Bay of Connections Yearly Report

BAY OF CONNECTIONS YEARLY REPORT

2015 The best way to predict your future is to create it. Peter F Drucker

2 Active connections. Faster results.

As the 2015 calendar year draws to a The study and its implementation will the right people and organisations close, the work of the Bay of be another positive step in the way from within and into the region. Connections continues in full swing, regions collaborate with Central on the back of a year of action. Government to achieve growth – and This Yearly Report outlines the the Bay of Plenty has set the activities and achievements of the Taking on the responsibility for the Bay precedent. 2015 calendar year and gives insight of Plenty Regional Growth Study, Bay into the year ahead. of Connections has moved to the next With a focus on working together, Bay stage of evolution in its development. of Connections continues to connect 3 Doug Leeder Governance Group Chair

Welcome to the 2015 Yearly Report for Bay of Connections.

The past year has seen our core values of collaboration and connectedness develop to another level, with partnerships created through Bay of Connections over the last eight years acting as a catalyst for many of our projects during 2015. This was especially true of the government’s Regional Growth Programme, which has t perfectly into the Bay of Connections framework.

The programme will be a key factor in developing our region. I cannot over-emphasise its importance, and the critical role this work will play in our future. The attendance and engagement at the regional forums during the Successful implementation will be a job development of the Regional Growth for us all – councils, economic Study (RGS) and Economic Action Plan development agencies, Bay of by community leaders, iwi, local Connections, Māori, industry and government, Mayors, and industry is government – working together to make testament to that fact. the identi ed opportunities and actions a reality. Sustained growth will require true regional ownership, leadership and The talent and passion in this region, agility as things progress and change. along with the close engagement with Central government has been a key central government, has brought the RGS partner over the last 12-24 months, and and Action Plan to life. will continue to be as we implement the Action Plan and the wider Bay of I look forward to another year of action Connections portfolio. Local government and results. will also continue to be a key partner.

4 Fiona McTavish Management Group Chair

It has been a fabulous year for Bay of Connections. As well as business as usual progressing the six already established sector strategies, the Regional Growth Programme is in its second year of development.

Bay of Connections has grown steadily and organically since inception in 2008. Each year has seen new strategies and partnerships formed, with more people than ever now actively involved in regional economic development.

2016 will hold more of the same, as we continue to partner with a great number of regional and national stakeholders to sustainably grow our communities, jobs and economy. create it. Bay of Connections embodies the idea of creating the change we want The Economic Action Plan developed to see in the region – both over the short under the Regional Growth Programme and long term – encouraging has become part of the Bay of participation and input from all sectors of Connections family, with action areas not our communities. already part of the Bay of Connections portfolio tting easily into the framework. The Bay of Plenty has many competitive advantages and signi cant natural This connectivity is what makes the wider resources to generate growth. The role of Bay of Plenty’s growth prospects so strong Bay of Connections is to help harness – bringing together sectors and industry these opportunities by promoting players. Collaboration is often taken for conversations and connections. By using granted, but let us not forget what a our combined strength and working powerful and creative tool it really is. together, we can continue creating inuence and leverage on a national Both the Regional Growth Programme scale, while at the same time ensuring no and Bay of Connections are enablers for one area loses its distinctiveness. regional development, with the same goals and objectives at the heart of both. This coming year will be a big one for the region, as many of the strategies and In the words of Peter Drucker, I believe actions continue to gain momentum and the best way to predict your future is to have a real impact for our wider region.

5 Bay of Connections Overview

Vision: Bay of Plenty – a prosperous This includes from within and into the region supported by sustainable sectors. region, as well as at a national and international level. Mission: To deliver sector-based strategies and action plans that generate and Since its establishment in 2008, the Bay encourage additional sustainable of Connections has made a positive employment for the Bay of Plenty. impact on the region’s economy and provided a vivid blueprint for others to Values: We will collaborate in our follow to achieve regional growth and community with integrity, respect and national inuence. By standing tall and transparency, and in a friendly manner. continuing to build strong and resilient connections, Bay of Connections remains Bay of Connections is the regional growth well-poised to capture areas of growth strategy for the wider Bay of Plenty region and opportunity. with a vision of creating a prosperous region supported by sustainable sectors. It Bay of Connections is industry-led, with a is simple and aspirational, with the aim of strong commercial and action focus. It is establishing and implementing sector-based a coalition of the willing, where strategies that generate job growth. participation by interested stakeholders is wholly encouraged. Join us, as we At the heart of the strategy are the collectively work together to grow our philosophies of collaboration and region and communities. connectedness. Through working together and connecting the right people, places, Bay of Connections covers the Eastern businesses, organisations and industries, and Western Bay of Plenty, Rotorua and the bene ts to the region are boundless. Taupō.

