Revised population projections positive

Dunedin, 12 October 2012 - Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull has welcomed revised Statistics New Zealand projections that point to a higher population growth for the city than previously predicted, but adds there is work to be done.

According to the revised figures Dunedin is projected to grow faster than earlier predictions, taking the city’s population from the 122,300 recorded in the 2006 census, to 134,700 by 2031. That is 5,000 more than Statistics New Zealand’s previous projections, released two years ago.

Mr Cull says while the figures point to the prospect of population growth, the city needs to actively pursue it and cement in the gains by generating more economic activity and jobs.

“Dunedin particularly needs to attract skilled people who have started or are about to start a family,” he says.

“Our Economic Development Strategy has identified the opportunity for the city to be involved in smart business areas like online education, health ICT and design.

“These are areas where Dunedin is carving out a niche. We will be endeavouring to attract family-age people with the right skills and match them with these businesses and industries.”

The recently-adopted Dunedin Economic Development Strategy includes specific initiatives in the area of attracting skilled staff, such as a talent attraction programme offering specific job and business opportunities to migrants, and re-engaging Dunedin diaspora and alumni.

The Statistics New Zealand projections suggest Dunedin will grow to 128,100 people by 2016, reaching 130,500 by 2021, 132,800 by 2026 and 134,700 by 2031.

ENDS

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