Hello Friend, 

This week, Minister for Regional Economic Development Hon Shane Jones visited Southland to announce funding for a number of projects to improve air connectivity, water storage, business growth and economic development in the region.

The announced investment, totalling $1.7m, has been hailed as a significant vote of confidence in the Southland economy and its potential, set to drive business growth, innovation and job creation. The announcementstake the total PGF investment in the South Island to over $240m, with even more to come.

Although the focus of the PGF to date has largely been on those ‘surge regions’ identified as most in need of investment (of which 5 of 6 are in the North Island),this week’s announcement shows the South hasn’t been forgotten.

The announcements included investment in Invercargill Airport to make necessary upgrades to prepare it for the first direct jet connection between Auckland and Invercargill since 1995. The resumption of flights to our biggest city will be a significant milestone for the region, and we’re ensuring the airport can thrive.

Also announced was funding for the Stewart Island economic development plan. With 40,000 visitors per year visiting the island already, infrastructure upgrades will be needed to accommodate future tourism growth.  This investment will give the island a hand-up in developing a strategy to fully unlocking its tourism potential.

The PGF is supporting the regions all up and down the country to build productive and sustainable provinces, ensuring our long-neglected regions finally get the support they deserve. With more PGF announcements expected for the South Island, stay in touch with New Zealand First to hear more.

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