Kāpiti Coast post-Budget insights event open to all

Kāpiti Coast District Council are hosting Infometrics’ chief executive and principal economist Brad Olsen for a free post-Budget Kāpiti Economic Update at Southward Car Museum Thursday 25 May, 5pm.

Kāpiti Coast District Mayor Janet Holborow says an economy designed for the wellbeing of people and place is the focus of the event.

“The cost of living, high interest rates, inflation, and affordable housing are just some of the many factors that determine our overall economic and social wellbeing.

“Ensuring people can make a living in our district is one of Council’s top priorities.

“The timing of the Kāpiti Economic Update event allows for post-Budget discussions and an opportunity to understand how Budget announcements may improve or impact our district’s economy.

“The event will be an informative session for the business community and those interested in the district’s economic wellbeing.

“Brad Olsen is one of New Zealand’s leading economic commentators, so we’re fortunate to have him.”

Infometrics chief executive and principal economist and Kāpiti Economic Update’s keynote speaker Brad Olsen says the 2023 Budget has provided more funding to support community outcomes but, like household budgets, money is tight and there’s a careful balance to be struck between doing enough to invest in the future but not doing too much to stoke inflation.

“The Kāpiti Coast economy remains resilient and a small boost from tourism has helped the local economy weather economic headwinds so far.

“Infometrics provisional estimates show that the Kāpiti Coast economy grew 2.7 percent over the year to March 2023, ahead of 1.9 percent growth across the Wellington Region and just a touch behind national growth of 2.9 percent.

“However, rising interest rates will see the economic mood sour in 2023, with weakening consumer spending and a cooling housing market indicating that Kāpiti won’t be immune from these headwinds.”

Following Brad’s discussion on the district’s growing economy and future indicators, he will be joined by Gareth Hughes of the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, Kāpiti Coast District Councillor Sophie Handford, and Kāpiti Economic Development Kotahitanga Board member Russell Spratt for a discussion on the wellbeing economy and how it fits into the future of Aotearoa New Zealand.

There will be light refreshments before and after the formalities to allow the audience to network with the speakers and fellow attendees.

The Kāpiti Economic Update is a free event however spaces are limited. People are encouraged to register early at Kāpiti Coast Economic Update with Brad Olsen, Infometrics Tickets, Thu 25/05/2023 at 5:00 pm | Eventbrite

Editor’s notes:

About Brad Olsen:

Brad Olsen is Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics and is one of New Zealand’s leading economic commentators.

A community leader and New Zealand’s youngest Justice of the Peace, he was named New Zealand’s Queen’s Young Leader in 2016, one of Asia New Zealand Foundation’s 25 to Watch in 2019, and Young Wellingtonian of the Year 2020.

As a young person, Brad brings a different perspective to key opportunities and challenges that New Zealand faces and is keen to unlock more potential across businesses and communities. Brad focuses on understanding trends as they evolve and highlighting way to enhance outcomes for local communities.

About Gareth Hughes:

Gareth Hughes is the Country Lead for the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa. He founded the charitable trust and leads its work as one of 15 hubs of this global organisation focused on economic transformation. Working with hub members, officials, community groups, businesses and individuals, Gareth aims to grow a movement for a Wellbeing Economy and drive policy making processes towards wellbeing economics.

Gareth served as a Member of Parliament for a decade and is a political commentator for RNZ and a columnist for Stuff.