Economic Development

Welcome to Economic Development in Kaipara

Our primary objective in economic development is to transform Kaipara into a thriving hub for living, working, visiting, studying, investing, and doing business. We aim to foster a resilient environment where a diverse range of businesses can not only start but also flourish, paving the way for a vibrant and sustainable future for all.

Despite our small population of 27,300, we are a billion-dollar economy, demonstrating our exceptional ability to exceed expectations. The diversity of our district presents both challenges and opportunities, which are addressed in our recently published Economic Development Strategy.

A Vision for the Future

As we look ahead, the Kaipara District stands at a pivotal moment in its journey towards sustainable economic growth and community prosperity. Our Economic Development Strategy serves as a roadmap for our collective aspirations, founded on the principles of collaboration, innovation, and resilience.

In light of global challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and recent weather events, the need for local economic planning and security has never been more evident. This strategy is not merely a document; it is a commitment to shaping a future where the well-being of our people and the vibrancy of our communities are at the forefront of all our endeavours.

Strategic Alignment and Community Engagement

By aligning with existing plans and policies at the Kaipara District Council and engaging meaningfully with our stakeholders, we aim to unlock the full potential of our district. By embracing opportunities, addressing challenges, and fostering a culture of innovation, we can create a Kaipara that thrives economically while preserving the essence of what makes our district unique.

As we embark on this journey together, let us be guided by our shared vision and mission. Together, we can work towards a future where prosperity knows no bounds within the Kaipara District.

Comprehensive Economic Strategy

The Economic Development Strategy for Kaipara District presents a comprehensive plan aimed at fostering economic growth while enhancing residents' quality of life. Informed by global, national, and regional influences, the strategy recognizes the critical importance of local economic planning and security, especially in the aftermath of events like Covid-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle.

Aligned with existing plans and policies of the Kaipara District Council, this strategy integrates with regional and national economic development strategies. It acknowledges the influence of global events, such as climate change policies and trade dynamics, as well as national legislative changes and government priorities. Regionally, it leverages collaborative efforts and insights from existing strategic plans across Northland.

Economic Profile

The following information from Wellington-based economics consultancy Infometrics provides an in-depth description of the Kaipara District's economic structure and performance. You can compare our district’s data against other regions throughout New Zealand to gauge how we are performing in relation to the rest of the country.

Get in Touch

Paul Thompson
Economic Development Lead
Kaipara District Council
Phone: 0273006485
Email: pthompson@kaipara.govt.nz 

Economic Data

Council engages Infometrics to provide up-to-date economic data on the Kaipara District.  Council makes this information publicly available to assist local businesses and other stake holders in our District.

Northland Inc

Northland Inc Limited (Northland Inc) is an associate of Kaipara District Council with a primary objective to develop the economy of Northland and review funding opportunities for the Investment and Growth Reserve. Kaipara District Council, Far North District Council and Northland Regional Council all hold a 33.3% share in Northland Inc.

Infometrics

Infometrics provides Kaipara District Council with an Annual Economic Profile, a Quarterly Economic Monitor and a Community Profile (demographic data).

Similar Data for Northland as a whole is available via Northland Regional Council’s website as is a Northland Annual Economic Profile.

To recognise the diversity of Kaipara’s communities, the Annual Economic Profile data has also been broken down to apply specifically to the following areas:

Council also commissioned Infometrics to provide Population and Household Projections for Kaipara.  These project how the number of people and households in our district are likely to change over the next 30 years.  These projections are presented in a Population Projections Report and in an interactive Population Projections tool.

Environmental Scan

Council prepares an Environmental Scan report every three years to report on the state of the physical, demographic, economic, and infrastructure environment in which it operates. This includes describing the current state of the environment in which the Council operates and the trends that drive change in this environment. The Environmental Scan is useful for gaining an overview of the District, its people, infrastructure and economy, and the challenges and opportunities it faces. The Environmental Scan is used by Council to inform its planning decisions.

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