COVID-19: support for businesses
We’re closely following the latest Government updates and what Level 3 lockdown looks like for our industry and those we work with, including transport, construction and forestry.
To help you and your business stay up to date, we’ve compiled a list of cross-sector support links below. This list will be continually updated as more information becomes available.
Government support:
The Government’s COVID-19 hub is a great starting point to navigate the support schemes available. You can access this here: https://covid19.govt.nz/
Tax relief for businesses: https://www.ird.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/tax-relief/tax-relief-for-businesses
Wage subsidy scheme: The government subsidy scheme is still open. Find out more about the qualifying criteria here: https://workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/covid-19-support.html
Essential businesses: More information about which services the government has deemed essential here: https://covid19.govt.nz/businesses-and-employees/essential-businesses/
Essential workers leave scheme: https://www.employment.govt.nz/leave-and-holidays/other-types-of-leave/coronavirus-workplace/essential-workers-leave-scheme/
Freight
Airfreight: New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is working with Air New Zealand, freight forwarders, exporters and government agencies to support additional charter flights. You can find out more about AirFreight options for immediate export here: https://covid19.nzte.govt.nz/page/air-freight-option-for-immediate-export
Road freight: Road Transport Forum NZ is regularly updating its site as discussions with the government continue. You can follow this here: https://www.rtfnz.co.nz/covid-19/
WoFs / CoFs / driver licences: The NZ Transport Agency has introduced the Land Transport Rule: COVID-19 Response (No 1) 2020. In a nutshell, all driver licences, WoFs, CoFs, and some vehicle certifications, that expired on or after January 1st 2020, will be valid for up to six months from April 10, 2020. Read the full legislation here: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/rules/land-transport-rule-covid-19-response-no-1-2020
Cashflow: What’s your financial outlook? Here are a number of tools you can use to help plan ahead and manage business cash flow: https://covid19.nzte.govt.nz/page/useful-tools
Finance: We’re working closely with our clients during this time. If you would like to speak to one of our team, call us on 0800 727 101.
Exporters: A dedicated site for export advice, updates and resources has been created here: https://covid19.nzte.govt.nz/
If you are an exporter in the primary sector of wine, plant, animal or organic products, the Ministry for Primary Industries has information to help. https://www.mpi.govt.nz/protection-and-response/coronavirus/exporting-during-the-covid-19-emergency/
Construction: The Accord Steering Group is working closely with the Government to ensure the construction sector is kept informed. You can view the latest construction updates here: https://www.constructionaccord.nz/news/news-stories/
COVID-19 advanced entitlement payment: The Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is offering advanced payments to roading contractors to help them deliver vital projects. The Advanced Entitlement Payment (or AEP) will be available to contractors who currently have National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) funded projects in construction with Waka Kotahi. Find out more here: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/about-us/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-services-update/advanced-entitlement-payment/
Contractors: The National Association for Civil Contractors is regularly updating its site, including updates around returning to work. More information available here: https://civilcontractors.co.nz/News/10912/
Forestry:
Te Uru Rākau is providing regular updates for those in the forestry sector. Under Level 3 all Primary Sector businesses will be able to operate providing they can meet safety guidelines. More information available here: https://www.teururakau.govt.nz/protection-and-response/coronavirus/covid-19-in-the-forestry-industry/
What next?
We will continue to review the impact of COVID-19 closely and update you as required. In the meantime, to speak to one of our asset finance team call 0800 727 101.