our purpose and vision

Acknowledged as the principal founding ancestor of many iwi in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Toitehuatahi (later known as Toi Kairakau), is believed to have arrived on these shores in search of his grandsons Whatonga and Rāhui around AD 1150.

Although Toi failed to find his grandsons, his long travels led him to this region where he settled and built a pā (now one of the oldest in Aotearoa) on the highest point of the headland. Kāputerangi (Toi's Pā) is situated above the site where our town now stands and overlooks the glorious Te Moana-a-Toitehuatahi - The sea of Toitehuatahi.

Toi’s mana and influence in the region is so strong, it is only fitting that we honour him in the name of the Eastern Bay of Plenty’s economic development agency.

Toi EDA was formed in 2005 by the founding partners, which included Mataatua iwi leaders, Whakatāne District Council, Kawerau District Council, Ōpōtiki District Council, and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.  A foundation deed setting up the charitable trust was signed in 2005 to promote a coordinated approach to regional economic development throughout Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Whakapapa

To ensure future generations have better opportunities and outcomes than the current generation.
 

Toi EDA’s Commitment, Strategic Focus and Key Pou

“Tini o Toi – kia tipu, kia puawai 
- To create, grow and blossom the myriads of Toi”

  • We will create a winning brand for our region by: TOHU TOA

    1. Have a compelling narrative of hope for the region, based on the legacy and values of Toi

    2. Attracting talent and investment

    3. Engaged local stakeholders that are listened to and heard

  • We will create a sustainable economic development engine by focusing on areas that we have a natural competitive advantage in: HUARAHI WHAKATIPU RAWA

    1. Aquaculture

    2. High value horticulture

    3. Manufacturing and clean energy

    4. Tourism & marine

    5. Next generation technologies that build on our strengths

  • We will create thriving communities by focusing on areas we can add value to: KĀINGA ORA

    1. Workforce development

    2. Affordable and accessible housing

    3. World class infrastructure