Building lasting relationships for growth in BOP
For Immediate Release
30 November 2015
Building lasting relationships for growth in BOP
Bay of Connections has
solidified its regional and national influence throughout
2015, after a year of significant economic action and
achievement, culminating in the launch of its Yearly Report
in Tauranga today. < Bay
of Connections is the economic development strategy for the
wider Bay of Plenty region, aimed at growing investment,
incomes and jobs through developing sustainable
sectors. Of particular significance for the Bay of
Connections this year has been its partnership with central
government in the development and launch of the Toi Moana
Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study (RGS) and Economic
Action Plan. The RGS identifies short to mid-term
opportunities (0-10 years) that can increase job
opportunities, attract investment and lift incomes in the
region. The Action Plan involves establishing how key
opportunities could be realised, who is responsible and by
when. Bay of Connections chair Doug Leeder says the Action
Plan will play a critical role in the region’s
future. “This will be a key factor in developing our
region and I cannot over-emphasise its importance. The
attendance and engagement throughout development of the RGS
and the Action Plan by community leaders, iwi, local and
central government, Mayors and industry is testament to that
fact. “This work has seen our core values of
collaboration and connectedness develop to another level,
with partnerships created through Bay of Connections over
the last eight years acting as a catalyst for many of our
projects during 2015.”
Mr Leeder says it is this
connectivity that places the Bay of Plenty in a strong
position for growth. Bay of Connections portfolio manager
Cheryl Lewis says the six business-as-usual Bay of
Connections strategies have also progressed positively
throughout the year, including energy, forestry and wood
processing, freight logistics, aquaculture, Māori economic
development, and sport and recreation (particularly rugby
sevens). “All sector strategies are industry-led, with
action groups established for each. Through lobbying,
submissions and working in close partnership with central
and local government, these action groups have also led
activity which have a positive impact for our
region. “This includes submissions on Long Term Plans,
Land Transport Plans, Coastal Plans, the Climate Change
Target and National Environmental Standards, supporting
education and associated projects, and appointing new energy
experts for the Energy Strategy,” she says. Mr Leeder
says the Bay of Plenty has many comparative advantages and
natural resources in which to stimulate further
growth. “The relationships that have been formed both
within and into the region will ensure success both for
industry and for our communities. “There is much passion
in this region and Bay of Connections enables a framework
for everyone to work together towards a common goal. I look
forward to another year of action and results in
2016.” Bay of Connections has also launched a new-look
website, in recognition of its ongoing development and
regional influence. For more information on Bay of
Connections, its strategies and how you can be involved,
visit www.bayofconnections.com You can view
a copy of the 2015 Yearly Report
here. -ends-