Businesses across the City of Moreton Bay could gain greater access to New Zealand customers, commercial partners and investment opportunities following the signing of two new international trade agreements.
City of Moreton Bay has formalised partnerships with Auckland Business Chamber and WellingtonNZ, strengthening its Trans-Tasman business connections as it looks to attract investment and support local companies seeking to expand into overseas markets.
The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed by Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway during a six-day trade and investment delegation to New Zealand, which brought together representatives from several Moreton Bay businesses and organisations.
Among those taking part were Cadent AI, Australian Brisket Board, Crossland Pipe & Precast, Sports Marketing Australia, North Harbour and Sentrax Lasers, alongside Tourism and Events Moreton Bay.
The agreements are designed to make it easier for businesses on both sides of the Tasman to identify potential customers, develop commercial partnerships and explore investment opportunities.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the reciprocal arrangements would help strengthen Moreton Bay’s position as a destination for international business while opening new markets for local operators.
“Importantly, these are two-way agreements that will bring new businesses to Moreton Bay and make it easier for businesses here to explore new opportunities in New Zealand.
“I know many Moreton Bay businesses have incredible export capabilities, and this will help them enter the New Zealand market.”
The delegation also visited Christchurch, where Deputy Mayor Shipway hosted a business breakfast promoting Moreton Bay’s economic growth and opportunities for trade and investment.
Council is seeking to position the city as an attractive Australian expansion destination for New Zealand businesses, particularly as South East Queensland prepares for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Deputy Mayor Shipway said building relationships on the ground was an important part of helping businesses enter new markets.
“Having face-to-face support is invaluable when entering new markets, which is why we took our team to New Zealand and as the only local government in Australia that has a trade and investment advisor based in Christchurch, we’re committed to helping businesses prosper.”
The latest agreements build on an established connection between Moreton Bay and New Zealand, with Council reporting more than 1100 New Zealand businesses and 21,000 New Zealand-born residents already based in the city.
While the agreements do not represent confirmed trade deals or investment commitments, they establish formal channels for businesses, investors and institutions to explore opportunities across both markets.
For Moreton Bay businesses looking beyond Australia, the focus now turns to how those connections translate into new customers, partnerships and commercial growth.
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