"But I actually think it is important to remember the global economy is still growing, it's just growing at a slower rate than it was.
"Those challenges are being reflected in all of the exporters. New Zealand's exports are still going relatively well."
He said Hawke's Bay had a strong economy because it has both land-based primary industries, such as horticulture, as well as having innovative businesses based in the region, including the Havelock North based business Fingermark, which Robertson visited during his trip.
Fingermark designs, builds and deploys technology solutions to help businesses with operational efficiency, revenue gains and enhanced customer experiences, and works with some major global players such as McDonald's.
"It's really a fantastic example of what we want to see happening in regions like Hawke's Bay," Robertson said.
"Here's a great, cutting edge technology company with a global footprint, working out of Havelock North.
"It shows the regions can really lead a lot of New Zealand's economic development, because the people are here and people want to come here."
He said during his talks with community leaders earlier in the day concerns around water, housing and transport networks had all been raised.
"Not unexpectedly they raised lots of issues with me, but also I picked up an optimistic tone as well."
