| Has It Been a Good Summer? Over the last six months, we’ve been running a Business Survey to get a clearer picture of how our local businesses are doing and what support One Mahurangi can offer in response. The results, which you can explore in more detail through the link below, confirm what many of us already know—times are tough. While we continue to push the “Buy Local” message, and Warkworth is holding up better than some other parts of Auckland, that doesn’t mean local businesses are thriving. A significant 79% of retailers have reported a drop in sales, with reduced foot traffic and lower consumer spending adding to the challenge. Hospitality has taken a hit too—where customers used to grab a coffee and a muffin, many now just opt for the coffee. But if you were in town over the summer holidays, you probably noticed the buzz—yes, it was busy. The challenge now is keeping that momentum going all year. If we can make Warkworth a true destination beyond just the peak season, we’ll see real, lasting benefits. There are a few key things we can do. Keeping businesses open on weekends and public holidays, where possible, has proven successful for those who do it. Enhancing the experience around our river—the jewel in our crown—will attract more visitors and encourage them to spend here. One common request from businesses is more support with digital marketing, and we’re working on bringing in the right expertise to help. There are plenty of other areas where businesses need support, and as time and funding allow, we’ll continue to address them. The bottom line? While we’re performing better than 80% of other Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), it’s still a tough environment. Every time we choose to support a local business instead of shopping online, we’re helping to keep them here—not just for today but for the long term. These are the same businesses we turn to when we need sponsorships for local schools, sports teams, and community projects. So, was it a good summer? Yes. But now, the challenge is to make that success last all year. I believe we can do it. As always, Buy Local, Support Local, Employ Local, and Love Local. Murray Chapman Manager, One Mahurangi, Warkworth  murray@onemahurangi.co.nz |
 Business Health Check Survey ResultsWarkworth businesses have spoken, and the results are clear—times are tough, but opportunities for support and growth exist. The Business Health Check Survey 2024 gathered insights from 54 local businesses, with strong representation from construction, retail, hospitality, professional services, and healthcare. Read the report summary HERE> |
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