Provincial Growth Fund Attachments: LGOIMA 18187 Staff Emails and Documents Redacted.Pdf

Rebecca Watson

From: official information Sent: Thursday, 23 August 2018 13:36 To: ' Cc: ; official information Subject: FW: LGOIMA 18187: Information Request - Provincial Growth Fund Attachments: LGOIMA 18187 Staff Emails and Documents redacted.pdf

Dear ,

Further to your information request of 21 August 2018 in respect of the below I am now able to provide Hamilton City Council’s response.

A list of your information requests are below in bold, with our response underneath each one.

The number of staff employed by the council whose duties include applying for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund. Please disclose the job titles each staff member and advise whether the council employed any new staff members to work on funding applications to the Provincial Growth Fund. None. One staff member is employed for general funding and sponsorship purposes which would include applying for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund, along with any other partnership funding opportunities, as appropriate. This is an established role and was in place prior to the Provincial Growth Fund being created.

The total staff time spent on applications to the Provincial Growth Fund. Please round to the nearest 40 hours. None.

The number of contractors the council has engaged the services of to apply for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund. Please include the names of each contractor. None.

The total payments made to contractors in relation to funding applications to the Provincial Growth Fund. None.

Any information, including meeting minutes and email chains, relating to the Mayor or Council discussing applying to the Provincial Growth Fund. Please ensure to include any information relating to informal discussions. Please see the attached emails. We have determined to withhold parts of the information contained within the documents collated, on the following grounds:

 the names and other information that identifies members of staff (where their identity is not applicable to the scope of the request) and members of the public, so as to protect their privacy (section 7(2)(a) Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act). We have determined that the public interest considerations in favour of releasing this ‘individual identity’ information is outweighed by the factors to protect individual privacy.  Information is outside of scope.

If you have any concerns with our decision above, you have the right to request an investigation and review by the Ombudsman under section 27(3) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987. For your information, the Ombudsman’s contact details are:

Email: [email protected]

1 Post: PO Box 10152, Wellington 6143

Telephone: 0800 802 602

Kind regards

Rebecca Watson On behalf of the Privacy Officer

DDI: 07 8386983 | Email: [email protected]

Hamilton City Council | Private Bag 3010 | Hamilton 3240 | www.hamilton.govt.nz Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter This email and any attachments are strictly confidential and may contain privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient please delete the message and notify the sender. You should not read, copy, use, change, alter, disclose or deal in any manner whatsoever with this email or its attachments without written authorisation from the originating sender. Hamilton City Council does not accept any liability whatsoever in connection with this email and any attachments including in connection with computer viruses, data corruption, delay, interruption, unauthorised access or unauthorised amendment. Unless expressly stated to the contrary the content of this email, or any attachment, shall not be considered as creating any binding legal obligation upon Hamilton City Council. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Hamilton City Council.

From: official information Sent: Tuesday, 21 August 2018 10:59 AM To: @taxpayers.org.nz> Cc: official information Subject: HPE CM: RE: LGOIMA 18187: Information Request ‐ Provincial Growth Fund

Dear

I write to acknowledge your information request of 21 August 2018 in respect of the below.

Please be advised that your request has been passed on to the relevant team within Council and you will be informed of the outcome.

The Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 requires that we advise you of our decision on whether the Council will provide the requested information or not “as soon as reasonably practicable”, no later than 20 working days after the day we received your request. We will respond to you no later than 18 September 2018.

Kind regards

Rebecca Watson On behalf of the Privacy Officer

DDI: 07 8386983 | Email: [email protected]

2 interruption, unauthorised access or unauthorised amendment. Unless expressly stated to the contrary the content of this email, or any attachment, shall not be considered as creating any binding legal obligation upon Hamilton City Council. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Hamilton City Council.

Good morning,

This is a request for information under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

Please interpret this request to cover both the parent council and any council‐controlled organisation.

I request the following information:

1. The number of staff employed by the council whose duties include applying for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund. Please disclose the job titles each staff member and advise whether the council employed any new staff members to work on funding applications to the Provincial Growth Fund.

2. The total staff time spent on applications to the Provincial Growth Fund. Please round to the nearest 40 hours.

3. The number of contractors the council has engaged the services of to apply for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund. Please include the names of each contractor.

4. The total payments made to contractors in relation to funding applications to the Provincial Growth Fund.

5. Any information, including meeting minutes and email chains, relating to the Mayor or Council discussing applying to the Provincial Growth Fund. Please ensure to include any information relating to informal discussions.

We do not wish to cause unnecessary expense or burden on your authority. If clarification of any of our requests is needed, please call or email. Likewise, if a request proves unnecessarily burdensome in form and we are likely to be able to adjust it to be more specific or better suited to your information systems without losing the benefit of what is sought, please also get in touch. If there is likely to be a delay in being able to assemble or provide some of the information requested, please provide the rest of the information as it becomes available. 3

To avoid unnecessary printing and postage costs, we ask that you send a confirmation of receipt, the response and any other correspondence related to this request to @taxpayers.org.nz.

Regards

Researcher | New Zealand Taxpayers' Union | Auckland Ratepayers’ Alliance

We are 100% funded by people like you. If you like what we do, join the Taxpayers’ Union or the Auckland Ratepayers' Alliance.

4 Rebecca Watson

From: Sent: Tuesday, 26 June 2018 12:47 To: official information Subject: FW: Launch of the Provincial Growth Fund - external stakeholders [UNCLASSIFIED] Attachments: 1. FINAL PR - PGF open for business.pdf; 2. FINAL PR - One billion trees.pdf; 3. FINAL PR - Regional rail.pdf; 4. FINAL PR - Upper North Island logistics.pdf; 5. FINAL PR - USEC.pdf; 6. FINAL PR - Gisborne Hawkes Bay.pdf; 7. FINAL PR - Northland.pdf; 8. FINAL PR - Northland Manea Footprints of Kupe.pdf; 9. FINAL PR - Manawatu Whanganui.pdf; 10. FINAL PR - West Coast.pdf; One Billion Trees Overview.pdf; Provincial Growth Fund A4.pdf

From: PGF [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, 23 February 2018 12:45 PM Subject: Launch of the Provincial Growth Fund ‐ external stakeholders [UNCLASSIFIED]

Afternoon all,

******Please share amongst your stakeholders and across regions*****

The Prime Minister and the Minister for Regional Development, Hon Shane Jones, are launching the new Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) today in Gisborne.

Through the Provincial Growth Fund, central government has committed to investing $1 billion per annum over three years in regional economic development.

The Provincial Growth Fund aims to lift productivity potential in the provinces. Its priorities are to enhance economic development opportunities, create sustainable jobs, enable Māori to reachr thei full potential, boost social inclusion and participation, build resilient communities, and help meet New Zealand’s climate change targets.

All provinces are eligible for funding, however, the surge regions of Tairāwhiti/East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, Tai Tokerau/Northland, Bay of Plenty, West Coast and Manawatū‐Whanganui have been identified for early investment. The Ministers’ press releases detailing the funding announced at the launch are available on the Beehive website at https://www.beehive.govt.nz/minister/hon‐shane‐jones .

Attached for your information is a one page outline of the PGF. More information can be found at www.mbie.govt/regions . Included is guidance on how to apply for funding. An Expressions of Interest form for PGF funding will be available on the website later this afternoon.

You should continue to work with your key regional stakeholders (MBIE and MPI Regional Economic Development Team) as you develop proposals for PGF funding.

