Simon says, ‘don’t worry, be happy’

Speaking to representatives of local businesses in Red Beach recently, Auckland Business Chamber chief executive, and former National Party politician, Simon Bridges said despite record low business confidence, there is reason for optimism.

The chance to hear from Bridges drew around 40 people to a breakfast at the Red Beach Surf Club on Thursday, February 16.

The talk was hosted by Business Whangaparāoa. A wide range of businesses were represented at the event – from accountants and real estate agents to tradies, hairdressers and funeral directors. Local board members Leanne Willis, Gary Brown and Sam Mills also attended.

Bridges said the number one issue for owners of small to medium sized businesses is the lack of workers, followed by cost-ofliving pressures and inflation.

“What with Covid-19 lockdowns, minimum wage increases, borders closed, floods and a cyclone, you might say ‘when do we get a break?’,” Bridges said. “We had thought it would be this summer!”

He said all of this has led to a crisis of confidence, with surveys showing business confidence now is the lowest it’s ever been.

“But I want to suggest that the reality is different and there is reason for optimism. Signs internationally are that there may not be a global recession, NZ’s exports are performing quite well, and that inflation is possibly about as high as it’s going to go. So, it might feel a bit gloomy, but a recession is not inevitable, and the underlying economy is not in too bad a shape.”

Despite his many years as a National politician, Bridges said he is “very apolitical these days” – something that is essential in his new role. One day he is meeting Minister for Auckland, Michael Wood, the next its National Party leader Christopher Luxon.

However, as expected, he was keen to touch on the upcoming election.

In 2022, when he announced he was leaving his political career behind, Bridges said, “I am proud to have played a significant role in getting National back in the hunt for government in 2023. I have every confidence in National to win the election.”

Now it appears he’s not as sure of National’s chances, telling his Red Beach audience that the resignation of Jacinda Ardern “has made the election very competitive”.

“National needs to lift its game with some positive, strong policies, including for business, that capture people’s imagination,” Bridges said. “Business is hungry for that –there is a lot of uncertainty and businesses are looking to Government for a sense of direction and purpose. If National doesn’t do this, it might be the ‘unlosable election’ that they lose,” he warned.

Business, from left, Gwenda Holster-Dowler, Sarah Carr, Betsy Kettle and Stephanie Lowe.

Bridges predicted that it would be a year for strong showings from minor parties, including Act, the Greens and the Maori Party. He also said you could never write off “that crazy crocodile from the North”, Winston Peters.

In answering a question from Business Whangaparāoa committee member Betsy Kettle about climate change, Bridges said while large businesses often have comprehensive policies around sustainability, for small to medium businesses it is a ‘nice to have’.

“If they are worried about how to get through the week, and pay wages, it’s harder to focus on sustainability,” he said. “Not saying they should not care – but it’s hard when you are focused on survival.” In closing, he said, “It’s been a crazy time, but don’t worry, be happy.”

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