BizHub Porirua has been one of our proudest achievements in 2025. This business co-working pop-up space was created for Porirua entrepreneurs, business owners, and the wider community to connect, get support, and grow their ideas. What began with 30 people at our opening day at Kaitahi has now evolved into a space running until Matariki 2026 at Winera Drive, Upane Hub. This collaboration has been made possible with Te Runanga o Toa Rangatira, Porirua city council, WellingtonNZ and our many partners across the region.
BizHub Porirua has provided free mentoring, workshops, and networking opportunities, helping Pasifika business communities connect with like-minded people and the wider Porirua business community. Hundreds of people, from leaders and seasoned business owners to aspiring entrepreneurs, have walked through our doors to share ideas and gain support.
We are deeply grateful to the BizHub ecosystem and everyone who has generously shared their time, expertise, and energy to strengthen the business community here in Porirua.
We wrapped up the year with a successful Launchpad Day, where local businesses shared their ideas, enjoyed laughs, and celebrated one thing in common: Community. BizHub is creating connections, confidence, and thriving businesses, and this is just the beginning. We can’t wait to show you what 2026 has in store!
In November 2025, the Wellington Pasifika Business Network, in partnership with WellingtonNZ, hosted a powerful Good Governance with a Pasifika Lens workshop at the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. Facilitated by governance leaders Mele Wendt and Caren Rangi, the session brought together 25 Pasifika participants from a wide range of backgrounds who are currently governing, or aspiring to govern, across boards in Wellington.
The workshop explored what good governance looks like through a Pasifika lens in Aotearoa New Zealand, offering practical insights, shared experiences, and meaningful discussion around board participation in its many forms. With decades of collective governance experience, Mele and Caren were a dynamic and inspiring duo, engaging the room with their depth of knowledge, authenticity, and commitment to Pasifika leadership.
The day provided a valuable opportunity for connection, learning, and reflection, supported by shared kai and rich conversation. Participants left with clear takeaways and renewed confidence to contribute to governance spaces, while strengthening relationships with fellow Pasifika business and community leaders across the region.
Across October and November 2025, the Wellington Pasifika Business Network, in partnership with WellingtonNZ and Hutt city council, hosted the Lower Hutt Boost Your Business series, a four-part workshop designed for Pasifika business owners in the region.
The series covered essential business skills, from making digital marketing easy with insights from Katie Brown of Social Good, to practical finance workshops led by Ross Kinzett from BNZ and Sammy Price from Hnry. These sessions welcomed both new and seasoned business owners, providing actionable tools and strategies to grow and strengthen their businesses.
Over the four workshops, participants enjoyed engaging talanoa, shared experiences, and the opportunity to connect with the wider Pasifika business community in Lower Hutt. Delicious kai from Amalangi’s Island Cuisine added to the warm and collaborative atmosphere, making it a truly inspiring series for Pasifika entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and thrive together.
The Wellington Address is more than an event, it is a symbol of a powerful insight: we are stronger together than we are apart. This evening celebrates the unique and historic partnership between the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Te Awe Māori Business Network, and the Wellington Pasifika Business Network. Together known as the Power of Three.
The Address recognises the mahi and relentless energy of individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to our city. These are the people who inspire others, embody the spirit of service, and help Wellington’s business community thrive.
2025 Honourees
- Luke Meredith our Pasifika business winner – A proud Samoan entrepreneur, Luke has built a nationwide security business that employs and mentors Pasifika and Māori workers. Through his ongoing work with the Network and the Pacific Business Trust, he champions economic development and supports Pasifika entrepreneurs.
- Rachel Taulelei
- Meg Williams
- Tranzit Group
Personal business coaching course with Marina Taylor from AmplifyU 2025.
We were thrilled to welcome back Marina Taylor from AmplifyU back for her course with our emerging and established Pasifika business and professional leaders. This 8-hour intensive day gave our Pasifika business owners the chance to focus deeply on their goals, skills, and strategies for the next phase of their business journey.
One lucky participant won a coaching course with Marina, and the day was full of valuable takeaways, meaningful connections, and actionable insights. Thank you, Marina, for sharing your expertise and knowledge with our community!
In partnership with Wellington NZ and the Hutt City Council, the Wellington Pasifika Business Network was thrilled to re-engage Pasifika business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the Lower Hutt district. Our networking evening welcomed over 40 members of the business community and featured guest speaker Evan Balford, who shared insights on the importance of Pasifika connections, staying true to cultural values, and supporting one another in business.
The night was a wonderful opportunity to connect the Pasifika business network in the Hutt region and to prepare attendees for the upcoming Boost Your Business series later this year. Guests enjoyed heartfelt talanoa and delicious kai provided by the Amilangis, who were celebrating the opening of their new shop on High Street, Lower Hutt. This event marked an exciting start to business engagement in Lower Hutt for 2025, creating meaningful connections and inspiration for the year ahead.
