Mahi Tahi 20181

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NZ DECEMBER 2018

MAHI TAHI

HAWAIKI SUBMARINE PGF MONIES FOR EDA’S
CABLE - A $445M
CONNECTION WAIKATO SMARTS - A
WINNING FORMULA
FIND YOUR EDGE

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Dr David Wilson, Chair of Economic Development Editor in Chief
NZ and CEO of Northland Inc. LINDA STEWART

A FIRST EDITION Executive Editor
HEATHER WARWICK
Welcome to EDNZ’s first edition of ‘Mahi
Tahi’, a journal written by economic Contributors
development professionals, for VAUGHAN COOPER
economic development professionals.
The journal has been inspired by feedback received LUKE BEEHRE
at the recent Mahi Tahi Conference. Delegates at the PATRICK MCVEIGH
conference told us that one of the best features of LINDA STEWART
the conference was the opportunity to share best DR DAVID WILSON
practice and that they were keen to do this on a more STUART TRUNDLE
regular basis. SUSAN HOUSTON
The Mahi Tahi journal enables that sharing with the
help of the team at MartinJenkins who have elected to MARY JENSEN
sponsor the journal. KYLIE HAWKER-GREEN
EDNZ hopes that this will be the first of many editions
over the coming years and encourages you to consider MILES DALTON
what winning stories, and even war stories with great FLETCHER TABUTEAU
outcomes, you might like to share through the journal. NERIA BREWERTON
We thought it appropriate to focus the first edition on
the many wonderful initiatives acknowledged at the PAM FORD
recent EDNZ Gala Awards Dinner. MINISTRY OF SOCIAL

2 MAHI TAHI DEVELOPMENT

Production Manager
SUSAN HOUSTON

Head of Design
SUSAN HOUSTON

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING
CONTRIBUTIONS TO MAHI TAHI PLEASE
CONTACT SUSAN HOUSTON
0272044715
[email protected]
The Orchard Business and Events Hub
35 Walton Street, whangarei 0110

06 IN THIS ISSUE

A $445 38

CONNECTION CONNECTING THE
DOTS

18

MONIES FOR EDA’S

CONTENTS

04 MEET THE WINNERS 28 NZ AGRIFOOD WEEK
12 DIGMYIDEA
14 SHED TO STOCK EXCHANGE 32 A LIFE OF SERVICE
34 WAIKATO SMARTS
20 FIND YOUR EDGE 42 THE NEXT STEP
22 TRIPARTITE BUSINESS
44 PROJECT 1000
46 EXTENSION 350

3MAHI TAHI

WINNING MOMENTS

MEET THE
WINNERS

THIS YEAR’S EDNZ
AWARD WINNERS WERE
ACKNOWLEDGED AT A GALA
DINNER HELD IN PAIHIA,
NORTHLAND AS PART OF
‘MAHI TAHI 2018’.

Linda Stewart, CEO of Central Economic Development Agency

CELEBRATING SUCCESS
IS IMPORTANT. EACH
OF THE PROJECTS
ACKNOWLEDGED
ARE IN SOME WAY
INNOVATIVE AND
BEST PRACTICE.

Fletcher Tabuteau, David Wilson, Te Ngarona Mahanga, Neria Brewerton

4 MAHI TAHI

WINNING MOMENTS

From left to right back row: Luke Beehre, Vaughan Cooper, David Wilson, Fletcher Tabuteau, Stuart Trundle, Miles Dalton, Toro Waaka, Linda
Stewart, Kylie Hawker Green, Annie Aranui, Mary Jensen, Linda Nelson Caie, Heather Warwick, Neria Brewerton, Jane Finlayson

W an element of

innovation and

sharp process

that combined

inners of this to deliver great

year’s awards outcomes. The

hailed from stories and

large to small practice that

organisations, lie behind the

from local, to winning initiatives

regional and are told in the

central agencies, following pages,

from smaller rural along with

communities to contact details

the metropolis for each project

that is Auckland. should you wish EDNZ Gala Awards Dinner

What they all had to know more.

in common was

5MAHI TAHI

A $445M CONNECTION

HAWAIKI
CABLE -
A $445M

A 15,000km super fibre optic cable is
connecting NZ with Australia, the US and
Pacific. It is expected to future-proof NZ’s
internet capacity for the next 25 years.

Vaughan Cooper, GM, Northland Inc

It would be reasonable to state
that the greater the distance,
the greater the opportunity
for telecommunications as
a means to address isolation.
This is true with connecting
“New Zealand Inc” to the rest
of the world and equally true
in terms of regional economic
development - connecting
remote and rural communities
to the rest of the country as
well as the world. Northland
Inc saw this as an opportunity
at all levels – Northland as a
region will benefit from regional

6 MAHI TAHI

NORTHLAND INC HELPED INVESTORS
NAVIGATE THE LOCAL POLITICAL
LANDSCAPE ...

economic development through Submarine cables are the
increased employment in the backbone of this international
IT service/support industry as traffic, which is highly content
well as IT cluster development, driven and thus remains centred
NZ’s economy will benefit from on the content providers.
greater diversity and competition
in the market and possibly most In this context, submarine cables
significantly, NZ will be raised race against the growing demand,
firmly in the view of the biggest either by upgrading existing
data centre clients in the world – cables or by building new ones.
Google, Amazon.
Not all regions are alike however,
Access to the latest and our projections showed that
technologies enables the Australasian to US market
a design with higher was under-served, and that a
capacity, lower costs new player had merged: Hawaiki
and upgrade possibilities that the Submarine Cable LP (‘Hawaiki’).
aging cables cannot match.

7MAHI TAHI

A $445M CONNECTION

WHO IS Hawaiki was an investment proposal to build
HAWAIKI? a high capacity fibre optic cable system
between Australia (Coogee Beach, Sydney),
Headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand (Mangawhai Heads), American
New Zealand, Hawaiki is a New Samoa (Tafuna), Hawaii (Kapolei) and the US
Zealand registered bandwidth West coast (Pacific City in Oregon State).
supplier in the Pacific submarine
cable market, and owner and developer of Pacific islands: the system design also
the Hawaiki submarine cable system. provided the ability to install optical branching
units and cable branches to connect a number
It’s goal is to significantly contribute of Pacific Islands to the main trunk. A branch
to the development of Australia, New connecting American Samoa was planned
Zealand and Pacific Islands’ economies along with other branches to New Caledonia,
by providing future-proof capacity and Fiji and Tonga (Vava’u).
direct access to the US market. Hawaiki is
an independent provider of international The Transpacific capacity provided by the
capacity, without alignment to any cable is in excess of 30 Terabits per second.
traditional telecommunications operator. In addition, at least 12 Terabits per second
can be provided between New Zealand and
8 MAHI TAHI Australia. The Transpacific capacity available
to New Zealand more than doubled when
Hawaiki was commissioned.

A $445M CONNECTION

Hawaiki is financed THE MISSING
through a combination LINK WAS
of capacity pre-sales, SUBMARINE CABLE
equity investment, and DIVERSITY WITH A
bank debt. Capacity pre-sales DIRECT ACCESS TO
contracts have been executed THE UNITED STATES,”
with Research and Network HAWAIKI CEO RÉMI
Advanced Network NZ (REANZ), GALASSO
Amazon and other customers.
All equity investors are NZ based: The government’s current
Sir Eion Edgar, Malcom Dick, investment initiatives in
and Remi Galasso. Bank debt urban and rural broadband
is through a senior loan facility infrastructure will be greatly
from the French bank Natixis. enhanced by further competition
in the market driving lower prices.
For New Zealand Inc’s benefit,
the requirement is to provide At a minimum Hawaiki delivers
diversity of landing sites so that significantly enhanced service
New Zealand has diversity in the (such as no data cap) for the
market. This is a two-fold benefit same price, which in turn will
– firstly in terms of providing drive greater uptake, innovation
competition to help address the and efficiencies for business.
market pricing, and secondly
to be attractive to host data
processing centres (supporting
the post production film industry
and attracting admin support
/ head office facilities for
international companies). For
example, XERO can be based in
NZ rather than in the USA.

