07/09/2018

The Government has announced more than $320 million will be invested into infrastructure and tourism in Tairāwhiti, a move described by Council chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann as a “game changer” for our region.

During a ceremony at The Works Restaurant this morning, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a series of investments from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) aimed at unlocking regional economic potential through key infrastructure, tourism and employment projects.

Among the investments is $312 million over three years for our roading network, $5.5 million towards a new terminal building at Gisborne Airport and a number of other investments including $300K to fund a new forestry training programme.

The PGF has also granted $6.1million for the Titirangi Summit redevelopment and $1.6 million for the Puhi Kai Iti / Cook Landing Site upgrade, both key projects within the Tairāwhiti Navigations programme.

Nedine Thatcher Swann says the significant level of investment is testament to the Government’s confidence in this region’s economic potential.

“With our incredible produce, innovative industries and unique tourism offerings, Tairāwhiti has so much to offer – the key is having the infrastructure to support it.

“Roading was recognised as a critical priority in our Tairāwhiti Economic Action Plan. We worked with NZTA to develop our Integrated Transport Priority Plan – a business case that demonstrates unique roading needs of this region,” she says.

“We are isolated and rely on our roads for the necessities. We have always been clear that roads are our regional priority and we have been listened to.”

Council worked collaboratively with several key stakeholders in the various PGF applications and today’s announcements indicate this unified approach has paid off for the benefit of the whole region.

“We are so grateful to the Government for making these investments in the areas that really matter. It is a complete game changer.”

ENDS

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