The Eastern Bay of Plenty region is located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, stretching from Opotiki in the east to Whakatāne in the west. It covers an area of approximately 3,150 square kilometers and has a population of around 60,000 people.
The regional economy is driven by a mix of primary industries, manufacturing, and tourism. The main economic activities in the region are aquaculture, horticulture, marine and tourism, and manufacturing and heavy industry.
The Eastern Bay of Plenty region has a diverse economy, which has helped to insulate it from the impact of economic shocks. The region has a well-educated workforce and a high level of entrepreneurial activity, which has helped to foster innovation and growth in a number of sectors.
The region’s location on the eastern coast of the North Island also provides it with access to the Port of Tauranga, one of New Zealand’s largest ports, which plays a critical role in the country’s export-oriented economy.
In recent years, the Eastern Bay of Plenty has seen strong economic growth, driven in part by a number of significant infrastructure projects and investments in key industries. This growth is expected to continue in the years ahead, creating new opportunities for businesses and investors looking to enter the region.
Overall, the Eastern Bay of Plenty’s regional economy is dynamic and diverse, with a range of industries and sectors driving growth and development. The region’s unique location, well-educated workforce, and access to key infrastructure make it an attractive destination for businesses and investors looking to capitalize on New Zealand’s strong economic fundamentals.
The main economic drivers of the regional economy
The Eastern Bay of Plenty has a diverse economy with several key sectors that contribute significantly to the region’s economic growth. Here are the main economic drivers of the region:
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Aquaculture: The Eastern Bay of Plenty is well-known for its thriving aquaculture industry, which includes the cultivation of Greenshell mussels. The region’s pristine waters, favorable climate, and nutrient-rich environment provide an ideal breeding ground for marine species. The aquaculture industry contributes significantly to the region’s economy, providing employment opportunities and generating export revenue.
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Horticulture: The region’s favorable climate and fertile soil make it a suitable place for growing kiwifruit, avocados, citrus fruits, and other crops. Horticulture is a major contributor to the region’s economy, with many local businesses and farms supplying produce to local and export markets.
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Marine and Tourism: The tourism industry is a significant driver of the regional economy, generating revenue and providing employment opportunities for locals. The region offers a range of activities such as fishing, diving, boating, and water sports, which are popular among tourists. The region’s marine precinct, located in Whakatane, is a hub for marine-related businesses, with facilities such as a slipway, hardstand, and marina, providing essential infrastructure for the industry.
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Industrial Kawerau: Kawerau is home to one of New Zealand’s largest industrial parks, which houses a range of businesses in the pulp and paper, forestry, manufacturing, and energy sectors. The industrial sector is a significant contributor to the regional economy, providing employment opportunities and generating export revenue.
The Regions Main Economic Development Projects
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is undergoing several economic development projects that will enhance its economic growth and create more job opportunities for its residents. Here are some of the most significant projects in the region:
Opotiki’s Harbor Development and Mussel Farm
Opotiki is located on the eastern coast of the Bay of Plenty, and its harbor is an essential gateway for aquaculture and horticulture exports. The Opotiki Harbor Development project aims to improve the harbor’s infrastructure, making it more efficient and safer for larger vessels to dock. The project is expected to boost the region’s aquaculture industry, which is a significant contributor to the region’s economy. Additionally, the Opotiki mussel farm project, is a multi-million-dollar initiative that will provide employment opportunities and boost the region’s mussel production capacity.
Kawerau’s Pūtauaki Industrial Development and Inland Port
Kawerau is centered around the industrial sector. The Pūtauaki Industrial Development project aims to expand the town’s industrial capacity and create more job opportunities for its residents. The project includes the development of a new industrial precinct with modern infrastructure and the expansion of the Kawerau rail line to accommodate the increased freight traffic. The project will also create a new inland port, which will provide a more cost-effective and sustainable transportation option for the region’s goods.
Whakatane’s Whakatāne Boat Harbour and Town Center Redevelopment
Whakatāne is the largest town in the Eastern Bay of Plenty and a popular tourist destination. The Whakatāne Boat Harbour and Town Center Redevelopment project aims to enhance the town’s tourist appeal by creating a modern and attractive waterfront area. The project includes the redevelopment of the existing boat harbor, creating a new public space with restaurants, cafes, and shops. The project will also include the development of new accommodation options, including hotels and apartments, to cater to the growing tourist industry. The town center redevelopment project will enhance the town’s streetscape, providing better access and more parking options, and creating an attractive and welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike.
Economic Development Opportunities for Business and Migrants
The Eastern Bay of Plenty offers numerous opportunities for business development and investment across a range of sectors. The region is particularly attractive for those looking to establish businesses in the primary industries, such as horticulture, aquaculture, and forestry, which are well-established and flourishing in the region.
In addition, the region has significant potential for businesses involved in tourism, particularly adventure tourism and eco-tourism, given the stunning natural environment of the region. There are also opportunities in the service industry, such as hospitality and retail, due to the increasing number of tourists and the growing population of the region.
For migrants looking to settle in the region, there are many opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. The region offers a welcoming and supportive environment for new arrivals, with various resources available to assist with settling in, such as support for finding employment, housing, and language training.
Furthermore, the region’s economic development agency, ToiEDA and the local councils provides support to businesses and investors
The main regional economic development partners
The Eastern Bay of Plenty region has several key economic development partners that work collaboratively to support and grow the local economy. These include the Opotiki District Council, Whakatāne District Council, Kawerau District Council, ToiEDA, the region’s economic development agency, and the region’s Iwi.
ToiEDA plays a central role in economic development in the region, working closely with local councils and businesses to identify opportunities for growth and investment. The agency provides support and advice to businesses and entrepreneurs, and also facilitates partnerships between local businesses and larger national and international firms.
In addition to ToiEDA, the three district councils each play a key role in promoting economic growth in their respective areas. The councils work closely with local businesses and community organizations to support entrepreneurship and innovation, and also invest in infrastructure projects and other initiatives that help to attract investment and create jobs.