Election 2026
Election years bring greater focus to the decisions, policies and economic settings that shape the business environment.
In the lead-up to the 2026 general election, this series of events is designed to help you better understand what’s changing, what’s being debated, and what it could mean in practice for your organisation.
Budget 2026 Events
Beyond the headlines: what Budget 2026 really means for business
What will Budget 2026 mean for business confidence, growth, hiring and the wider economy?
If you want straight talk, smart analysis, and practical insight, this is the event to attend.
Brought to you in conjunction with 2degrees and featuring our expert panel, Cameron Bagrie, Amanda Millar and Anita Murdoch, moderated by Jessica Mutch McKay, they’ll unpack the announcements, the politics behind them, and the real-world implications for New Zealand businesses.
What will Budget 2026 mean for business confidence, growth, hiring and the wider economy?
If you want straight talk, smart analysis, and practical insight, this is the event to attend.
Brought to you in conjunction with 2degrees and featuring our expert panel, Cameron Bagrie, Amanda Millar and Anita Murdoch, moderated by Jessica Mutch McKay, they’ll unpack the announcements, the politics behind them, and the real-world implications for New Zealand businesses.
Post Budget Lunch with Hon. Nicola Willis
Join us for premium post Budget lunch with Finance Minister Hon. Nicola Willis following the delivery of Budget 2026.
This Budget carries particular significance for business leaders; it will signal the Government’s economic priorities, fiscal direction and policy agenda at a time when confidence, investment decisions and operating costs remain under pressure.
Seats are limited and demand is expected to be strong. Early registration is recommended.
Hear Directly from Political Leaders
Beehive to Business with Qiulae Wong
Join us on 22 July 2026 where Qiulae Wong will share her views on the forces shaping New Zealand’s future, and the role business can play within a changing economic, environmental, and social landscape. Qiulae brings an extensive background in business, sustainability, and systems change to the role. Her career spans work across purpose-led organisations, ethical business, and professional services both in New Zealand and internationally. With specific experience in innovation, social impact, and economic reform, Qiulae is focused on moving past short-term political cycles to help shape a more forward-looking future for Aotearoa New Zealand.
Beehive to Business with Rt Hon Winston Peters
This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the Rt Hon Winston Peters, Leader of the New Zealand First Party, about their specific party policy and direction. During the session, Mr Peters will outline the New Zealand First Party’s core priorities heading into the election, focusing on a policy approach centred on economic resilience, regional growth, and infrastructure investment. He will share his perspective on the specific opportunities and challenges currently facing New Zealand businesses, particularly around navigating regulatory frameworks and expanding export growth. Additionally, he will discuss the critical role traditional industries and local enterprises play in building a stable, self-reliant, and competitive economy for the future.
Capital Connection: An hour with the Prime Minister
Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Pax8 are proud to host the Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon.
Join Business Central and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce for an exclusive breakfast event featuring Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon in conversation with Hayley Horan, Chief Executive of Business Central.
Set within the iconic Banquet Hall at Parliament, this special event offers members and the wider business community a rare opportunity to hear directly from New Zealand's leader in a professionally moderated fireside chat.
Unlike a traditional keynote speech, this event has been designed as a genuine conversation. The discussion will be informed by the experiences, perspectives, and questions submitted by Business Central and Wellington Chamber members, helping to ensure the topics explored reflect the realities, opportunities, and challenges facing our business community today.
Coming up later in the year
Rt Hon Winston Peters, Leader of NZ First, coming August 2026
More details and ticket releases coming soon.
In case you missed it
Qiulae Wong, Leader of the Opportunity Party (TOP)
Watch the full event here with the Opportunity Party Leader
Chlöe Swarbrick, Leader of the Green Party
Watch to the full event here with the Green's Co-Leader
Beyond the headlines: what Budget 2026 really means for business
Read the summary of our panel discussion
Rt Hon. Chris Hipkins, Leader of the Opposition
Watch to the full event here with the Labour Party Leader
Hon. David Seymour, Leader of the Act Party
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