West Coast jobs on the rise, but skills and housing in short supply

According to the latest Stats NZ figures, the region added 176 jobs over year to June, a 1.2% increase, bringing total filled jobs to 15,055. In contrast, New Zealand as a whole lost nearly 28,000 jobs, a 1.2% decline.

Development West Coast (DWC) Chief Executive Heath Milne said the figures were a positive sign for the region amid a challenging national climate.

“Despite tough economic conditions across the country, the Coast is proving resilient,” Mr Milne said. “We’re seeing strong performance in mining, construction, and the primary industries, and record dairy prices are proving a boost. There’s real opportunity here for growth.”

But Mr Milne warned that a shortage of skilled workers threatens to stall progress, particularly for small businesses.

“Many employers are struggling to find the people they need, especially tradies,” he said. “It’s especially tough on small businesses, who don’t always have the same recruitment reach or resources as larger firms.”

Housing has become a major barrier to attracting and retaining workers, especially in areas expecting a sharp rise in demand.

“We’ve got a significant number of jobs on the horizon, particularly in the minerals sector, but we need housing to match,” Mr Milne said.

To help meet growing demand, DWC is actively supporting residential developments, providing commercial finance to fast-track housing supply in high-demand areas.

In Reefton, DWC is backing two key projects to support workforce growth tied to the Snowy River Gold Project. This includes a worker accommodation project at the Reefton Motor Camp, a collaborative effort with Buller District Council and Federation Mining. Ten new units, currently being built off-site, will be installed at the campground to provide immediate housing for mine workers. Over time, the units will transition into visitor accommodation, supporting long-term tourism in the town.

DWC is also supporting local developer Retail Solutions with commercial finance to build five fully equipped two-bedroom homes on vacant land near the Reefton town centre. Designed for families and move-in ready, the homes feature furniture sourced from West Coast suppliers and are helping house workers relocating to the area.

Meanwhile, in Kaiata, DWC is working with Ball Developments to help bring the Paparoa Views subdivision to life, a major new residential development set to boost housing supply in the Grey District. Initial commercial finance from DWC has supported construction of the subdivision’s first five homes, with backing in place for another five. Once complete, the development is expected to deliver over 150 new sections.

Vocational training is also seen as a crucial part of the long-term solution. Mr Milne said it’s crucial to ensure locals have the skills needed for future job opportunities.

“We need to build a pipeline of skilled workers from within the region,” he said. “Training opportunities, particularly in trades, are essential to make the most of the economic opportunities ahead.”

Despite the challenges, Mr Milne remains optimistic about the Coast’s trajectory.

“It’s not easy out there for anyone right now, but we’re in a stronger position than most,” he said. “If we can match our job growth with housing and skills, the Coast is well placed for a very positive future.”