From personality tests to HR courses and CEO podcasts, there’s no shortage of people telling you how to manage your people. But the best solutions are often those that move beyond the one-size-fits-all advice and are tailored to the specific needs of your team. While many New Zealand organisations are still navigating economic pressures and making careful decisions about growth and staffing, there are also signs of renewed confidence and opportunities ahead. As businesses look to the future, it’s a timely reminder that people and payroll processes deserve just as much attention as the numbers. Below we unpack some important employment topics, provide an update for company shareholders following this year’s Budget, and share practical insights on leading a diverse team of people: What you need to know about restructuring your business Budget 2026 – Tax update for Companies being removed from the Register Making the most of the 90-day trial Heads up: Proposed changes to the Holidays Act Diversity is good for business. Here’s how to make it work.

Budget 2026 projects a tight short term and cautiously optimistic medium term, forecasting modest economic growth, easing inflation, rising interest rates, returning to a small surplus in 2028/29. Business confidence is shadowed by continuing geopolitical uncertainty and associated oil supply shock. By now you have seen extensive budget coverage on measures relating to infrastructure, health, education, and defence. This alert focuses on coming tax changes, and implications for business, investors and taxpayers: FBT and motor vehicles Foreign investment tax reforms Other tax changes The first legislation giving effect to Budget 2026 has been introduced into the House, covering: Reducing the cap for gifts qualifying for donation tax credits to $100,000 or the donor’s taxable income, whichever is lower. Outstanding shareholder loan balances will be deemed taxable income six months after a company is removed from the Companies Register (applying to removals on or after 4 December 2025). Simplified family scheme income calculations from the 2027–28 income year, and Working for Families residence requirements Non-resident contractors’ tax exemptions for the dry leasing of aircraft and parts. Further tax changes have also been announced, with legislation expected to be introduced into the House prior to the election. Timing may not allow all of these to be passed into legislation prior to the election. An incoming government will need to restore and pass this legislation. We’ll keep you updated.