Refreshed economic action plan
A ‘refreshed’ Tai Tokerau Northland economic action plan, including 80 community-strengthening projects, many of which are already coming to fruition, has been launched.
Phase 2 of the plan, launched by Parliamentary UnderSecretary for Regional Economic Development Fletcher Tabuteau, also has several new projects. The projects are designed to create prosperous, resilient communities via an efficient multi-model transport system, a state-of-theart technology eco-system, a thriving Ma¯ori economy, an equitable environment for wha¯nau wellbeing, a top regional visitor destination, better use of water and a skilled local workforce.
Launched in February 2016, the 10-year document is consistently updated, encouraging the inclusion of new projects as existing ones are completed.
“Initiatives developed by Tai Tokerau for Tai Tokerau, supported nationally, are helping stimulate and grow local economies, boost jobs, grow skills and attract new investment,” action plan advisory group chairman Harry Burkhardt said. “This is about a coordinated approach with industry, communities, hapu¯ and iwi, along with local governance and central government stakeholders. We are working to our strengths to transform hightrust collaborative relationships.”
Projects already delivered included the prototype Growth Industries Pathway in Kaikohe, the Pou Herenga Tai Twin Coast Cycle Trail, a strategic opportunities study into water storage, and a Workforce Stocktake Report identifying issues of labour demand and attraction and retention of labour in Northland.
The first also celebrated the Hawaiki cable construction and landing, upgrading Mangakahia Rd as a state highway, and developing Communities of Learning across Tai Tokerau.
Other completed projects include Stage 1 of both the Hihiaua Cultural Centre and Bay of Islands Airport, a ma¯nukaplanting initiative, establishing a QRC Tai Tokerau Resort College, employment research for primary sector employers, Te Kakano, the stand-alone sculpture built in Hundertwasser style in Whanga¯ rei, improvements at Whanga¯rei Airport, and destination positioning along the Twin Coast route.
Phase 2 projects range from rail options and Far North water use and storage to digital improvements such as marae connectivity, digital and skills hubs, and investment in youth through pathways to employment, support for employers, further entrepreneurial eco-system/ business support networks and implementation of the International Education Strategy.
“The Extension 350 farmer mentoring programme will continue, as will support for the implementation of the Joint Te Hiku Crown Work Programme, while also enabling development of primary industries in horticulture, honey, aquaculture and forestry,” portfolio manager for the plan Jude Thompson said. “Our tourism industry is a big focus too, the plan featuring a number of enhanced and new Ma¯ori cultural experiences, development of a new destination management and marketing plan for Northland, and completion of the Northland Journeys network, as well as cycleway plans and other visitor experiences.”
High-value manufacturing was one to watch, with some innovative approaches coming for the marine and energy sectors, flora and manufacturing.
“As a surge region, Tai Tokerau is seeing significant investment from the Provincial Growth Fund and long overdue benefits for our communities and wha¯nau.
"As a surge region, Tai Tokerau is seeing significant investment from the Provincial Growth Fund and long overdue benefits for our communities and wha¯ nau. "
Jude Thompson