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March 2018
Welcome to the first edition of Growing our Region for 2018.
We are well into the swing of things for the New Year, with plenty to look forward to.
I am writing this as news of central government's $6 million investment in economic development for Whanganui has been announced. Regional leaders whole-heartedly support this funding which will go towards the revitalisation of the Whanganui Port and an upgrade of the Whanganui rail line. This project will create jobs, build the regional economy, and provide a fantastic recreational area for the wider community.
At the forefront of the mind are the upcoming NZ AgriFood Week 2018, Hilux Games and Central Districts Field Days. These are three big events on the calendar for the Manawatū-Whanganui region, where rural and urban communities come together to keep-up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in rural innovation, agri-business and agri-tech.
During the NZ AgriFood Week, the second annual AgTech Hackathon will be launched. This is a unique, exciting and innovative event which brings farmers' practical knowledge together with technology experts to solve problems.
The outlook is looking extremely positive in our region with house prices continuing to rise; businesses, families and individuals moving here from the larger cities; and tourism booming. You can find out all about these great stories and more in the what's been happening in our Region section of this newsletter.
Meanwhile work to confirm an alternative route for the Manawatū Gorge is ongoing. Following our submission to NZTA in favour of Option 4, representatives from the region’s councils have been part of a joint working group alongside representatives from NZTA, NZ Defence Force, Road Transport Association, Fonterra and councils from Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa. From the outset we as regional leaders, have sought an alternative route that includes the Regional Freight Ring Road that incorporates Palmerston North and key freight hubs, the distribution hub and airport, through to Tararua and Hawke’s Bay, as well as a second bridge of the Manawatū River. Infrastructure investment that includes roading is key to optimising economic development in our region. We look forward to a confirmed decision by NZTA on a suitable option in the coming weeks.
We also have some great case studies for you this month. These include the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy going from strength to strength in Whanganui, a small business making great in-roads from the back blocks of Taumarunui and an event which is showcasing all that is good about the Horowhenua district.
I hope you enjoy and don't forget to share these stories far and wide. The more people who know about the great things happening in our region, the better.
Michael McCartney, Lead Team Facilitator, Accelerate25
HACKATHON IS BACK!
The wheels are in motion and the 2018 AgTech Hackathon, presented by CEDA and powered by BCC is coming our way very soon.
WHANGANUI HOME TO WORLD CLASS PILOT ACADEMY
To experience a tour around the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy (NZICPA) in Whanganui is a privilege. It is an impressive, purpose built facility which, since it became fully operational in September 2017, has been attracting a whole lot of attention.
FROM THE BACK BLOCKS OF TAUMARUNUI TO THE WORLD STAGE
At the junction of the Ohura and Whanganui Rivers, off the Forgotten Highway and up a 16 kilometre dirt road, you will find two women who have created a small business doing big things.
TASTE TRAIL CELEBRATES THE BEST OF HOROWHENUA
In November 2017, the second annual Horowhenua Taste Trail showcased the breadth and depth of produce created throughout the Horowhenua District. Alongside a number of supporting events, the Taste Trail is a one day journey through specialist food producers, sampling delicious produce and viewing the happenings behind the scenes.
What's been happening in and around our Region?
Over the past two months there has been plenty of exciting news and events around our region. Many of which we should be shouting from the rooftops! To keep up to date with what's going on, join us on Twitter @Accelerate_25 or check out the following news stories.
$6 million announcement for economic development in Whanganui welcomed
Cost of Auckland living pushing people out to Whanganui
Luxury yachts being built in land-locked Palmerston North!
BCC launches Young Enterprise Scheme for 2018
Whanganui and Ruapehu tourism spending increased in December
Whanganui and Partners needs to be accountable, new chief Philippa Ivory says
Ruapehu tourism to be boosted by $25m mountain gondola by mid-2019
Glass half full in regions, not half empty
Auckland businessman saves his company by relocating to remote Rangitikei
North Island demand sees plastic pipe business set up new Levin base
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