18 August 2004

Vision Manawatu reports positive outlook for Manawatu

In its twelve monthly report to stakeholders today, Vision Manawatu is upbeat about future economic expansion for the region.

CEO Ian Reid said, “The Manawatu Region is enjoying a period of economic expansion and strong employment growth. Our own survey of businesses confirms that there has been a four percent increase in employment and the floods will not affect the medium to longer term growth of the region.”

The report highlights four key achievements: the Made it Manawatu Expo for school leavers showcasing apprenticeships; the progress on the Bio Commerce Centre; the highly acclaimed Smart Business Acceleration Programme; and the Student City Summit held to identify ways to promote the city as student-friendly.

Mr Reid said, “We can only be successful when we have the wholehearted endorsement of the Manawatu community. Our achievements are the result of partnerships with others to deliver large projects and other initiatives. Connections to businesses and business leaders are critical.”

The agency achieved a financial surplus for the 12 months of just under $70,000, which will be held in reserve.

The report reflects progress by the agency on the economic development strategy developed in 2002.

Chairman of Vision Manawatu John Heng said, “Vision Manawatu has grown to become one of the leading economic development agencies in New Zealand.”

ENDS

Climate Change: Activists Blockade NZ Stock Exchange

Protesters blockaded the New Zealand Stock Exchange this morning frustrated with global inaction on climate change and critical of market-based systems being proposed to tackle the problem.

Activists occupied an office on the second floor of the exchange and nine people were arrested blockading the south entrance to the building.

Another group of protestors scaled the Foreign Affairs and Trade building and unfurled a large banner singling out Fonterra as an environmental terrorist. More>>