9MAHI TAHI

A $445M CONNECTION

THE BENEFITS OF
HAWAIKI

In 10 years’ time our appetite for Northland has the necessary land-based
bandwidth will be heightened by infrastructure to support this project -
innovations we’re not yet capable of Mangawhai Heads is a natural landing site
dreaming about. As a commenter facilitating easy access to major terrestrial
said recently on one of the world’s most- backhaul fibre cables between Northland
read blogs, “once people get fatter pipes and Auckland.
they usually manage to fill them”. The
promise of technologies such as 3D During the construction phase, Hawaiki is
printing – allowing end users to print engaging certain Northland resources and
spare parts rather than needing to order skills. However, following commissioning,
them – are likely to result in growth for the project is not expected to have a
many SMEs, creating yet more demand direct significant impact on job creation,
for bandwidth as files are shared, saved employment or GDP within the region.
to the cloud and transferred around the Nonetheless Hawaiki has the potential
world. to be a catalyst for data centres and
Spark investment and development in
Fibre offers SMEs capabilities that were other technology based activities within
once only available to large corporations, Northland.
and at a fraction of the cost. At the very
least, it helps businesses save money Data warehouses of significant scale (like
but it will also open up new markets and Google, Amazon, etc.) have previously
change others beyond recognition. indicated that they will not consider coming
to NZ unless there is diversity of secure
Whangarei City will be the first City to submarine cables – which this project will
have completed its ultra-fast broadband provide.
network which is funded through the
Governments UFB initiative. Landing an There has been significant work already
international connection at Mangawhai undertaken (including current feasibility
Heads shows a coordinated and reports) for the design and construction of
collaborative effort by local and central a Tier 4 Data Centre in Northland.
government to make a step change in
the regional economy of Northland.

10 MAHI TAHI

A $445M CONNECTION

ONCE PEOPLE GET FATTER
PIPES THEY USUALLY MANAGE
TO FILL THEM”.

NORTHLAND INC WAS
RECIPIENT OF THE
EDNZ AWARD FOR
INWARD INVESTMENT

There is also keen interest in countries with
green energy – both for powering the cable
and for providing energy for data centres
(large power users).

This is where NZ has a significant competitive
advantage over Australia (whose electricity is
predominately coal and gas) in attracting significant
data warehouse facilities.

The ability to store and handle large amounts of
data, in a politically stable country, also opens up a
number of opportunities for Northland to underpin
the development of new digital technologies,
research capability and businesses.

For more information on the Hawaiki Project
contact Vaughan Cooper, Northland Inc

E|[email protected]

11MAHI TAHI

DIGMYIDEA

DIGMYIDEA -

inspiring more Māori to engage in
the digital economy

DIGMYIDEA IS PROOF THAT
YOU CAN SET HIGH TARGETS AND
REACH THEM

All Māori who have an interest in Now in its third year, the competition has
technology have the potential to grown from strength to strength. More than
become successful entrepreneurs 200 entries were received this year, twice the
and the DIGMYIDEA Māori Innovation number submitted the year before, with each
Challenge is designed to help them on the winning idea receiving a business startup
journey. support package worth $10,000.

Māori are the second largest ethnic group in It’s proof that you can set high targets and reach
New Zealand after European New Zealanders. them.
There are more than 720,000 people in New
Zealand who identify as Māori, making up DIGMYIDEA won the ‘Best Practice Award for
nearly 16 per cent of the national population. Innovation’ at the Economic Development New
Zealand Awards. The competition also received
DIGMYIDEA quite simply aims to entice more international recognition this October, winning
Māori into the thriving technology sector. a bronze award for ‘Excellence in Economic
Development’ at the 2018 International
The competition is unique as it targets an Economic Development Council (IEDC) awards,
untapped part of the New Zealand economy announced in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
– namely Māori innovation. It is the only
competition that connects with Māori who have This Innovation Challenge is always evolving. A
an idea which has the potential to become a series of new activations were trialled last year
successful business. to raise further awareness and support partic-
ipants including an ideation weekend – Te Hu-
Auckland’s economic growth agency, Auckland inga Auaha and a Marae-based school holiday
Tourism, Events and Economic Development programme.
(ATEED), delivers DIGMYIDEA as part of its focus
to create quality jobs for all Aucklanders.

12 MAHI TAHI

DIGMYIDEA

THOUSANDS OF YEARS AGO OUR
TŪPUNA TRANSFORMED OUR WORLD

THROUGH INNOVATION.
WE BUILT WAKA AND STARTED THE
JOURNEY TO AOTEAROA USING THE

STARS TO NAVIGATE.
WHEN WE ARRIVED WE HAD TO

INNOVATE TO SURVIVE
CARVING FISH HOOKS FROM BONES

DIGMYIDEA is open to all Māori This would further enhance DIGMYIDEA, taking
residing in Aotearoa/New Zealand. it from being an annual competition to becoming
The Challenge is divided into two a programme of activity able to support more
age categories: Rerenga o te Kora (15 businesses in an ongoing capacity.
to 24 years) and Muranga o te Ahi (25 years
and above). School engagement is crucial to Currently, ten DIGMYIDEA finalists compete in a
attract younger entrants and a long lead time dragon’s den-styled mentoring weekend called
is really important for getting a good number a DIGIwānanga and that number could increase
of quality ideas. significantly with involvement from other agencies.

DIGMYIDEA is supported by the Ministry of To find out more about the DIGMYIDEA Māori
Youth Development, He Kai Kei Aku Ringa Innovation Challenge you can contact:
(HKKAR); a Crown Māori Economic Growth
Strategy and Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Neria Brewerton, ATEED Māori Economic
Development [email protected]
ATEED is continually looking to expand DIG- or 021 083 29771
MYIDEA and encourage greater nationwide in-
terest by partnering with other economic de-
velopment agencies to deliver the competition
more effectively throughout New Zealand.

Fletcher Tabuteau, David Wilson and Neria Brewerton

13MAHI TAHI

FROM SHED TO STOCK EXCHANGE

GREAT IDEAS
FROM SHED TO
STOCK
EXCHANGE

Enterprise Great Lake Taupō “The Taupō district is poised to
are passionate advocates for maintain long-term sustainable
innovation and have for many growth, and we have a tight and
years delivered a number of nimble strategy in place to shape
workstreams to support start-ups and and define our role in escalating these
entrepreneurs. The Taupō economy opportunities to better the lives of all
is growing steadily, with record who live here.”
numbers of jobs, business units and
population. One of the six strategic pillars, entitled ‘Great
ideas grow from shed to stock exchange’
“Our economy has recorded GDP defines the outcome for this work as;
growth figures well above the national
average for the past five years, and Taupō is a fertile and supportive innovation
we predict this trend will continue for environment where entrepreneurs can
the foreseeable future,” said General take an idea and successfully turn it into a
Manager of Enterprise Great Lake business reality. Start-ups are attracted to
Taupō, Kylie Hawker-Green. the region by our low-cost/high-support
model. Our innovation culture and access
“We are seeing our population to incubation and rapid-growth resources
steadily increase as the Taupō district result in widespread start-up success.
is proving a popular choice for those
wishing to exit the city and seek an Enterprise Great Lake Taupō (EGLT) offer
improved work/life balance.” extensive one-on-one support delivered by
their team of three business advisors who
have worked with more than 60 locals in
their start-up/innovation journey in the
past twelve months. Some of the tactics and
interventions they deliver are;

14 MAHI TAHI

FROM SHED TO STOCK EXCHANGE

Engine Room: A ‘support group’ for Offering alternate sessions
start-ups. Regular bimonthly events with between education and
invited guest speakers who both inspire inspiration, with some of the
and educate those who are just starting inspiring speakers sharing their
out, rapidly growing, recently relocated personal journeys from the germination
to Taupō or just recidivist innovators of an idea into a global entity like Beany,
or entrepreneurs! Average 30 guests Marcomm, Eye-fly and Thirst Bats.
at each session and an active Facebook
group with 128 members. Educational They balance the narrative by also
speakers have included specialists in inviting speakers who talk about their
venture capital, business planning, failures, their challenges and how many
intellectual property, franchising, HR, ‘bad’ ideas they chased before landing on
communication, rapid expansion pinch the good one!
points, philanthropy and exporting.
In between meetings, EGLT share
information and ideas through the
Facebook group and e-newsletters and
hold an annual celebration where they
showcase success stories from within
the group.

