8 May 2013
Joint Approach Key to Region’s Success: TOI EDA
• New report findings welcomed
• Call on industry, local, regional and national Government to promote revenue generating industry and support key
infrastructure projects
The latest Regional Economic Activity Report showcases the need for immediate support from regional and central
Government for vital revenue making strategic initiatives currently underway in the Eastern Bay, according to TOI EDA,
the Eastern Bay’s Economic Development Agency.
Mrs Sneha Gray, General Manager, TOI EDA says, “To succeed in an increasingly competitive global marketplace it is vital
to ensure that all regions across the country are successful. Amongst other things this means that now more than ever it
is important for regional and central government to support key industry and important infrastructure projects which
will help improve the region’s economic footprint.
“The time to act is now. We believe it is important for decision makers to have a big picture view toward regional
development.”
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is already working towards this goal and would welcome greater involvement by regional and
central government. Amongst others, three key examples of these include the Ōpōtiki Aquaculture and Harbour Development
Projects; the Industrial Symbiosis project in Kawerau which is an effective example of a successful collaboration
between industry, local, regional and central Government working together to improve the region; the efficient
specialised marine manufacturing in Whakatāne and its increasing popularity as a desirable residential & educational hub and tourist destination.
The Ōpōtiki Aquaculture and the Harbour Development Projects are the most significant new primary production and
infrastructure initiatives underway at present in the region. Generating between 320 and 450 new jobs, this project will
directly address some of the region’s most pressing economic and social needs; in dollar terms this means $41M to $55M
of new GDP.
Similarly, Kawerau’s wood processing, forestry, and energy capabilities have the potential to make significantly higher
contributions to both the region’s and New Zealand’s GDP and export targets.
Each of these projects doesn’t just benefit one district but benefits the wider Bay of Plenty and New Zealand.
“New Zealand is a sum of its parts. The Eastern Bay plays a significant part as an engine room for manufacturing and
exports. Our region’s economic strengths in forestry, manufacturing, marine development, logistics and tourism, can be
highly enhanced with collaboration, support and co-operation. We call on industry, regional and government to work with
us so together the Eastern Bay can contribute more significantly towards New Zealand’s growth,” says Mrs Gray.
ENDS