Diplomats from 37 countries visited the Bay of Plenty last week for an event that showcased the economic assets and opportunities in the region.
The delegation of foreign ambassadors, the largest to visit New Zealand in recent years, toured key organisations in the horticulture, education, agri-tech and marine biotechnology sectors. Their itinerary included a stop at Zespri’s headquarters in Mount Maunganui, a visit to The Incubator Creative Hub in central Tauranga and a look through the coastal marine field station of the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus. Discussions were also held with the Port of Tauranga, New Zealand’s largest port.
Japanese ambassador Koichi Ito commended the balance between industry and the environment in Tauranga, saying “There is good harmony here between business advancement, expansion and improvements in technology, and the natural environment. That’s something I think we could learn from New Zealand.”
The visit was led by Western Bay of Plenty economic development agency Priority One on behalf of the Tauranga City Council.
“Tauranga has become a key economic hub in the upper North Island and is home to New Zealand’s largest port, allowing connectivity to the rest of the world,” Priority One chief executive Nigel Tutt said.
“The visit couldn’t have come at a better time, particularly after a period of disruption and closed international borders. We are proud to showcase the fantastic export companies we have in our region to the world.”
Tauranga City commission chair Anne Tolley also called the visit a success, saying “As a result of the visit, we hope new trade relationships will open up, which will strengthen our ties with these countries and create lasting partnerships to be valued and fostered by all.”
