The Influencers: Leeann Watson

  Over the last few months, we have seen a collective, community response to COVID-19. We have all stayed home, maintained social distancing, handwashed and sanitised for our own health as well as the health of others in our community. With the curve flattened, now is the time to look at what we can all […]

The Influencers: Leeann Watson

  In the last few months, we have seen unprecedented change, with health, social and economic impacts on a scale that no-one could have predicted. But make no mistake, businesses in Waitaha Canterbury are innovative, resilient and adept to responding to disruption. Over the last few decades, we have demonstrated our determination, agility and ability […]

The Influencers: Leeann Watson

We all know climate change is the biggest environmental issue facing our planet, so what changes can we make locally to make a difference globally? Some people have chosen to make their contribution by switching to electric vehicles (EVs). While these aren’t a new invention, today’s versions continue to evolve due to significant technological developments. […]

The Influencers: Leeann Watson

The last year was one of steady evolution. There was the release of a Government Budget focused on wellbeing, as well as the announcement of a $7.5 billion surplus. There was also the reversal on the tabling of a capital gains tax.   There were various changes to employment legislation, with Fair Pay Agreements one […]

The Influencers: Leeann Watson

As this is my last Metropol column of the year, I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight an initiative that is very close to my heart.   In my role at The Chamber, I have seen first-hand the great work and outcomes that our many charities provide to those in need in our city. […]

Leeann Watson: The Influencers

We were so excited to bring the Westpac Champion Business Awards to Canterbury once again – and what a night it was!   Both of our Supreme Winners demonstrate the innovation and adaptability Canterbury has become known for – Ethique aims to rid the cosmetics industry of plastic bottles and make beauty eco-friendly; TASKA produces […]

Hospitality sector hungry for visitors: Chamber of Commerce

One of the aspects of our rebuilt city that is so exciting for locals and visitors is our amazing array of eateries. We are spoilt for choice, with almost every kind of cuisine and style of eating imaginable. I also love seeing the imagination and innovation that has gone into some of the fit-outs to […]

Leeann Watson

Leeann Watson: The Influencers

Education been in the spotlight in recent months – and a shake-up of the sector has been long overdue.   The most significant development has been the decision on the Review of Vocational Education (RoVE), with 16 institutes of technology and polytechnics to be merged into the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) […]

Now is the time to get involved

It’s shaping up to be an exciting local body election in Christchurch. There are a number of contenders for the mayoralty race, which is producing some lively debate. We hope that this will also translate to more people having their say at the polling booths.     In 2016, just 38 percent of people eligible […]

Leeann Watson

Leeann Watson: The Influencers

On 19 August, The Chamber celebrates 160 years. In that time, we’ve helped businesses through immense change and significant growth – just compare our region’s exports in the first quarter of 1859 of £92,000 to the last quarter of 2018 of $2.2 billion.   Back then, The Chamber had a membership of 32, most of […]