Activities

Activities

In April 2008 the Eastern Bay of Plenty Development Board (Whakatane District Council) and Toi-EDA were merged to conform with new central Government regional policy, where sub-regions are encouraged to increase collaboration and optimise resources.

Toi EDA is responsible for marketing and visitor services in the Whakatane district and economic development activities across the Eastern Bay of Plenty region. 

The organisation, which recently adopted a three year strategic plan, is managed by John Galbraith. Activities include:

  • Business & Investment Marketing
  • Involved in Motu Trail cycleway
  • Working closely with the Eastern Bay Chamber of Commerce
  • Developed a promotional booklet for investors looking for wood processing opportunities in the new Kawerau industrial land site
  • Demographic research to understand migration patterns into the urban areas
  • Immigration campaign
  • Economic initiatives including cluster development, business mentor programme, employment skills strategy, AAA awards, Creative New Zealand partnership, RPP 
  • Comprehensive marketing programmes including social media marketing, television advertising, billboards, magazine articles, print ads, trade shows, Great NZ Touring Route, hosting journalists, website.
  • Marketing resources including – quality photographs, visitor guides, cluster brochures, Christmas cards, posters, entrance signs, presentation folders, DVDs.
  • Event development and marketing which has strengthened existing events and raised the profile of Whakatane as an event and conference destination.

Notable firsts