Local economic growth
It’s great to see that as New Zealand emerges from one of the worst global recession in decades there are positive signs of growth around Kapiti and Horowhenua.
The new Mitre 10 Mega store in Paraparaumu will mean about 70 new jobs and the overall airport development is an exciting project that will create hundreds of jobs in the medium term.
In Levin the new McCafe will create about 15 jobs, and we have new employment opportunities from the Focal point cinema and Alliance meatworks.
In Otaki the new Cleantech Centre has opened, driven by local man Stuart Pritchard as a hub for firms using clean and green technology. One example of this innovation comes from Paraparaumu man Iain Jerrett who has developed New Zealand’s most powerful electric motorbike.
Local contractors have had plenty of work with the rail upgrade through Paraparaumu to Waikanae, and the finishing touches are being prepared for the opening early next year.
In Kapiti I’m involved with local agencies, businesses and Mayor Jenny Rowan on tackling the youth unemployment rate. Over the summer holidays this rate tends to increase as students head home, but the goal is to move these young people into work.
For this to happen we need employers to be confident enough to take on new staff.
This is why the Government has expanded the 90 day trial period for new workers to cover businesses with more than 20 fulltime employees.
Often employers are reluctant to hire because they’re worried the person won’t work out and they’ll be stuck in a bad relationship. This new law gives both sides the chance to see if they are suited to the role and if they want to continue.
The Kapiti expressway will also be a big stimulus for the regional economy. Travel times will be improved, communities connected and Wellington will become even more accessible.
Our region has exciting prospects for the future with the Government investing over $2.5 billion into our infrastructure. We need to start planning now to capitalise on this.