Where ideas take root

Waikirikiri Selwyn is a place where businesses can genuinely grow and thrive.

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Key regional statistics

+2.4%
GDP Growth in 2024. Compared to 1.4% nationally
+2.9%
Business growth (8,622 business units +2.9% new businesses in 2024 compared)
28,047
Filled jobs (+3.3% growth in 2024 compared)
87,600
Estimated resident population (+2.3% growth in 2025)
+9%
Consumer spending +9% in 2024 compared to 0.5% nationally

Blueprint for
growing the economy

The Kai Aku Rika Economic Development Strategy was developed together with Selwyn businesses. Through a range of online and in-person events and workshops, over 250 local businesses leaders shared their valuable insights and vision on how we can work together to build a resilient future-fit Selwyn to grow the local economy and increase the prosperity and economic wellbeing of residents and businesses. This strategy serves as both a blueprint and a call to action for our community to participate in shaping an economy that fits with the future aspirations of Waikirikiri Selwyn.


Why do business in Selwyn?

Waikirikiri Selwyn has long been a place of practical know-how and steady progress. More than 85,000 people now call it home, drawn by opportunity, connection, and a good way of life. Here, ambition is grounded, innovation is hands-on, and people work together to make things happen.

We are close to Christchurch and the world, with the infrastructure, talent, and lifestyle to match. Whether you are starting out, expanding, or investing, Selwyn is a place to grow with confidence.

Selwyn is open for business, open for ideas, and open for you.

  • Strong and steady growth: GDP up 2.4%, business growth up 4%, and one of the highest rates of self-employment in the country.
  • Connected and accessible: Just 20 minutes from Christchurch City, with access to
  • Lyttelton Port, Christchurch Airport, and the MidlandPort inland hub.
  • People who get things done: From innovators and entrepreneurs to established operators, Selwyn’s business community is collaborative, driven, and ready to grow.
  • Lifestyle advantage: Great schools, affordable living, and a strong sense of community make it easier to attract and retain talent.


Invest & partner

The best ideas grow stronger when shared. By partnering with local people and businesses, you tap into a community that backs each other and gets things done. Working together helps us solve challenges faster and create opportunities that last — practical, focused, and built on trust.


Business support

Selwyn backs its businesses. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, we help you find the right advice, the right people, and the right next step. Our goal is simple: make it easier to build a good business and a good life in a district that looks after its own.


Business events

Our events bring people together to swap ideas, meet potential partners, and spark new opportunities. They’re welcoming, down-to-earth gatherings where conversations lead somewhere — whether that’s a fresh perspective, a new customer, or a chance to collaborate.

Connect
with Businesses

Whether you’re looking for trusted local services or hoping to support small businesses in your community, the directory lets you search by industry and location, helping you quickly find the right business for your needs.

For businesses, the directory is a simple and effective way to increase visibility, connect with new customers, and be part of a trusted, locally focused platform. If your business isn’t listed yet, signing up is free and easy. Being listed helps strengthen Selwyn’s business network by making it easier for customers and other businesses to find and engage with you.

    Connect


    Business Survey

    The Selwyn Business Survey is a biannual pulse check of Selwyn Businesses undertaken in February and August. It provides a barometer measure of how businesses are doing in Selwyn, and their outlook for the next six months.

    The survey covers topics such as employment and investment trends, recent business conditions, what the future holds and emerging business opportunities.


      Talent attraction

      Waikirikiri Selwyn is a place where skilled, motivated people thrive. With room to grow, a supportive community, and opportunities in lots of industries, it’s easy to build a career and a life here. If you’re keen to make an impact and be part of something real, Selwyn’s ready for you.


      Funding

      If you’re ready to grow, we’ve pulled together funding options to help you take the next step. These resources are here to give Selwyn businesses a practical boost — simple to find, easy to explore, and focused on helping good ideas move forward.


      Screen

      Selwyn offers wide, open landscapes, clear light, and easy access from mountains to coastline. It’s a versatile, flexible backdrop for filming. We keep things simple and practical, helping you find the right location and get set up smoothly so you can focus on telling your story.