Business groups from across the South Island are joining forces this year to host what organisers expect will be the region’s largest pre-election conference.
Business Canterbury, alongside Chambers of Commerce and industry groups from around the South Island, has announced today that it will host an inaugural South Island Election Conference aimed at connecting businesses with political leaders before the country votes in November.
The August conference is expected to feature addresses from the leaders of the National and Labour parties, as well as discussions on economic policy, infrastructure, workforce issues and regional development.
Business Canterbury chief executive Leeann Watson said the event was intended to highlight the South Island’s contribution to the national economy and ensure the region’s priorities were heard during the election campaign.
“Right now, the South Island has strong economic growth and is full of opportunity, and we’re seeing real momentum across a range of sectors,” Watson said.
She said the conference would focus on ensuring political parties understood the opportunities and challenges facing the South Island as they developed election policies.
Watson said sectors including food and fibre, renewable energy, tourism and advanced manufacturing were contributing to the region’s growth, and there was potential for further expansion with the right policy settings and investment.
“We know the South Island already makes a significant contribution to the national economy, but we also know there’s headroom to do more,” she said.
Political leaders from across the spectrum are expected to attend, with discussions covering productivity, innovation, tax policy, immigration, education, health and safety, industrial relations and infrastructure.
Watson said the emphasis would be on practical discussions about supporting growth across the South Island and understanding how political parties viewed the region’s role in the wider economy.
The conference has backing from Chambers of Commerce and industry groups across the South Island.
Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce chief executive Sharon Fifield said the collaboration reflected growing confidence among South Island businesses.
“Across the South Island, we’re seeing businesses that are ambitious, outward-looking and ready to grow,” Fifield said.
Business South chief executive Mike Collins said the event would provide an opportunity to showcase the strengths of the region’s economy.
“The South Island’s economy is diverse, resilient and deeply connected to local and global markets,” Collins said.
Organisers said the conference would provide a forum for businesses and political leaders to discuss the policies and investment needed to support future growth as the election campaign gathers pace.
Watson said the aim was not to compete with other regions but to ensure the South Island’s opportunities and priorities were recognised.
“The South Island has a huge amount to offer, and this is our moment to bring that into focus and help shape what comes next,” she said.
Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you
Get the iHeart App
Get more of the radio, music and podcasts you love with the FREE iHeart app. Scan the QR code to download now.
Download from the app stores
Stream unlimited music, thousands of radio stations and podcasts all in one app. iHeart is easy to use and all FREE
