3 November 2005

City action plan to support creative sector

Auckland City will develop an action plan to enhance and support the growth of the creative sector in the city. Councillor Richard Northey, chairperson of the Economic Development and Sustainable Development Committee says that Auckland City's recent economic research into the sector clearly demonstrates the creative industries are already an important economic driver for the city with great growth potential.

"The sector is uniquely important because it drives growth across other sectors of the Auckland economy from manufacturing to services. The sector's potential economic impact could provide Auckland with a distinctive competitive advantage," said Mr Northey.

Auckland City's research provided important information and insights into the nature, motivations and aspirations of over 400 stakeholders in the creative industries in Auckland.

"We have listened to what the creative sector has said. Now we are committed to producing an action plan that will support the growth of the creative industries and will help realise the vital contribution the sector can make to Auckland over the long-term," said Mr Northey.

The creative industries action plan will align with other Auckland City plans and strategies such as the CBD Into the future strategy, the long-term planning process and Auckland City's other work to support economic development in the city.

The council will collaborate with representatives from the creative industries and key external agencies to develop the action plan, which is due for completion in the middle of next year.

The creative sector contributed $1.17 billion in to Auckland city's economy in 2003. This is equivalent to 6.3 per cent of total city GDP of $19.8 billion and is on a par with the construction industry at 5.9 per cent.

Following accepted international classifications, Auckland City defines the creative industries as:
* design (including graphic design, architecture, advertising and designer fashion)
* publishing (book, periodical and newspaper)
* music
* performing arts
* visual arts, crafts and photography
* screen production and radio (film, television, video, radio and digital media).

ENDS

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