Neighbouring councils in the central North Island are teaming up to boost economic development and attract film makers to the Ruapehu district.
The partnership will see work by Whanganui District Council economic development agency Whanganui & Partners to widen the district’s economic base and create new opportunities for businesses and residents, including a focus on film.
The collaboration with Ruapehu District Council would bring more effective economic development initiatives and new and exciting opportunities for Ruapehu businesses, said Ruapehu council’s executive manager economic and community development, Pauline Welch.
“The arrangement provides access to a wider range of skills, knowledge and experience that will support Ruapehu to achieve sustainable growth [and] improve quality of life for residents,” Welch said.
It also aimed to build greater resilience through diversification against long-term challenges such as climate change and shifts in traditional industries like tourism and agriculture.
Push for film opportunities
Under the agreement, Film Whanganui would extend its services to Ruapehu, supporting the district’s aspiration to become a preferred film location.
This includes facilitating production inquiries, promoting the district’s unique locations, and connecting local businesses and crew to film opportunities.
Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton said the new partnership with Film Whanganui would put the district’s landscapes centre stage and in front of national and international filmmakers.
Kirton said the district’s cinematic backdrops ranged from native forests and alpine terrain to remote rivers and small-town charm.
The film industry could bring economic development benefits and drive the tourism sector.
“We know the power of film to put places on the map,” said Kirton.
“Mt Ngauruhoe representing Mt Doom in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy introduced millions of people to Ruapehu’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and inspired many to visit.
“Film can be a long-lasting promotion tool for our district, bringing both domestic and international visitors drawn by what they’ve seen on screen.”
The district boasts a strong history of film production, including acclaimed New Zealand films such as Utu, River Queen, and Smash Place.
The new partnership aims to better equip Ruapehu to respond professionally to production inquiries and support filmmakers through every stage of their work.
Kirton said the benefits of film include opportunities for local businesses, including accommodation and catering, transport, tradies and creatives.
“It also offers employment opportunities for local crew and youth interested in screen production careers.
“We’re excited to welcome more filmmakers to discover the magic of Ruapehu and to support our local communities to be part of this creative and growing sector,” Kirton said.
Boosting economic growth
Whanganui & Partners team leader economic development, Tim Easton, said there was a natural connection between the Whanganui and Ruapehu districts, based on the Whanganui River and its catchment.
“Formalising the delivery of economic development between our two districts helps us maximise the economic growth of each,” Easton said.
“Bringing delivery under one organisation means where we see areas to collaborate, we can work with greater unity and increased efficiency”.
Whanganui & Partners would help develop an economic development strategy, identify high-value industries, advise on policy and infrastructure decisions, and work to attract new investment and industries to the district.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
