As we enter 2023 it is the perfect time to reflect on our achievements from the most recent, activity-filled quarter while also looking forward to the exciting year ahead.
Before the end of 2022 we visited three national education fairs in Thailand to promote the Waikato region as an international education destination, progressed the Freight Action Plan, hosted workforce development leads from seven regions and announced our partnership with Māoriverse.
We also took up the opportunity to highlight the value drivers of our region in an op ed for the NBR, an online publication and authority in New Zealand business news and analysis. These are just a few of the opportunities Te Waka has progressed in recent months: continue reading for our full report.
Looking ahead
Our November business sentiment survey took the pulse of business confidence and priorities in the Waikato region – insight that we’re keeping in mind as we plan for 2023.
Key takeaways included continued ambition and confidence within the Waikato, with 55% of business owners expecting to grow in the next 12 months. Some of this positivity is region-specific, with results showing a distinct gap between business confidence in the local economy versus the national economy.
With one of the key challenges businesses face in the Waikato being a shortage of talent, Te Waka’s Workforce Action Plan is firmly in play to help drive the region’s economic development strategy.
Our key workforce priorities for 2023 include creating a framework for local businesses and educators to engage with one another more effectively and continuing to build and maintain ongoing relationships. We will continue to drive for action as a member of the Waikato Regional Skills Leadership Group and our partnership with Hanga-Ara Rau will give further insights into qualification gaps that need filling.
We look forward to working with you and keeping you updated through the year.
Ngā mihi,
Fiona Carrick | CEO
