Ideas sought to improve Motueka's economic future

July 21st, 2014

An economic summit is being organised to examine ways in which Motueka's economy can be strengthened in the medium-term future.

The free seminar, titled "Toward 2030: A Better Future for Motueka", will be held on Wednesday, August 27th from 9am to 1pm at the Motueka Top 10 Holiday Park conference centre, and will feature presentations by eight local business and community leaders.

Organisers David Ogilvie and David Armstrong say there is a pressing need for the town to come up with strategic and innovative ways to:

Create a secure, sustainable and dynamic future in Motueka for the coming generation.
Discover and identify opportunities for economic growth through innovation and collaboration.
Energise a new generation of young Motueka's leaders to develop and extend our economic base.

All business owners in the Motueka area are encouraged to attend, as well as other residents who have a strong interest in the town's economic prospects.

"These are challenging times and we cannot just let Motueka drift," say the organisers.

"Some businesses are doing quite well within their own market, but we all know that many are really struggling and vulnerable. We need to do more than just keeping our fingers crossed and looking after number one.

"All our businesses should be looking at the broader picture, beyond just their own silo. We need to work together to develop economic opportunities that in the long term will benefit us all.

"And this doesn't mean just getting more people to shop here. Our retail sector really just reflects the success or otherwise of our broader key industries."

They say that in past generations powerful and active business groups like the Junior Chamber of Commerce shaped the town and the economy.

"Where are the individuals and groups who can do that now - provide innovative and visionary leadership for the community and its economy into the next two decades and beyond?

"With the brainpower and experience of local leaders, and the help and backing of the Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency (EDA), this summit aims to identify the challenges, envisage better and more strategic ways of doing things, and begin laying a path to move our economy forward."

Speakers at the summit will be Bill Findlater (Nelson EDA), Damien O'Connor MP, Darryl Wilson (Wilsons Abel Tasman), Doug Loader (Talley's), David Easton (Easton Apples), Debbie Smith (Bay Apparelmaster), Ru Collin (Kono/Wakatu), and Cr Judene Edgar (TDC).

They will present their views on the present state of the Motueka ward's economy, what the chief challenges are, and suggest ideas for its improvement. There will be time for discussion.

The event is being organised by David Ogilvie and David Armstrong, backed by Vision Motueka, Our Town Motueka and Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency and supported by local businesses Image Creators, Motueka Top 10 Holiday Park, Anchorage Wines and The Guardian.

Registrations are essential. To register, email or phone David Armstrong at .

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