Tech Talk: Taupō hosted their first official
NZ Tech Week event in May 2018, with
over 200 people attending.

They had eight guest speakers, who each
presented on topics pertaining to tech
and innovation and received universally
positive audience feedback with requests
to hold these kinds of events more often.

15MAHI TAHI

FROM SHED TO STOCK EXCHANGE

They promoted the event to Bring your great idea to Taupō: Earlier this year,
a wide audience, as a free, EGLT ran a ‘Bring your great idea to Taupō’
all ages evening and actively marketing campaign with Newshub.
encouraged parents to
bring their teenage children. The USP for this campaign was highlighting
The audience demographic was Taupō’s competitive advantages as well as
a refreshing mix of primary lifestyle benefits;
school aged children through to a
contingent who arrived en-masse Taupō is already home to many dynamic and
from one of the local retirement innovative start-ups, entrepreneurs and high-
complexes – and everything in growth businesses who are trading successfully
between. Feedback from the in a national and global context.
event confirmed that the audience
enjoyed learning more about Lower overhead models in smaller centres such
technological advances across a as Taupō means more money can be spent on
variety of sectors, they liked the R&D rather than on paying rent!
punchy ‘pecha kucha’ style of the
presentations and were impressed It may be that you have a great idea and a well-
with what was happening in tech developed business plan/product, but can’t get
in Taupō. Our event was one of to a place that you can actually take the big leap
the largest Tech Week events for of faith, quit your job and turn it into a business
the Waikato region, and reinforced due to the high cost of living and business in a
that there is a lot of interest in this bigger centre.
sector in the Taupō district.
The team at EGLT then committed to supporting
Kloud Collective: A new initiative their entrepreneurship journey in many ways,
for this year, EGLT have rented including free co-working spaces, access to
a permanent desk at Taupō’s funding through various channels, the ‘Engine
only co-working space. They Room’ entrepreneur / innovation / remote-
make that space available, at no worker group, one-on-one support, specialist
charge, to some of the start-ups/ mentors, training & development programme,
high growth businesses who business events and access to successful local
need to get themselves into an entrepreneurs for ongoing advice and support.
office environment to work on
their business, not just in their They invited interested persons to register their
business. Co-working provides ‘great idea’ and they are now working with more
a great opportunity for these than 30 individuals to help them develop their
entrepreneurs to network with concept and ideally relocate their start-up to
other people, share ideas and Taupō.
challenges, and focus on their
business development in a fresh
environment.

16 MAHI TAHI

FROM SHED TO STOCK EXCHANGE

Film Bay of Plenty: EGLT has recently signed a three- The Taupō district is already benefiting
year agreement with Film Bay of Plenty to promote from the work undertaken by Anton Steel
the region as a location for international feature and his team at Film BOP, with a number
films, as well as providing training and pathways of feature films now considering including
for those wanting to work in the film industry. This new the Taupō region as a location for multi-
partnership is a key initiative to leverage Taupō’s natural week film shoots in 2019; hosting a
advantages to create economic benefit for the district. number of international film scouts
from a variety of major film production
Film Bay of Plenty is a Regional Film office, charged with companies; helping develop more
growing, supporting and strengthening the film industry film friendly permitting and consents
in the Bay of Plenty. They have three key streams of processes; supporting and connecting
work. Firstly, they ‘connect’ national and international the local film industry; and delivery of
productions with our people, place and infrastructure. career pathway information events.
Secondly, they ‘create’ a film friendly environment where
productions thrive; and thirdly, they ‘celebrate’ the “Our vision is that Taupō is a vibrant and
stories that find their home here. prosperous district, where both talent
and business thrive,” said Mrs Hawker-
Green. “I’m really excited to see what next
year will bring as we have new businesses
opening in our district almost every day
and a rapid influx of ‘Auckland Refugees’
moving to our district and bringing with
them new businesses, new ideas, new
energy and new money. It’s a good time
to be investing in growth across our
district and we truly feel poised for a
sustained upswing.”

For more detail contact: Kylie@
greatlakeptaupo.biz

17MAHI TAHI

PGF MONIES FOR EDA’S

PGF
MONIES
FOR EDA’S

Fletcher Tabuteau, Parliamentary Under Secretary New Zealand’s regions define this
for Regional Economic Development country. Our unique character – our
DNA – is found in our farms, our
THIS GOVERNMENT IS forests, our towns, and especially in
COMMITTED TO WORKING our people. The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF)
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH was negotiated by NZ First and established by
REGIONS AND IS CURRENTLY the Coalition Government to unlock potential
DEVELOPING A STRATEGY in these places and deliver a sustainable,
THAT WILL DELIVER TARGETED productive and inclusive economy.
SUPPORT ...’
We know we cannot and should not do this
18 MAHI TAHI important work on our own. Through the
PGF, central Government is partnering with
regions, and putting its shoulder into the hard
work already happening to ensure our regions
thrive.

On 18 October 2018 I had the privilege of
speaking at the Economic Development New
Zealand (EDNZ) conference in the beautiful
Bay of Islands. I spoke about the importance
of collaboration between councils, businesses,
iwi and communities to drive meaningful
regional growth. Already working in this
space, Economic Development Agencies are
essential partners in the work the PGF seeks
to do.

To support this continuing partnership, the
PGF is investing $985,000 in EDNZ to build
the capability of economic development
practitioners in the provinces. This investment
over three years will help EDNZ develop and
upskill those working on the ground to grow
regional economies in the identification,
development and delivery of transformational
projects.

PGF MONIES FOR EDA’S

THE FUND WANTS TO BE A
PARTNER, NOT A PATRON.

This investment will contribute to the EDAs already help businesses and
formation and delivery of a professional investors navigate the regulatory
development programme as well an environment in their regions. Having an
online repository for best practice in-depth knowledge of each environment
economic development resources. as it applies to the unique character of their
region, is what earns these agencies the role of
When it comes to delivering growth, EDAs ‘trusted partner’ for business, communities and
already know the value of partnership. The Government alike.
agencies act as a hub, connecting various
“spokes” within their regions and propelling As a member of this Government and in my
everyone forward by facilitating groups to work role as Under-Secretary for Regional Economic
together. With unique insight and perspective, Development, I appreciate we cannot do
EDAs are also instrumental in the development everything and we cannot know everything, but
of economic strategies for their regions and nor do we need to. Regions and communities
articulating growth priorities with regional hold their own knowledge and expertise and
action plans. our regional economic development approach is
finding the best way to support this.
And it is this insight and perspective that has
the PGF looking to EDAs to play a central role in I strongly believe that Economic Development
making investment connections. Agencies are passionate advocates of regional
development and sustainability. They hold the
The Fund wants to be a partner, not a patron ability to significantly boost regional economic
and for regions to have “skin in the game”. This growth through planning, strategy, and most
is a co-investment model to create growth that importantly, building partnerships.
is truly sustainable.
This Government is committed to working
Harnessing and amplifying the skills and in partnership with regions and is currently
expertise of EDA staff on the ground will developing a strategy that will deliver targeted
mean EDA’s can improve the speed at which support to enhance their contribution to regional
we can connect regional partners, private outcomes.
sector businesses and investors to ensure
the Government’s considerable investments It is by ensuring we are all working towards the
through the PGF, can truly power-up our same goal that we will see our regions grow in a
regions for transformational change. way that benefits not only local people but the
country as a whole.

