Free business plan template for New Zealand business owners

Starting and running a business is a journey that needs direction. That’s why a well-crafted business plan is critical for success. With a solid understanding of your company’s current state and some actionable goals for the months (or years) ahead, you and your team can take the business forward. 

That’s why we created a business plan template. Our free, editable template is designed for New Zealand businesses, providing a practical framework to help you plan, secure funding and grow. It includes space for:

• Short and long-term business goals 
• Comprehensive market analysis
• Company OKRs
• Financial planning and forecasts

Download the template by filling in the form on the right. 

Why every New Zealand business needs a business plan

A business plan is a vital tool that gives your business direction and helps you make smarter decisions. For New Zealand businesses, a structured plan is crucial for navigating the local market, meeting compliance obligations and outlining a clear path to growth. It helps you stay focused on your goals, whether you’re just starting out or preparing to scale.

Plus, if you’re looking to apply for any grants or financing, that’s the first thing that you’ll be asked for. So it’s important to have.

How to use this business plan template

Our template is broken down into clear sections to guide you. Here’s how to fill it out effectively to create a comprehensive plan for your business.

Business overview

This is your company’s introduction. Detail your business name and your NZBN. You should also include your mission and vision statements. Think about what your business aims to achieve and what your long-term aspirations are. This section sets the stage for the rest of your plan.

Market research and target customers

Show that you understand the New Zealand market. Describe your industry, including its size and any current trends. Define your target customers by outlining their demographics, needs and buying habits. Use local data where possible to back up your analysis. A thorough SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) is also essential here to understand your position against competitors.

Operations and staffing

Detail your current team set-up and how responsibilities are assigned across the business. Make sure to include any potential skills gaps that could occur as you work towards your goals, and consider where you could upskill existing team members or hire externally. 

Company OKRs

How will your business succeed? Set several clear objectives for the months or year ahead, to ensure that your whole team is aligned on what needs to be done. We’ve included a framework to build out objectives and key results (OKRs), to make your goals actionable and focused. 

Financial plan and projections

Your financial plan demonstrates the viability of your business. It should include projected revenue forecasts, a breakdown of your startup and ongoing expenses and any funding requirements. For New Zealand businesses seeking investment or loans, it’s important that your financial projections are realistic and align with the standards expected by local banks and investors.

Different types of business plans in NZ

Not all business plans are the same. The type you need depends on your goals.

• Startup plans: These are comprehensive plans for new businesses seeking funding. They detail every aspect of the business from the ground up.
• Growth plans: For existing businesses looking to expand. They act as a refresh for the original business plan, focusing on new opportunities, market penetration or product development.
• One-page plans: A concise summary of your business strategy. It’s great for quickly communicating your vision and keeping your team aligned.

Our template can be adapted for any of these purposes – you could expand on certain sections, add new ones or condense it down to select information. .

Business planning tips for New Zealand entrepreneurs

Creating a solid business plan takes effort but it’s worth it. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Aligning your plan with New Zealand regulations and funding bodies

When seeking funding in New Zealand, your business plan will be scrutinised. Banks, investors and government agencies have specific criteria. They want to see that you understand the local market, have a realistic financial plan and are aware of your compliance obligations under New Zealand law. Tailor your plan to show you’ve done your homework.

Updating your business plan regularly

Your business plan shouldn’t be a static document. The market changes and your business will evolve. Review and update your plan at least once a year or whenever there’s a significant shift in your operations or strategy. This will help you stay on track and adapt to new opportunities or challenges.

How Employment Hero supports New Zealand businesses

As your business grows, so does your admin. Managing HR, payroll and compliance can quickly become a major task, pulling you away from your strategic goals.

Employment Hero is an all-in-one platform that simplifies people management for New Zealand businesses. From employment agreements and automated payroll to leave management and performance reviews, our tools are designed to reduce your admin burden so you can focus on executing your business plan.

Download the free NZ business plan template now

Ready to turn your business vision into a reality? Download our free, comprehensive template and start building your roadmap for success in New Zealand.

The information in this article is current as at 30 October 2025, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this article are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. Some information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.