Jan to China

Matamata- Piako District Council last week unanimously approved mayor Jan Barnes being part of a trade delegation to China.

‘‘The delegation will be made up of mayors from around the country,’’ Barnes explained of the trip organised by Local Government New Zealand.

‘‘ Councils were given the opportunity to express an interest in the trip, then were selected by Local Government New Zealand to ensure the delegation represents New Zealand’s wide range of investment opportunities.’’

Mayors are regarded as key in establishing contact with possible investors in China. Each mayor is also allowed to invite a small number of business representatives from the district to join the delegation.

‘‘At this stage two local businesses have committed to investing their time and money to be part of this delegation. They see it as a wonderful opportunity to showcase our district,’’ Barnes said.

The delegation will meet with Chinese mayors from major regions and cities, who will also visit New Zealand next year as part of this ongoing relationship.

‘‘China is a country of enormous potential for tourism and food processing – both key industries in the Matamata-Piako district,’’ Barnes said.

‘‘We need to take time to form strong relationships with China for that business to happen, and Local Government New Zealand know that mayors can play a vital role.’’

The delegation will be hosted for three days in Xiamen.

Mayor Jan will then travel to Shanghai, where she will meet investors and be hosted by a businessman who has been developing his business in Waharoa.

‘‘This is an ideal opportunity to build on our existing relationships and to discuss future opportunities,’’ she said.