Developers are showing confidence in central Masterton, with the proposed development of its former post office building.  A group of investors under the name Chapel St Investments has bought the building, and plan to upgrade it and turn it into offices.

The Provincial Growth Fund will spend $1 billion a year on projects in the regions and could provide serious growth to neglected parts of the country. But the speed at which the fund is moving, could mean some of the most crucial projects miss out. Thomas Coughlan reports.

The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) has the potential to be a lifeline for struggling provinces and regions.  “But last week’s announcement of initial projects was disappointingly light”, according to BERL deputy chief economist Hillmaré Schulze.

Feb 23, 2018  -  The new $1 billion per annum Provincial Growth Fund has been officially launched in Gisborne today by Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones.

Feb 23, 2018  -  The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest $8.6 million in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay to immediately boost tourism and forestry opportunities, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says.

Feb 23, 2018  - The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest more than $6 million towards revitalisation of the Whanganui Port and upgrade of the town’s rail line, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says.

Feb 20, 2018  -  Napier City Council will consult on the possible introduction of de-chlorinated water stations through the Long Term Plan process.

Dec 15, 2017  -  More young people in 2018 in Canterbury will have the chance to set up and run their own ventures, learning first-hand from local business mentors and developing critical skills for future employment and study.  Ara Institute of Canterbury is the new regional partner for The Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) and is enthusiastic about becoming more actively involved after previously hosting YES events. “We are thrilled to work with Ara Institute of Canterbury to continue supporting local entrepreneurs. We know Ara will be able to offer value and support to the schools we work with…

Dec 11, 2017 - ​Brand launch and Chamber of Commerce workshop help progress Ruapehu business ambitions.  Two milestone events in support of Ruapehu business development and Council’s goal of increasing jobs, incomes and opportunities took place at the Chateau Tongariro Hotel last week. The first was the official launch of Visit Ruapehu's new regional brand – ‘Our Greater Outdoors’ that was followed by a special workshop attended to discuss the possibility of establishing a Ruapehu Chamber of Commerce. Visit Ruapehu Trade and Marketing Manager Jo Kennedy said that there was a lot of excitement around the new regional branding which…