Kia ora,

On Wednesday we hosted the first of several Priority One CBD Blueprint Walking Tours, visiting many of the development locations outlined in the Blueprint to provide an informative first-hand look into the future of the CBD. The sold-out walking tour, led by our very own Mark Irving, was attended by a wide range of people whom, upon arrival, seemed mostly negative around the current state of the city, and that is no surprise given the lack of retail shops in the area, particularly on Devonport Road.

The two-hour tour provided attendees with the opportunity to learn more about the 20 catalyst developments outlined in the Blueprint, to look beyond the empty shop windows, and to ask questions to understand the pivotal change happening in our city. By the end of the tour, the view of many of the attendees had changed, they left feeling informed and excited to see that Tauranga is moving ahead with transformation that will bring vibrancy into the city. To learn more about the  Tauranga CBD Blueprint click here, or to register to attend future CBD Walking tours, click here.

This week has also seen a number of tech events hosted throughout the city as a part of Techweek22, including the official opening of the University of Waikato Blue/Green Tech Lab. We would also like to celebrate the success of Ara Rau‘s fourth Industry Open Day in collaboration with GIB, attracting more than 100 potential recruitments for the new GIB facility in Tauriko.

Finally, consultation is now open on Tauranga City Council’s proposal to reclassify a small part (about 6%) of Marine Park at Sulphur Point. If successful, the reclassification will allow for a marine research and education facility to be developed there in the future. The facility is expected to bring many potential benefits to the region including increased educational opportunities, ongoing employment for locals, and increased research opportunities into innovative and sustainable responses to the effects of climate change. We at Priority One whole heartedly support this and believe it will be a strong asset for the future and encourage you to make a submission here. Submissions close 20th June, 5pm.

Ngā mihi nui

Nigel 
Nigel Tutt, Chief Executive