Confidence bouncing back

A Chamber of Commerce survey of businesses in the northern region suggests business confidence is improving following a dramatic fall last quarter.

When questioned on their view whether the general business situation in New Zealand would improve or deteriorate over the next six months, businesses showed a marked improvement from November’s nett -13 per cent result, to now show a 50/50 split between those who thought things would improve or deteriorate.

Northland Chamber chief executive Tony Collins said it may be a sign of business coming to grips with the new government and the sentiment it was providing.

“Nevertheless, central government still has plenty of work to do to restore confidence within sections of the business community, with 21 per cent of those surveyed still believing things will deteriorate over the next six months,” he said.

The survey also revealed that employers were continuing to have difficulty finding the right people with the right skills.

“Nearly half of all businesses surveyed said it was now harder to find skilled or specialist staff than before the election. This should be of concern to the Minister of Immigration,” he added.

Survey respondents also highlighted immigration as one of the most important factors affecting future business success in the region.