Tuhua (Mayor I)

Waihi Beach

Whakaari/ White I Eastern Bay of Plenty Katikati Tauranga Cape Runaway City

Tauranga Western Bay of Plenty Te Puke Western Te Kaha Bay of Plenty Moutohora I District Whakatane

Rotorua L Rotorua Opotiki Rotorua Kawerau Opotiki District Kawerau Taupō Rotorua District District

Whakatane District

Murupara

Taupo

L Taupo Taupo District Locality North Island

Turangi

New Zealand

6 The Region's Key Export Sectors

ENERGY FRE Y L IG TR OG H ES IS T R TI FO CS

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S CO ILL M SK M R S U E D P N C N O I R R T A C E T

A A A Y E A R T T

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Sector Strategies These are: of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC), 1. Regional capability and/or who manages the portfolio. Bay of Connections identi es the key comparative advantage strengths and areas of opportunity for The role of EDAs in Bay of Connections the wider region, from both 2. Alignment with national sectors that Bay of Connections is the sum of the developed and developing sectors. It are globally competitive Economic Development Agencies is informed by data, research, 3. Strong sector buy-in and leadership (EDAs), local and central government, analysis and consultation at a local, 4. Strategy interventions/actions can BOPRC and the different sector regional and national level, and is support transformative growth. representatives across the industry export and globally-focused. groups. The EDAs are essential to the Sector strategies are in place for success of Bay of Connections and the Thirteen sectors have been identi ed Aquaculture, Forestry and Wood implementation of the BOP Economic as key areas for development, Processing, Freight Logistics, Energy, Action Plan as part of the government's supported by three enabling areas Māori Economic Development, and Regional Growth Programme. Their that inuence the wider economy. Rugby Sevens (Sport and Recreation). ongoing collaboration across the Bay of Each of these sectors has been Each strategy is developed by an Connections model is vital. The majority measured against a set of selected industry-led group. The Bay of of the Bay of Connections Management criteria to determine their readiness Connections Governance Group Group membership is comprised of the or need for engagement in the maintains oversight of the strategies, EDAs, which reinforces their role in the strategy. with the support and advice of the Bay wider portfolio.

7 Updates

Bay of Connections Portfolio Manager – Cheryl Lewis

I thought last year was big and fast paced – 2015 has surpassed that.

It has been a year that all those involved with Bay of Connections can look back on with satisfaction. The launch of the Regional Growth Study and the Action Plan in less than one year was signi cant. The strength of our regional connections is considerable, and the relationship we have with central government is one of longevity and trust.

The industry groups continue to advocate for the key Bay of Connections sectors with fabulous results. Coupled with the Growth Study, we also saw strong business as usual progress across the portfolio. Economic performance in the region has also improved over 2015, adding to positive collaborative working relationships.

The strong support Bay of Connections received by the community during the Regional Council’s Long Term Planning process was incredible. We will continue to deliver on our regional economic development goals for the bene t of the community.

Thank you to central government, the governance group, EDAs, industry groups, iwi, Growth Study participants, local government, the region’s Mayors and Bay of Plenty Regional Councillors for making 2015 a year of action. See you in 2016 for more of the same.

Grow Rotorua Chief Executive – Francis Pauwels

The Bay of Connections team can be proud of two major achievements this year – the Regional Growth Study and the Ōpōtiki Harbour funding announcement. These are prime examples of what can be achieved through collaborative efforts and uni ed support. Grow Rotorua is pleased to be part of implementing the Economic Action Plan and we are already seeing the bene ts.

The RGS process has attracted more key players from across local and central government and additional industries – such as water, agribusiness and tourism – which will further leverage our resources. The economic statistics for Rotorua and the Bay are the best in years. The timing has never been better to work collaboratively where it makes sense, and to facilitate new investment, especially in the Māori economy.

Through initiatives like the Bay of Connections, the Regional Growth Study and other local programmes, the investor inquiries have never been stronger. Looking ahead to 2016 we are excited to advance the Action Plan and continue progress on other opportunities.

8 Priority One Chief Executive – Andrew Coker

2015 has been a milestone year for the Bay of Connections. The power of our collaborative model for economic development was proven yet again when the Bay of Plenty was the rst region in New Zealand to launch its Regional Economic Action Plan in partnership with central government.

The Regional Growth Programme, led by Bay of Connections, forms the basis of a unique, long-term partnership with government that will assist in creating jobs, raising incomes and increasing investment in our region. There have also been numerous successes arising from the Bay of Connections industry-led action groups, including the Freight Logistics Action Group and Regional Aquaculture Organisation in which Priority One plays an active role.

2016 will be an exciting year for the region as we work with stakeholders including industry, iwi and government to implement the region’s economic development priorities.

