May 12, 2014
Christchurch’s future linked to irrigated agriculture
New research from the Canterbury Development Corporation (CDC) shows how linked Christchurch’s future is to irrigated
agriculture, says IrrigationNZ.
The CDC Summary report; Christchurch and Rural Sectors Relationship Analysis, released today, illustrates clearly the value of Canterbury’s rural economy – particularly when irrigation is factored
in – to the country’s second largest city.
“This has got to be heartening news for Christchurch which is now facing a half a billion dollar deficit to rebuild. The
CDC report forecasts significant economic growth from irrigation development in Central and North Canterbury. Much of
this gain will come to Christchurch, particularly when the Central Plains Water and Hurunui Water Project projects fully
get underway,” says IrrigationNZ CEO Andrew Curtis.
“The other exciting news is that the food and beverages manufacturing sector in the region has room to grow and there is
sizeable potential to increase our value-add if we can develop innovation in this space,” says Mr Curtis.
“The CDC’s economic forecasts show the region has plenty to capitalise on. Irrigated agriculture is the region and
city’s best bet of generating substantial GDP and employment growth but we will need certainty around irrigation
investment if we are going to realise these opportunities.”
The CDC Summary report and the more detailed research reports that it is drawn from are available on its Publications
page at www.cdc.org.nz
IrrigationNZ is the national body representing irrigators and the irrigation industry. Its mission is to promote excellence in
irrigation throughout New Zealand.
ENDS