“The $200,000 grant towards the Prime Wood Processing Centre of Excellence provides further backing for an initiative that has already proven its value.
“We are confident that we can put together the necessary business cases that will see the Government co-invest in the region at an even higher level.”
Mr Rae said Activate Tairawhiti was also pleased the Government recognised the importance of tourism in the region.
“Combined with the inner harbour funding, this investment into facilities, events and experiences gives us the opportunity to unlock greater economic returns, provide legacy and further enable us tell our region’s unique stories.
“The Government’s investment will complement the resourcing Activate Tairawhiti and ECT are putting into the support of other commercial tourism ventures.
“Collectively, this effort will engage key stakeholders across the community, enabling them to deliver tangible outcomes and secure the growth we know is possible in the local tourism sector.”
Eastland Community Trust chief executive Gavin Murphy said the region’s concerted efforts in economic development would put Tairawhiti in a strong position for future collaboration with the Government through the Provincial Growth Fund.
“It is very clear that, in many respects, local stakeholders and the Government have a shared vision for the future of this region, and we see today’s announcements as creating a solid platform for future collaboration.
“Through the hard work and persistence of a range of local participants, this region has already made significant strides in identifying opportunities and driving economic growth.
“We have shown that Tairawhiti is a region that can identify opportunities and directly impact the social and economic wellbeing of our region.
“Tairawhiti is ready to act now, and we welcome the Government joining us on this journey.”