There is also a video promoting the PGF. It can be viewed at (Full Length Version).

1 If you have any questions please send them to [email protected]

www.govt.nz - your guide to finding and using New Zealand government services

Any opinions expressed in this message are not necessarily those of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. This message and any files transmitted with it are confidential and solely for the use of the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivery to the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this message in error and that any use is strictly prohibited. Please contact the sender and delete the message and any attachment from your computer.

2 Rebecca Watson

From: @waikatoregion.govt.nz> Date: 26 March 2018 at 12:02:18 PM NZDT To:

, "Blair Bowcott" ,

Cc: Subject: Provincial Growth Fund A3

As per the discussion last week please find attached the A3 summary of the Tuawhenua Provincial Growth Fund.

Regards

Programme Manager Waikato Means Business

Look out for our new website www.waikatomeansbusiness.nz

2 Rebecca Watson

From: Blair Bowcott Sent: Tuesday, 1 May 2018 21:39 To: Chris Allen; Blair Bowcott Cc: Subject: Re: Provincial Growth Fund A3

Hope this works Ive taken a screen shot in the meantime.

Blair Bowcott Executive Director ‐ Special Projects Hamilton City Council

On 1/05/2018, at 9:33 PM, Chris Allen wrote:

Sorry can’t open

Will look at when back

Get Outlook for iOS

From: Blair Bowcott Sent: Tuesday, May 1, 2018 9:22:09 PM To: ; Chris Allen Subject: Fwd: Provincial Growth Fund A3

Here is the A3 summary of the PGF. I have more information but can’t locate it easily at present.

see bottom right box re transport projects.

Blair Bowcott Executive Director ‐ Special Projects Hamilton City Council

Begin forwarded message:

From: @waikatoregion.govt.nz> Date: 26 March 2018 at 12:02:18 PM NZDT To: "Blair Bowcott" ,

Cc: ' Subject: Provincial Growth Fund A3

As per the discussion last week please find attached the A3 summary of the Tuawhenua Provincial Growth Fund.

Regards

Programme Manager Waikato Means Business

Look out for our new website www.waikatomeansbusiness.nz

2 Rebecca Watson

From: @waikatoregion.govt.nz> Sent: Monday, 26 March 2018 12:02 To: Blair Bowcott; ;

Cc: ' Subject: Provincial Growth Fund A3 Attachments: PGF Overview A3.pdf

As per the discussion last week please find attached the A3 summary of the Tuawhenua Provincial Growth Fund.

Regards

Programme Manager Waikato Means Business

Look out for our new website www.waikatomeansbusiness.nz

********************************************************************** This email message and any attached files may contain confidential information, and may be subject to legal professional privilege. If you have received this message in error, please notify us immediately and destroy the original message. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Waikato Regional Council. Waikato Regional Council makes reasonable efforts to ensure that its email has been scanned and is free of viruses, however can make no warranty that this email or any attachments to it are free from viruses. **********************************************************************

1 Provincial Growth Fund

The overall objective of the Fund is to lift productivity potential in the region

Strategic priorities for investment through the Provincial Growth Fund

Jobs and sustainable economic development: Social inclusion and participation: Māori development: Climate change and environmental sustainability: Resilience: Investments that will support increased jobs and Investment supports increased social inclusion Enable Māori to realise their full potential through Supporting opportunities for New Zealand to achieve Increasing regional and national resilience by sustainable economic development over the long through effective training, work preparation and greater participation in all aspects of the economy. its climate change commitments and encourage more improving critical infrastructure and focusing on term, particularly in regions and sub-regions where support that enables more people to fully participate sustainable and productive use of land, water, and opportunities to grow and diversify our exports and unemployment is high and there are significant social in work and society. other resources. economy. challenges.

Investment tiers to deliver these priorities To be overseen by the Regional Economic Development (RED) Ministers Group. This group of Ministers will be supported by Senior Regional Officials.

1st Tier – Smaller scale investments ($1-$10 million) 2nd Tier – Mid to large scale sector-based investment ($10million +) 3rd Tier – Infrastructure investments

REGIONAL PROJECTS AND CAPABILITY SECTOR INVESTMENTS 1 BILLION TREES PROGRAMME ENABLING INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS (Subset of sector investments tier)

Will drive regional development through investment in priority and/or high value sectors such as tourism, horticulture, This tier can complement existing government funds, including in Will support regional development through investment in a Funding will support the Government’s vision to double New range of smaller economic development projects and aquaculture, tech and niche manufacturing projects that will particular the National Land Transport Fund which is administered Zealand’s planting rate to 1 billion trees over 10 years by the New Zealand Transport Agency. feasibility studies for potential projects, and initiatives to make a significant contribution to a region’s future growth potential. Focus will be to increase jobs and private build skills, capability and capacity in regions Driven by MPI and a future Forestry Service, the Programme will To be eligible for investment by the Fund, infrastructure initiatives investment. include direct investment, partnerships, facilitation and will need to contribute to lifting the economic productivity and Invests primarily via grants in projects from existing plans support, grants, and other incentives, and involve permanent and and mechanisms but also available for open entry More commercially focussed and will work with private sector number of jobs in a region, beyond what will be achieved through harvestable planting on public, private and Māori-owned land, using existing investments. investors in partnership where possible, and invest via grants both exotic and indigenous species development Regionally-led with strong central government support or co-funding, low-interest loans, or equity This tier will be to fund projects that wouldn’t otherwise meet Open all year round 3 rounds a year nationally oriented criteria, but are valuable from a regional and community perspective

Governance Governance Governance Governance Uses streamlined existing processes with quickfire monthly At this stage expecting that this tier will utilise existing institutional Informed by SROs, but will use Independent Advisory Panel consideration of projects by SROs Overall operations MPI-led, with input from MBIE and other relevant arrangements (such as the National Infrastructure Advisory Following feedback and advice from the Panel, proposals will be agencies and parties as necessary. Specific interest to Ministers of Board and Crown Infrastructure Partners) SROs delegated up to $1 million submitted to key Ministers (Regional Economic Development, Forestry, Conservation, Environment and Climate Change For investments over $10 million that fall outside existing Ministers of Regional Economic Development, Economic Economic Development, Finance and other relevant portfolio Working through finer details to ensure this fits with wider Fund processes, officials will provide advice to the Ministers of Development, Finance and relevant portfolio minister/s from $1 Ministers) for assessment and presentation to Cabinet for approval objectives whilst ensuring it fits with future Forest Service Regional Economic Development, Transport, Economic million to $10 million institutional arrangements Development and Finance for assessment and presentation to Cabinet for approval. Ability to call on Independent Advisory Panel if required

Guiding principles

Funding open to all regions. Given their need, Northland/Tai Tokerau, East Coast/Tairawhiti, Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, Manawatu/Whanganui and the West Coast will be a priority focus for strong initial Government support via a surge approach. Local support for projects is important to build on regional strengths, but PGF will also prioritise any sectors identified as high priority by the Government. Investment should increase productivity potential of the region. Robust business cases will be required particularly for the larger investment proposals but investments should not socialise losses and privatise gains. A mix of capital and operating expenditure will be available. Leverage and add to effective existing government programmes such as the Regional Business Partner Network, Regional Investment Attraction Programme and the He Poutama Rangatahi/Youth Employment Pathways initiative. Rebecca Watson

‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [mailto: @gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, 12 April 2018 9:57 AM To: [email protected]; @northlandnz.com Cc: ' @waikatoregion.govt.nz>; @wipltd.co.nz>; Jen Baird Subject: FW: Provincial Growth Fund ‐ Urgent request Importance: High

Hi ‐ has kindly forwarded me your email dan I can answer on behalf of the Waikato REDA Establishment Board.

