Big increase in N.Z. electronics predicted

Press, 3 June 1981, Page 23

Big increase in N.Z. electronics predicted

PA Auckland New Zealand will have a $3ll million electronics industry by 1985 if present growth rates continue. That is the prediction of a department of industrial and scientific research study prepared by the deputy director of the Auckland Industrial Development Division, Mr Bevin Cornwall. Mr Cornwall revealed his study of 154 firms — about 90 per cent of the industry — showing that they were expanding their production value about 15 per cent a year over all. Export value was increasing by 45 per cent a-year and, if this continued, he predicted they would push earnings from $l5 million, to $l4O million a year. However, the industry needed more trained people, more financial support, and more research and development to allow expansion at this rate, he said. Mr Cornwall predicted that manufacturers would need 70& more profession-ally-trained people, 500 extra technicians, and 200 tradespeople. He believed New Zealand could match the demand.

The intake of trainees at Canterbury University had increased 50 per cent in the last four years. ,’ . \ The study was .part of; a D.S.I.R. discussion document and the first two sections were used by the Trade and Industries Department in its report to the Industries .Development Commission. The Minister of Energy (Mr Birch) has said that the Government might support the multi-million dollar boost to the industry recommended by the Trade and Industry Department. Mr Cornwall told the Control 1981 conference of electronics researchers that light, high-value technology was better suited to New Zealand’s long distance freight problems. Top speaker The Quantas-New Zealand Jaycee-Litter Control Council Secondary Schools’ Speech contest has been won by Georgina Garford, of Sacred Heart College, Christchurch. She will compete at the national final to be held in Wellington in July.