New Developments in North Island Forestry Country Boost Economic Growth

“Both of these projects are part of broader development initiatives aimed at revitalizing these communities, boosting regional pride, and spurring economic growth,” Mr. Jones stated.

New developments in the heart of North Island forestry country will reinvigorate local communities and boost economic development, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced today.

Mr. Jones visited Kaingaroa and Kawerau in the Bay of Plenty to inaugurate a landmark community centre in Kaingaroa and a new connecting road in Kawerau, which will streamline regional industry.

"Both of these projects are part of broader development initiatives aimed at revitalizing these communities, boosting regional pride, and spurring economic growth," Mr. Jones stated.

The new Kaingaroa community centre marks the final milestone in the $11.1 million Kaingaroa Community Development Project, which received $7.2 million in regional development funding. The project also benefited from $3.9 million in co-investment from Te Puni Kōkiri, Te Tumu Paeroa (Office of the Māori Trustee), and the Ministry of Health. Local business K.L.C Ltd also provided crucial co-funding for the project.

The community centre will house a medical centre, complete with spaces for kaumātua and rangatahi, as well as meeting and training rooms. It also includes a digital hub to enhance internet access and connectivity in the community.

"Kaingaroa residents have long needed infrastructure investment due to decades of inadequate funding and maintenance. The completion of this project enables the community to achieve its aspirations for growth and prosperity," Mr. Jones noted.

The development project created 306 full-time equivalent jobs during its construction, many of which were filled by Kaingaroa residents. He Ira Kāhui Anamata (HIKA) Trust, a Māori-owned business, served as the main contractor for the community centre.

Mr. Jones also inaugurated the Kawerau Off-Highway Road today. The project received $1.62 million from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) and $785,000 in co-investment from Kawerau-based Sequal Lumber Ltd.

The 1.6km road, off State Highway 34, connects Kawerau Industrial Park to a private forestry road, diverting heavy trucks from local roads and providing efficient connectivity between the Putauaki Industrial Park and a planned container rail terminal.

The Kawerau Off-Highway Road is a significant milestone for the Kawerau Putauaki Industrial Development package, which received $10.11 million through the PGF and attracted $4.1 million in co-investment.

"This achievement is the result of collaboration with Māori landowners, Kawerau District Council, local businesses, and the community to support the town's growth," Mr. Jones remarked.

"The broader Kawerau Putauaki Industrial Development package provides cost-effective roading and industrial solutions for established industries in Kawerau. Once completed, it will attract new industries and further private sector investment."

While in the area, Mr. Jones also attended the launch of a refreshed regional economic development strategy by TOI EDA, the Economic Development Agency for Eastern Bay of Plenty.

"These collaborative regional strategies are essential for prioritizing further regional development investments. I hope to see more projects like these funded through the new Regional Infrastructure Fund, which I launched on 1 July," Mr. Jones concluded.