Next week, Good Business Matters is hopping across the pond. We’re visiting our neighbours in New Zealand, as we head to the Social Enterprise World Forum, along with 1500 other do-gooders.
As host city, Christchurch has picked up the baton from other remarkable locations including Milan, Seoul and Johannesburg since the conference’s inception 9 years ago. Over three jam-packed days, we’ll be part of the passionate discussion and (probably) heated debate on how positive social change can be achieved through clever and innovative business.
While we’ll be busy at the Social Enterprise World Forum, we’re still planning to get out and explore these beautiful surroundings. We’ve done a little digging and uncovered a few gems. Since being severely affected by earthquakes in 2010-2012, the Christchurch region has seen plenty of renewal and growth which shows no signs of slowing. Here are a few of the goodies that caught our eye:
On ya bike
Discover New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery of rugged mountains and pristine lakes, sample homegrown fare and meet the locals. And what better way to do this than on two wheels? Global Cycling Adventures is a certified B-Corp which offers small group tours off the beaten track, whilst leaving a low-impact environmental footprint so future generations can enjoy it for decades to come.
Getting the basics right
Finding that perfect, comfy t-shirt can often prove elusive, but Little Yellow Bird may just have the answer. Their workwear and range of basics are fair trade, organic and sourced through a refreshingly transparent supply chain; demonstrating a commitment to people, the planet and quality. It’s founded by two University of Cambridge, Christchurch graduates, who have invested a portion of profits to various community projects. These include eye clinics for farmers in Odisha, India, and to the charity Free the Bears. The brand is now based in Wellington.
Feeling squeaky clean
Ethique is a beauty company with a difference. At first glance, the range of hair and skin care products have one noticeable (and welcome) absence: plastic packaging. The entire range, which is naturally derived, highly concentrated and sustainable, come in bar form – yes even the shampoos and conditioners – eliminating the need for bottles and waste. Manufactured in Christchurch with local ingredients, Ethique now has legions of fans and was recognised as the country’s most sustainable business when awarded ‘the Best in B’ award for New Zealand in 2015.