A Chamber with Heart

WORDS David Trim

PHOTOS by Charlotte Anderson

One of the world’s oldest business organisations is often misunderstood or simply not known by many in our community. So what does the Chamber of Commerce really do and who are the people behind it? Here, we explore its impact – from its global beginnings to its influence on local businesses right here in Hawke’s Bay.

L-R The whole Hawke's Bay Chamber of Commerce team- Alexis Overend, Alannah Moeke, Lynda O'Cain, Kim Burt, Jessica, Aguilar, Karla Lee (CEO), Jason Bianchi

The term ‘Chamber of Commerce’ dates back to the late 16th century, when merchants in Marseilles, France, formed a group to represent their trading interests. The word ‘chamber’ was chosen deliberately, evoking a formal council or meeting room where matters of trade were discussed, much like a parliamentary chamber.

As the concept spread across Europe and into the British Empire, the name remained unchanged, becoming synonymous with trusted business representation and collective enterprise.

Despite its somewhat old-fashioned ring, the name has endured because it carries weight, history and credibility. The Chamber of Commerce has come to represent stability and integrity – qualities businesses still value today. Rather than rebranding to suit modern trends, most chambers have embraced their heritage, modernising operations and services while retaining a name that connects them to centuries of global business tradition. It’s a reminder that while the language of business evolves, the need for a united voice for commerce remains timeless.

Today, more than 13,000 Chambers of Commerce operate worldwide. Internationally, chambers are connected through the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which works across borders to promote trade standards, resolve disputes and encourage sustainable growth.

The original founders believed that trade was a powerful force for peace, calling themselves ‘Merchants of Peace’. They believed that strong, mutually beneficial commercial ties between nations would build prosperity and reduce the likelihood of conflict.

That philosophy remains relevant today. The ICC continues to engage globally, including working alongside the United Nations to coordinate humanitarian and economic recovery efforts in regions such as Gaza, helping the private sector play a role in rebuilding lives and livelihoods. Currently the International Chamber of Commerce is facilitating an online meeting with global senior leaderships to discuss ‘After the Ceasefire: The Role of the Private Sector in Gaza’. This online meeting will include an update on the ceasefire and discuss the role of the private sector in supporting immediate humanitarian assistance as well as long-term economic development.

The first Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand was formed in 1856, 169 years ago, and today there are 30 chambers nationwide. Each works closely with local councils, government agencies and industry partners to strengthen their regional business communities.

They provide practical tools such as export documentation, mentoring programmes, business awards and advocacy on key issues – from infrastructure to workforce development. Independent from government, the chambers serve as a voice of reason for business, ensuring governments understand enterprises’ needs and how proposed policy may affect the business sector.

Startup and established business owners turn to their local chamber for guidance as they scale up. Each new phase of growth brings new challenges, and the chamber helps businesses navigate those changes with insight and support.

The Hawke’s Bay chamber’s story began in Napier in the late 19th century. A record from 1900 shows the Napier Chamber of Commerce discussing regional trade issues, such as timber exports, harbour development and rail timetables. Earlier, in 1885, chamber secretary Mr Pell canvassed businesses to establish a telephone exchange, a project the chamber went on to achieve. One founding member, Captain Blythe, is remembered by the Blythe Memorial Fountain in Napier’s Clive Square.

Over time, the chamber evolved, merging local groups, acting as an economic development agency and eventually becoming the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce we know today.

Members enjoy access to networking opportunities, advocacy, business development resources, promotional platforms and exclusive member benefits, all designed to help them grow and succeed locally and beyond.

Karla Lee, CEO of the Hawke’s Bay Chamber since 2019, also serves on the national NZ Chambers of Commerce and Industry Board. She’s passionate about supporting startups and entrepreneurs.

CEO for the past 6 years Karla Lee

“Supporting startup businesses is a key focus,” Karla says. “We help new entrepreneurs get connected, avoid common pitfalls and learn from others’ experiences. Our startup programmes have helped launch many businesses from Wairoa to Takapau.”

For established businesses, the chamber provides expert advice and connections through the Regional Business Partners Network, a government-funded initiative administered locally by the chamber on behalf of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). This programme identifies capability gaps and provides tailored support to help businesses reach the next stage of growth.

The chamber also runs business events and conferences focused on topics ranging from leadership and innovation to wellbeing. Recent guest speakers have included the Prime Minister, Nicola Willis, Sir John Kirwan and Matt Brown (author of She Is Not Your Rehab).

Following Cyclone Gabrielle, the chamber played a crucial role in distributing government recovery funds to affected businesses, a massive task that required swift action, strong systems and deep care for the community.

Spark Tank kicks off the Youth Enterprise Scheme at the beginning of the year

The Lion Foundation Youth Enterprise Scheme (YES) for the Hawke’s Bay region is another arm of the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce. This programme gives Year 12 and 13 students the chance to create and run their own real businesses.

This year, 437 students from 18 schools across Hawke’s Bay took part – one of the highest participation rates in the country. Student teams develop a product or service, bring it to market (often through local Farmers’ Markets and social media) and present their ventures at a regional final.

Due to the programme’s success, Hawke’s Bay now crowns two regional champions – one each for North and South. Winners go on to represent the region at the national final in Wellington.

The YES programme offers an invaluable, hands-on introduction to business, teaching innovative thinking, collaboration and resilience. Many successful local enterprises have grown from this experience.

The Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce is one of those quiet, steadfast organisations that continually strengthen our region’s business fabric. Its work is never done; as the business world evolves, so does its role in guiding, connecting and empowering local enterprise.

With its rich heritage locally, nationally and globally it remains an organisation Hawke’s Bay can truly be proud of, a chamber with heart.

YES Programme at the Farmers Market