By Fletcher Tabuteau, Parliamentary Under Secretary for Regional

Economic Development 19MAHI TAHI

ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS

FIND YOUR
EDGE

How do you achieve an affordable,
recognized Masters or Diploma in Economic
Development that enables ‘ on the job’
learning? Read on ...

In early 2019 Economic Development NZ “EduBits are a great way for people to gain
(EDNZ) will roll out a a continuous professional recognition of career-relevant skills without
development (CPD) programme that will taking time off work for study. They’re ideal for
deliver an accredited Masters, Diploma and personal and professional development, and
Certificate in Economic Development. can be gained as-and-when needed,” says Jo
Brady, Otago Polytechnic Deputy Chief Executive
The programme will be delivered by Otago People, Performance and Development.
Polytechnic and subsidised by monies secured
from the Provincial Growth Fund.

In recognising that our professionals are time
- poor, EDNZ has collaborated to deliver a
programme that allows credits for prior learning
and that is largely achieved through on the job
learning.

Delivery of the programme will also involve peer
to peer, online and some face to face learning.

The Masters, Diploma and Certificate can be
secured via micro dentialing, a relatively new
concept for New Zealand but not to Otago
Polytechnic which has significant experience in
micro-credentialing through its ‘EduBits’ service.

20 MAHI TAHI

THIS PROGRAMME IS FOR
TIME-POOR ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
PROFESSIONALS AND
ELECTED OFFICIALS WHO
WANT TO GROW

The programme will be affordably priced with
a modest fee charged for each of the three
qualifications. The fee will help to ensure
that the programme is sustainable beyond
the three years of secured funding.

Each of the above qualifications will possess a raft
of accompanying best practice resources that will
be available to all through the EDNZ and Otago
Polytechnic websites.

Whilst the courses have been developed with
economic development professionals in mind,
the subject matter is equally relevant for elected
officials and council officers who wish to learn more
about economic development.

If you wish to learn more about any aspect of the
programme please contact Michael Simmons of
Otago Polytechnic on 021 08 25 6087.

21MAHI TAHI

A TRIPARTITE PARTNERSHIP

TRIPARTITE, THE BENCHMARK
FOR INTERNATIONAL CITY TO CITY
RELATIONSHIPS

THE SUCCESS OF THE PROGRAMME DEVELOPED Tens of millions in export deals have
been achieved, and great business
FOR THE TRIPARTITE ECONOMIC SUMMIT – relationships forged, since Auckland
GUANGZHOU 2017 SAW COUNCIL WIN THE became part of a historic three-way
‘BEST PRACTICE INTEGRATED STRATEGIC alliance between long-term ‘sister’ cities
PLANNING’ AWARD, AND THE COVETED ‘2018 Auckland, Los Angeles and Guangzhou.
PREMIER AWARD’ AT THIS YEAR’S ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT NEW ZEALAND AWARDS. When it was signed in 2014, the Tripartite
Economic Alliance was thought to be a world
22 MAHI TAHI first. It had a focus on increasing trade and
investment between the three cities and
their regions, as well as enjoying the civic
and cultural activities.

The Tripartite has evolved into a new
benchmark for how global cities can engage
and collaborate, deepen trade ties and
economic engagement.

Auckland Council’s Tripartite programme
is driven by a collaborative approach – the
Mayor providing political and civic leadership;
the Global Partnerships & Strategy team
leading the partner city relationship; and
Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic
Development (ATEED) – a CCO and the
region’s economic growth agency – leading
the business programme.

The success of the programme developed
for the Tripartite Economic Summit –
Guangzhou 2017 saw Council win the ‘Best
Practice Integrated Strategic Planning’
Award, and the coveted ‘2018 MBIE Premier
Award’ at this year’s Economic Development
New Zealand awards.

A TRIPARTITE PARTNERSHIP

This was hot on the heels of a global Jane Finlayson, Head of Business, ATEED
accolade in the prestigious International
Economic Development Council awards 23MAHI TAHI
– bronze for ‘Excellence in Economic
Development’.

Pam Ford, General Manager Economic
Development at ATEED, has watched Auckland’s
Tripartite programme grow and flourish since
the agreement was signed, including from
her frontline role leading the Auckland and
Guangzhou business programmes before her
elevation to her current position.

She says the secret to the Auckland programme’s
success is commitment and effective collaboration
between Council, central government, and
industry.

“Ultimately, Tripartite has always been about
making connections, and Council’s approach has
been to develop a comprehensive programme that
allows our world-class businesses to springboard
into two massive markets,” says Pam Ford.

And while Auckland Council has led the
programme, it has had a huge amount of help
from key partners.

“From the outset, we knew it would be crucial to
tap into the help that our central government ‘NZ
Inc’ partner agencies including NZTE and MFAT
can provide in overseas markets, and that the
trade specialists within the consulates in LA and
China would be important allies as well.

A TRIPARTITE PARTNERSHIP

“The success of the Guangzhou programme THE TRIPARTITE
was in many ways because it was the CREATES A PLATFORM AND
culmination of everything we had ESSENTIALLY OPENS DOORS
learned from our involvement in the two TO MEANINGFUL AND
previous summits, and about how to maximise SUBSTANTIVE ECONOMIC,
opportunities.” TRADE AND INVESTMENT

In November 2017, Mayor Phil Goff led Along with a range of summit
Auckland’s nearly 100 business delegates from sessions in Guangzhou, ATEED
more than 70 organisations to the summit in developed an Auckland Showcase
Guangzhou. It was the largest trade mission Event to put the spotlight on
Auckland had ever sent overseas. Auckland as a business and investment
destination, and feature Auckland food and
Participating businesses represented the beverages, including wines from Matakana
education, urban design and planning, tourism, Estate who was a sponsor at the event.
food and beverage, biomedicine and health,
digital and creative, and innovation sectors. It included a contemporary Māori
performance and brands promoting
It was the culmination of months of hard work Auckland business ventures. Designer Kiri
from various parts of Council and its partners. Nathan led a roopu of eight Māori fashion
designers who each presented three pieces.
“We held a number of pre-summit workshops
to help the delegate companies increase their The show built awareness of Auckland’s
knowledge of doing business in China, and dynamic Māori economy and its creative
ensure they were able to get the most out of sector, and really wowed the audience of
the connections created through the summit. influential business people,” says Pam Ford
The sessions and delegation were supported
by our commercial partners BNZ, NZTE and The designer group was then invited to
Huawei.” Guangzhou Fashion Week and visited
potential fabric suppliers. While the
“That meant our delegates were in the best business outcomes from the programme
possible position to hit the ground running tend to be a slow burn, with results in
in Guangzhou, and make the most of the years, not months, the post-summit survey
opportunities created through the business showed the companies that went expect the
programme and through the support of our summit will add to the millions of dollars in
partners on the ground in China.” deals for them.

24 MAHI TAHI

That was a similar situation to the first It attracted about 700 delegates, including
two summits. But while on the sur- more than 150 in Mayor-led delegations from
face the focal points in the alliance’s Los Angeles and Guangzhou.
first four years have been the sum-
mits – held in Los Angeles in 2015, Auckland About 300 formal business match meetings
in 2016, and Guangzhou – the reality is the were held at the summit’s BNZ Business
programme has basically been ongoing. Activation Lounge, along with many more
informal connections made between
“The Tripartite creates a platform and businesses.
essentially opens doors to meaningful and
substantive economic, trade and investment The summit focused on five sectors where
opportunities for Auckland-based Auckland has world-leading companies and
businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors,” expertise, significant opportunity for growth,
says Pam Ford. and is globally competitive: advanced materials
(such as composites); high-value foods; new
When Los Angeles hosted the first summit media (entertainment/digital); smart data; and
about six months after the agreement urban design.
was signed, then Mayor Len Brown
headed Auckland’s 43-organisation strong The direct foreign investment generated by the
delegation. Auckland summit has been estimated at more
than $30 million.
It was Auckland’s turn next, and the
event the city delivered in May 2016 was The fact that Prime Minister John Key, three
the culmination of a year’s planning and New Zealand Government ministers, and
engagement with industry organisations senior Chinese trade official Madam Li Xiaolin
and officials in all three tripartite cities. attended and spoke, showed the level of
credibility achieved by the summit.

