Business Information

2008 is shaping up to be a busy and productive year for business in Southland. The economy is strong in Southland with the lowest unemployment rate and the highest participation rate in New Zealand at present. Agriculture and horticulture make up a large part of Southland's economy with an estimated 100 conversions to dairy farms planned to happen this season. Manufacturing and productivity trends appear positive in Southland which also has a strong manufacturing base. Tiwai Aluminium Smelter employs around 2600 full time equivalent jobs and contributes 18% to Southland's Gross Domestic Product.

Southland has actively sought to identify local energy opportunities. As a result, there are a significant number of parties who have made commitments toward development, including oil and gas exploration - both on shore and off shore, coal fired generation, lignite to liquids and wind generation. Exxon Mobil and OMV have recently begun seismic exploration in the Great South Basin and it is expected that all seismic work will be completed within two years for all plots recently allocated by the government.

Tourism is a growing sector in Southland and accounts for 10-12% of the labour force. The number of people directly employed in the Tourism industry is expected to grow.

For more information on business in Southland please contact Venture Southland, info@venturesouthland.co.nz