Increase in job growth in Dunedin

Dunedin has experienced an increase in job growth - the latest available employment figures from Infometrics show 883 jobs were added to the city’s economy in the year ending March 2017.

Infometrics quarter economic monitor for Dunedin, released today showed positive signs across all economic indicators with GDP in the city growing by 2.2% last year and those on jobseeker support dropping by 1.8%.

Of the 883 jobs added to the economy, 298 were in the hospitality sector while construction and professional services also experienced growth. Visitor spending in the city rose 2.1% to a record $721m in 2017, creating more jobs in the accommodation and food services sectors. This was driven primary by international visitors.

Business spending was up by 29% with large developments underway such as consents and registrations for the University of Otago.

Although the current indicators are pleasing, Enterprise Dunedin Director John Christie says cuts to Dunedin’s manufacturing and education sectors will inevitably impact results for the next quarter.

“Employment in manufacturing is likely to be affected by closure of the Cadbury factory. Although the transition of workers out of manufacturing will leave some workers temporarily out of employment, some will be absorbed by Dunedin’s strong marketplace,” Mr Christie said.

“Seeing this sustained growth in our economy and employment figures over several years is positive for the city. The city’s economy is clearly doing better than it has for many years.”

Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull said Dunedin’s ongoing economic growth was good news and showed Dunedin City Council’s Economic Development Strategy was starting to have positive results.

“It’s pleasing to see continuing economic growth in the city which is integral in achieving our vision for Dunedin. This reflects increased business confidence as well as ongoing work by our city partners on initiatives to grow the economy and jobs, which will improve our quality of life.

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