19 April 2005

Manukau Mayor Attending International Conference In Canada

Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis is attending the CoreNet Global Summit in Toronto, representing Manukau City Council and spearheading its new programme aimed at attracting international businesses to Manukau City.

CoreNet Global is the world's foremost association for corporate real estate and related professionals. The conference has attracted 3000 delegates from around the world, out of a total membership base of 7,500, including corporate real estate executives from companies such as banks, Ford and IBM, real service providers and economic developers. One of the keynote speakers is former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Sir Barry is attending the conference because Manukau City is actively encouraging investment from overseas companies and investors, and has drawn up an action plan to promote foreign direct investment and sell the benefits of the city in a pro-active way.

Sir Barry's presence at the Toronto Summit will help boost the profile of Manukau and he l leads a small team of economic development staff. He will also be meeting separately with an investment bank and with Toronto City Council, which has a very successful economic development track record.

Manukau is the fastest growing large city in New Zealand and hundreds of businesses choose to locate there each year. The Council is positioning Manukau as the most desirable location for enterprise, business and investment in New Zealand and the Pacific Rim. The results for the city from attracting new companies include increased economic growth, new jobs and career opportunities, and improved standard of living and quality of life for residents.

In particular, the Council is seeking high-value businesses that are not heavy users of physical resources or generators of pollution but which rely on skills and knowledge in producing their products or services. That profile fits the majority of the businesses represented at the Summit. Research indicates that another benefit when overseas companies set up in Manukau is that a large percentage of their output is exported, as easy access to the ports and airport are major pluses for the city.

Sir Barry says, "At international gatherings such as the Summit, the meeting and networking opportunities are invaluable because I have found over the years that best results are achieved from face to face talks and direct personal communication. As a city you can't be shy about blowing your horn.

The Council's new approach of taking our message to the world is vital because Manukau faces stiff competition from rival cities and locations, and we must be assertive and visible. However we have a tremendous package to offer new businesses and that is the message I am selling hard in Canada."

ENDS