07/09/2018
The Government has announced more than $320 million will be invested into infrastructure and tourism in Tairāwhiti, a
move described by Council chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann as a “game changer” for our region.
During a ceremony at The Works Restaurant this morning, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a series of investments
from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) aimed at unlocking regional economic potential through key infrastructure, tourism
and employment projects.
Among the investments is $312 million over three years for our roading network, $5.5 million towards a new terminal
building at Gisborne Airport and a number of other investments including $300K to fund a new forestry training
programme.
The PGF has also granted $6.1million for the Titirangi Summit redevelopment and $1.6 million for the Puhi Kai Iti / Cook
Landing Site upgrade, both key projects within the Tairāwhiti Navigations programme.
Nedine Thatcher Swann says the significant level of investment is testament to the Government’s confidence in this
region’s economic potential.
“With our incredible produce, innovative industries and unique tourism offerings, Tairāwhiti has so much to offer – the
key is having the infrastructure to support it.
“Roading was recognised as a critical priority in our Tairāwhiti Economic Action Plan. We worked with NZTA to develop
our Integrated Transport Priority Plan – a business case that demonstrates unique roading needs of this region,” she
says.
“We are isolated and rely on our roads for the necessities. We have always been clear that roads are our regional
priority and we have been listened to.”
Council worked collaboratively with several key stakeholders in the various PGF applications and today’s announcements
indicate this unified approach has paid off for the benefit of the whole region.
“We are so grateful to the Government for making these investments in the areas that really matter. It is a complete
game changer.”
ENDS