Infrastructure to underpin development of the Northland region

Media Release
4 February 2016

“The release today of the Tai Tokerau Northland Economic Action Plan is strongly endorsed by the New Zealand Council for Infrastructure Development (NZCID) and will drive much needed employment, investment and growth in the region,” says NZCID chief Stephen Selwood.

“Building off opportunities identified in the Tai Tokerau Northland Regional Growth Study, the Action Plan sets out a robust programme to drive prosperity in the north using targeted investment in infrastructure.

“It is most encouraging to see public recognition that four-laning SH1 between Auckland and Whangarei is an essential first step to creating economic opportunities for Northlanders.

“The second identified game changer in the Action Plan, digital infrastructure, acknowledges the transformational potential of mobile and broadband investment underway across the country and sets out how it can be used to support key industries like tourism, manufacturing, farming and forestry.

“Digital connectivity will also be fundamental to developing the third game changer, skills and capability. The Action Plan sets out a pathway to bring more young people into employment and improve the link between employers and labour.

“Finally, Northland’s untapped water asset is recognised as a vehicle to regenerate communities, enhance prosperity and provide jobs to Northlanders. Water storage and irrigation provides an opportunity to ensure water availability across the region and attract investment in agriculture and development.

“It’s pleasing to see a tangible, deliverable plan which can give certainty to investors and markets that Northland is open for business.

“Budget 2016 will need to show the market that the Government is serious about its commitment to Northland and, if so, there is plenty of domestic and international capital looking to partner with public agencies serious about growth,” Selwood says.

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