Central Regional Plan 2010 - 2012
This plan outlines the priorities for our region and what we are doing to address them. Our focus is on helping individuals and families in our communities achieve better outcomes.
The priorities for 2010 - 2012 are:
- more people get into work and stay in work
- more children are safe
- more young people stay on track
- reduced reoffending by young people
- improved quality of life for older people
- communities are better able to support themselves.
This plan highlights both national and regional initiatives that aim to improve the lives of the people in our region and across New Zealand.
Our population
The Central region covers Manawatu in the north to Horowhenua and Kapiti in the south, and includes Wairarapa and Tararua in the east. The largest city is Palmerston North.
According to the 2006 Census, there are 236,100 people living in the region. Thirty-five per cent of these people are under 24 years old, and 16 per cent are over 65 years old, both higher than the national averages.
As at 30 June 2011, there were 3,782 people in receipt of an unemployment related benefit in our region. Thirty-one per cent live in Palmerston North, 16 per cent in Horowhenua, and 15 per cent in the Wairarapa.
Our economy
Agriculture, horticulture and viticulture are crucial industries to our region’s economic wellbeing. These industries are particularly significant in Horowhenua and Wairarapa, and have a large impact on seasonal employment. Other major industries in our region include tertiary education, health and defence.
Some major employers in the Central region are Affco, Alliance, Bernard Mathews, Juken Nissho Ltd (wood processing), Massey University, Ministry of Defence and the three District Health Boards.
Some of our core industries are growing, resulting in increased employment opportunities. It is anticipated that the growth in the primary sectors will have a positive impact in other sectors in the region. We are working in partnerships with stakeholders to support industries and employers on a number of new initiatives and developments such as the Paraparaumu Airport and meat works expansion.
