Economic Development In The Spotlight

Dunedin (Thursday 14 March 2013) - Work is already well underway to develop Dunedin into one of the world’s great small cities.

Creating better support for local exporters and expanding links with Chinese sister city Shanghai are among the projects being rolled out as part of the Dunedin Economic Development Strategy.

The Strategy is a 10-year blueprint for increasing incomes and job opportunities for Dunedin residents. It was created from a partnership between the Dunedin City Council, the Otago Chamber of Commerce, the Otago Southland Employers Association, the Otago Polytechnic, the University of Otago and Ngāi Tahu.

The Strategy was adopted in September last year, and it will be showcased at an invitation-only event tomorrow evening (Friday 15 March) at Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. The showcase provides an opportunity to update local businesses and other organisations on what has happened since the Strategy was adopted and how they can play a part.

Speakers at the showcase event will include Minister for Economic Development Steven Joyce, MacDiarmid Young Scientist of the Year 2008 Dr Rebecca McLeod and DCC Chief Executive Paul Orders.

Strategy Steering Group Chair Chris Staynes says Dunedin aims to be one of the world’s great small cities and strong business growth is needed to create a future for the city’s economic development.

“We know it won’t be easy, particularly in the current environment. But we think it’s achievable because it’s a shared vision of where the growth will come from and what is needed to make it happen.

“Dunedin already has some high-performing, innovative businesses and we want to extend their opportunities and attract new investment to the city.”

The Strategy sets out five themes: business vitality, alliances for innovation, a hub of skills and talent, linkages beyond our borders and a compelling destination.

Project teams are busy working on actions to support these themes. The work includes better support for exporting, Project Shanghai and further developing innovative and internationally-competitive industries and clusters.

Mr Staynes says the aim is for Dunedin to be known as a community where enterprise and creativity support a productive and sustainable city.

“Dunedin’s size, supportive environment and great lifestyle makes it an ideal city in which to live, work and do business.”

Further details about the Strategy can be found at www.dunedineconomy.co.nz.

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