25MAHI TAHI

A TRIPARTITE PARTNERSHIP

IT CAN’T REALLY BE The success of the alliance to date
OVER-STATED HOW MUCH saw the three partner cities reaf-
WE HAVE GAINED FROM A firm their commitment to it, at the
WELL-DESIGNED STRATEGIC Guangzhou summit. However, with
PROGRAMME, AND THROUGH great partnerships and connections es-
COLLABORATION WITH OUR tablished, it was decided that staging one-
VALUED PARTNERS. THE LONG- off summits was no longer required - the
TERM OUTCOMES, IN BOTH wide-ranging programme around the alli-
DEALS AND JOBS CREATED, WILL ance will be undertaken off the back of al-
BE FANTASTIC.” ready existing events.

The Tripartite’s second phase began for
Auckland with a great example of the way
forward - a 14-strong delegation to the
Select LA Investment Summit in May.

The targeted delegation, led by Deputy
Mayor Bill Cashmore, was provided with
exclusive opportunities for networking,
workshops, business matching, and site
visits.

Its first outcome was a US$20m investment
agreement announced between Auckland-
based HMI Technologies/Ohmio – which
went as part of the delegation – and Heshan
Industrial City Management Committee
in China which allows an Ohmio plant
to be established in Heshan for making
autonomous vehicles, and an artificial
intelligence transport research centre.

Pam Ford expects the ongoing Tripartite
programme to continue to provide huge
benefits for the region.

“It can’t really be over-stated how much we
have gained from a well-designed strategic
programme, and through collaboration
with our valued partners. The long-term
outcomes, in both deals and jobs created,
will be fantastic.”

26 MAHI TAHI

27MAHI TAHI

NZ AGRIFOOD WEEK

NZ AGRI The world’s population is growing and
FOOD is estimated to hit nine billion by 2050,
WEEK meaning the world will need to produce
as much food in the next 40 years as was
– driving the discussion produced in the past 8,000 years. New Zealand
of New Zealand as a food will play a vital role in meeting some of this
producing nation demand.

Manawatu Sheep Jam Global challenges like climate change, labour
shortages and the need to balance increased
28 MAHI TAHI food production, while reducing environmental
footprints, are forcing food producers
to implement technology and different
employment methods in order to meet demands
and expectations from consumers and their
future workforce.

New Zealand AgriFood Week, in association with
ASB, is held in Manawatu in March annually, in
the lead up to Central District Field Days. The
week offers a series of events that are focused

NZ AGRIFOOD WEEK

MANAWATU’S POSITION
AT THE FOREFRONT OF
AGRIFOOD IS ENVIABLE.
WE ARE HOME TO MORE
THAN 2500 SCIENTISTS,
RESEARCHERS, ACADEMICS
AND FOODHQ ...

on food, agriculture and technology, and its Linda Stewart, CEO of CEDA at launch of NZAFW
purpose is to connect thought leaders, decision
makers and future leaders from across the 29MAHI TAHI
agrifood value chain to drive transformation
and shape the future of food production and
farming.

CEDA sets the strategic direction
and manages the key partnerships,
several events and content for New
Zealand AgriFood Week as part of our
agriculture sector development.

Headline events in 2019 include ASB Perspective
2025, a boardroom style discussion between
female leaders across the primary industries;
AgResearch Future Feeders, focused on the
future of food and the workforce required to
meet this demand; Plate of Origin, a national
restaurant competition connecting chefs,
regional food producers and consumers
through one dish; the AgTech Hackathon,
which connects tech experts, farmers and

OUR PARTNERS RECOGNISE THAT
BY WORKING TOGETHER WE CAN
UNLOCK GREATER POTENTIAL IN FOOD
DEVELOPMENT AND CONTINUE TO
BUILD THE REGION AND NEW ZEALAND’S
REPUTATION ON A GLOBAL STAGE.”

high school students to develop solutions For 2019, the theme ‘Food for Who?’
to on-farm problems and the Ballance encapsulates the broad scope of the
Farm Environment Awards Horizons discussion during the week’s events, as we
Region. explore topics such as who New Zealand
is and should be feeding, what Manawatu’s
“The week is about identifying the role is within that, who is sustaining traditional
opportunities, challenges and future industry and who is evolving it.
trends. It provides the environment
for local and central government, Each event and the lineup of industry expert
producers, growers, researchers and speakers has been shaped in partnership
consumers to work together to ensure with leading-edge thinkers across the primary
Manawatu is leading the thinking in industries. Many of these have since become
product development, innovation and key sponsors and partners, including ASB,
the sustainability of agriculture and food AgResearch, Plant and Food Research, FoodHQ,
production, for the benefit of New Zealand,” NZTE, Massey University, Fonterra and The
says Central Economic Development Factory.
Agency’s Chief Executive Linda Stewart.
“Our partners recognise that by working
“Manawatu’s position at the forefront together we can unlock greater potential in
of agrifood is enviable. We are home to food development and continue to build the
more than 2500 scientists, researchers, region and New Zealand’s reputation on a
academics and FoodHQ, who are all global stage.”
working hard to advance our knowledge
and capabilities in agriculture, food From scientists to students, researchers,
production and more. farmers and food producers, agribusiness
and service providers, there is something for
This happens alongside our boutique and everyone. Attendees are some of the brightest
large-scale food producers, manufacturers minds and change makers working across
and our distribution and logistics hub, industries and we know it’s the connections,
which gets all of these products around conversations and collaboration within the
New Zealand and the world.” week that is of most value to them.

30 MAHI TAHI

“The week is also about talent attraction Minister Damien O’Connor at the launch of NZAGW
and increasing tertiary and secondary
students’ awareness of the opportunities OUR PARTNERS
in the primary industries, but it is a RECOGNISE THAT
two-way conversation. Our events provide a BY WORKING
platform for those starting out in their careers TOGETHER WE CAN
to bring new ideas and approaches to work UNLOCK GREATER
and discuss them with current leaders and POTENTIAL IN FOOD
decision makers. It’s this blend of ideas and DEVELOPMENT AND
dialogue that makes New Zealand AgriFood CONTINUE TO BUILD
Week so unique.” THE REGION AND
NEW ZEALAND’S
New Zealand AgriFood Week is held between REPUTATION ON A
March 11 to 16, 2019 in Manawatu. GLOBAL STAGE.”

To attend, connect or for more information
please contact CEDA Events Senior

Tessa Lyons, [email protected]

31MAHI TAHI

HONOURING A LIFE

HONOURING A

LIFE OF SERVICE

Retiring CEO, Stuart Trundle, recieves Honorary Life Membership
of EDNZ and takes the opportunity to share his thoughts on the
future ...

