15 November 2005

Economic development initiatives underpin productivity

Auckland City Councillor Richard Northey, chairperson of the Economic Development and Sustainable Business Committee, says most Aucklanders already knew that they work hard and productively and that they contribute as well as the primary sector does to New Zealand's economic growth.

"But it's good to have this intuition confirmed by the Treasury number crunchers and public servants from Wellington.

"It is a year on from the establishment of the council's Economic Development committee and we can point to several major achievements on the road to becoming a more internationally competitive city and a premier business leader," said Mr Northey.

"We are currently putting in place the foundations for our future, through projects such as the waterfront development. This will ensure the marine and fishing industries continue to be a vital part of the waterfront and Auckland region's economy."

More recently, the release of Snapshot: Auckland's creative industries, outlines the significant impact this sector has on the city's and region's economy. The sector adds $1.17 billion to Auckland city's total city GDP of $19.8 billion each year. Auckland City is in an excellent position to capitalise on this growth in the sector.

"We're developing an action plan to address some of the issues and support the sectors' economic development."

Latest survey results on the Auckland City Mainstreet Programme also reveal significant business growth and satisfaction with Auckland's urban villages and suburban town centres. The results revealed 48 per cent of businesses in 16 mainstreets around the city have experienced an increase in overall turnover over the last twelve months.

Mr Northey said the CBD Into the future strategy was another example. "It is about reshaping and revitalising Auckland's CBD as the prosperous and vital heart of New Zealand's leading city and region.

"These initiatives are supported with infrastructure planning, for example, the transport targeted rate introduced this year will accelerate the transport projects to get goods and people moving around the city.

"Supporting the city to achieve sustainable economic prosperity is Auckland City's goal and it is heartening to see Auckland's workers and businesses being recognised for their productivity achievements," said Mr Northey.

ENDS

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