Tourism big factor in `upbeat' Otago

Peter Bodeker.
Peter Bodeker.
Mayors throughout Otago are "upbeat'' about vibrant economic activity in their districts, including booming tourism.

Otago Regional Council chief executive Peter Bodeker made that comment in a recent report about the Otago Mayoral Forum, held in Oamaru late last month.

The respective mayors and ORC chairman Stephen Woodhead attended the gathering and gave an update on activities in their districts.

And it was "interesting just how upbeat'' all the mayors were, Mr Bodeker said in the council report.

Dunedin reported "good growth'' and increasing tourism, but a requirement for better accommodation and providing a mix of tourism products.

Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull reported on the city's "positive relationship'' with its Chinese sister city, and the continuing development of that relationship.

In the Clutha district, 1000 jobs were unfilled, and the issue was finding both semi-skilled and skilled staff. Some of the work was seasonal, such as in meat processing companies, but new jobs were also being created, he said.

And tourism was also expanding in the Clutha district.

In Central Otago there had been a "bumper'' cherry season and there were "good vibes'' in the horticultural sector with expansion under way.

Central Otago Mayor Tony Lepper reported that Cromwell was growing, with a spill-over effect into Alexandra, and the area's cycle trails were a "great opportunity''.

North Otago reported that tourism was booming there, as elsewhere in the region, and particularly from freedom camping. Improved accommodation was also being provided.

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher had said the Oceania Gold expansion was having a positive effect on the region and job numbers were expanding.

The North Otago Irrigation Company's second phase of operation was going to extend irrigation to a further 7000ha-8000ha area.

In Queenstown, matters were "reasonably well known'', including the "stretch on the infrastructure'' around tourism.

Other issues included accommodation for workers and transport matters, Mr Bodeker said.

john.gibb@odt.co.nz

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