The Regional Economic Development Minister, Hon Shane Jones, will join key Wairarapa stakeholders in Masterton for the launch of the region’s new economic development strategy.

The Wairarapa’s Councils, including Greater Wellington Regional Council, have worked with stakeholders and iwi to develop a strategy for economic growth across the region.

It will be officially launched on 12 November at an event attended by Minister Jones. 

Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson said a lot of work had gone into the strategy and the end result is a positive action plan for how to achieve economic growth.

“We’re focussing on growing key sectors in Wairarapa, supporting our people and providing the infrastructure required for our people and industries to flourish,” Mayor Patterson said, on behalf of the Wairarapa Mayors.

“This strategy gives us a plan for how we achieve growth in these target areas, with tangible objectives that will help us achieve those goals.”

Dame Margaret Bazley will head up the governance group overseeing implementation of the strategy action plan. 

Former Labour Minister and Vice-Chancellor of Massey University Steve Maharey has supported development of the strategy, alongside the region’s Mayors and key stakeholders.

“The region’s vision is to offer the best of rural and urban living; Wairarapa is a special and unique part of Aotearoa. We want to preserve our rural values and quality lifestyle while also creating a thriving, modern and sustainable economy,” Mr Maharey said.

“We have focused on the question of what’s good for Wairarapa. The result is a realistic strategy and action plan about our people and our financial capacity to do things.

“It focuses on our regional uniqueness and our key opportunities and priorities. It is practical and deliverable.”

WREDA chief executive Lance Walker said the strategy was critically important to the Wairarapa and would help focus the region on its key strengths.

“The Wairarapa is rightly considered one of the jewels in the Wellington region’s crown. While its fantastic lifestyle is well-known, it also has the potential for significant business growth and WREDA is looking forward to working with its council partners in delivering a strategy that aims to do just that.”

The strategy will be made public on 12 November. It will then be presented to the Wairarapa Councils for endorsement.