Local People and Local Business to Reap Rewards

14 April 2004

Local People and Local Business to Reap Rewards

Growing local businesses is the focus of a steering group set up to take advantage of the building and operation of the Northland Corrections Facility at Ngawha.

The steering group consisting of representatives from government agencies and private enterprise has called itself Ngawha Link.

“It is tremendous to see the sharing of ideas and the proactive steps that are being taken to assist economic development in this area,” said John Halse of Enterprise Northland. “This group is taking action to ensure that local people and local businesses reap the rewards from the establishment of this facility.”

The corrections facility has already had a major impact on the local building industry. Of the 300 workers on site nearly 100 were previously unemployed and opportunities continue to grow as the site develops. With completion scheduled for mid 2005, demand for local services will expand as people move into the area to work and the facility begins day-to-day operation. An example of this will be the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables.

The Ngawha-Link Steering Group has representation from Enterprise Northland, Far North District Council, Mainzeal Construction, Department of Corrections, Work and Income, Ngati Rangi, Kaikohe Community Board, Northland Chamber of Commerce and the Tertiary Education Commission.

Ngawha-Link has recently appointed Ivanangel Consulting Ltd as its coordinator to identify business opportunities, matching potential growth areas with current and budding business operators. They will also provide support and mentoring services, working alongside training and development agencies.

“We are excited about the business opportunities provided to the local area and the wider region by the new corrections facility,” said Debra Bright, senior consultant. “It represents a chance for existing and potential businesses to grow and enhance the services provided by Kaikohe, as the hub of the Far North.”

ENDS

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