Pressure is mounting on the Government, to come up with a better plan for the tough economic times.

In the latest annual Herald Mood of the Boardroom Survey, chief executives rate Jacinda Ardern just 1.61 for building confidence with the business community.

Optimism in the global economy is at 1.83 out of five, down from 3.15 out of five last year.

Employers and Manufacturers Association Chief Executive Brett O'Riley told Mike Hosking New Zealand needs a plan to bring in more workers overseas, or cope without extra people.

LISTEN ABOVE

• Survey finds confidence in Govt's leadership is falling
• Biggest decline in economic confidence since the GFC - survey