The Coast economy has been ticking along nicely, adding 343 new jobs over the year to October.
It’s been a busy year for the DWC team, who have been working closely with local businesses to help build capabilities.
We have distributed over $10 million in commercial finance during 2023, in addition to our annual contributions to the West Coast Community Trust, amounting to significant investment in the region.
One of our high-profile investments this year, was $3 million in minerals, ports, and logistics company, Westland Mineral Sands (WMS) Group. WMS Group are already bringing high-paying jobs to the region. With a high-quality product and a highly capable team, we are excited to be involved and look forward to seeing the contribution they make to the West Coast economy.
With international borders open again, our tourism sector has bounced back remarkably well. Visitor spending in the region is up by 11% compared to pre-Covid times. The recent opening of the Pounamu Pathway experience centre in Mawhera Greymouth will be a real game-changer for the industry. We’re pleased to be involved in this world-class project and can’t wait for the other hubs to open across the West Coast.
The Richmond Quay redevelopment and new library project, in collaboration with Grey District Council, is another initiative set to invigorate Greymouth and the wider region. It nicely complements projects like the Pounamu Pathway and Dolomite Point redevelopment, which will all enhance the Coast's appeal.
This year brought a sombre moment with the passing of Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio appointed Trustee, Barry Wilson. Barry's wisdom, integrity, and commitment to DWC and the wider community have left an enduring legacy.
I want to acknowledge and thank all the DWC staff and contractors whose hard work and dedication makes a genuine difference to the region. It's great to see their efforts recognised nationally, with the Upskill employment and training scheme winning an Economic Development New Zealand (EDNZ) award and our Marketing and Communications team taking home two Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) awards for their work promoting the region as a great place to live, work, and do business.
We recently announced the 2024 DWC Tertiary Scholarships recipients, which is always a highlight of the year. It’s also a reminder of the exceptional talent we have here on the Coast. Looking at the recipients it’s safe to say the future of our region is in very capable hands.
As we approach the holiday season, I extend my thanks to the West Coast community for your support and collaboration throughout the year. Merry Christmas to you all. We look forward to working with you in the New Year.
Other news
West Coast dominates top experiences on visitor app
In a year-end report unveiled by the Roady App, the West Coast emerges as a standout destination, securing top ratings and attracting a significant number of visitors.
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Pounamu Pathway set to revitalise the West Coast economy
Get ready for an immersive experience like no other on the West Coast, as the Pounamu Pathway opens its doors to the public in December 2023. The opening of the Pounamu Pathway – a world-class cultural experience that transcends boundaries – sets the stage for a dynamic economic boost for the West Coast.
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West Coast successfully engages with Auckland travel agents
Development West Coast’s (DWC) Tourism Team, alongside representatives from six West Coast tourism operators, completed a successful sales trip to Auckland, connecting with eighty of the city's most influential inbound travel agents, and the team at Tourism New Zealand.
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2024 Development West Coast Tertiary Scholarships announced
In a significant boost to regional talent development and retention, the 2024 Development West Coast (DWC) Tertiary Scholarships, along with a newly introduced WMS (Westland Mineral Sands) Group Scholarship, were presented at a ceremony at Monteith’s in Greymouth last night.
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West Coast Social Enterprise Wins Top National Award At Young Enterprise Scheme Awards
Students from Papa Taiao Earthcare have been awarded The Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Company of the Year for their business Trees for Change.
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DWC invests $3m in Westland Mineral Sands
Minerals, ports and logistics company WMS Group is proud to be strengthening ties with the West Coast community by partnering with Development West Coast.
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West Coast economy grows by $41 million
Economic activity in the West Coast region increased by $41m to $2,432m over the year to September 2023.
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West Coast summer campaign underway
Development West Coast's summer campaign is focused on driving awareness for the Coast as a visitor destination.
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Upskill West Coast takes home EDNZ Award
Development West Coast took home the award for ‘Best practice for Collaboration’ at the recent Economic Development New Zealand Awards for the Upskill West Coast project.
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Okarito Plant Project
In South Westland a new business-led initiative, the Ōkārito Plant Project, is quietly making a difference.
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