Source: Business Canterbury
The latest Quarterly Canterbury Business Survey (QCBS) from Business Canterbury, released today, shows business confidence trending upward, but alongside clear signs that resilience is starting to wear thin.
Business Canterbury Chief Executive, Leeann Watson says, “We’re seeing a big lift in confidence heading into 2026. Businesses are expecting stronger economic conditions and improved financial performance. Hiring intentions are strong too, with two-thirds planning to bring on additional staff over the next year – a positive sign for the local job market.
“Investment intentions have returned to historic averages, which, after a long period of caution, is also encouraging, suggesting businesses are now ready to activate growth plans in the new year.
“The question now is whether confidence carries through on the back of a strengthening economy. Resilience is something we are starting to watch more closely, after years of repeated economic disruptions and a pretty flat 2025. Confidence from businesses in their ability to manage disruption has slipped in this survey (65%, down 14 points from last quarter), and is now well below where it usually sits (in the mid-80s).
“We know that many businesses have been drawing on their reserves – both financial and psychological – for quite some time, and we’re now seeing results where there is even less buffer to absorb further disruption.
“Concerns about AI adoption and digital transformation have doubled (16%), and mental health and fatigue are trending upward (17%).
“However, the fundamentals remain strong here in Canterbury. We have population growth, one of the most diversified regional economies in New Zealand, and a relatively confident business community that people want to be part of. What we need now is consistent and enabling conditions that turn confidence into activity – including less red tape, stable policy settings, and a growing economy.”
Key QCBS Indicators:
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Expect Canterbury economy to be stronger in 12 months (75%)
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Expect stronger financial performance in 12 months (75%)
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Plan to hire staff in the next 12 months (67%)
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Plan to invest in property, plant, and equipment in the next 12 months (64%)
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Confidence in managing disruption (65%)
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Consumer confidence and demand (56%)
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Productivity and growth (35%)
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Compliance costs (29%)
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Cashflow and account receivable/payable (27%)
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Inflation and interest rates (26%)
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Emerging concerns: AI adoption (16%), mental health & fatigue (17%)
Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the second largest Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand and the largest business support organisation in the South Island. It advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.
