Porirua’s annual business showcase, BizFest 2025, has officially sold out ahead of its 1 July event at Te Rauparaha Arena, a clear sign of strong interest and support for local enterprise.
Titled Kōpū i te pae – Light up the Horizon, this year’s BizFest will bring together entrepreneurs, professionals, and thought leaders for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration. Headlining the event are Olympic gold medallist Dame Valerie Adams and Black Grace founder Neil Ieremia, both offering unique insights into success and resilience.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker called the response to BizFest “fantastic,” saying the event proves Porirua is humming with business activity and potential. “Porirua is a great place to do business, and the events we’re hosting show our commitment to moving forward,” she said.
Following on from BizFest’s momentum, a new pop-up initiative called BizHub will begin on 1 August at Kai Tahi. Taking place every second Friday, BizHub will provide a regular space for business owners to connect, share advice, and access support. Both BizFest and BizHub are joint efforts between Porirua City Council and Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira.
The calendar has already been busy, with the Love Local Expo drawing thousands to Te Rauparaha Arena on 7 June. More than 130 local vendors took part, showcasing the diversity and talent within the Porirua business community.
Coming up next, Porirua will feature in Visa Wellington on a Plate from 1 to 31 August, with local eateries competing to serve up the region’s most creative burgers. ChoctoberFest will also return later in the year after a successful 2024 run that saw over 13,000 treats sold across 20 local businesses.
For those looking to start or grow a business, the three-day Bizezi Spark Programme on 30 and 31 July and 1 August offers hands-on support from experts. Later, on 20 August, a subsidised workshop on the circular economy will show businesses how to unlock new opportunities and reduce waste.
With BizFest leading the charge, Porirua’s business events continue to bring people together, showcase local talent, and build community connections in challenging times.