Jen‐ suggest that you, me and meet briefly soon to discuss this.

and I spoke last week and I advised that the Waikato REDA will absolutely join EDNZ once we are a legal reality (post). 1 July All the TAs in the Waikato have an interest in local economic development and they can make their own decisions on whether they maintain their current EDNZ membership or join up, with the Waikato REDA the entity mandated to speak on behalf of the region on ED matters, in collaboration with Hamilton City and the other TAs.

I agree with you about the need to enhance skills and professional capability, and could be a very good thing‐ so long as we are all very clear what it is designed to address. I cold go on about capability at the TA officer and elected member level, but will just say that getting everybody to a common starting point (as say happens with hearings commissioners for RMA decision‐making) would be an excellent thing for EDNZ to push for and lead.

1 I agree with you fully that regions need the sort of capacity and capability you mention‐ indeed that is what has driven the work we are still working our way through in the Waikato to create the Waikato REDA. Our review of regional ED capacity and capability includes a great many benchmark KPIs which you have may well have at your fingertips anyway‐ but if not please feel free to use them (http://www.waikatomeansbusiness.nz/assets/Waikato‐Means‐Business/Projects/FINAL‐Review‐of‐Waikato‐ED‐ arrangements.‐September‐2017.pdf ). You might also like to think of the Waikato as a case study for Ministers' reference.

As an overall comment on capacity and capability, I have asked MBIE on several occasions for resources to assist with the design, development and operation of the Waikato REDA and have been declined on the basis that the PGF is not for these purposes and that it would create precedent. We've also asked for funding for the Waikato Economic Summit and been told again that as it’s a precedent‐making suggestion it can't happen. I have compete sympathy for the risk officials see of everybody diving into the PGF for these things, but I think you and have correctly identified the lack of capacity at the regional level for such things as a real handbrake on progress. Every innovation (every process ones) is a precedent by definition‐ so anything you can do to help change the rules on this would be hugely appreciated.

You are right that, as the process is currently described in the cab papers, the PGF process may well create quite an analytical and administrative overhead for EDAs. Of course if this results in some major economic projects and investment which move the dial then its worth it, but I think this needs to be considered carefully alongside MBIE's own growing resources and process for the PGF. There is a risk, to use the Dr Seuss analogy‐ that we have a line of "watch‐watchers" ‐ people who assess the proposals before they go to Wellington to be assessed again and again with not much value really being added except to slow things down.

Helping people up front to develop great proposals that can be approved by everybody quickly and funded is where the real value rests.

Both the regions and the government need to have the sovereign ability to determine if they support the ideas, we just need to make sure this process is as lean as possible. What I hope can emerge is an integrated approach whereby MBIE and the regions agree what capacity to get the pipeline going and work to minimise duplication of processes/resources and work together. That could see, for example, some of the duties you’ve mentioned below being seconded or contracted into EDA's for a fixed period of time (given the PGF as currently described has a finite life). If that helped the EDAs and MBIE's own processes work more efficiently and quickly that would surely be a good thing. It will also reduce the balance sheet liabilities for EDA's which always run lean.

I agree totally that the regions need capacity and capability in Maori ED, and each region will/needs to decide how they do that. Having the option for EDAs to get PGF funding to assist with that would be great. I would just say in each case we need to be clear what we mean by Maori economic development and where the missing pieces are (what's the intervention logic)‐ like all aspects of ED it’s a wide field and no single entity can do it all. If some key element of the Maori ED ecosystem is currently missing and can be best done via an in‐house position(s) then yes. For example Waikato Innovation Park (Craig's team) currently have a position which provides capacity to assist Maori businesses to grow and develop‐ that’s a real value add service which is highly valued by Craig and his growing customer base‐ which now includes may more Māori entrepreneurs and business owners.

That is different to say Maori skills and education, sector development opportunities, post treaty economic opportunities or marae development to name a few. It's also different I guess to an overall navigator for regional Maori ED‐ if that is what was needed. All are important, related but different. We need to treat each such opportunity on its merits, and make a decision whether the relevant EDA needs to own/buy the capacity vs others leading it with the EDAs support. I totally support EDA's having the option to seek funding for such positions if they decide, having had regard to their particular regional circumstances, it is necessary and will not crowd out others (for example iwi themselves and/or TPK).

More generally, given we are at the point of designing the organisational structure of the REDA, this is in fact the very best time for us to be part of this overall discussion. That way we can work with EDNZ (and the government) to decide what functions of the REDA we design into the REDA and fund, versus what parts could actually be funded via

2 the PGF or other government funding sources. Hopefully that way when we create precedent by having a fully integrated Waikato REDA working with the government Maori and business, it’s a welcome innovation.

Regards

‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐ From: [mailto: @waikatoregion.govt.nz] Sent: Wednesday, 11 April 2018 12:15 PM To: ' ' < @gmail.com> Subject: FW: Provincial Growth Fund ‐ Urgent request Importance: High

From: | EDNZ [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, 11 April 2018 11:15 a.m. To: | Northland Inc < @northlandnz.com>; < @venturesouthland.co.nz>; < @aucklandnz.com>; [email protected]; < @waikatoregion.govt.nz>; < @hbrc.govt.nz>; < @boprc.govt.nz>; < @activatetairawhiti.co.nz>; < @venture.org.nz>; < @ceda.nz>; @wellingtonnz.com>; < @nrda.co.nz>; < @enterprisenc.co.nz>; < @dcc.govt.nz>; < @dwc.org.nz> Subject: Provincial Growth Fund ‐ Urgent request

Morena all,

Over the past two days and I have met and conversed with the ministers and officers responsible for the PGF.

Those conversations have confirmed the need for EDNZ to take urgent action on two discrete applications to the PGF:

The first application relates to delivery of:

• A wide ranging continuing professional development programme for practitioners and elected officials

• An online repository for best practice tools and models from across the NZ economic development ecosystem

• A conference which showcases international and domestic best practice in economic development Informal discussions with MBIE suggest that the above initiatives serve to meet a recognized need and that the application, which has been submitted, will be assessed within a matter of weeks. That application has a value of just under $1m to be dispensed to EDNZ over the coming three years.

The second and more significant application relates to the issue of RDA capacity. Our discussions in Wellington suggest that the issue of capacity which confronts our RDA’s is well recognized and that an application from EDNZ on behalf of all RDA's along the following lines would be well received.

It is proposed that EDNZ submit a funding application which would enable effective investment and delivery of the PGF by providing each RDA with the opportunity to create and engage the following ein hous positions: a) a business analyst capable of creating robust feasibility and business cases for the PGF (1 FTE)

3 b) a portfolio manager capable of managing the PGF portfolio at a regional level by co‐ordinating and overviewing all PGF projects in the respective regions (1FTE) c) a Maori economic development position (1FTE) d) an admin assistant which could support the above positions(1 FTE) David and I have done significant work around this second application but before we submit it we need some clear advice from you on a couple of matters:

The first relates to your urgent advice as to which of the above positions you require (if any), over what period of time i.e. one, two or three years and how having those resources will make a difference to the quantity and quality of projects you will be able to submit for funding.

If there is another resource not listed above that you require to effectively deliver the PGF, please let us know and we will add it to the application. In anticipation of your response, I will shortly email a matrix that will help you provide the information requested.

