To grow business to grow the Coast
Development West Coast (DWC) is the regional economic development agency for the West Coast region. DWC's objectives are to promote employment opportunities and generate sustainable economic benefits for the West Coast. We aim to achieve this by investing in businesses and regional development projects that will benefit the West Coast now and in the future.
Achieving our Objective
Since inception, DWC has been involved in, invested and supported numerous projects and businesses throughout the West Coast in an endeavour to promote employment and generate sustainable economic benefits in the West Coast.
Northern West Coast wows travel agents
The northern West Coast has left a lasting impression on nine inbound tour operators (IBOs) who took part in a Development West Coast (DWC) famil last month designed to boost tourism in the Buller district.
Learn more
DWC tertiary scholarships opening soon
Development West Coast (DWC) is excited to announce that applications for the annual DWC Tertiary Scholarships will officially open on Monday, 4 August 2025.
Learn more
West Coast distillery outshines rap legends
A boutique distillery from the small West Coast town of Reefton has just outshone some of the biggest names in the global spirits world — including rap royalty Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre — at one of the industry’s most prestigious competitions.
Learn more
We're Recruiting - Business Growth and Innovation Advisor (Fixed Term)
An opportunity has arisen for a Business Growth and Innovation Advisor to join the Development West Coast (DWC) economic development team.
Learn more
New Whio duck population discovered in Paparoa Ranges
An innovative conservation partnership on the West Coast is delivering wins for wildlife, local communities and the economy — with the discovery of a previously unknown population of endangered whio (blue duck) among its exciting outcomes.
Learn more
Tourism mission targets Chinese growth for West Coast
Development West Coast (DWC) chief executive Heath Milne has returned from a multi-city tourism trade mission to China and Hong Kong, promoting the region as part of the South Island Kia Ora South delegation.
Learn more
Hokitika Business Development 1:1 Sessions - 25 June
Book an appointment to meet with DWC's business support team in Hokitika on 25 June.
Learn more
Reefton Business Development 1:1 Sessions - 2 July
Book an appointment to meet with DWC's business support team in Reefton on 2 July.
Learn more
Greymouth Business Development 1:1 Sessions - 9 July
Book an appointment to meet with DWC's business support team in Greymouth on 9 July.
Learn more
Workplace Health and Safety - Greymouth
A 3-stage training series for West Coast business leaders, health and safety reps and managers
Learn more
Westport Business Development 1:1 Sessions - 23 July
Book an appointment to meet with DWC's business support team in Westport on 23 July.
Learn more
Karamea Business Development 1:1 Sessions - 24 July
Book an appointment to meet with DWC's business support team in Karamea on 24 July.
Learn moreCapability building programmes
Co.Starters Business Development Programme
A ten week course designed to help you find the best approach to starting and growing a business.
Learn more
West Coast leadership programme
A series of workshops delivered by NZIML on the core facets of leadership and management.
Learn more
West Coast Governance Programme
Governance workshops on the key roles and responsibilities of the board and individual directors.
Learn more