West Coast

The West Coast is a spectacular part of New Zealand. It has a rich history, with people who have successfully built thriving local communities and industry in one of the most challenging parts of the country.

Likewise, the West Coast is enjoyed by visitors who visit to soak up the untouched, rugged landscapes.

The region is a great place to work and play, and can be even better with a little support and investment from central Government

It's clear that there are opportunities to invest in the region to drive sustainable economic development.  Challenges facing the region from the mining downturn and low dairy prices emphasise, more than ever, how important it is to diversify the West Coast's economy.

We've prioritised the West Coast for early investment from the Provincial Growth Fund, and we're working alongside local people to identity initiatives and projects to support.

Tai Poutini West Coast Growth Study (PDF 4.5MB)

Tai Poutini West Coast Economic Development Strategy 2018-2025

Development West Coast

West Coast Regional Council Action Plan

Fast facts

  • Population: 32,500
  • Average household income: $91,200
  • GDP per capita: $50,923

West Coast facts on the Regional Economic Activity Report

Funding announcements

Note: PGF funding is approved in principle and announced, after which contracts are negotiated. Some funding may depend on completion of business cases. Payments are made once agreed milestones are met. These are set as part of contract negotiations, and differ from project to project.

See more details about announcements on the Beehive's Regional Economic Development page.

Region Programme Organisation Amount Date
West Coast Greymouth Lagoon Dredging Grey District Council $750,000 28 August 2018
West Coast Hokitika to Westport feasibility KiwiRail $250,000 20 July 2018
West Coast Port upgrade and redevelopment feasibility studies (Westport and Grey combined) Buller District Council & Grey District Council $125,000 20 July 2018
West Coast Greymouth Master Plan Grey District Council $250,000 20 July 2018
West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail Westland District Council $500,000 23 February 2018
West Coast Old Ghost Road Cycle Trail Mokihinui-Lyel Backcountry Trust $500,000 23 February 2018
West Coast Punakaiki Master Plan Buller District Council $130,000 23 February 2018
West Coast TranzAlpine service upgrade KiwiRail $40,000,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Digital Connectivity Crown Infrastructure Partners (CIP) $28,000,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Punakaiki Redevelopment (Dolomite Point) Department of Conservation (DOC) $25,600,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Ruatapu Garnet Project Barton NZ Limited $10,000,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Westland Milk Products Segregation Westland Milk Products $9,900,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Kawatiri Coastal Trail Kawatiri Cycle Trust $9,360,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Oparara Arches Tourism West Coast $5,700,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Croesus Road Grey District Council $3,500,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Punakaiki Resort Wellness Centre Williams Hotel Group $3,300,000 29 November 2018
West Coast Rūnanga Miners Hall Rūnanga Miners’ Hall Trust $400,000 29 November 2018

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