At 5:45 AM here in Auckland, the sun rose on New Zealand, on Global Entrepreneurship Week and on the entrepreneurial aspirations of millions of people around the world. I spoke to the Mayor of Gisborne, where the sun rises first and congratulated him on his distinction of hosting the first event of more than 13,000 to happen over the next 7 days. I also joined the morning TV shows - including ASB Business.
After gathering to witness the sunrise, we headed to Assa’s Deli - a new business that opened at sunrise on Simon Street where I had the honour of being the first customer. Thank you Assa! Zealand ranks as one of the easiest places to start a business - which is partly why why Assa who is from Israel chose to set up shop in Auckland. While Global Entrepreneurship Week/New Zealand wants a wider base next year, Rob Acton (who has led the effort) should be proud of what lies ahead here this week. Thanks especially to our sponsors IBM for hosting a women and technology event and Ernst & Young for planning a cocktail party and a luncheon seminar this week.