AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE

4 May 2006

Action plan to support creative industries

An action plan to consult with the creative sector on ways Auckland City can help creative industries fulfil their economic potential for the city has been endorsed by the council's Economic Development and Sustainable Business Committee.

The plan "Creative Action" details strategies for three main objectives aimed at increasing the visibility of Auckland's creative industries, supporting their competitive advantage in the regional and national economy, and developing a better understanding of sector issues.

The plan was developed following research which highlighted the potential economic strength of Auckland's creative industries. A November 2005 report, Snapshot: Auckland's Creative Industries, showed the creative sector contributed $1.17 billion (6.3 per cent) to the city's GDP in 2003 and accounted for 37 per cent of the nation's creative sector jobs.

Following industry consultation, the action plan will be updated and reported back to the committee later this year.

Committee chairperson, Councillor Richard Northey, said the plan foreshadowed an exciting period in the economic development of Auckland's creative industries. "It includes a wide range of activities to support the sector and recognises the diverse cultural and social benefits the industry can provide as well as the economic potential."

Possible new initiatives include a marketing campaign to promote Auckland's creative sector in New Zealand and internationally. Other initiatives could be covered by existing budgets.

"Consultation with the sector must also include a robust prioritisation process to ensure agreed initiatives are funded," Mr Northey added.

ENDS

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