Profile
The New Zealand Central (NZC) business hub, in one of Shanghai’s most prestigious locations, offers Kiwi companies a one-stop office, board room and events facility, in the world’s fastest-growing market.
Opened by Prime Minister John Key in April 2009, New Zealand Central offers custom-fitted premium business support facilities, forming a hub where New Zealand executives can work, meet, host clients and a range of events.
Together, the contemporary setting in Shanghai’s Xintiandi precinct, Kiwi hospitality and world-class facilities are helping Kiwi businesses get a foothold and gain traction in the pivotal Chinese market.
The venue is a unique offering from New Zealand’s trade development agency New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).
New Zealand Central general manager Olivia Lin says the centre aims to assist New Zealand companies to establish greater brand visibility, stronger connections, and capability to grow business in China. The top-level facilities enable a Kiwi business to make a strong impression without expensive outlay.
Recent customer Jacob Creech, Manager China, for Boost Agile, says “We were very happy with the response and the venue received a lot of positive feedback. It’s really a great way for us to show off our New Zealand heritage, and to make a strong impression on our clients.”
Get your feet under a desk
As you rise in the lift from a chaotic Shanghai street, the only elevator music you hear is the sound of tui, bellbirds, kiwi and other bush dwellers.
You step out on the third floor, walk past a pounamu water feature, into a stylish and welcoming reception area, and you're greeted warmly and professionally by an English-speaking Chinese staff member - one of the excellent New Zealand Central team. (If you're having difficulty communicating, they'll translate for you.)
You read the Chinese or New Zealand news while you wait for a coffee, and when you’re refreshed and ready to get down to business, they show you to a hot desk with full internet service. At these fully-equipped desks, travelling executives can plug in for an hour, a day, a week, or a month.
As expected, the catering is New Zealand-themed. Olivia Lin says the moment guests walk through the door, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of Kiwi care, hospitality, and professionalism.
The centre is expertly-equipped to host a range of functions, from private dinners to product launches, seminars, demonstrations and networking events. It boasts a large event room and meeting rooms with quality multi-media options, a professional demonstration kitchen and a New Zealand-themed terrace garden for outdoor hospitality.
As New Zealand China Trade Association chair Tim White pointed out in the December issue of China Now, dining is a vital part of doing business in China.
“Dining with Chinese executives or Government officials plays a crucial role in negotiations, securing business, partnerships or securing and enhancing future relationships with China.”
New Zealand Central offers silver service dining for up to 60 guests and the expert team can offer subtle cultural and language translation to help you make a great impression on your guests.
The private meeting rooms are ideal for boardroom style meetings, small seminars, training and tastings. Attendance at New Zealand Central events and functions is by invitation only to guests of the host organisation.
Let us be your springboard
Olivia Lin says New Zealand Central is a fantastic springboard for launching or extending a business into China.
“It is a custom-designed business centre situated in Shanghai’s upbeat Xintiandi district. You get all of the upmarket associations that go with our location and service, without the expense.”
Since the opening of New Zealand Central (Feb 2009 – November 2012), the centre has held around 1000 events, with 23,000 guests attending the events at NZ Central.
“This resource is here for New Zealand businesses, to offer them a place to stand whether they are new to China or old-hands, and to help them grow,” Olivia Lin says.
“We are proud to offer a base for the many New Zealand businesspeople who have taken us up on our offer to help.”
Flexible packages are available to suit both frequent and casual visitors. Applicants must be New Zealand companies, sponsored by New Zealand-registered companies or be allies of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
For more information contact New Zealand Central on:
Tel: +86 21 6386 8028
Fax: +86 21 6386 6800
Email: nzcentral@nzte.govt.nz
Website: www.nzte.govt.nz/nzcentral
View the facilities for yourself through a video overview
Consulting Chef – Shanghai based
NZTE is currently recruiting a Consulting Chef to be based in Shanghai.
We would love to hear from you if you have hosted or attended events at NZ Central or other venues in China. Please contact Luke Qin luke.qin@nzcta.co.nz
Feb 24, 2013