Please note we are aware that a couple of regions have already commenced negotiating with PGF decision makers around similar resources. It would be helpful if we could be advised of those negotiations and the positions sought so that we can reinforce/include them in our application if they wish.

The second piece of advice we need from you relates to the projects that you intend nominating for PGF funding over the coming two to three years. Specifically, what are the names of the projects, the industries they would support, are they aligned with your regional strategy, have they undergone regional consultation, what are the KPI's, what is the amount of PGF funding you would potentially be seeking and when will each of them be investment ready i.e. 2018, 2019 or 2020? Again, I will provide a matrix, under separate email, that will help you provide that information. Please note that all responses will remain confidential to myself, the Chair and the relevant Ministers.

Our apologies for the need for urgency regarding the above request, this is a reflection of the Government's need to spend a lot of money, wisely, in a short period of time and for our collective need to ensure, and assure, that we are able to play our respective parts in supporting the objectives of the PGF.

We are intent on submitting our application for the above capacity building funding next week, if you believe you are uable to provide the above information before Friday of next week please do contact me as soon as possible so that we can discuss how we might manage that

Warmest regards

‐‐ | Executive Officer | EDNZ

| +i[email protected]

Mahi Tahi – Working as one 2018 Economic Development Conference 18 and 19 October 2018

[Displaying EDNZ Mahi Tahi.png]

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4 This email message and any attached files may contain confidential information, and may be subject to legal professional privilege. If you have received this message in error, please notify us immediately and destroy the original message. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of Waikato Regional Council. Waikato Regional Council makes reasonable efforts to ensure that its email has been scanned and is free of viruses, however can make no warranty that this email or any attachments to it are free from viruses. **********************************************************************

From: PGF [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, 23 February 2018 12:45 PM Subject: Launch of the Provincial Growth Fund ‐ external stakeholders [UNCLASSIFIED]

Afternoon all,

******Please share amongst your stakeholders and across regions*****

The Prime Minister and the Minister for Regional Development, Hon Shane Jones, are launching the new Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) today in Gisborne.

Through the Provincial Growth Fund, central government has committed to investing $1 billion per annum over three years in regional economic development.

You should continue to work with your key regional stakeholders (MBIE and MPI Regional Economic Development Team) as you develop proposals for PGF funding.

There is also a video promoting the PGF. It can be viewed at (Full Length Version).

1 If you have any questions please send them to [email protected]

www.govt.nz - your guide to finding and using New Zealand government services

2 Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Provincial Growth Fund open for business

The new $1 billion per annum Provincial Growth Fund has been officially launched in Gisborne today by Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones.

“As of today, the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) is open for business and has the potential to make a real difference to the people of provincial New Zealand,” Mr Jones says.

“We are being bold and we are being a mbitious because this Government is committed to ending the years of neglect. Nearly half of us live outside our main cities. If this country is to do well, then our provinces must thrive.

“Our first regional packages support the regions most neglected by the last government: in Northland, Tair āwhiti-East Coast, Hawke’s Bay and Manawat ū- Whanganui and the West Coast of the South Island.

“We are providing an immediate boost to these areas by investing $61.7 million into forestry initiatives, tourism ventures, rail and roading projects, and supporting these regions develop their proposals further to help them get off the ground.

“The first of many projects the PGF will support will create more than 700 direct jobs, and 80 indirect jobs – an impressive start to what will be an exciting three years for our provinces.

“If all the projects we’re funding realise their full potential, this will equate to more than $344 million of public and private investment for our regional economies.”

The PGF aims to enhance economic development opportunities, create sustainable jobs, contribute to community well -being, lift the productivity potential of regions, and help meet New Zealand’s climate change targets.

“The $3 billion will be fully committed over three years, making investment in the provinces more attractive for private sector investment, which has strongly favoured our main urban centres in recent years.

“We will form genuine partnerships up and down the country and provide the capital needed to stop projects languishing in long-term plans and regional action strategies.”

All regions are eligible for funding. “An Independent Advisory Panel has been appointed to assist the decision-making of ministers and officials, supported by a new Regional Economic Development Unit within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to work directly with regions, ensuring this isn’t a Wellington-driven Fund.

“Our provinces are full of ideas and proposals. I have been heartened by the aspirations of so many businesses and investors, local councils, iwi, and community groups and I’m pleased to say that we now have a mechanism to see these realised.

“The announcements we’re making today are just the beginning and I’m looking forward to building on this momentum over the coming weeks, months and years and realising the untapped potential of our provinces,” Mr Jones says.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 0630

Attachments: NZ regional factsheet, PGF factsheet, x2 Cabinet papers and information on the newly-appointed chairperson and members of the Independent Advisory Panel.

Rodger John Finlay has been appointed as chairperson of the Provincial Growth Fund’s Independent Advisory Panel.

“Chairing this advisory panel is an enormous privilege and responsibility,” Mr Finlay says.

“Historically, New Zealand’s economic strength, resilience and innovation has come from our provinces and I look forward to advising on the reinvigorating effects that investment will bring to these communities.

“Throughout my career, and on both sides of the fence, I have been involved in evaluating, promoting, implementing and financing capital projects. Hopefully this experience will be of value to our mahi here,” Mr Finlay says.

Mr Finlay grew up in Dunedin, graduating from the University of Otago. He is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand and a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors.

The majority of his executive career was spent working for global investment banks CS First Boston and Banque Paribas, focusing on funds management and investment banking.

For the past ten years, Rodger has been solely engaged in governance. He is currently a Governor of Radio NZ, Deputy Chairman of Rural Equities Limited, Chairman of Mundane Asset Management (UK) and a Director of NZ Thoroughbred Racing.

Mr Finlay is married with three children and lives in Canterbury.

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Forestry

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

One billion tree programme under way

Collaborative efforts towards the ambitious one billion trees target are well under way with the first areas of land needed for Crown Forestry planting this winter committed, Forestry Minister Shane Jones says.

“The tree planting programme will benefit New Zealand’s provinces, our environment and our people – it is a big boost for the forestry sector and will create more jobs and training opportunities to provinces that have been doing it tough for a while now,” Mr Jones says.

“Our climate change objectives will be advanced and our use of natural resources will be more sustainable and productive. We face a $36 billion potential liability by 2030 and planting trees is a sustainable and effective contribution towards our transition to a zero carbon economy.

“We have a strong base to build on, with the commercial forestry sector projected to plant half a billion trees in the next 10 years. We’re already seeing private landowners, government agencies, NGO’s, iwi, regional councils, nurseries and the private sector working hard to plant the other half a billion.

“Planting will be lower in the initial years due to natural seedling and land constraints, but will then ramp up quickly.

“Policies are being developed to avoid unintended environmental or economic outcomes, land is being secured, seedlings are being grown, private investment is being stimulated and infrastructure is being developed.

“All of this combined will see us go from 55 million trees this year, to 70 million in 2019, to 90 million in 2020. From there we will be aiming for 110 million a year over the next seven years of the programme.

“This year, almost 7.3 million trees will be planted through various Ministry for Primary Industries schemes – about half of which will be indigenous species.

“Planting will include both exotics and natives. We want to enable planting of a mix of permanent and harvestable forestry, using both exotic and native tree species on private, public and Maori-owned land. Species include radiata pine, red wood, totara, eucalyptus, Douglas fir and m ānuka.

“This is certainly about commercial crops, but it is also about environmental, regional and other gains as well.

