National Party Unveils 47-Point Small Business Support Plan

The National Party unveiled a 47-point Small Business Plan in Auckland on October 6, 2026, aimed at reducing regulatory, compliance, and administrative burdens for small and medium-sized enterprises. The plan introduces a Tell Government Once service centered on the New Zealand Business Number to simplify paperwork, alongside a First Employee Support Package for new employers and a fast-track process for minor disputes within the Employment Relations Authority.

To drive economic growth, the party introduced the Next 200 programme, which provides 200 high-potential businesses with tailored market intelligence and relationship management via New Zealand Trade and Enterprise to help them become international exporters. Other measures include rewriting health and safety guidance in plain English, launching an AI Advisory Pilot, and reviewing the $60,000 compulsory GST registration threshold. The party also pledged to progress a Member's Bill to improve independent mechanics' access to manufacturer vehicle information.

National leader Christopher Luxon and finance spokesperson Nicola Willis stated that the initiatives will be funded through existing agency baselines rather than new spending. Small Business spokesperson Cameron Brewer contrasted this approach with the Labour Party, claiming Labour intends to remove the Investment Boost, which allows for an immediate 20 per cent deduction for business investments. BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich endorsed the package, stating that helping firms transition to international exporters is an effective way to improve long-term economic performance.