Economic Development

Council’s Economic Development Activity works to strengthen the district economy and attract new business to the Far North by promoting it as an investment destination. This includes working to ensure that Council delivers on its promise to be a business friendly organisation. It also works with businesses and education providers to ensure that appropriate and timely skills training is available to the community.

Economic Development contributes by

• Council’s processes aid the establishment of new business and industry. Council supports major events that contribute to the economy of the district. All towns are encouraged and supported to develop their town centres and communities to attract new business investments, tourism and community resilience which locals will be proud of.

– in action – 

Minerals

What we said we would do in 2013/14

Continue to work in partnership with NZ Petroleum and Minerals and regional stakeholders. This is to ensure good public information provision for the region and the district as well as a joint approach to any potential investors.

What we did in 2013/14

At the start of 2013/14 Council continued to actively market public information for both the region and the district. As a result of successfully carrying out this work plan with region partners and NZ Petroleum and Minerals Council curtailed and concluded its marketing of public information in the latter half of 2013/14.

What we plan to do in 2014/15

Minerals marketing of public information will not be a strategic priority in 2014.

This is because the minerals work plan was satisfactorily carried on in the previous year and there is no need to continue this activity at this level from a strategic viewpoint.

– development so far – 

Economic Strategic Plan

What we said  we would do in 2013/14

Preparation of a strategic business plan and working with Far North Holdings Ltd to strengthen the district’s economy and market the district’s attractions such as Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail.

What we did in 2013/14

Council’s direction was to focus on completing the Growth Strategy for the LTP 2015/25. This information is critical to finalising the Economic Strategic Plan.

What we plan to do in 2014/15

Delivery of an evidence based Economic Development Strategy. Review the current models of delivery of the Economic Development Strategy.

– what we have achieved in 2013/14 –  

• In 2014 Council has an additional budget of $30,000 for Focus Projects. Focus Projects is a new initiative that will provide funding for community led town projects, supporting and celebrating the town’s uniqueness along with providing a community strengthening activity. Inspired by the Focus Paihia Community Trust, it is expected that the budget will provide for Focus Projects in 3 townships over the next year.

– where are we now? – 

• There has been serious delays in the construction of Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycleway to June 30 2014 because of a shortfall in funding available to complete the trail. Council is to put a case before the Government for additional funding in 2014. Currently estimates of that cost are being prepared and will form part of Council’s case for more funding.

- key priorities planned for 2014/15 –

Transport Strategy and Advocacy Plan

• Continue to engage with Northland Inc. on economic development opportunities within Northland and the Far North district.
• Continue to support the marketing of the Bay of Islands Brand.

¹ Please refer to the Economic Development section of the Long-Term Plan (LTP) 2012/13 and the Annual Plans 2013/14 and 2014/15 for further information on priorities