ATEED geared to deliver economic development blueprint

14 September 2012

ATEED geared to deliver economic development blueprint

As the organisation charged with transforming Auckland’s economy by driving a vibrant and innovative business sector, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) is energised by today’s launch of the city’s 10-year economic plan.

ATEED Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says the organisation’s first two years have seen some strong achievements toward activating and leading Auckland Council’s ambitious economic vision, now formalised in the comprehensive Economic Development Strategy released by Mayor Len Brown.

“This is a thorough and compelling strategy, and ATEED is excited to have it as a blueprint which will dramatically lift Auckland’s economic performance, and see the city become a thriving Asia-Pacific innovation-driven business hub,” says Brett O’Riley.

“ATEED welcomes the ambitious targets in the Economic Development Strategy, and looks forward to working closely with Auckland Council, other council organisations, central government, and our private sector partners to meet them.”

“In its first two years, ATEED, on behalf of Auckland Council, has already brought to life key aspects of the strategy by delivering the hugely successful hosting of Rugby World Cup 2011, and collaborating with other organisations to launch key initiatives such as the Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct, and The FoodBowl – Te Ipu Kai”, he says.

ATEED has delivered important Council-approved cornerstone strategies including the Major Events Strategy and the Auckland Visitor Plan. The Major Events Strategy has already provided tangible outcomes by attracting important events which are forecast to generate significant economic returns, including Ironman 70.3, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, V8 Supercars 2013, and World Masters Games 2017 – the latter, the largest participation event New Zealand will have ever hosted.

The Visitor Plan is forecast to double visitor-generated revenues to $6 billion by 2021, and this month ATEED successfully launched Auckland’s domestic tourism campaign, building off strong existing growth rates.

Major visitor projects are underway, including the transformation of Auckland’s cruise ship terminal infrastructure and supporting services being led by Waterfront Auckland. This will enable Auckland to deal with strong projected growth in ship visits and enhance the city’s reputation as a world-class destination. This requires effective engagement with the cruise industry, and the development of the historic Shed 10 on Queens Wharf as the main cruise ship terminal facility.

Brett O’Riley says another key focus is a strategy to attract direct foreign investment, particularly innovative high-tech businesses in growth sectors.

“ATEED’s suite of customer programmes is designed to help businesses grow and successfully compete. Our local offices are the front door which gives businesses access to information, government, research and development and capability funding, mentoring, and assistance with dealing with Auckland Council and its companies.

ATEED’s work to drive the growth of Auckland’s key future export sectors such as niche manufacturing, health technology, food and ICT is designed to align with the five priorities outlined in the Economic Development Strategy.”

“The focus is to drive innovation-based export growth, increase productivity and create employment pathways for Auckland’s growing population”, says Brett O’Riley.

ENDS

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