Luc Beehreproject manager of the Tuputupu Grow Northland initiative, highlights the importance of the new venture in ensuring current land use in Northland adapts to the changing environment.

“Pūtake Whakatupu is more than just a project; it is a pathway to harnessing the full potential of Northland’s lands and resources. Our aim is to work closely with landowners, iwi and hapū, industry and local and central government to explore forward-looking land uses and foster opportunities that match their aspirations for whenua, whānau and the wider community. We believe that sustainable and innovative land use can generate significant economic, environmental and cultural outcomes for the region,” Beehre said.

Pūtake Whakatupu will involve extensive engagement with key stakeholders including landowners, local farmers, producers and associated manufacturing sectors. The project will undertake the development of market opportunity reports that will assess economic pathways to optimize land use and create value-added products in the region.

A survey has been launched to allow interested parties to help build a picture of the current primary industries and associated manufacturing landscape in Northland. Following the survey, four workshops will be held across the region in November to facilitate continued discussions and gather information that will feed into market opportunity reports.

“Northland has a wealth of experience and knowledge across our regional primary industries and associated manufacturing sectors, from landowners and producers through to stakeholders and organisations. We look forward to harnessing this knowledge and engaging in collaboration to ensure the Pūtake Whakatupu project delivers benefits to the entire region,” Beehre said.

For more information about the project, to complete the survey or contact the Tuputupu Grow Northland team, visit: www.northlandnz.com/grownorthland.