The Western Bay has had relatively strong economic growth recently but faces certain barriers that will continue to impede further growth unless innovative solutions are found and led by industry sectors and tertiary providers.
Value of exports by sector
Horticulture, agriculture, marine, tourism and food sectors provide the platform for the district’s economic health and wealth by creating employment and triggering the growth of related service industries.
Skills gap / Perception of work skills matched to occupations / Apprenticeships / Youth employment
The District suffers a level of brain drain because there are insufficient opportunities in education and industry for people to gain skills relevant to the District’s economy.
Skills gap
Perception of work skills matched to occupations
Apprenticeships
Youth employment
Course diversity at secondary and tertiary levels/ Level of school qualifications
Secondary and tertiary education providers have the opportunity to expand to meet this skill gap and to encourage young people to remain in the District.
Course diversity at secondary and tertiary levels
Level of school qualifications
Growth of the economy
Industry participation in education and training programmes is also needed. Local industry/business has the opportunity to provide additional training to retain employees, attract young trainees and to draw highly skilled employees to the region from oversees and elsewhere in New Zealand.
Business participation in initiatives and programmes
The District prides itself on achieving a growing awareness of the need for environmentally sustainable business practices and there are several initiatives in place in which a growing number of businesses participate. However these initiatives tend to be promoted and funded by local and regional government, highlighting the need for greater industry support and buy-in.