August 24, 2025 | KIBC Sustainability Centre, PwC Tower, Auckland
On the afternoon of August 24, 2025, Kingston International Business College (KIBC), in collaboration with the EMA China Business Centre,successfully hosted the first session of the “Breaking Boundaries. Thriving Together” Chinese Business Empowerment Workshop at the KIBC Sustainability Centre in Auckland’s PwC Tower.
The workshop aimed to support Chinese entrepreneurs and SME owners in New Zealand by deepening their understanding of the local business environment, expanding professional networks, and strengthening competitiveness.
The event drew 16 Chinese business representatives from diverse industries including education, construction, technology, law, accounting, e-commerce, and hospitality. Participants exchanged hands-on experience and shared growth resources in a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.
The first session featured a one-hour intensive entrepreneurship lecture by Dr. Bo Lin of KIBC. Focusing on the “problem–solution–market” framework, Dr. Lin outlined practical approaches for identifying real market needs, building business models, and navigating cultural nuances, financing landscapes, and regulatory challenges in New Zealand.
“Entrepreneurship is not about copying experiences—it is about solving problems in context,” Dr. Lin emphasized.
This was followed by a case study presented by Lisa, Co-Founder of Hbay Group, who shared the growth journey of their bottled water brand “New Bay.” From product definition and packaging innovation to market distribution, Lisa explained how their 7L and 10L bagged water series and multi-size bottled water products successfully tapped into the core demands of local consumers: health, sustainability, and convenience.
Her insights sparked strong resonance, with participants actively engaging in the Q&A session. Many commented that the workshop was “extremely rewarding” and expressed interest in follow-up group discussions.
In his closing remarks, the Principal of KIBC stressed that Kingston is not only a business college for academic learning but also aspires to be a community of thought and resources for Chinese entrepreneurs in New Zealand. He formally proposed the establishment of the KIBC Alumni Association, envisioned as a platform to foster long-term business connections, resource-sharing, and win-win cooperation among graduates and partners.
The “Breaking Boundaries · Thriving Together” workshop marks only the beginning. KIBC, together with EMA, will continue to launch a series of courses and events, building a three-in-one growth support platform: professional knowledge, local perspectives, and high- quality networks.
Through this initiative, KIBC reaffirms its commitment to empowering more Chinese entrepreneurs in New Zealand to break through challenges, establish strong foundations, and achieve collaborative success.