Hon Jim Anderton
Deputy Prime Minister
News release
4 February 2000
Progress on West Coast Package Welcomed
Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton and Finance Minister Michael Cullen today welcomed progress in establishing a
new regional development strategy for the West Coast.
"Negotiations are still in the very early stages but we are confident an agreement will be pulled together within the
next few months," they said.
The Ministers were commenting on the results of an officials' delegation to the West Coast this week for preliminary
discussions on a West Coast development package and a suitable vehicle to manage it.
Assets under discussion include cutting rights to the exotic forests managed by Timberlands West Coast and income from
the resource levies and royalties now paid to the Crown.
"The aim is to assist the West Coast in developing a viable economic base consistent with the Government's decision to
end indigenous forestry on land with significant conservation values," the Ministers said.
The delegation comprised Cathy Casey, a policy advisor to Mr Anderton, Chris Mackenzie from Dr Cullen's office and
officials from Commerce and Treasury. They met with senior representatives from the West Coast Regional Council and the
Buller, Grey and Westland District Councils.
ends
Further comment
John Pagani 025 570 872 (04) 471 9172