Enterprise Great Lake Taupō Chief Executive – Fritz Fröhlke

Enterprise Great Lake Taupō and the Taupō district is very grateful to have been accepted into the Bay of Connections despite the fact we are not in the Bay of Plenty. Recognising that businesses are less interested in arbitrary political boundaries and more interested in getting the best result out of their business when considering location, this makes sense.

Coupled with the can-do attitude, focus on engaging with business, and dedicated sector groups with industry participation, this is a winning formula for us to be part of.

It has certainly brought us closer, working together to be more effective. To that end, we would like to thank the Bay of Plenty Regional Council for their choice of funding the Bay of Connections, and the team that runs it, especially Cheryl Lewis.

Looking back on 2015 the standout success was the participation in the Regional Growth Study and the united front of the entire region to put the Ōpōtiki Harbour project above their needs as a standout project in the Action Plan. Looking towards 2016 we will work smartly to advance our Action Plan and work collaboratively to make the most of this opportunity.

We realise and share the fact that New Zealand is a very small place in the world, let alone the Bay of Plenty. So in order to attract industry to our part of the world we need to stand united and offer businesses what they need, including providing them a unique edge to compete on a world market in their chosen niche. We have plenty of these examples, particularly where geothermal intersects with the agriculture, forestry and aquaculture sectors.

Toi EDA Chief Executive – John Galbraith

The economic indicator results for the year were the most positive seen for the Eastern Bay in about seven years, with signi cant increases in employment and construction activity, growth in tourism and visitor spending and a small overall population gain.

Toi-EDA strongly represented Eastern Bay opportunities throughout the Bay of Connections-led Regional Growth Study and action planning phases and is pleased to see the new Ōpōtiki aquaculture developments and horticultural expansion feature as priority opportunities from the study. Both provide the large scale, job-rich developments necessary to offset the long-term depopulation trends in rural New Zealand and we look forward to supporting them through implementation.

We have again appreciated the leadership and collaborative nature of the Bay of Connections structure and the opportunity to work alongside our fellow EDAs in our collective economic development mission.

9 2015 Highlights

Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study Bay of Connections LinkedIn page launched by Ministers on 12 May established and growing 2015, as phase one of Regional Growth Programme

Regional Aquaculture Organisation worked closely with Bay of Plenty Phase two completed and Polytechnic to establish a regional Economic Action Plan launched on education hub for shing, navigation, 29 October 2015 crew and aquaculture quali cations

Appointed new energy industry Freight Logistics Action Group made experts, Melissa Climo and Peter submissions on the Bay of Plenty and Kernohan, to lead and develop the Waikato Land Transport Plans, as well next phase of the Energy Strategy as provided representation on the Regional Land Transport Committee

Key partnerships continued with central government, particularly Forestry and Wood Processing Action NZTE, MBIE and MPI Group made submissions to the Climate Change Target and National Environmental Standards – Plantation Forests consultation processes New partnerships formed with industry both within and out of the region, to progress strategic opportunities He Mauri Ohooho supported and scoped a number of education projects, such as the Māori Innovation Ecosystem Project, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Long nancial literacy and Māori and Term Planning round highlighted Paci c Trade Training Initiative unprecedented community support for regional economic development, reinforcing the importance of the Bay of Connections model Rugby Sevens group secured the National Sevens tournament in the Bay of Plenty until 2019, as well as continued to grow its international education ties into the US and Japan

10 The Bay of Connections Model Working alongside each other

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Triennial CONNECT Bay of Plenty Mayors Enterprise development + BOPRC Chair COBOP focused agencies Collaboration Bay of Plenty Local and Central Government forum

Bay of Connections provides a simple framework for Regional Growth Programme the region to work together to achieve greater economic growth. Overall governance and management of the Regional Growth Programme and the Economic Oversight is led by a Governance Group representing Action Plan will take place within the above industry, economic development agencies (EDAs), framework. Māori business and local and central government. The Management Group consists of members from The additions to the current model are: Bay of Plenty Regional Council, central government • The formal link to the Triennial and the four economic development agencies. This • The additional sectors not already a part of the team implements the decisions of the Bay of Bay of Connections portfolio (the inner circle of Connections Governance Group. agribusiness, education, horticulture, tourism, water) Bay of Connections works closely with central • The outer circle represents the current Bay of government, local government and industry and Connections sectors, with energy, forestry, ensures two-way communication between all aquaculture and Māori also being part of the strategy partners. Action Plan.

The Action Plan and Bay of Connections goals and objectives are aligned, making this implementation framework a natural t.

