Council kicks off discussions on new Kāpiti growth strategy

The Council has kicked off discussions with the business community about working together to unlock the district’s economic potential.

Council Chief Executive, Wayne Maxwell, WREDA, the Kāpiti Coast Chamber of Commerce, and KEDA presented at the Electra Business Panel this week about the future of economic development in the region, setting the scene for a refresh of the Kāpiti Economic Development Strategy – a roadmap for Council, business and the community to foster a thriving economy.

“A lot’s changed in our district since we adopted the Strategy three years ago and, with our stakeholders now on board and actively working with us, I am confident we’ll develop a refreshed strategy that will deliver results for the district,” says Mr Maxwell.

“Kāpiti businesses have a unique understanding of our local market and a knack for innovation, which is why it’s so important they’re involved – both in the Strategy’s development and implementation, and in the other conversations we’re having about opportunities for growth in the near-future.”

Heather Hutchings, Chair of the Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce says the key stakeholders are all aligned on making a practical difference to the future of Kāpiti’s economy.

“The Chamber will continue to be proactive advocates for Kāpiti businesses, who are the backbone of our economy, and essential to a sustainable, strong future. While there are areas the stakeholders might disagree on as we get to work, we are committed to working on these issues and finding constructive solutions,” says Ms Hutchings.

The Council has set up a series of workshops with businesses, starting next week, to get the Strategy refresh underway. It also recently kicked off community discussions about making applications to the Government’s Provincial Growth Fund for Kāpiti growth projects.

“The workshops are a significant step towards stronger partnerships between the Council and local businesses – a critical foundation for economic success,” says Liz Koh, Chair of the Kāpiti Economic Development Agency.

Mr Maxwell said his team are 100 percent committed to working together with the business community, key stakeholders and the Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency to get things moving.

“We can achieve so much more by working in partnership than alone. I’m confident that together we’ll get tangible results for Kāpiti communities,” says Mr Maxwell.