Business Development Information
Business Development
Ruapehu is open for business. Whether you're starting something new or growing what you've already built, there's support available — and you don't have to figure it out alone.
Here's where to start.
Starting a Business
The best first step is connecting with the Regional Business Partners Network, a free service that matches you with a local growth adviser. They'll take a broad look at your business, then connect you with the right resources, training, and funding for where you're at.
Register with the Regional Business Partners Network
If you'd like one-on-one guidance, Business Mentors New Zealand connects business owners with experienced mentors who can help you start, grow, or work through specific challenges.
For social enterprise and community-led business ideas, Thrive Whanganui is a charitable trust that works with people across the district to develop and realise their ideas.
Growing Your Business
Capability Development Funding If your business needs management training or specialist advice, you may qualify for co-funding that covers up to 50% of costs — up to $5,000 per year excluding tax. Eligible providers include accountants, marketing specialists, and business strategy advisers. This is available through the Regional Business Partners Network.
Research and Development Funding Investing in research and development can give your business a real edge — through new products, smarter processes, or innovation that sets you apart. Callaghan Innovation delivers this support.
Speak to your Regional Business Partners Network adviser to explore this option.
Tourism Businesses
If your business is tourism-related, there are two key connections to make:
Visit Ruapehu is the district's Regional Tourism Organisation and a Council Controlled Organisation. Subscribe free to access data, marketing opportunities, and networking with other local operators.
Tourism New Zealand offers free listings for tourism businesses to reach both domestic and international visitors.
List your business with Tourism New Zealand
The Ruapehu i-SITEs in Ohakune and Taumarunui are also a practical way to get your business in front of locals and visitors. Free leaflet and poster displays are available to Ruapehu district businesses, along with space on digital screens. The i-SITEs are open seven days a week, every day except Christmas Day.
Local Business Networks
Three business associations support operators across the district. Getting connected is worth it — they're a good source of local knowledge, networks, and advocacy.
- National Park Business Association
- Ohakune Community Charitable Trust (formerly Ohakune Inc.)
- Enterprising Taumarunui
Consents and Regulations
Before you commit to a location or start operating, it's worth checking what's required. Rules vary by zone and activity — what's fine in one area may not be permitted in another.
Things worth checking early:
- What activities are permitted in your chosen location
- Whether you need signage or car parking consents
- Rules around noise and operating hours
- Food or alcohol licensing requirements
- Use of hazardous materials on site
The Ruapehu District Plan and Horizons' One Plan set out the rules for different zones — commercial, industrial, residential, and rural.
Check the Ruapehu District Plan
Early conversations save time and money. Get in touch before you commit and we can walk you through what applies to your situation.
Talk to Us
For community project enquiries, contact Kim Treen, Development Project Manager: [email protected]
For economic development support, contact Whanganui & Partners: [email protected]
For general Council enquiries, visit our Contact page.