Of the many awards and accolades “The decision-making processes that drive
delivered at the conference, one economic development, particularly regional
was particularly reflective of the economic development, have to move away from
growing significance of economic the Wellington-centric model to the regions they
development in New Zealand, and in particular impact,” Stuart says.
its regions. An Honorary Membership of
EDNZ was conferred upon Stuart Trundle, “This has to be supported by investment – useful
who has overseen economic development investment - in the very ecosystem that drive
in the Taranaki region for over two decades. regional growth. It’s not simply a case of targeted
funding for specific projects that meet certain
During his illustrious career, Stuart has helped criteria, it’s about establishing a new model of co-
Taranaki make great strides up countless investment that will distribute funding differently.
league tables, diversify its economy into Stuart also called for the regions to work
interesting new areas, such as major events together, elevating the conversation beyond local
and international film, and both conceive and government boundaries.
pioneer the combined economic development
and regional tourism agency model that “Too often we’re working down political lines,
has gained significant traction nationwide. whether that’s as a CCO or through majority
funding from local authorities. This makes it
Stuart’s commitment to economic harder to attract equity shareholdings from central
development in New Zealand is such that government, or working more closely with business
given the soapbox for what many expected partners, who could provide the transformational
to be a valedictory address, Stuart used funding into the regional development equation.”
the opportunity to focus on the future, and
issued a challenge to both the sector and One area Stuart highlighted that could see
Hon Fletcher Tabuteau, Parliamentary Under- rapid gains was information and technology
Secretary of Regional Economic Development management, where an integrated national
who presented the Honorary Membership approach could see huge benefits by leveraging
award, to push for devolution of economic economies of scale and offering a better user
investment to the regions. experience through strategic information sharing.
“Technology is now at a point that we need to
leverage it in the best way possible. Duplicating
systems and structures in every EDA across New
Zealand just isn’t sensible.”

32 MAHI TAHI

Fletcher Tabuteau presents Honorar Life Membership to retiring CEO, Stuart Trundle

“Using appropriate firewalls, consolidated When it comes to change Stuart is walking the talk.
management structures and standardised He retires as Venture Taranaki’s Chief Executive at
learning, will enable us to manage our the end of February 2019, to be replaced by former
clients and projects as they move and Ministry of Primary Industries Deputy Secretary
grow beyond a single region, offering major Justine Gilliland. But just as certain as changes is
efficiencies when it comes to delivering the likelihood of Stuart continuing his to make a
technologyasbothatoolandaplatform,andhelp contribution to the industry, and the region, he has
us make the most of emerging technologies.” passionately advocated for more than two decades.

Stuart acknowledges that this will be seen as a THE DECISION-MAKING
brave proposition, but as he looks to call time PROCESSES THAT DRIVE
on a profession he’s had a big impact on, feels ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,
it’s one whose time has come. PARTICULARLY REGIONAL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,
“Yes this is an uncomfortable conversation but HAVE TO MOVE AWAY FROM THE
it’s one that we, as a sector, need to have. There WELLINGTON-CENTRIC MODEL
are many reasons why we can avoid it, but now TO THE REGIONS THEY IMPACT,”
more than ever we need to embrace a rapidly
changing landscape with agility and innovative
thinking,” Stuart said.

Change is inevitable and it’s a fact of life for
those we serve. As economic development
practitioners we can’t be left behind if we are
to remain of value to our communities.”

33MAHI TAHI

BACK TO SCHOOL

‘WAIKATO SMARTS’ - A
WINNING FORMULA

What could success look
like for Secondary School
Employer Partnerships (SSEP)
in ten year’s time?

Ideally there would be little or no youth
unemployment, no skills shortages and
employers/educators would move freely
between industry and schools.

Pie in the sky? Four years of SSEP in the
Waikato has convinced the Smart Waikato
Trust (SWT) that the above vision is
achievable.

In those four years SWT has researched best
practice partnerships between schools and
employers globally, piloted and measured
the impact of the initiative with 5 schools
and their employer partners, and achieved
further widespread collaboration with 22
secondary schools; around 140 educators
and 150 employers.

Over 4000 Year 9 and 10 students have
experienced SSEP. This year 2300 students
are engaged – 46 percent of these are Māori.

SWT received recognition at the 2018 EDANZ
awards for Best Practice in Collaboration
with Business, Iwi and Community for SSEP.

34 MAHI TAHI

BACK TO SCHOOL

Chief Executive, Mary Jensen, believes HOW DOES SSEP WORK?
collaboration forms the basis of all economic
and social development in our communities. Each school nominates one or two subject
She acknowledges that in a global setting, areas at Year 9 or 10 level to introduce SSEP
we are a very small nation, with small regions, and (maths, English, science, technology or business
even smaller towns and our young people are very studies). Smart Waikato identifies and on-
vulnerable in this fast-changing world. “Young people boards a range of businesses representing key
and their schools need to be better connected to industries in the region that support those sub-
their communities and supported by them to develop ject areas. Employers include representatives
a stronger sense and understanding of the world of primary industries, healthcare, information
around them and what their options are.” communication technology, engineering, trades
or business sectors. Teachers and employers
work together to create classroom and work-
place activities linking curriculum to the busi-
ness context.

RESULTS OF SSEP

Quantitative and qualitative data is collected
at the end of each school year from students,
teachers and employer partners to measure the
impact of SSEP.

SO WHAT IS SECONDARY SCHOOL Results from student survey data shows SSEP is
EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS (SSEP)? having a substantial positive impact on students’
attitudes toward their learning, increasing their
SSEP has been developed by Smart Waikato Trust to awareness of local industry and opportunities
help address future workforce skills gaps by introducing and raising aspirations for their future.
students to key local industries, supporting informed
career decisions and enabling a smoother transition be- From an economic development perspective,
tween school and employment. with skills shortages in key industries on the rise,
it will become increasingly important to retain
youth in the region to support labour market
demands. 62 percent of students said they are
more likely to stay in Waikato when they leave
school as a result of participating in SSEP.

The SSEP provides a framework that brings together
education and the local business community. The
partnerships are typically 3-year formal relationships
between secondary schools and employers who link into
school faculties at Year 9/10, supporting contextualised
learning in the classroom and introducing students to a
wide range of careers.

35MAHI TAHI

BACK TO SCHOOL

WHAT’S NEXT FOR SSEP?

The positive impact of SSEP on students, teachers and
employers has been well substantiated over the past three
years. Embedding SSEP in the existing 22 secondary schools
and engaging the remainder in the programme remains a
priority. However, attention is also now focussed upon building
upon the SSEP platform into the next stage of integration into the
senior school and education-to-employment transitions.
By working with employers to develop cadetships, apprenticeships
and other entry level jobs providing career stepping stones into
their organisations, these can be fed back into the schools through
SSEP partnership networks. The development of workplace
opportunities that connect with the tertiary sector will ensure
ongoing work-related formal training and development for young
employees. With continued support and a commitment to building
on the platform of SSEP the regions will have a strong foundation
for a sustainable skills pipeline. In specific areas where employers
are less engaged with communities and youth are more disengaged,
Smart Waikato will take a greater role in co-ordinating more
intensive activity to develop more employable rangatahi and more
employment opportunities. In effect, Smart Waikato is building
and supporting the region’s social and economic infrastructure,
enabling economic development.

36 MAHI TAHI

BACK TO SCHOOL

Smart Waikato Trust encourages other I AM SO PROUD OF
regions to join SSEP, saying “together we LINDA NELSON CAIE AND
can create a national platform for genuine HER TEAM HERE AT SMART
collaboration between education and WAIKATO. THE SHEER
industry that inspires our students of SCALE OF COLLABORATION
today as they transition into our workforce THAT THEY HAVE ACHIEVED
of tomorrow.” THROUGH THE SSEP IS
AN ABSOLUTE CREDIT TO
Smart Waikato Trust is available to offer THEM. SAID MARY JENSEN,
their expertise to help build capabilities in CEO OF SWT
other regions to achieve this.

SSEP is financially supported by MBIE, the
Mercury-Waikato Tainui iwi partnership,
Waikato Regional EDA, DV Bryant Trust,
Glenice and John Gallagher Foundation,
SKYCITY Hamilton Community Trust and
Waikato Farmers Trust.

