NZ Pro-business Govt Incentives

rainbows.txt

1. Financial Assistance Programs

a. Regional Business Partner Network (RBP Network)

	•	What it is: A government-funded network providing support to small and medium-sized businesses.
	•	How it helps: Offers free or subsidized advisory services, including financial planning, cash flow management, and business mentoring.
	•	How to access: Visit www.regionalbusinesspartners.co.nz to find your local Growth Advisor in Auckland.

b. Business Debt Hibernation (BDH)

	•	What it is: A scheme that allows businesses to place their existing debts on hold for up to seven months.
	•	How it helps: Gives you time to manage cash flow without the immediate pressure of debt repayments.
	•	How to access: Information is available on the Companies Office website at companiesoffice.govt.nz.

c. Inland Revenue (IRD) Support

	•	What it is: Tax relief and income assistance for businesses facing financial hardship.
	•	How it helps: Options include setting up payment plans for tax debts, relief from penalties and interest, and tailored tax codes.
	•	How to access: Contact IRD directly at 0800 377 774 or visit www.ird.govt.nz.

2. Advisory and Mentoring Services

a. Business Mentors New Zealand

	•	What it is: A non-profit organization offering mentoring services to small business owners.
	•	How it helps: Connects you with an experienced mentor who can provide guidance on financial management and business strategies.
	•	How to access: Register at www.businessmentors.org.nz.

b. Auckland Unlimited

	•	What it is: Auckland’s economic development agency.
	•	How it helps: Provides support and resources for local businesses, including workshops and advisory services.
	•	How to access: Visit www.aucklandnz.com/business for more information.

3. Legal and Licensing Assistance

a. Community Law Centres

	•	What it is: Offer free legal help to those who cannot afford a lawyer.
	•	How it helps: Can provide advice on lease agreements, unpaid fines, and liquor licensing issues.
	•	How to access: Find your nearest centre at www.communitylaw.org.nz.

b. Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA)

	•	What it is: The authority responsible for liquor licensing appeals and enforcement.
	•	How it helps: Can provide guidance on licensing requirements and how unpaid fines may affect your license.
	•	How to access: Visit www.justice.govt.nz/tribunals/arla.

c. Auckland Council Licensing Team

	•	What it is: Handles liquor licensing at the local level.
	•	How it helps: Offers specific advice on your situation and potential solutions for licensing issues.
	•	How to access: Contact them via www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or call 09 301 0101.

4. Managing Unpaid Fines

a. Ministry of Justice - Collections Unit

	•	What it is: Manages the collection of court fines and reparations.
	•	How it helps: Allows you to discuss payment arrangements based on your financial situation.
	•	How to access: Call 0800 4 FINES (0800 434 637) or visit www.justice.govt.nz/fines.

b. Financial Assistance for Fines

	•	What it is: In certain cases, you may be eligible for assistance or relief regarding unpaid fines.
	•	How it helps: Options might include community work in lieu of payment or applying for a court-ordered fine reduction.
	•	How to access: Consult with a legal advisor or contact the Ministry of Justice for guidance.

5. Business Support Services

a. Business.govt.nz

	•	What it is: A government website offering tools and resources for small businesses.
	•	How it helps: Provides guidance on financial planning, managing debt, and compliance with regulations.
	•	How to access: Visit www.business.govt.nz.

b. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE)

	•	What it is: Supports businesses in growth and development.
	•	How it helps: Offers resources and may provide funding for business development activities.
	•	How to access: Visit www.nzte.govt.nz.

6. Tax Relief and Assistance

a. Tax Relief for Financial Hardship

	•	What it is: Assistance from Inland Revenue for businesses struggling to meet tax obligations.
	•	How it helps: May include installment arrangements, write-offs due to serious hardship, or relief from late payment penalties.
	•	How to access: Contact IRD at 0800 377 774 or through www.ird.govt.nz.

7. Additional Options

a. Work and Income New Zealand

	•	What it is: Provides financial assistance and support services to individuals.
	•	How it helps: While primarily for individuals, they may offer support if personal finances are affecting your business.
	•	How to access: Visit www.workandincome.govt.nz or call 0800 559 009.

b. Employment New Zealand

	•	What it is: Offers guidance on employment rights and obligations.
	•	How it helps: Can provide information if you need to adjust staffing due to financial constraints.
	•	How to access: Visit www.employment.govt.nz or call 0800 20 90 20.

Next Steps

	1.	Contact Relevant Organizations:
	•	Regional Business Partner Network: Schedule a meeting with a Growth Advisor for personalized advice.
	•	Business Mentors New Zealand: Apply for a mentor who can guide you through financial and operational challenges.
	•	Community Law Centre: Book an appointment to discuss your legal issues, including lease and licensing concerns.
	2.	Prepare Your Information:
	•	Financial Documents: Gather bank statements, expense reports, and any documentation related to debts and fines.
	•	Licensing Correspondence: Collect all communications regarding your liquor license and any notices about unpaid fines.
	3.	Explore Payment Arrangements:
	•	Ministry of Justice: Reach out to discuss possible payment plans or alternatives for your unpaid fines.
	•	Inland Revenue: If you have tax obligations, contact them to negotiate manageable payment terms.
	4.	Seek Legal Advice:
	•	Lease Obligations: A legal professional can help determine if you’re liable for the previous owner’s lease debts.
	•	Licensing Impact: Get clarity on how your unpaid fines affect your eligibility to hold a liquor license.
	5.	Consider Financial Planning Assistance:
	•	Accountant or Financial Advisor: They can help create a simple budget and cash flow plan to manage your finances effectively.

Additional Tips

	•	Stay Proactive: The sooner you address these issues, the more options you’ll have available.
	•	Open Communication: Be honest with creditors, including your landlord and suppliers; they may offer flexible terms.
	•	Documentation: Keep records of all communications and agreements for future reference.

Remember: You’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging time. Let me know if you need help understanding any of these options or assistance with the next steps.