The future for economic growth in the Buller
The most northern district on the West Coast of the South Island is facing tough economic times but one group has taken
the initiative to do something about it. The region is not experiencing the strong growth in tourism revenue that other
parts of New Zealand are enjoying despite the fact that it has some of the most uncrowded and magnificent natural
environments Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer.
Advance Northern West Coast (ANWC) is a new initiative which will be driving growth in tourism to compensate for the
decline in minerals extraction which has been one the mainstays for the local economy since the 1870’s. Under the banner
of “Discover Kawatiri” (the original Maori name for the region) this group of enthusiastic local volunteers has
developed a strategic plan and a series of projects to implement that Plan.
With start up support from a partnership between local businesses, the Buller District Council and other potential
funders such as Development West Coast, ANWC will be growing a sustainable visitor and hospitality sector contributing
significantly to the wellbeing of local communities.
The Chairman of ANWC, Glenn Irving said “We have all of the infrastructure we need to provide great experiences for our
visitors – we don’t need heaps of capital investment – all we need to do is get the message out there that New
Zealanders and visitors to our country can enjoy a wide range of exceptional outdoor experiences without the crowding
being experienced in other tourist locations in New Zealand.”
Glenn went on to say “We are requesting a $100 membership fee from local businessesto get us up and running. When
everyone chips in this small amount we will be able to started on some significant promotion initiatives as well as some
of the more basic tasks such as good market and customer research to ensure that all of our marketing is targeted
effectively”
ANWC will be holding their first AGM at 10:30am at the Solid Energy Centre in Westport on the 28th of September. This
meeting is open to anyone who wishes to have some input into the direction and future work of ANWC in taking the region
into a positive future.
ENDS