“We are finalising an agreement with Landcorp to plant 1 million trees this winter and another million trees next year – about 2,000 hectares in total – and a review of its portfolio to identify any other potential land for planting.

“Landcorp are progressive land managers and have long seen the commercial and environmental benefits of forestry, with 10,000 hectares planted already.

“We expect to be able to make more announcements about where trees will be planted this year in the coming months.

“Today, we’re also opening applications for the Afforestation Grants Scheme (AGS), which provides $1,300 of Government funding per hectare for new forests between five and 300 hectares.

“I encourage landowners thinking about forestry to apply for grants through the AGS and we want to exhaust the full $6.5 million of available funding.

“Forestry is a great choice. It will help landowners to diversify their income, invest in their family’s future and improve productivity – as well as help to play their part in economic development and meeting environmental goals, such as tackling erosion,” Mr Jones says.

Applications for the AGS must be r eceived by MPI by 14 May 2018. For further information visit www.mpi.govt.nz/ags .

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 0630 Attached: A4 overview of one billion tree planting programme

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

Associate Minister of Transport

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Rail: $8m injection to reboot regional rail

Regional Economic Development Minister and Associate Transport Minister Shane Jones has today announced the first of many regional rail initiatives the Government is looking to support.

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will provide $8.75 million to reopen the Wairoa- Napier line for logging trains, upgrade the Whanganui line for mainline locomotives carrying exports and fund feasibility studies for three further regional rail projects.

“These are just the initial shovel-ready rail projects that are ready to go and have been in the pipeline for some time,” Mr Jones says.

“The Government has signalled its strong commitment to using rail to drive regional growth and I expect more projects will be funded over time from the PGF.

“These are relatively modest investments in dollar terms, but we expect them to deliver good value and to support regional businesses.

“The Government is making safety a higher priority when it invests in transport and taking logging trucks off challenging roads contributes to that.

“KiwiRail’s financial result released this week showed an 8 per cent revenu e increase in its overall forestry business in the six months to December – a result being driven by strong growth in the volume of logs.

“Rail generates 66 per cent fewer carbon emissions compared to heavy trucks – the sort of reduction we need to meet our country’s ambitious climate change targets.

“We’re providing $250,000 for three feasibility studies on KiwiRail projects in Kawerau, Southland and New Plymouth – $750,000 in total.

“The Kawerau study will look at options for creating an inland hub to connect exports from Murupara and Kawerau to rail.

“In Southland, KiwiRail will work with local forestry interests and ports to determine the best export flows for forestry and containers and the New Plymouth study will also focus mainly on opportunities for forestry exports. “I look forward to learning more about the three proposals and continuing to be a champion for regional rail,” Mr Jones says .

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 063

Hon Shane Jones

Associate Minister of Transport

23 February 2017 MEDIA STATEMENT

Future focus on Upper North Island logistics

The future of the upper North Island ports, including whether Ports of Auckland should be relocated, will be considered as part of a wider transport and logistics strategy, Associate Minister of Transport Shane Jones has today announced.

Cabinet has approved a programme of work to develop a comprehensive Upper North Island Supply Chain Strategy to ensure our supply chain is fit-for-purpose in the long term.

“The future of New Zealand’s ports, freight services and coastal shipping is critical to our economy and for promoting opportunities for regional development and employment,” Mr Jones says.

“New Zealand’s freight volumes are expected to continue to grow. Understanding the drivers and uncertainties around the future of freight and logistics demand is vital to ensuring our supply chain is fit-for-purpose in the long term.

“The Government will soon appoint an independent working group of experts who will report to the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Transport and myself.

“The work to develop the Upper North Island Supply Chain Strategy comprises a logistics and freight review, as well as a plan for the long-term future of ports in the Upper North Island. It will also include priorities for investment in rail, roads and supporting infrastructure.

“Building an effective and sustainable transport system is a priority for the Government.

“As per our coalition agreement, we are committed to exploring the feasibility of moving the location of the Ports of Auckland, including giving Northport serious consideration.

“We are also committed to investigating a rail line to Marsden Point and Northport and upgrading the North Auckland Line to take pressure off the roads in Northland.

“Freight is a key enabler of our economy, and we rely on our international freight links to connect our goods to the world. About 55 per cent of New Zealand’s freight originates in or is destined for Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions,” Mr Jones says.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 0630

Fletcher Tabuteau

Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Provincial Growth Fund boost to regions

Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Regional Economic Fletcher Tabuteau has congratulated Minister Jones on launching the Provincial Growth Fund in Gisborne today.

A key component of the coalition agreement between Labour and New Zealand First was the establishment of a $1 billon per annum regional development fund.

“This Government is committed to our regions and the Provincial Growth Fund demonstrates how serious we are about providing economic opportunities to all parts of New Zealand,” says Under-Secretary Tabuteau.

“There is huge potential in New Zealand’s provinces and this Fund will allow central Government to form genuine partnerships with local councils, iwi, business owners, community organisations and other private sector entities to unlock this potential.

“One of my focuses is to support the work of economic development agencies, organisations and governance groups, and I look forward to supporting M āori economic development so we can all reach the goals articulated in regional economic action plans.

“With better resourcing, we are now in a position to create jobs, enable long-term sustainable growth, and enhance social inclusion for all New Zealanders.”

Contact: Talani Meikle, Ministerial Advisor, 021 195 4309

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Gisborne/Hawke’s Bay: Tourism and forestry take centre stage

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest $9.2 million in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay to immediately boost tourism and forestry opportunities, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says.

“Gisborne and the Hawke’s Bay have been very active in drumming up proposals since the Government agre ed to establish a $1 billion per annum Provincial Growth Fund and we’ll continue to work in partnership with the regions to further develop these ideas,” Mr Jones says.

“I’m pleased to be in Gisborne today announcing the first tranche of projects for a region that has huge potential to grow its economy while creating high-value jobs and lifting its overall productivity potential.

“The PGF will provide support for a broad tourism package, including $2.3 million to redevelop Gisborne Inner Harbour and $1 million toward a programme to commemorate the first encounters between M āori and Europeans.

“We’re contributing $200,000 to kick-start the creation of a $20 million Wood Processing Centre of Excellence in Gisborne, which would create 167 jobs.

“We’re also providing up to $5 million to KiwiRail to reopen the Wairoa-Napier line for logging trains, taking more than 5,700 trucks off the road each year.

“We’ll be investing in planting M ānuka trees to support a recirculating wetland to filter water on 80 hectares of land next to the Whakaki Lake in the Wairoa district and contributing toward the Makauri Managed Aquifer Recharge trial to combat declining water levels.

“About 49 per cent of the population of Tair āwhiti is M āori and there are opportunities to increase employment and enhance M āori development and social inclusion in the region.

“There’s more to come for these regions and officials are working to identify where further Government funding could be applied. I look forward to making many more announcements in the East Coast over the life-time of the PGF,” Mr Jones says.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 0630 Notes to editors: Regional factsheets attached along with summary of each PGF investment

Gisborne Inner Harbour

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $2.3 million to redevelop the Gisborne Inner Harbour as part of a wider tourism investment programme.

The Gisborne Inner Harbour Development includes landscaping, changes to road layout, improved pedestrian links, more street furniture, improved light and upgraded parking facilities along The Esplanade, Crawford St and Rakaiatane Rd.

“This NZ Transport Agency project is being undertaken in collaboration with the Gisborne District Council and Eastland Port and is part of a wider $10 million regional tourism investment programme.