11 Regional Growth Study

Introduction Consultants MartinJenkins were commissioned in June 2014 to prepare The Bay of Plenty Regional Growth Study an independent report to identify a range has been a key project for Bay of of short to mid-term opportunities (0-10 Connections since the beginning of years) that could assist in increasing 2014. In June 2014 government publicly investment, employment and incomes in announced the Regional Growth the region. The RGS focused on the wider Programme with the purpose of growing Bay of Plenty’s strengths and where jobs, investment and income central and local government, iwi, opportunities in regional New Zealand. industry and the community can work Our region was one of four chosen to together, to increase investment, participate. employment and incomes in the region.

Developing the Regional Growth Study The independent study was launched by (RGS) was phase one of the programme, Ministers in May 2015. led by the Ministries of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Phase two included developing an Primary Industries (MPI) at the national Economic Action Plan, to identify how level, and Bay of Connections at the key opportunities can be realised, who is regional level. responsible and by when.

12 Action Plan

During its development, ve workshops An RGS Action Group worked with Mayoral involvement during this were held across the region, asking relevant stakeholders and government phase is an important aspect of stakeholders to prioritise the representatives to develop actions for implementation, with the relationship opportunities in the RGS. The region each area of opportunity. between Bay of Connections and the told us that nine key areas should be Triennial/Mayoral Forum continuing to prioritised for development. Progress on other opportunities not strengthen. listed in the Action Plan will continue These areas are: as business as usual through existing Central government will remain a key Bay of Connections action groups, partner with representation on the Bay Agribusiness relevant economic development of Connections Governance and agencies, or industry groupings. Management Groups. Each of the nine Aquaculture action plans will have a regional lead, Education and skills The nal Action Plan was launched by responsible for management and Ministers in the region on 29 October, progress reporting. Oversight of all the Forestry and wood processing 2015. action plans will take place at Bay of Connections Management and Geothermal Implementation Executive level, as already happens with the current Bay of Connections portfolio. Horticulture Over the duration of the Action Plan, around 10 years, regional responsibility Stakeholder engagement as Māori land utilisation for leading activity will continue with implementation builds will be the Bay of Connections. Success will essential. There will be an ongoing Visitor economy require regional ownership and communications strategy to ensure leadership, including the need to be continued input, as well as an annual Water management agile as things progress and change. forum.

13 Sector Strategies

The Bay of Connections has identi ed 13 export-focused sectors, with strategies currently in place for the following six:

Aquaculture Energy

Forestry & Freight Logistics Wood Processing

Māori Economic Rugby Sevens Development

14 Aquaculture

Vision – The Bay of 2015 highlights 1. Ōpōtiki Seafarm and Harbour development Plenty is a world-class • Participated in the development of the aquaculture region Regional Growth Study (RGS) 2. Establishment of commercial trout farming Goal – To grow an • Held six well attended meetings of the integrated and Regional Aquaculture Organisation sustainable (RAO) The Ōpōtiki sea farm and harbour, commercial trout farming, plus associated aquaculture industry • Attended a Treasury-arranged bio-discovery opportunities, are in the Bay of Plenty stakeholder workshop for the Ōpōtiki cornerstone projects to achieve the Bay of with export sales of Harbour development project $250 million by Connections Regional Aquaculture 2025 • Participated in a review of employment Strategy target of $250 million sales by opportunities in the Eastern Bay of Plenty 2025. The Bay of Connections strategy • Worked with Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is, in turn, a core element to achieving to help establish a regional education the national aquaculture aspiration to be hub for shing/navigation/crew a $1 billion sector. quali cations and aquaculture The identi cation of trout farming as a • Promoted primary school education on valid commercial opportunity for the Bay marine farming through the House of of Plenty has attracted interest from Science, and sponsored a school groups throughout New Zealand. Skills science kit relating to trout farm husbandry and • Worked on expanding the regional intensive production already exist in the knowledge of marine biosecurity and region and the RAO sees trout farming how the marine farming industry needs and trout shing as being mutually to be protected from unwanted marine inclusive, rather than mutually exclusive. organisms • Supported Will Samuel (Taupō District However, legislative reform will need to Council) who received a Winston take place before opportunities around Churchill Fellowship grant to study rural trout can be actioned. This is an action economic development abroad area for central government, as outlined in the RGS. • Submitted on Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Long Term Plan and the Upcoming priorities include supporting review of the Coastal Plan Action Plan implementation and continuing to pursue freshwater Advocating for growth aquaculture opportunities in the region, The RAO provides a common connection including those which bene t other for aquaculture interests throughout the industry sectors such as geothermal, and region and further a eld. Because of this, education and skills. it has been heavily involved in the RGS. This has included providing advice to The RAO also actively encourages consultants MartinJenkins, MBIE, Treasury, investors into aquaculture opportunities, MPI and politicians regarding the which includes the use of Eastern aquaculture opportunities that have been Seafarms’ water space for mussel spat identi ed by the RAO for development in catching and innovative marine farming the region, as well as attending regional opportunities. forums and workshops. Over the next 12 months the RAO will The two key opportunities included in the also be working with the University of RGS Action Plan for implementation are: Waikato on marine biodiscovery.

