Business Central
Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce
Media Statement
21 October 2014
Biggs right fit for WREDA, says Chamber
Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce welcomes the appointment of Peter Biggs as the inaugural chair of the region’s
new economic development agency, WREDA.
President John Milford says Mr Biggs looks to be exactly the right fit to take Wellington Regional Economic Development
Agency to the next level as it strives to boost economic activity.
“He’s got the experience and connections in marketing and the arts to get the agency really cracking, and the Chamber
looks forward to working with him
“I’m encouraged that already he is talking about WREDA focusing on cohesion, confidence, conversion and communication,
and about how the next phase is action.
“That sounds very much like fighting talk, and that’s exactly what we need.
“This merger of Greater Wellington Regional Council's Grow Wellington agency and Wellington City Council’s tourism,
venues, and major events agencies is a wonderful opportunity for the region and we must not waste it.
“The sky should be the limit when it comes to ideas.
“WREDA needs to be brave in the things it tries, and the Chamber will be right behind it. We need to strive to be
different.
“Now we must make sure Peter Biggs gets a board that will help him drive the organisation forward.
“He must have a mix of people with business nous, a passion and strong knowledge of the region, the ability to think
outside the square, and the energy to get things done.
“I would expect Wellington city to have a strong representation on the new board, considering it is the region’s
powerhouse and will be contributing over 80% of the funding towards the new entity.”