Media release 25 November 2010

Economic Development Forum promises bold approach

Auckland Council's Economic Development Forum has met for the first time promising an economic development strategy with some bold new goals for the Auckland economy.

Forum chairperson Councillor Arthur Anae said he was determined to make sure that the forum provided the council with a foundation to achieve a prosperous future for all Aucklanders, and to also ensure that Auckland made a full contribution to New Zealand's economic development.

The forum discussed the process for the economic development strategy. Officers are now preparing an issues and options paper for a forum workshop in December and discussions with key stakeholders over the coming months. A draft strategy is expected for March 2011.

Said Councillor Anae: "This will build on the feedback councillors have been receiving from our constituents, and also the many stakeholder meetings which officers have already undertaken as part of the Auckland (spatial) plan and economic development strategy processes."

It will be backed up by the Business Advisory Panel being established by Councillor Cameron Brewer, which will make sure that business leaders have a strong voice in the future direction of the Auckland economy.

Councillor Anae said the strategy would be a collaborative process between the council, the Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development CCO, the government and the people of Auckland. "We are keen to work closely with our partners to make sure we can transform Auckland's economy, helping the city reach the Mayor's vision as the most liveable city in the world."

The Economic Development Strategy will form a key component of the Auckland (spatial) plan, which will set the long-term direction for Auckland over the next 20-30 years and is the critical component in creating a sustainable future for the city-region.

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