15 Energy

Vision – Wealth and 2015 highlights integrate wood waste and geothermal resources in the Central North Island. wellbeing through • Review (ongoing) of the Energy Strategy renewable and Our regional energy initiatives also link sustainable energy • Appointment of Energy Strategy with a national geoheat strategy being coordination team – Melissa Climo and developed by the New Zealand Goal – To create Peter Kernohan Geothermal Association. sustainable new • Development of geothermal energy business growth actions aligned with the Regional An important aspect of the regional opportunities and Growth Study (RGS) strategy is supporting the growth of local employment commercial and industrial projects that require a signi cant input of energy. It is Building momentum also essential to build and promote the The appointment of the Energy Strategy region’s energy opportunities and value coordination team earlier this year has investment proposition. ensured momentum is continuing in this sector, with the team leading an update of the Energy Strategy, which will During 2016 the Energy Action Group facilitate support and investment across will be re-established to further facilitate the energy sector. growth and investment, and lead implementation of actions in both the A current focus of the coordination team RGS Action Plan and Bay of Connections is developing an integrated work strategy. The group will be made up of a programme that aligns the updated Bay cross-section of industry representatives of Connections Energy Strategy with and key stakeholders. geothermal sector actions in the Regional Growth Study and Economic Action Plan. The strategy aims to facilitate engagement, establish mechanisms for We are connecting with other local, connecting heat users and suppliers, and regional and national initiatives. One continue to identify business investment such project includes involvement with targets, while showcasing the region’s Scion’s industrial symbiosis research energy advantages, in particular programme that examines how to best geothermal direct use opportunities.

16 Freight Logistics

Vision – World-class 2015 Highlights the logistics sector in the upper North Island, providing a platform for agencies freight logistics • Provided input into the Regional such as NZTA to engage directly with Growth Study (RGS) on infrastructure Goal industry, to better inform and seek – To lift New opportunities Zealand’s rankings in feedback on strategies and plans. logistics performance • Freight Logistics Action Group (FLAG) Enabling Technology and Health, There is a current focus on strengthening Safety and Environment sub-groups links with national organisations, jointly promoted a proof of concept trial particularly the Road Transport Forum, to for mobile applications interacting with continue growing sector collaboration. beacons for location-based information and alerts such as hazard ID Input into the RGS included drafting • Input into Tertiary Review of actions for improved freight ef ciency in Quali cations associated sectors such as forestry.

• Submitted to NZTA on progressing FLAG has a current focus on widening HPMV to the 25m/64 tonne envelope the application and use of promotional and developed a suite of high-volume, careers material, including a new module point-to-point designated routes within for women in road transport, to address the region for interim implementation a lack of skilled and available labour, • Freight Advisor representation on particularly amongst young people. Regional Land Transport Committee Scenario planning for how a major biosecurity event could impact on • Submissions on Bay of Plenty and logistics and supply chains is also being Waikato land transport plans looked at. • Promoted logistics careers at Future Focus Expo held in Tauranga Upcoming activity includes enhancing the communications and media pro le for the Strengthening links sector, promoting road-rail integration FLAG continues to develop its role as an and looking at climate change target authoritative and representative voice for implications for the freight sector.

17 Forestry and Wood Processing

Vision – To extract the 2015 Highlights stakeholder engagement throughout the RGS and Action Plan development phases. maximum sustainable • Implementation of the 2014 revised regional wealth from three-year strategy the Central North The themes include: Island forest resource • Strengthened connections with the newly-formed national Wood 1. Improved market access for processed Goal – To provide Processors and Manufacturers wood products Association (WPMA) and supported its advocacy and strong 2. Afforestation leadership to regional interface maximise growth • Supported the Rotorua Lakes Council’s opportunities Wood First and WPMA’s Wood Story The Bay of Plenty has signi cant initiatives competitive advantages to grow the sector, including world-class supply, • Monitored performance of the industry logistics and processing, access to in harvesting and local processing and geothermal heat and energy, proximity to championed the update of the Central growth markets (Asia, India, Japan, North Island Wood Availability Korea), Fair Trade Agreements, research Forecast, taking into account signi cant and education capability and skilled departures from previous outlook workforce. • Submissions to the Climate Change Target and National Environmental Support for afforestation projects is a key Standards – Plantation Forests focus for FWAG over the next 12 months, consultation processes through promoting environmental, social and climate change effects of forestry as • Active role in developing Regional a land use and signi cant climate change Growth Study (RGS) and related mitigation option. Forestry and Wood Processing Action Plan Implementation of the RGS Action Plan will also be a key area of activity. Championing advocacy The key role of the Forestry and Wood FWAG supports engineered wood and Processing Action Group (FWAG) is to the timber building initiatives of Grow support industry growth through advocacy, Rotorua and NZ Wood, as well as communication and collaboration. working alongside the Freight Logistics Action Group in scenario planning for a FWAG has grown its advocacy pro le major biosecurity event that could impact within the industry, particularly after on logistics and supply chains within the providing an active forum for regional forestry industry.

