Further PGF investment to unlock Rotorua’s potential
Regional Economic DevelopmentRotorua has been given a significant boost from the Provincial Growth Fund to contribute to a better future for its people and help unlock its potential as a world-class tourist destination, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Regional Economic Development Fletcher Tabuteau announced today.
“I’m pleased to announce the PGF will invest $27.4 million to redevelop the Rotorua Lakefront and Whakarewarewa Forest,” Fletcher Tabuteau said.
“This investment builds on earlier support from the PGF in June to develop final business cases for the two Big Moves projects led by Rotorua Lakes Council, and these projects are now investment-ready.
The total redevelopment will be co-funded by the PGF and the Rotorua Lakes Council at a total cost of $55 million.
“The redevelopment of the Lakefront will include building new boardwalks, walkways, cycle ways, event infrastructure, more car parking, landscaping and an improved visual connection between the city and the lake. An improved access road, a cycleway from the park to the city, and visitor centre will be created at Whakarewarewa Forest.
“Once completed, redevelopment is expected to attract significant private and iwi investment in Rotorua’s high value tourism and hospitality offerings, leading to the creation of hundreds of new jobs.
“Today is an exciting day for the people of Rotorua, and reflects extensive effort by the Rotorua Lakes Council, iwi, business, and the local community.
“This is an excellent example of communities working together to generate substantial long-term economic benefits both regionally and nationally,” Fletcher Tabuteau said.
Notes to editors:
The PGF Guide, Sector Statements, detailed Investment Statement and Cabinet paper can be found at www.growregions.govt.nz
Bay of Plenty region PGF investments to date:
Project | Organisation | Amount |
---|---|---|
Kawerau Pathways to Work |
Industrial Symbiosis Kawerau |
$200,000 |
Learn While You Earn |
Tāne Mahuta New Zealand Ltd |
$367,402 |
Whāia te rangatiratanga |
Te Puna Ora o Mataatua Charitable Trust |
$1,760,886 |
Minginui Nursery |
Ngāti Whare Holdings |
$5,800,000 |
Rail Freight Opportunities – Kawerau/Murupara |
Kiwirail |
$250,000 |
Work readiness programme and distance learning hub |
Te Pou Oranga o Whakatōhea |
$1,000,000 |
Workfit programme |
Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust |
$753,000 |
Rotorua Lakefront Development and Whakarewarewa Forest |
Rotorua Lakes Council |
$811,625 |
|
Total |
$10,942,913 |