Holiday alert! Please note, kerbside collections between 25-27 December and 1-3 January will be pushed out a day (even recyclers need a holiday). Find out more information on our Rubbish & Recycling Collection webpage. 

Economic Development

Whakawhanaketaka Ohaoha

The Economic Futures team works to diversify the local economy and encourage higher value jobs. The aim of this is to provide our residents with access to better incomes and more work choices outside of the dominant tourism and construction industries.

The team’s role is to look to the future and facilitate the shaping of a business environment that is diverse, resilient and sustainable.


Key Areas of Focus


Queenstown Lakes District Economic Profile

The below information from Wellington-based economics consultancy Infometrics gives an in-depth description of the Queenstown Lakes District’s economic structure and performance.

It offers the ability to look at both the Whakatipu Basin and Wanaka and Surrounds, offering detailed information for both areas.

You can also compare our district’s data against other regions throughout New Zealand to get an idea of how we’re doing in relation to the rest of the country.


Contact us

While this website outlines some of the work priorities for the Economic Futures team, there are many other projects that we lead, contribute to, or partner with others on. We work closely with the Chambers of Commerce, Regional Business Partner Network, Destination Management Organisation, two Regional Tourism Organisations, central government and many others to deliver positive local economic outcomes. If you would like further information, have a question or a great idea, then please get in touch.

Peter Harris: Economic Development Manager