18 Māori Economic Development

Vision – Māori 2015 Highlights (kia piki), and education and skill creating wealth, jobs development (kia ako), all of which are • Four successful Māori Advisory Group imperative to growing Māori economic and prosperity across Hui held over past 12 months the region development in the region. • Two Māori Economic Development hui Goal – Māori held in Tauranga and Rotorua, Growth of the Māori economy in the Bay individuals and enhancing connections of Plenty is fundamental to achieving households in the • Presentation to iwi leaders education region-wide growth. Currently Bay of Plenty meet forum contributing $1.2 billion, or 11%, of the or exceed the New region’s annual GDP, He Mauri Ohooho Zealand average • Circulated information about Māori (HMO) is con dent that this contribution on key wealth and Innovation Fund providers can be improved by 10-30% over the wellbeing • Initiated Te Pae Tawhiti project with next 10 years and, in turn, realise an measures by 2030 Ngāti Pikiao land trusts (previously Te additional $120-$320 million in GDP. Tētere Kōkiri o te Ata) identifying opportunities for collaboration HMO's focus for 2016 will be on both (scheduled to be completed in operational and strategic activities. December) Operational activities include core coordination and advocacy initiatives, as • Supported and contributed to the directed by the advisory group, while Regional Growth Study (RGS), strategic projects are those that advance including development of the Māori Māori economic development aspirations Land Utilisation Action Plan in the wider Bay of Plenty – including • Māori Innovation Ecosystem project leveraging outcomes for HMO through and Māori business hubs scoped the RGS process. • Developed contacts database Involvement in the RGS has included • Assisted iwi nancial literacy proposal leveraging existing relationships within with Leisa Nathan the region, as well as coordinating Māori • Provided report for Bay of Plenty engagement into the relevant action plans Tertiary Intentions Strategy such as forestry, geothermal, visitor economy, water, agribusiness, • Supported Māori and Paci c Trade aquaculture, horticulture and education Training Initiative proposal with and skills. HMO was also tasked with Tauranga Moana iwi and region developing an action plan speci cally for Māori Land Utilisation and will continue Collective leadership to be a lead support in the The highlights and achievements over the implementation of the actions identi ed. past 12 months relate to ve of the six strategic goals identi ed in the 2014 HMO will continue to advocate, strategy report. They include: strategic coordinate and lead implementation of leadership (kia arahi), collective actions that provide the potential to lift utilisation (kia tipu), business networks Māori economic development in the (kia hono), high value business growth region.

19 Sport and Recreation – Rugby Sevens

Vision – The Bay of 2015 Highlights Union (BOPRU) and supported by Education New Zealand (ENZ) and Bay Plenty is the world’s • Secured National Sevens tournament in of Connections, also addresses strategic leading Sevens rugby the Bay of Plenty until 2019 service provider objectives for the New Zealand Rugby • Secured the hosting rights to the British Union of growing the game nationally. Goal – The Bay of and Irish Lions vs. New Zealand Māori Plenty is a All Blacks in 2017 International ties have been solidi ed programme that • Hosted players from Gonzaga High through the Study Abroad programme, attracts the interest School, Washington USA which is aimed at international post and commitment of secondary school students wanting to the world’s Sevens • Hosted the North Island Secondary learn rugby and continue their studies at nations, delivering School Girls Tournament, as well as the the same time. With a number of sporting and National U15 Sevens Tournament partnerships already established with economic bene t • Worked with Education New Zealand secondary schools throughout the United to the Bay of to take part in a new programme States in particular, work is also underway Plenty through aimed at the Japanese market to widen international education employment, pathways with post secondary institutes, • Worked with Tauranga City Council revenue and including the University of California and and Bay Venues on the development investment Ryugasaki University in Japan. Progress is of a High Performance Training being made on establishing an English Centre at Blake Park, including New programme as well. Zealand Rugby Men’s and Women’s Sevens as tenants With the Bay of Plenty rmly established • Held initial discussions with the as the hub for Sevens rugby in New University of California regarding a Zealand, partnership discussions are also potential relationship proceeding closer to home with an • Held discussions with Ryugasaki objective over the next 12 months being University, Japan regarding hosting to develop a partnership through the players in the Bay of Plenty University of Waikato. The region will also play host to a Creating international reach number of international teams, as well as The Bay of Connections Sevens strategy national and international tournaments is a truly international strategy, with over the next three years. signi cant links already established with key sevens rugby nations around the Sevens strategy activities, including the globe and further developments in the establishment of a high performance pipeline. training centre at Blake Park in Tauranga, also ties in with other national sporting The strategy, which is implemented in strategies including High-Performance partnership the Bay of Plenty Rugby Sport New Zealand and ENZ.

