The creation of a sustainable and growing District economy is essential for the future wellbeing and prosperity of the community.

The goal of broadening the District’s economic and employment base is achieved through providing effective infrastructure and District planning, targeted promotion of tourism and lifestyle opportunities and involvement in major projects.

Tourism and Promotion

Council operates the Opotiki Visitor Information Centre, which promotes the District’s tourism destinations and provides information on activities, attractions and accommodation options.  The centre deals with approximately 12,000 calls or visits each year.

Council has employed an Events Coordinator to liaise with and provide support for the organisers of events within the District and develop new initiatives for future events.  One of the Coordinator’s key roles is to identify ways of adding value to existing events such as the nationally recognised Fibre and Fleece Festival, Opotiki Rodeo and Motu Challenge, so that they grow and attract more people to the District.

The Council’s involvement in the district Tourism and Promotion Committee also helps to strengthen existing activities and ensure that new opportunities are recognised and developed.

Harbour Development

The creation of a reliable entrance to the Opotiki Harbour is essential to promote both marine industry development and enhanced tourism and recreation activities in the offshore environment.

Major aquaculture development with the potential to create more than 900 jobs is planned for the Opotiki area and both the Council and the community recognise that consistent access to the harbour will be required to ensure that this new industry is located in and serviced from Opotiki.

The District’s offshore waters also hold some of the country’s best recreational and commercial fishing grounds and improved access will therefore bring other economic benefits.

Council plans to construct groynes to upgrade the harbour entrance by 2012 at an estimated cost of $15 million.

The improvements provided will also help to reduce the risk of flooding in the Opotiki township.

Information on the future development of the Opotiki Harbour   http://www.opotikiharbour.co.nz