For more info visit www.smartwaikato.
co.nz or www.smartnz.nz

From left to Right: Linda Nelson Caie and Mary Jensen

37MAHI TAHI

CONNECTING THE DOTS

CONNECTING

THE DOTS -

BRINGING A COMMUNITY TOGETHER

“The important thing is to go in with a completely open mind. What you think the issues might be are not necessarily
what the community thinks. The issues that are identified may be real or perceived. The solutions could be simple or
complicated. What is important is that you allow the process to lead you, that you follow the threads that emerge, and
sometimes you will come up with a solution that really helps the local business community” Heather Warwick, CEO

In 2018, Enterprise North ENC Business Support The ENC team interviewed
Canterbury (ENC) won Manager, Miles Dalton, was a range of businesses
the Best Practice in one of those leading the operating around Culverden
Primary Research Award project: “Every year we are and the Amuri Basin as well
for a project that brought a tasked with exploring the as businesses thinking of
business needs in one of our establishing themselves in
community together. ‘The rural communities. In this the area, key community
case we were looking at the representatives, iwi, and
Community Connector town of Culverden which is in Maori business interests
the middle of the dairy farms (particularly Ngāi Tahu
Project’, successfully reduced of the Amuri Basin, between farming).
Christchurch and Kaikoura.
staff turnover in a rural The process starts very
simply: we ask questions,”
community, decreased explains Dalton.

wider issues of isolation in

a remote area and followed

a development model that

enabled a community to

identify its own needs and

lead the solution.

38 MAHI TAHI

CONNECTING THE DOTS

THE PROCESS
STARTS VERY
SIMPLY: WE ASK
QUESTIONS

From this they were able to ascertain ‘themes’ around is-
sues to be addressed. The next step was to research the
themes and work out whether what was perceived was ac-
tually real and to look at other areas with similar themes to
see if there were any easy answers.

The research conducted by ENC referred to a number of
local and national studies, and brought in experts from
other fields to contribute. All of this information was dis-
tilled to five action points which were taken back to the
community for discussion. Most of the findings were easily ad-
dressed by ENC, but there was one key finding that needed extra
resources.

Staff turnover proved a significant problem in the Amuri Basin,
and ENC’s research revealed that was because a high number of
workers and their partners were experiencing varying degrees
of social isolation. Part of this was due to working conditions on
some dairy farms, but much of it was around people simply not
having the know-how or confidence to connect with the commu-
nity in a meaningful way.

39MAHI TAHI

CONNECTING THE DOTS
STAFF TURNOVER PROVED A
SIGNIFICANT PROBLEM DUE TO A HIGH
NUMBER OF WORKERS AND THEIR
PARTNERS EXPERIENCING ISOLATION

Fletcher Tabuteau, Miles Dalton, Heather Warwick, David Wilson

40 MAHI TAHI

CONNECTING THE DOTS

Local community stalwart, Kirsty Clark, Although the Community Connector
was employed as the first Community role was to be a community-wide
Connector. She would work with resource, the Amuri business
community groups, volunteers and community provided the seed
community champions in the Amuri Basin to funding to make it happen. Further
proactively connect people to the community. funding was provided by the Ministry of
Social Development and the Department
As well as connecting people to existing groups of Internal Affairs. A governance group
and activities, Kirsty’s role of talking to isolated was established to provide direction, and
people and discerning their needs would see ENC stepped up as temporary employer.
her identify new groups or activities needed,
she would then assist in establishing those. The role has been highly successful in
addressing community issues. As well as
Kirsty set out, going door to door to make sure addressing isolation in the community, Kirsty
that everyone knew what was available and to has instigated a number of projects that have
remind people they were entitled and welcome added to the tapestry of activities available
to be active members in their community. in the area. The Department of Internal
Affairs has stated that it uses this project as
an example of ‘community led development’.

ENC passed the ownership of the project to
Connect Hurunui Incorporated (a local not-
for-profit organisation), and the success of
the role led them to establish similar roles for
two other areas in the Hurunui District.

Contact: Miles Dalton
DDI: 03 327 5732 | M: 021 570 141
|E : m i l e s @ e n t e r p r i s e n c . c o . n z

41MAHI TAHI

INCLUSIVE GROWTH - THE NEXT STEP

THE INCLUSIVE
GROWTH JOURNEY -

The next step

Mahi Tahi 2018 gave all This part of the event will include
conference delegates a a keynote presentation from Traci
sense of the challenges that Houpapa, Chair of the Federation of
lie ahead if ‘inclusive growth’ Maori Authorities (FOMA), an in-depth
is to become a reality within Aotearoa. coverage of Social procurement from a
presenter who has played a pivotol role
EDNZ believes that New Zealand’s EDAs in developing practice in the UK and
and their local government partners Europe and some insights into current
are uniquely placed to promote and developments with participatory
support the progress of that agenda. budgeting (a concept that is about to be
enshrined in New York’s City Charter).
That realisation has embued EDNZ
with a real sense of commitment to The second purpose is to discuss
advancing the inclusive growth journey and ideally decide on the
within this country. establishment of a NZ based
inclusive growth network that
The next step in NZ’s inclusive growth can take the inclusive growth agenda
movement will involve a collaboration forward. This will be the main theme of
between EDNZ, the Local Government the afternoon.
Think Tank (LGTT) and the Royal Society
of the Arts (the Australasian arm of a Early responses to the proposed
major UK think tank which has been event have been encouraging with
leading work on inclusive growth). numerous local government agencies
and EDA’s demonstrating interest.
This coalition will present a one day
action-orientated event on inclusive EDNZ sees this as an important step
growth. This will take place on 19 March, in strengthening our unique role in
at the Wharewaka on Wellington’s contributing to the well-being of NZ’s
harbour foreshore. communities.

The event has a two fold purpose. Places at the summit are limited,
The first is to bring delegates up-to- invitations will be sent early in the New
date with current developments in the Year. Should you not receive an invite
research on, and practice of, inclusive please register your interest in attending
growth internationally. the event by contacting Susan Houston
E|[email protected]
42 MAHI TAHI

INCLUSIVE GROWTH - THE NEXT STEP

43MAHI TAHI

PROJECT 1000

PROJECT A NEW INITIATIVE TO CREATE
1000 JOBS AND GET HAWKE’S BAY
PEOPLE OFF BENEFITS AND
Project 1000 is a key action under INTO EMPLOYMENT RECEIVED
Matariki HBREDS (Hawke’s Bay’s A COMMENDATION FOR BEST
regional economic development PRACTICE COLLABORATION
and social inclusion strategies AT THE RECENT ECONOMIC
and action plan). It brings together DEVELOPMENT AWARDS.
businesses, iwi, local authorities,
training providers, and central “I’ve been impressed with creativity and heart
government to support the creation of the businesses, iwi and hapu involved to
of 1000 new jobs for Hawke’s Bay job- step up and make opportunities available,
seekers. Project 1000 is about new and providing support to make things work.
jobs across all industry sectors with an And equally I’m inspired by the success
emphasis on the booming horticulture stories that have come from the people who
sector toward 2020. have gained employment.

To date more than 700 people have been “Approximately 700 people are now working.
placed into jobs through Project 1000 This was made possible by the collaboration
across a broad range of collaborative and commitment from our Hawke’s Bay
initiatives in a range of industries. partners to make a difference to our
community,” says Ms Aranui.
Annie Aranui, East Coast Regional
Commissioner at the Ministry of Social Examples of Project 1000 job creation include:
Development (MSD) says that Project (more details included at the end of this press
1000 is making a difference, and release)
changing people’s lives.
• A three-way partnership with MSD and
44 MAHI TAHI Mr Apple Longview packhouse to support
10 single parents back into the workforce.
Collectively this group had 167 years on
the benefit and 24 dependent children.
Six of the women from this group are
returning in supervisory roles with
Longview this coming season.