“It’s one of six projects under the Tair āwhiti Navigations umbrella endorsed by the 2009 Regional Economic Development Strategy and is a key part of the Tair āwhiti Economic Action Plan.

“There’s simply no need for such projects to languish any longer and I’m pleased the Fund is able to get this work under way.

“The total cost of the Inner Harbour Development is $3.5 million. The Tourism Infrastructure Fund has contributed $1.2 million so the balance is being sought from the Fund, primarily for capital works,” Mr Jones says. Tourism package

The Provincial Growth Fund will support Tair āwhiti to develop its tourism sector, which has the potential to improve the local economy.

The Government will contribute $1 million to the programme to commemorate the first encounters between M āori and Europeans and – alongside Air New Zealand and Activate Tair āwhiti – $60,000 to the cost of developing three specific tourism products, the Mount Hikurangi tourism experience, Chardonnay Express and Waka Hourua Tair āwhiti.

“Tair āwhiti has enormous tourism opportunities but there’s an acknowledged gap in what’s on offer for visitors, as well as some infrastructure constraints,” Mr Jones says.

“Supporting Tair āwhiti to boost tourism will lift productivity, create new jobs and provide economic development opportunities for the community – of which M āori represent 49 per cent.

“Tair āwhiti will be a host for Tuia – Encounters 250 . The commemorations will be held throughout the region, including in Gisborne, Anaura Bay and Tolaga Bay.

“An additional 10,000 visitors are expected to visit the region over the week of commemorations next year. Tuia will attract national and international attention, raising the region’s tourism profile so it can become a catalyst for the development of authentic cultural experiences.

The three tourism products in development are an effective way of getting things underway while a more comprehensive regional tourism strategy is progressed. “Mount Hikurangi is within the rohe of Ng āti Porou and is the iwi’s most significant icon. There’s appetite to develop a fully-guided overnight visitor package and offer a unique cultural and outdoor experience.

“The wonderfully-named Chardonnay Express will see visitors board the historic WA165 steam locomotive highlighting the region’s history, landscape, and food and wine.

“Waka Hourua Tair āwhiti is a double-hulled vessel used to navigate and voyage the Pacific Ocean. It has the potential to become an attractive tourism product, and a resource to generate income and create jobs for Tair āwhiti students who participate in educational programmes.

“Tair āwhiti is brimming with potential and untapped opportunities and I look forward to continuing to work closely with the region’s leaders, businesses, iwi and community organisations to deliver tangible benefits,” Mr Jones says. Gisborne: Wood Processing Centre of Excellence

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $200,000 to kick-start the creation of a $20 million Wood Processing Centre of Excellence in Gisborne.

The money will help develop a business case for a proposal that could create 167 jobs when the Centre is up and running.

“The Centre plans to be a hub for wood processing, wood product, marketing and distribution, training and research,” Mr Jones says.

“There is no other wood processing centre like this in New Zealand. Wood processors would be incentivised to produce value-added products and increase their productivity, providing tangible downstream benefits to the regional economy and broader forestry sector.

“We want to fast-track the development of the business case so that, if feasible, the Centre can take advantage of the large local log supply that will be doubling in the next three years to 3.2 million tonnes per annum.

“Forestry is one of the main contributors to the Gisborne economy with more than 151,000 hectares of radiata pine plantations – contributing 14 per cent to New Zealand’s overall log exports.

“If this Centre gets underway it will contribute to the housing market, create jobs and benefit the entire economic wellbeing of the region,” Mr Jones says.

The Centre of Excellence will be at the previously decommissioned Prime Wood Site in Gisborne and its processing activities will focus on wood chip production, thermal timber modification, wood engineered technology (WET) expansion, and fibre board.

The development of the business case will be co-funded by the Eastland Community Trust with $100,000.

Whakak ī Lake Mānuka plantation

The Provincial Growth Fund will invest in planting M ānuka trees to support a recirculating wetland to filter water.

The $100,000 funding will help establish a M ānuka plantation over the next five years on 80 hectares of retired land next to the Whakak ī Lake in the Wairoa district.

“This is an investment ready proposal that has buy-in and funding support from key stakeholders – Wairoa District Council, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Whakaki Lake Trust, the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Ministry for the Environment, the Department of Conservation and Whakak ī landowners,” Mr Jones says.

The $580,000 project has secured funding from the Ministry for the Environment and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.

“The local community is often put under pressure when the lake floods surrounding farm land. This innovative project will promote sustainable land use while reducing the impacts of flooding and improving water quality.

“It will also provide economic return for landowners in the form of carbon credits and M ānuka honey. About 88,880 M ānuka trees will be planted through this project over the next five years.

“This proposal has a range of positive environmental outcomes, including improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, promoting sustainable land use and helping meet National Environment Standards for Freshwater Management.

“This is an example of what can be achieved when local and central government work in partnerships with communities to tackle the issues they face,” Mr Jones says.

Wairoa-Napier rail

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $5 million to reopen the Wairoa-Napier rail line for logging trains by the end of the year.

The Government, KiwiRail and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council are working together to see the line reopened as the amount of timber coming out of the region continues to grow.

“The wall of wood is expected to reach peak harvest by 2032 so reopening this line will get logging trucks off the road and give those exporting timber options that they currently do not have,” Mr Jones says.

“It makes sense to consolidate that timber in Wairoa and use rail to take it to the Port of Napier.

“The State Highway from Wairoa to Napier is a challenging road that is not well equipped to handle significant growth in logging trucks without major investment.

“Taking trucks off the road is a better solution – it delivers environmental benefits in the form of lower greenhouse gas emission, and safer roads. “KiwiRail estimates that shipping logs from Wairoa to Napier by train will take 5714 trucks a year off the road.

“It will also mean 1,292 fewer tonnes of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere each year.

“Plans to refurbish the line and bring it up to a level where a low-speed forestry service can run have been in the pipeline for some time. I’m pleased the Fund is able to make this project happen by injecting the capital needed,” Mr Jones says. Makauri Managed Aquifer Recharge trial

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide about $543,000 for the next stage of the Makauri Managed Aquifer Recharge trial in Gisborne.

The aim of the trial is to try and use managed aquifer recharge technology to inject water from the Waipaoa River into the aquifer to increase water levels and sustain its availability on the Poverty Bay Flats. The Makauri Aquifer has seen declining water levels for decades.

“Poverty Bay has 18,000 hectares of some of New Zealand’s most productive horticulture land,” Mr Jones says.

“The 3000 hectares that is irrigated produces $160 million annually and employs 1,100 people – about 10 per cent of the local workforce.

“Water availability is a significant issue. The Makauri Aquifer represents almost a third of all available water on the Poverty Bay Flats and is a crucial part of the local economy.

“If successful, the aquifer recharge concept has the potential to provide the additional groundwater storage needed to increase the availability of water for high-value horticultural and arable crops in the region boosting the local economy and creating jobs.

“The potential for this recharge to work has been shown in the successful installation and operation of an injection bore last year.

“The next phase of funding will investigate whether the Managed Aquifer Recharge is feasible, environmentally robust, and economically sound,” Mr Jones says.

The project is co-funded and lead by the Gisborne District Council.

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Northland: Tourism and jobs at heart of economic development package

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will provide over $17 million to help create jobs, address infrastructure deficits, diversify the regional economy and enhance the tourism opportunities that exist in Northland, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones has announced today.

