialist at ANZ joined us for the Stronger Waitaki Economic Development Working Group last Wed, 24th August with an update on business banking. Some key insights are below.
Oamaru is holding well compared to the financial variability seen in other parts.
Through Covid, people have stayed employed however we can expect to see people moving off shore again.
The key challenge locally is staff shortages and difficulty attracting people.
Banks shorter hours means more 0800 and website contact is on the increase.
CCCFA changes have put lending under more scrutiny, needing extra effort around disclosure and the need to protect vulnerable customers - this has slowed the speed of transactions.
Of importance for business customers is to be prepared to make an extra effort and to deal with product specialists rather than your (pre-Covid) go-to contact at your bank.
ANZ is also offering a range of FREE workshops and events to support business owners: from how to create a business plan for start-ups all the way to how to be an effective business leader and how to navigate cyber security and financial risks and everything in between.
Simply register for the workshop you’re interested in and attend online:
www.anz.co.nz/business/bizhub/workshops
Don’t forget that Digital Boost is also offering FREE training videos and Q&A sessions to help get your business online at digitalboost.business.govt.nz. Topics range from websites and social media to online productivity and accounting tools, e-marketing and much more.
The next Stronger Waitaki Economic Development Working Group will be on Wednesday 19th October. If you would like to attend and / or receive the minutes, please email the chairperson, Cara Tipping Smith at cara@thebusinesshive.co.nz.