The new Elevate Central business group has formed an incorporated society with an active committee, after its inaugural general meeting in February.

With 30 to 40 active members already joined, the group encompassed a large cross section of people from across the district including business owners, school principals and council representatives.

Elevate Central Inc was committed to strengthening the region through connection, collaboration, and shared leadership.

At its second monthly breakfast in Alexandra this week, chair Dewald de Beer encouraged members to get to know one another and share insights from their industry.

Over the past month the committee has canvassed the business community to have conversations about the Central Otago District Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP), and received feedback from 108 of those.

Dewald said as a district they had to be mindful of growth projections and planning, as there could be some issues around infrastructure.

Committee member Brent Wilson was part of the original Central Otago Chamber of Commerce group back in the 1990s, and said they had come a long way since then.

“It’s about being positive and proactive. Together we can do a hell of a lot more.”

He said despite the economic upheaval, people were just “getting on with it.”

Elevate Central Inc members would also be collaborating on local projects and be involved with business advocacy.

There would be guest speaker breakfasts and networking sessions, and overall it was a platform to share, learn and celebrate local success stories.

If you'd like to learn more about joining the leadership group email [email protected]

If you have a good story to share contact [email protected]

New Central Group formed