1 February 2006

Auckland City welcomes central government support

Auckland City is delighted with the central government's steps toward supporting economic growth in Auckland through the development of key infrastructure in the city.

Earlier this month, the government announced part of the economic transformation agenda was to prioritise and support funding for infrastructure in Auckland city.

"This kind of support is crucial to Auckland's economic development," said Councillor Richard Northey, chairperson of the Economic Development and Sustainable Business Committee.

"We are heartened the government recognises the need to invest in Auckland as a key economic centre for the country.

"There has been historical underinvestment in infrastructure in Auckland and we are now feeling the impact. For New Zealand to be globally effective, Auckland's infrastructure requirements need to be met," said Mr Northey.

"Auckland City will work with central government to help implement the agenda and to take this further by working directly with industry," said Mr Northey.

For example, the council recently launched Snapshot, a report on Auckland's creative industries. It examines the largely unrecognised economic potential of Auckland's creative industries, and the social benefits of a creative city in attracting skilled workers and entrepreneurs.

"Attracting the right kind of talent to Auckland city is a key economic driver," said Mr Northey.

"Auckland City's events strategy, which helps us to retain, grow and attract events, makes the city an even better place to visit, live, work, and play in," said Mr Northey.

"Events enrich our experience of connecting to Auckland, and they foster creativity and innovation which help to develop Auckland into a dynamic and creative hub. They also have significant positive economic impacts," said Mr Northey.

Auckland City, with assistance from key industry experts will progress development in this area through implementing an action plan that will address the issues raised in the Snapshot research.

"Auckland City has recognised concerns from Auckland business that inadequate broadband access is a constraint to economic and job growth, and the Economic Development Committee will discuss a report and recommendations on this issue at its next meeting on 1 March," said Mr Northey.

ENDS

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