“Northland has enormous untapped potential and – after years of neglect – I’m looking forward to seeing what the PGF can do in partnership with the region to transform this beautiful part of the country,” Mr Jones says.

“Tourism is a growing sector with far-reaching benefits but Northland is severely restricted in terms of capacity to both keep up with demand, and capitalise on the opportunities that tourism presents for Northland.

“Northland has higher than average unemployment so a huge focus for the region is to create sustainable jobs and get more young people into education, training and employment.

“This Government is committed to doing that, and the PGF can help provide the much- needed investment Northland needs to kick-start this momentum.

“Today, we’re announcing support for two cultural centres in Opononi and Whangarei, a T ōtara industry pilot to explore a new market in the forestry sector, the construction of a new tourism hub in Kawakawa and a long-awaited roading project to greatly improve safety, reduce congestion and support the overall economic growth of the region.

“This is just the beginning for Northland with further announcements expected in the coming weeks,” Mr Jones says.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou – 021 137 0630

Notes to editors: Regional fact sheet attached along with summary of each PGF investment

Waipapa Intersection upgrade

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide up to $9 million to upgrade a busy Northland intersection on State Highway 10.

Mr Jones says funding has been approved for the upgrade of the intersection at Waipapa on State Highway 10 in the Bay of Islands to improve safety and traffic efficiency.

“We desperately need a roundabout at the intersection of SH10 and Waipapa Rd, and this need has been around for quite some time,” Mr Jones says.

“The project will also include a new local exit connecting to the commercial area of Waipapa and additional walking and cycling paths.

“SH10 is part of the Twin Coast Discovery Route providing access to significant tourist destinations and a better transport network is essential to improve safety, reduce congestion and support continued economic growth for the region.

“This roading project is widely supported by the local community and was developed jointly by the Far North District Council and the NZ Transport Agency, which will manage the project,” Mr Jones says. Hihiaua Cultural Centre

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $1 million to the Hihiaua Cultural Centre in Northland.

Stage One of the proposal will involve refurbishing the existing boat and carving shed and constructing a waka launching gantry to allow direct access in and out of the Waiarohia River and the Whangarei Harbour.

“The long-term goal of the Hihiaua Cultural Centre Trust is to build a contemporary M āori precinct where people can live, learn, earn and play while rebuilding local cultural capacity and capability,” Mr Jones says.

“The project is included in the Tai Tokerau Economic Action Plan and, with funding secured, site works will be able to commence in May, with completion expected early next year,” Mr Jones says.

Tōtara Industry Pilot

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $450,000 towards a two-year pilot to test the validity of establishing an indigenous t ōtara wood industry in Northland.

“T ōtara is an underutilised resource within the wood products industry but, despite its economic potential and the abundant supply of it in Northland, the industry has faced a number of barriers preventing its establishment as a market to date,” Mr Jones says.

“The pilot will investigate whether these barriers are surmountable and, if they are, will facilitate the development of a new industry with a multi-million dollar potential.

“Research indicates that the industry has the potential to produce $7.5 million of t ōtara timber per year within three years – that equates to 20 direct jobs and almost 80 indirect jobs.

“If this timber was processed into higher value wood products, the potential value increases to up to $60 million – that’s a further 200 direct jobs and 1,750 indirect jobs.

“The $1 million pilot – which was first identified in 2015 – has also secured funding from Scion and Northland Inc/Northland District Council.

The project will be led by the T ōtara Industry Steering Group, which includes Scion, the Ministry for Primary Industries, Northland T ōtara Working Group, Tai Tokerau Maori Forests Inc. and Northland Inc.

Kawakawa Tourism Hub

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $2.3 million to build a tourism hub in the centre of Kawakawa, creating jobs and boosting economic development opportunities.

“Kawakawa is the gateway to the Bay of Islands and Far North District and has the potential to leverage off well-established tourism offerings in the area like the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and discovery route, and cruise ship market,” Mr Jones says.

“However, there is a critical need for improved infrastructure to meet existing visitor needs and expectations in Kawakawa.

“This funding will allow Kawakawa to build a visitor, arts, culture and environment centre to draw people into the centre of the township and will also provide improved infrastructure, including toilets, car parks, tourist information, shared public spaces and a public library.

“Once built, this centre will connect visitors to local M āori cultural experiences and, in the long-term, will increase visitor numbers and spending in Kawakawa.

“There is strong iwi, local business and community support for this project, which is a key criteria of the Fund. A feasibility study forecast an indirect spend of $1.75 million per annum in increased visitor spend in Kawakawa – a huge boost to the local economy,” Mr Jones says.

The Centre will be built and operational late this year.

Hon Kelvin Davis

Minister of Tourism

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Northland: Manea Footprints of Kupe

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will provide up to $4.6 million towards a new cultural tourism experience in Opononi, Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis has announced.

“There is real potential for tourism to help grow our regions and benefit our smaller communities,” Mr Davis says.

“We know that Northland has higher than average unemployment and the Manea Footprints of Kupe Cultural Heritage and Education Centre is a great project that will enhance economic development.”

“It will create up to 14 full-time jobs and will provide additional tourism opportunities for Northland’s West Coast.”

The Manea Footprints of Kupe Cult ural Heritage and Education Centre was identified in the Tai Tokerau Northland Economic Action Plan, which was launched in February 2016.

The Centre will celebrate Kupe’s voyage to Hokianga and his journeys across Aotearoa. It will present and preserve 1, 000 years of M āori history through stories of Kupe’s descendants and how New Zealand came to be inhabited by humans, as well as showcasing the local culture and places of historical significance.

There will be a combination of guided tours, interactive performances and technology stations, complemented by taonga repatriated from various museums.

“There is immense opportunity for M āori to develop tourism businesses around their culture, history and stories. Manea Footprints of Kupe is an important part of that offering to visitors.

“Culturally, this project is considered nationally significant and will play a role in retaining M āori identity and celebrating our past. It will also serve as an educational resource in local schools, giving our tamariki a sense of place and inclusion.

“Manea Footprints of Kupe is an ambitious project and will be a world-class asset for Northland’s West Coast,” Mr Davis says.

Media contact: Britton Broun 021 865 497

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

Manawat ū-Whanganui: Port and Rail boost

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest more than $6 million towards revitalisation of the Whanganui Port and upgrade of the town’s rail line, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says.

Subject to a business case, the Government will support works to the port planned by Whanganui District Council and identified in the 2016 Manawat ū-Whanganui Economic Action Plan – Accelerate 25.

“Redevelopment of the port precinct is a significant step that will help bring in new businesses and rejuvenate the region,” Mr Jones says.

“The goal is to create a more extensive area for value-added specialist manufacturing and make Whanganui an attractive investment prospect for marine and logistics-related industries.

“Expansion of the port precinct is expected to create 160 new jobs as businesses get established.

“During my visit to the region, I was impressed by the level of collaboration between local government, iwi, and businesses,” Mr Jones says.

The Government will provide an additional $90,000 to assist with further technical and design work, including undertaking a geotechnical assessment.

“The PGF will also provide $3 million for a project to build resilience into the Whanganui rail line – a good example of the sort of remedial infrastructure projects the Fund can assist,” Mr Jones says.

“The project will improve the resilience of the line and support KiwiRail in moving the growing export volumes in the region, which includes both dairy products and logs.

“KiwiRail estimates that each year the project will keep 6,250 trucks off the road, and 563 tonnes of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere by enabling freight to travel by rail,” Mr Jones says.

