Northland ‘Languishing'

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31238, 9 December 1966, Page 3

Northland ‘Languishing'

I 11V.Z. Press Association * i WELLINGTON, December 8. Northland province was described today as a region “languishing in the presence of considerable potential” and with an economy which presented a picture of unnecessary retardation. The 240-page report on a major economic survey conducted by the Department of Industries and Commerce said: “With the basic resources to support a much larger population, Northland—with the exception of the West Coast region of the South Island—has shared least of all regions in the development of the New Zealand economy.” It said if Northland could overcome the problems which were seen as hindering its development it could look forward to a prosperous future. Many Symptoms The report said that among the many symptoms of Northland’s condition were: The narrow field of employment opportunities available throughout the region—but more particularly in rural locations.

The inability of local authorities to collect full rates. The concentration of effort by local authorities on maintenance works rather than on developmeat. The poor condition of many roads. The inefficiency of much farm management incorrect use of land, uneconomic sizes of holdings, erosion, reversion to scrub, communal ownership of Maori land and the lack of application of modern practices of topdressing, subdivision, grazing and weed and pest control. Reluctance to amalgamate local bodies on both a functional and territorial basis. Retardation of tourist development through lack of investment and through lack of appreciation of the benefits of concerted promotional effort. A higher than average Incidence of notifiable disease, associated with substandard housing, poor sanitation and low income. Satisfaction with a fishing industry that serves the regional market adequately but which has not exploited for export the prolific reserves of fish in Northland coastal waters. Acceptance of a situation whereby a great deal of expenditure is made outside the region on goods

and services which could well be produced within Northland. Many Content But the report added: “In spite of these deficiencies in the regional economy, many Northlanders would be inclined to say they were content with the way things are."

The Minister of Industries and Commerce (Mr Marshall) said when he released the report today: “Against the background of these problems the survey concludes that there is very considerable potential for farming, forestry, fishing and tourism.”