Friday 23 October 2015

Rotorua mayor supports Special Economic Zones

Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick has come out in support of Special Economic Zones as a means of encouraging regional development.

The concept of economic zones is being promoted by The New Zealand Initiative in a new report called ‘In the Zone: Creating a Toolbox for Regional Prosperity.’

Mrs Chadwick said Rotorua would be interested in further investigation into special economic zones as a means of testing government policies tailored to support economic development in the regions.

“In Rotorua we have our own unique district features – for example the use of geothermal resources, adding value to forestry and wood processing, cycling and golf facilities – and we would certainly be interested in working in partnership with the crown and other agencies where there are communities of interest.”

Special Economic Zones have also been welcomed by Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ).

LGNZ president Lawrence Yule said local authorities and their communities needed to be in the best possible position to manage significant issues such as regional economic development, demographic shifts, climate change and rapid technological advancement.

“This innovative report … outlines the way forward for regions to address location-specific policies and regulations, and provides the right tools and incentives to meet environmental and economic goals, and minimise barriers to growth.

The New Zealand Initiative’s report also calls for a more collaborative approach to policy making between local and central government. It says local government should be able to request regional variations on national regulations to suit local needs.

ENDS

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