Christchurch’s future linked to irrigated agriculture

May 12, 2014

Christchurch’s future linked to irrigated agriculture

New research from the Canterbury Development Corporation (CDC) shows how linked Christchurch’s future is to irrigated agriculture, says IrrigationNZ.

The CDC Summary report; Christchurch and Rural Sectors Relationship Analysis, released today, illustrates clearly the value of Canterbury’s rural economy – particularly when irrigation is factored in – to the country’s second largest city.

“This has got to be heartening news for Christchurch which is now facing a half a billion dollar deficit to rebuild. The CDC report forecasts significant economic growth from irrigation development in Central and North Canterbury. Much of this gain will come to Christchurch, particularly when the Central Plains Water and Hurunui Water Project projects fully get underway,” says IrrigationNZ CEO Andrew Curtis.

“The other exciting news is that the food and beverages manufacturing sector in the region has room to grow and there is sizeable potential to increase our value-add if we can develop innovation in this space,” says Mr Curtis.

“The CDC’s economic forecasts show the region has plenty to capitalise on. Irrigated agriculture is the region and city’s best bet of generating substantial GDP and employment growth but we will need certainty around irrigation investment if we are going to realise these opportunities.”

The CDC Summary report and the more detailed research reports that it is drawn from are available on its Publications page at www.cdc.org.nz

IrrigationNZ is the national body representing irrigators and the irrigation industry. Its mission is to promote excellence in irrigation throughout New Zealand.

ENDS

© Scoop Media