20 FAQs

What is the Bay of Connections? The Bay of Connections is the regional growth strategy for the wider Bay of Plenty region with a vision of creating a prosperous region supported by sustainable sectors. It is simple and aspirational, with the aim of establishing and implementing sector-based strategies that generate job growth. It is also about growing a strong and vibrant community, encouraging collaboration between business and industry, improving wellbeing and encouraging innovation and leadership.

Who is involved in Bay of Connections? The Bay of Connections is led by a Governance Group of 12 members – three from business, four from the economic development agencies, two Māori business representatives, a local Government and central Government representative, and a Collaboration Bay of Plenty representative. The Governance Group is supported by the region’s economic development agencies, central government, and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Refer to page 23 for Bay of Connections partners.

Where is the Bay of Connections region? The Bay of Connections region covers the wider Bay of Plenty, including Taupō, Rotorua, and Western and Eastern Bay. It covers 34,000 square kilometres of land and sea. The Bay of Connections also has strong links into the Waikato.

How does the Bay of Connections work? The Bay of Connections identi es the key strengths and areas of opportunity for the wider region, from both developed and developing sectors. It is informed by data, research, analysis and consultation at a local, regional and national level, and is export and globally-focused.

Why is it working? The Bay of Connections provides a simple framework for the region to work together, to achieve greater economic growth. Together, the region has the scale to be nationally and internationally signi cant. Quite simply, it just makes sense to work together.

How will success be measured? The ultimate measure of success for the Bay of Connections will be through job growth. Other measures of success include continual progress and implementation of sector action plans, retention of top industry experts and continued involvement from central and local government.

21 Our People

Pictured left to right

Bryce Heard Greg Simmonds John Green Fiona McTavish Jacob Kajavala Andrew Coker Anthony Olsen Governance Group Management Group Governance Group Management Group Chair Governance Group Governance Group Governance Group Rotorua Business Priority One Grow Rotorua BOP Regional Council Eastern Bay Business Priority One Māori Business

Doug Leeder John Galbraith Fritz Fröhlke Jackie Read Cheryl Lewis Jacky James Riri Ellis Governance Group Chair Governance Group Management Group Management Group Management Group Management Group Governance Group BOP Regional Council Chair Acting Management Enterprise Great Bay of Connections Bay of Connections Bay of Connections Māori Business Toi EDA Lake Taupō Support Portfolio Manger Communications

Not Pictured

Graeme Marshall Lionel Crawley Francis Pauwels Andrea Blair Governance Group Governance Group Management Group Governance Group Western Bay Business Collaboration BOP Grow Rotorua Enterprise Great Lake Taupō

22 BAY OF CONNECTIONS PARTNERS GOVERNANCE GROUP MANAGEMENT GROUP SECTOR GROUPS • 3 Business • Bay of Plenty Regional Council • Aquaculture • Māori • 4 Economic development • 4 Economic development agencies • Energy • Sport & Recreation • 2 Māori business • Forestry - Biking • 1 Local government • Freight Logistics - Rugby Sevens • 1 Collaboration BOP EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY ROTORUA TAUPO WESTERN BAY OF PLENTY TOI-EDA GROW ROTORUA ENTERPRISE GREAT PRIORITY ONE Sub-Regional Economic Development A CCO of Rotorua Lakes Council LAKE TAUPO Sub-Regional Economic Development Agency Its purpose is to provide a sustainable Taupō Economic Development Agency Agency • To support and develop key sectors future economic platform off which • Support existing businesses • Innovation & entrepreneurship in the Eastern Bay economy to Rotorua, its people and its businesses, • Attract or create new businesses • Lifestyle grow employment and wealth can grow and prosper by: • Assist businesses to create jobs • Business environment • To represent the Eastern Bay in • Developing robust investment • Education & skills wider Economic Development and value propositions • Networked economy planning strategies and initiatives • Promoting new propositions to the investment community • Facilitating private sector investment • Promoting the capability and skills required • Identifying ways to assist Te Arawa investment in the region