PROJECT 1000

• The Rangatahi mā, Kia eke initiative is Carolyn Neville, CEO of Business Hawke’s
a partnership between the Ministry of Bay says that Project 1000 helps people to
Social Development, the Hastings District build work skills they can take into future
Council, Hawke’s Bay District Health jobs.
Board, EIT, Oranga Tamariki and Te Puni “Developing transferrable skills that you
Kōkiri that offers an opportunity for young can apply to different roles and different
people aged 16-24 years who are having industries is so important. It lays the
difficulty finding work to be employed foundation for being able to secure lifelong
in valuable project work to develop work work, career growth and a better standard
and life-skills and on the job training of living.
while contributing to the community. “We have many businesses in Hawke’s
Luke Maton was offered a data entry role Bay reporting staff shortages, so having
with Hastings District Council, that he has a programme that helps people get into
successfully turned into full time contract work and start building life and work skills,
tidying up HDC’s cemetery records and will be of great benefit to the business
databases. Luke says he has grown in community,” says Mrs Neville.
his role and feels recognised and valued. “There’s more work to do, and we are looking
for more businesses and organisations to
• The Ngāti Pahāuwera iwi partnership with partner with, so please get in touch,” says
MSD, established in 2015 to leverage off their Ms. Aranui.
own partnerships and networks to place
whanau into sustainable jobs including Annie Aranui and Toro Waaka
farming and agriculture, silviculture,
conservation and pest management. To 45MAHI TAHI
date 209 people have been placed into jobs
through the iwi partnership as part of the
Matariki strategy. Deano Biddle was one
of the early placements made through the
partnership. He and his son Jordan were
initially employed on a temporary contract
scrub-cutting and weed spraying at Pihanui
Station and then saw an opportunity
to secure a further 12 month contract
completing farm maintenance and fencing.
The father, son and crew completed more
than 50 kilometres of fencing as part of
that contract. Jordan Biddle was named
winner of the Ahuwhenua Young Maori
Farmer Award in 2017 and is proving to be
a great role model for young Māori.

EXTENSION 350

EXTENSION
350

A farmer-led, farmer-focused
programme that is lifting
profitability, environmental
sustainability and wellbeing
on Northland farms, is
transforming Northland’s
pastoral sector.

Northland is taking a ‘two heads Northland’s pastoral sector contributes
are better than one’ approach substantially to its Gross Domestic
as part of Extension 350 Product, not just economically,
(E350), an extension project but also strategically and socially.
that will involve 350 farmers over a
five - and-a half-year period and is However, studies and ongoing industry
designed to help them share knowledge benchmarking painted a picture of
and gain access to specialist advice. the sector tending to underperform
relative to its resource base and other
In 2016 the Tai Tokerau Regional Growth regions in New Zealand. The message
Study identified significant economic was clear; it was time for change.
and investment opportunities to grow Pulling a region up by the bootstraps
employment and incomes in Northland. would require collaborative approach.

Home to iconic attractions such as the Off the back of the Growth Study
Poor Knights, Tane Mahuta and the Bay findings, Northland Inc connected with
of Islands, Northland was already known the Northland Agricultural Forum whose
around the world as a visitor destination project, the Regional Economic Vitality
with enviable natural scenic beauty. Extension Initiative (REVEI), was in the
However, the study identified Northland planning stages. With Northland Inc’s
among New Zealand regions with assistance this was granted business
significant untapped economic potential. case funding and a comprehensive plan
developed by Nimmo-Bell Consultants.
46 MAHI TAHI

EXTENSION 350

Target farmer Lachie McLean (Waipu) with mentor farmer Dave Robinson.

The findings along with on-farm pilot In late 2016 a project manager was
extension programmes project work appointed, and recruitment began
already underway in the region indicated for E350’s first ‘cluster’, a geographic
there was significant potential to not only group set up for either dairy or sheep
increase the profit on farms but to also and beef farmers.
address the reality of achieving a triple
bottom line. From here, with multi sector HOW EXTENSION
support and collaboration between 350 WORKS
central, local government industry and
farmer representation Extension 350, an Over the course of the programme
ambitious project that could potentially there will be a total of 10 clusters - three
transform the pastoral sector, was sheep and beef, and seven dairy - with
included in the Tai Tokerau Northland farmers from Helensville to the top
Economic Action Plan. of the north. The focus is to help shift
both individual farmers and the region’s
Asteering group was formed farming community towards better
comprising of an independent performance.
farmer chair and members from
key funding partners; Ministry 47MAHI TAHI
for Primary Industries, Northland
Regional Council, DairyNZ, and Beef +
Lamb NZ, and supported by Northland
Inc.

EXTENSION 350

Each cluster is facilitated by Every new target farm’s journey starts
a farm adviser who works with a whole farm assessment by
with five mentor farmers, five their dedicated team, typically the
target farms, and 25 associate farm adviser, mentor farmer, and a dairy or
farmers. Support is provided to beef and lamb representative depending
each cluster by representatives on farm type. Each support team will
from DairyNZ, or Beef + Lamb NZ.” return to their target farm for up to 20 on
farm meetings over the duration of the
E350 Project Lead Luke Beehre says extension programme to review goals,
the E350 model is appropriate to bring analyse results, challenge practice and
about change among the 350 farmers thinking, support farmers through their
engaged in the project. “We know that journey of change, brainstorm challenges,
farmers learn best from other farmers, and celebrate wins. In between meetings
and that a farmer focused, farmer led the target farmer implements the changes
model is effective. The relationship on the farm, and regular reporting keeps
(triangle) between mentor, target farm them accountable and on track. The project
and consultant is effective, robust and is further supported by development
enduring.” of individual farm environment plans,
“The project is helping Northland focussed off farm workshops, field days
farmers to better understand their and networking opportunities.
farming business and the opportunities
available to grow and improve. When Farm adviser Tafi Manjala says
you’re focussed on the day-to-day collaboration is vital. “We don’t always
running of your business, it can be hard agree, and the conversations can be very
to see things with fresh eyes,” says Luke. interesting, but at the end of the day it’s
about what is best for that business.”
48 MAHI TAHI
Target farmers say Extension 350 is not
always easy; it can take them outside
of their comfort zones and traditional
methods of working, but they all agree
it is worth it. Tangiteroria target farmer
Graham Beatty said he has had some
interesting and hard conversations with
the support team at times but adds that
“at the end of the day you don’t turn that
kind of support down”. New systems are in
place on the farm across the three ‘planks’
that are fundamental to Extension 350 –
increasing profitability, environmental
sustainability and farmer wellbeing – and
Graham and the support team are seeing
real results.

EXTENSION 350

“AT THE END OF and adaptation. No two farms are the same.
THE DAY YOU What is known is that farmers learn better from
DON’T TURN farmers, people who have walked the walk.
THAT KIND Mistakes are treated as learning opportunities
OF SUPPORT and the pathway for every farm involved
DOWN”. in this project has evolved accordingly.”

THE Luke says E350 is a bold initiative developed
CHALLENGES locally for regional vision. “By nature, farmers
AND aren’t known for airing their problems or
LEARNINGS complaining, so we consider the farmers
on this programme to be local champions
Because profitability equals choices, who are putting their farms and reputations
involvement in the project aims to on the line. The project also has incredible
give farmers the flexibility to make strategic merit, and the funding and partner
decisions that support longer term engagement is testament to that.”
goals for on-farm improvements, debt
repayment, managing succession Describing why the EDNZ awards committee
or improving their livelihood. chose E350 as the best practice example of
Now almost two years into the sustainable development, EDNZ CEO Susan
extension programme, Luke says; “The Houston said; “the committee felt Extension
success of E350 relies on flexibility 350 was a smart and savvy tool for generating
sustainable farming practice and land use.
Extension 350 could just as easily have been
considered for the Innovation Award since it is
breaking new ground, not just for Northland
but also for New Zealand.”

Seven E350 clusters out of 10 are now
underway around Northland. And while the
project has a five-year horizon, Luke says the
results and learnings in the three key areas of
profitability, environmental sustainability and
wellbeing on the individual farms will endure.
“This is the first programme of its kind in New
Zealand and we are now starting to see that
this project really does have the potential
to transform Northland’s agriculture sector
and create real positive economic and social
change for dairy, sheep and beef farmers
across the region.”

To find out more about Extension contact
[email protected]

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