Local business grows along with Nth Canty

North Canterbury employees are skipping the commute to enjoy the benefits of working close to home, with latest Census data (2023) showing that 66.5% of Waimakariri’s working population are choosing to work within the district.

Supporting this trend is the strong business growth of one 100 percent Kiwi-owned company that chose to place its headquarters in Rangiora in 2018.

That confidence is paying off, with Chance Voight Investment Partners having quadrupled its physical footprint, and significantly expanded its workforce over the years.

Chance Voight Investment Partners Head of Business Laura Patterson says the firms growth has created new roles from administration support to executive-level positions, bringing fresh job opportunities right to the doorstep of North Canterbury employees.

‘‘Chance Voights growth confirms that North Canterbury is a great place to do business,’’ Ms Patterson says.

The firm started in Cone Street in 2018, leasing 29 High Street, Level 1, in 2022.

In 2024 it expanded to Level 2, and this year added the ground floor, which is about to have a fit out this year.

‘‘Within a few years, that first location became filled to capacity,’’ Ms Patterson says.

‘‘We also wanted the ability to hold large shareholder and investor meetings on site in Rangiora.’’

Today, Chance Voight Investment Partners operates from two separate locations, one in Cone Street, and the other on the corner of Cone and High streets, and has grown employee numbers from four in August 2021, to 10 in August 2022, 18 in August 2023, 21 in August 2024 and 46 employees in August this year.

Enterprise North Canterbury Business Support Manager Miles Dalton supports the view that, when it comes to business and industry, North Canterbury has a lot to offer.

‘‘North Canterbury has shown steady growth in recent years, with a 13% growth in population and a 45% increase in GDP since 2018.

‘‘This reflects the strength of a diverse local economy and a capable workforce that values opportunities close to home.

‘‘Infrastructure development has kept pace, supported by councils that are responsive to business needs,’’ he says.

Chance Voights decision to expand in the region is a welcome move that highlights North Canterburys suitability for business and its appeal as a place to live and work.

‘‘We are delighted to have them as part of our business community,’’ Mr Dalton says.

Ms Patterson says it has been important for Chance Voight to give back to the communities that have helped shape its success.

This has included a $12,000 donation to Rangiora Bowling Club to help it meet its heritage listing requirements, and sponsorships to support community golf clubs, including the Hanmer Springs Golf Club.

Further afield, Chance Voight sponsorship is backing events such as Illuminate Christchurch, the Aotearoa Regional Wine Awards, The Food Show, and the firm stepped in to help support the Christchurch Show going ahead last year.

‘‘Were thrilled to be able to find the right people and the right skills right on our doorstep,’’ Ms Patterson says.

‘‘Supporting our communities is not just good business, its about building lasting relationships.’’