PARTNERS PARTNERS PARTNERS PARTNERS • Bay of Plenty Regional Council • Bay of Plenty & Waikato Regional • Agriculture and Aquaculture industry • Ag/Hort sector • Kawerau District Council Councils • CRI’s – GNS Science and Scion • Bay of Plenty Polytechnic • Ōpōtiki District Council • Export NZ Bay of Plenty • Department of Conservation • Bay of Plenty Regional Council • Whakatāne District Council • Iwi, including but not limited to: • Destination Great Lake Taupō • COBOP • Bay of Plenty Polytech Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust, Ngāti • EDA’s and District Councils • CONNECT • Bay Trust Whakaue commercial entities, Te • Energy industry • Creative Tauranga • COBOP Arawa Lakes Trust, Te Arawa • Entrepreneurs and Investors • EMA • CONNECT Group Holdings Ltd, Federation of • Events Capital • Export NZ Bay of Plenty • Eastern Bay Chamber of Commerce Māori Authorities, Te Pumautanga • Export NZ Bay of Plenty • Katch Katikati • Export NZ Bay of Plenty o Te Arawa Trust and other • Forestry and Wood processing • Ministry of Business, Innovation & • Forestry & Wood Processing relevant Te Arawa entities industry Employment Industry • Relevant Government departments • Lake Taupō Arts Festival Trust • Ministry of Social Development • Freight Logistics industry • Rotorua business community (Erupt Events) • NZ Trade & Enterprise • Grow Whakatane Advisory Board with a particular focus on the • Māori - Iwi, hapū & land trusts • Priority One • Horticulture industry following sectors: • Ministry for Foreign Affairs • Smart Economy • Kawerau Enterprise Agency - Forest Industry and Trade • SmartGrowth • Kawerau Industrial Symbiosis - Tourism • Ministry of Primary Industries • Sustainable Business Network • Mātaatua Assembly - Geothermal • National Government • Tauranga Chamber of Commerce • Motu Trails Charitable Trust - Agriculture • NZ Trade and Enterprise • Tauranga City Council • Ngāti Tūwharetoa • Rotorua Chamber of Commerce • Regional Councils – Bay of Plenty • Te Puke Economic Development • NZ Trade and Enterprise • Rotorua Lakes Council and Waikato Group • Ōpōtiki Marine Advisory Group • Destination Rotorua • Sustainable Business Network • Te Puni Kōkiri • Sustainable Business Network • Scion and other relevant science, • Taupō Chamber of Commerce • Tertiary Education Commission • Te Puni Kōkiri research & development entities • Taupō District Council • Tertiary Partnership • Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa • Sustainable Business Network • Tertiary providers – Waiariki, • Tourism Bay of Plenty • Te Tumu Paeroa • Te Puni Kōkiri Waikato Uni • Western Bay of Plenty Tertiary • Te Wānanga o Awanuiarangi • The councils, economic • Tourism Industry Providers • Tourism cluster development agencies and • Town Centre Taupō • Western Bay of Plenty District • Whakatohea Maori Trust Board relevant planning agencies of the Council • Waiariki Institute of Technology upper North Island of NZ • Waiariki Institute of Technology and other relevant education and workplace skills providers COBOP (Collaboration Bay of Plenty) - Local and Central Government

PARTNERS • Department of Inland Revenue • Ministry of Education • Ōpōtiki District Council • Accident Compensation Corporation • Department of Internal Affairs • Ministry of Health • Rotorua Lakes Council • Bay of Plenty District Health Board • Family & Community Services • Ministry of Justice • Taupō District Council • Bay of Plenty Regional Council • Housing NZ Corporation • Ministry of Social Development • Tauranga City Council • Careers New Zealand • Kawerau District Council • Ministry of Youth Development • Te Puni Kōkiri • Department of Child, Youth and • Lakes District Health Board • NZ Fire Service • Tertiary Education Commission Family • Ministry for Primary Industries • NZ Police • Western Bay of Plenty District Council • Department of Conservation • Ministry of Business, Innovation • NZ Trade and Enterprise • Whakatāne District Council • Department of Corrections and Employment • NZ Transport Agency • Work and Income NZ CONNECT - Enterprise development focused agencies PARTNERS • Grow Rotorua • Ministry of Social Development • Tauranga City Council • Bay of Plenty Polytechnic • Institute of Directors - Bay of Plenty • NZ Trade and Enterprise • Te Puni Kōkiri • Bay of Plenty Regional Council • Kawerau Enterprise Agency • Priority One • Toi-EDA • Eastern Bay of Plenty Chamber • Māori Business Network • Rotorua Chamber of Commerce • Tourism Bay of Plenty of Commerce • Ministry of Business, Innovation • Rotorua Lakes Council • Waiariki Institute of Technology • EMA Northern and Employment: Science and • Sustainable Business Network • Western Bay of Plenty District Council • Export NZ - Bay of Plenty Innovation Group • Tauranga Chamber of Commerce

23 NOVEMBER 2015 WWW.BAYOFCONNECTIONS.COM