BOOST FOR KŌPŪ MARINE SERVICING

The Thames-coromandel district will be able to take advantage of the region’s growing marine servicing industry following a $8.2m Government funding initiative. The grant is part of the Government’s $3 billion ‘shovel-ready’ fund set aside to kickstart the country’s post-covid-19 economic recovery.

Te Waka CEO Michael Bassett-foss says the proposed Kōpū marine servicing and business precinct will see Kōpū developed as a centre of marine servicing operations across the Hauraki Gulf. It is also wellplaced to facilitate water-based tourism opportunities and a growing aquaculture industry.

“The development of the Kōpū precinct will provide tangible benefits for the local and regional community, creating employment opportunities and improved use of Māori assets as it is well-aligned with local iwi cultural values.”

The Government estimates that the Marine Precinct could bring economic returns of up to $58.5m over the next 30 years.

This project sits alongside two other Coromandel District projects which received Government funding in 2018 through the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF). These included scoping out business cases for expanding Sugarloaf Wharf and developing a Coromandel Marine Gateway facility with the potential for a commuter ferry service to Auckland.

Together these projects show the potential economic development opportunities around the Coromandel by preparing the region for higher visitor numbers and increased usage of wharf and boat ramp facilities for both recreational and commercial users.