Future Looks Bright for Sustainable Development

MEDIA RELEASE

Future Looks Bright for Sustainable Economic Development

For immediate release: 9 May 2008
Eighty key influencers from the Bay of Plenty discussed the way forward for sustaining and growing our regional economy in Rotorua on Tuesday.

Representatives from business, economic development agencies, central and local government, iwi, science and education met at a regional economic forum.

One of the key themes was the use of our natural advantages and resources, such as tourism, forestry, aquaculture, and horticulture, for the economic benefit of the region. Another common topic was the importance of skills and education to the Bay’s development.

It was recognised that organisations and businesses across the Bay of Plenty need to work together rather than in competition with each other to grow our region.

The aim of the event was to discuss the vision for the Region’s Economic Development Strategy, and priorities for growing a sustainable economy.

Environment Bay of Plenty organised the workshop-style event on behalf of the Regional Governance Group. The group consists of representatives from business, the economic development agencies and local government.

Regional Governance Group chairman John Cronin said the success of the forum was due to the willingness of the participants to work together.

“The feeling in the room was one of real commitment and passion towards the future development of the Bay of Plenty.

“And I was thrilled to see that new relationships were forged, which will help to strengthen the collective leadership across the region as we make progress towards a development strategy for the Bay,” said Mr Cronin.

A draft version of the strategy is expected out by August.

Ends

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