The work is expected to take three years.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou 021 137 0630 Notes to editors: Regional factsheet attached

Hon Shane Jones

Minister for Regional Economic Development

23 February 2018 MEDIA STATEMENT

West Coast: Future-proofing key to economic growth

The Provincial Growth Fund will invest in two cycle trails for the West Coast and work with the region to develop more proposals to be considered for funding, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones has announced.

“The West Coast has a historic reliance on primary industries and natural resources as the backbone of its regional economy, yet is a tourist hot spot with growing visitor numbers,” Mr Jones says.

“Today, we’re announcing a $1 million investment towards further development of two Great Rides – the West Coast Wilderness Trail and the Old Ghost Rd trail.

“The PGF will provide $100,000 to help Punakaiki develop a much-needed master plan to future-proof the township.

“We are also providing $350,000 to assist in understanding the opportunity of a waste- to-energy plant in the Buller District.

“The West Coast has unfortunately experienced negative population growth in recent years and the region is constrained by infrastructure that is not fit-for-purpose.

“However, numerous other proposals exist for the West Coast and the Government will work with various groups to identify how the PGF can help enhance its economic opportunities, create jobs and lift the overall productivity potential of the region,” Mr Jones says.

Media contact: Georgina Stylianou – 021 137 0630

Notes to editors: Regional fact sheet attached along with summary of each PGF investment

Cycle trails

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide up to $1 million towards two Great Rides on the South Island’s West Coast.

Funding will go to the West Coast Wilderness Trail and the Old Ghost Road, both part of Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail and increasingly important to the local tourism industry.

“Currently running from Greymouth to Hokitika, the West Coast Wilderness Trail is already delivering economic benefits to the region – a recent survey suggested the trail brings around 10,000 new visitors to the West Coast each year,” Mr Jones says.

“The Government will provide Westland District Council with up to $500,000 to complete the final section, from Hokitika to Ross. This will increase the attractiveness of the trail to visitors, encouraging them to stay longer and spend time in small communities like Ruatapu and Ross.

“The Old Ghost Road, between Lyell and the Mokihinui River in Buller, is building an international reputation as a world-class backcountry trail. However, its popularity means facilities along the trail are under pressure.

“The Fund will make up to $500,000 available to the Mokihinui-Lyell Backcountry Trust so the trail can continue to grow visitor numbers by expanding accommodation capacity and improving facilities.”

Funding for the Old Ghost Road trail is contingent on a satisfactory business case.

“This is a positive step for West Coast tourism and I’m excited these trails can move forward with the help of the Provincial Growth Fund.

Waste-to-energy plant

The Provincial Growth Fund will provide $350,000 to assess the feasibility of establishing a waste-to-energy plant in the Buller District near Westport.

The waste-to-energy facility could substantially reduce the amount of waste going to landfills in the South Island by as much as 350,000 tonnes, or 50 per cent per year.

“The proposed waste-to-energy facility could be a key driver for economic development on the West Coast, and associated industries throughout the region,” says Mr Jones.

“The facility would also provide energy for new industries on the West Coast, such as a proposed 40 hectare hydroponic glasshouse horticulture operation that would be powered by the energy, hot water and CO 2 from the waste-to-energy plant. “The project will contribute to a number of outcomes including mitigating and adapting to climate change.

“The Buller District and the West Coast region would benefit from 50 new jobs at the waste- to-energy plant, with a further 240 jobs estimated to be created by the glasshouse operation.

“Government agencies will continue to work with the West Coast on this project to understand the implications for the environment and economy of the Coast” Mr Jones says. Punakaiki Master Plan

The Provincial Growth Fund will invest $100,000 to help Punakaiki develop a master plan.

“The West Coast of the South Island is a major tourist destination and the icon of Punakaiki is a valuable visitor attraction but the district is facing major challenges because of that tourism growth,” Mr Jones says.

“The township already attracts around 450,000 visitors per year and these numbers can only increase when the Paparoa Track and Pike29 Memorial Track open in 2019.

“Future-proofing Punakaiki is already a priority action in the West Coast’s Economic Development Action Plan, released last year. It is now apparent, however, that the Punakaiki area faces complex issues beyond the scope of the action plan initiative.

“There is a need for a long-term strategy that addresses Punakaiki’s infrastructure needs and secures its status as a premier attraction.

“Getting a master plan for Punakaiki will ensure there are options for solving some of its infrastructure issues, enhancing visitor facilities and growing the economic opportunities that exist in the district,” says Mr Jones.

Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage has welcomed the investment in Punakaiki. “The famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki are a major drawcard for visitors as are the dramatic karst landscapes in the Punakaiki and Pororari Valleys. Of course people want to come see these special spaces but there’s been a failure to plan for increased demand and we need better infrastructure. “One aspect of future proofing will be to look at how our special wildlife is protected. For instance Westland petrels are disorientated by the lights of Punakaiki and land near lights in places where they are unable to take flight again. Finding solutions that help all of the locals – be that human, or animal – is a priority for this Government,” Ms Sage says.

Provincial Growth Fund

Priorities The Provincial Growth Fund will lift productivity potential in the provinces. Its priorities are to enhance economic development opportunities, create sustainable jobs, enable Māori to reach their full potential, boost social inclusion and participation, build resilient communities, and help meet New Zealand’s climate change targets.

Investment tiers The Fund has three investment tiers which will deliver these priorities:

Regional projects and capability Sector investment (including Enabling infrastructure projects Supporting initiatives for economic the One Billion Trees programme) Investing in regional infrastructure development, feasibility studies and Investing in initiatives targeted at priority projects that will lift productivity capability building. and/or high value economic opportunities. and grow jobs.

Oversight The Fund will be overseen by a core group of Regional leading the Fund’s design, its administration and monitoring Economic Development Ministers. The group will monitor its operation in consultation with other government agencies. the Fund’s performance and discuss regional opportunities. The Panel will provide independent advice on sector projects To support the Fund’s implementation two new groups will and the balance of the portfolio of investments. be established – a Regional Economic Development Unit in The type of project and scale of investment will determine the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and an how funding is approved – whether senior government officials Independent Advisory Panel. The Unit will be responsible for or Ministers.

Criteria for all tiers Tai Tokerau/ Projects will be assessed against criteria organised around Surge regions Northland four themes: All provinces are eligible Link to Fund and government outcomes – The project for funding (outside Toi Moana/ should lift the productivity potential of a region or regions, the three main cities). Bay of Plenty and contribute to other Fund objectives. This includes jobs, However, these regions Tairāwhiti/ community benefits, and improved use of Māori assets, have been identified East Coast sustainability of natural assets, and mitigating and as needing early Hawke’s Bay adapting to climate change. investment: Manawatū- Additionality – The project needs to add value by building Whanganui on what is there already and not duplicating existing efforts. The project also needs to generate clear public benefit. Tai Poutini/ Connected to regional stakeholders and frameworks – West Coast Projects should fit in with agreed regional priorities and need to be discussed with relevant local stakeholders. Governance, risk management and project execution – Projects will need to be supported by good project processes and those involved should have the capacity and capability to deliver the project. Projects need to be sustainable in the longer term beyond the Fund’s life.

How to apply Projects will be assessed to ensure investment fits There are no application rounds for the Fund. Go to with their scale and risk profile. The overall package www.mbie.govt.nz for more information or email of investments will be tracked to ensure strategic fit. [email protected] for details on how to apply Individual projects need to support and build on one another. and what the criteria will be for your application. 3594 01/18