The SME Stream

In this episode, I break down why saturated markets aren’t something to avoid - they’re actually the smartest and most profitable places to start a business in 2026. I share real examples from my own shapewear brand, my students, and the businesses I’ve built, and walk you through how to find your unique angle in any crowded industry.

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The Government has highlighted issues within the KiwiSaver Act that have prevented a number of Kiwis from using their accounts to buy a home. 

Many workers in rural areas, like farm workers, rural police and teachers, are often required to live in housing provided by their employer - which stops them from being able to withdraw their KiwiSaver for a first home as they're unable to live in it. 

These issues have also stopped farmers from being able to purchase their own farm as it's not covered by current legislation. 

Changes announced this morning would remove those barriers. 

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A barrier stopping rural workers from using KiwiSaver is being lifted.

Farm workers, rural teachers, police and defence staff have been unable to make first-home withdrawals, because they’re required to live in employer housing.

The Government’s now allowing them to use their savings, including towards buying a farm.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Ryan Bridge that these workers have been locked out of the KiwiSaver first-home withdrawal for too long.

She says if people are working hard to get ahead, where they live shouldn't exclude them from the property ladder.

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Premium apple demand is at the core of a strong financial result for T&G Global.

Its revenue has increased by 14% to $1.6 billion and its net profit after tax is $16 million, up from a loss of $9.9m.

Global Chief Executive Gareth Edgecombe told Heather du Plessis-Allan that the Chinese and US markets in particular have been buying more of the premium Jazz, Jolie and Envy apples.

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The latest in business news with Garth Bray. Thanks to Forsyth Barr.

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Farmers say new KiwiSaver rules are a win for rural staff looking to buy property.

Farm workers, rural teachers, police and defence personnel can now use KiwiSaver to buy their first home, or even a farm, due to the Government lifting a long-standing restriction.

Previously, these workers were blocked because their jobs required living in employer-provided housing.

Federated Farmers' Dairy Chair Karl Dean told Mike Hosking that there's about 50,000 farms nationwide, most with just one or two staff living onsite.

He expects 10 to 20% to take this option.

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Garth Bray joins Ryan Bridge Today to talk the day's biggest business stories. Thanks to Forsyth Barr.

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An economist says benefit sanctions aren't working. 

The traffic light system was introduced last year and beneficiaries who failed obligations like taking part in Work and Income assessments. 

Infometrics principal consultant Rob Heyes says the number of beneficiaries has continued to rise after they were introduced. 

He told Heather du Plessis-Allan that it's goal of getting people into work hasn't come to fruition, and says the job market has been tough with vacancies drying-up. 

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"As business owners, you know how hard it is keeping up with your business, let alone the news. Join Wilhelmina O'Keeffe each week as she gives you a rundown of the biggest stories that could impact your business, so you can make informed decisions with expert advice. 

This week, Tariff news is back on the agenda, so will it bring more economic wobbles? People are slowly opening up their wallets again at the checkout and why our Reserve Bank Governor expects AI to make us richer - plus how to turn an everyday idea into a profit-making business.

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Air New Zealand is fighting with one hand tied behind its back facing local costs its international competitors avoid. 

The national airline's announced a $40 million half-year loss. 

The new Chief Executive says airlines are a cyclical business, and New Zealand is disproportionately exposed to local inflation.  

Nikhil Ravishankar told Mike Hosking some of the other airlines making more money are the ones that have recently gone through a downturn. 

He says it's partly nature of the business, but there are also things we're exposed to locally that some of our competitors aren't. 

They’ve also been struggling with aircraft being grounded due to global engine issues, a slower than expected recovery, and rising costs. 

Ravishankar told Hosking he took on a business grappling with a post-Covid rebuild. 

He says up until now, they've been playing not to lose, but now they're building a business that can play to win.  

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