The Government is getting behind a proposal to expand the National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier to include marine research and create high-skilled, science-based employment.
The announcment was made by Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce today at the launch of Matariki - Hawke's Bay Regional Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan 2016, which aims to accelerate job growth and build innovation in the region.
"The Government is committing $50,000 toward scoping the feasibility of the proposal," Mr Joyce said.
"It's a very big project that would require central and local government plus the private sector to all get in behind it. However it could be a significant boost for tourism in the region and for New Zealand's overall science infrastructure."
"What is envisaged is a world-class aquarium that is both a visitor attraction and a conservation-focused research hub," Mr Joyce said.