Welcome to Tairāwhiti
The Tairāwhiti region is supported by Trust Tairāwhiti, which is unique in that its declared focus is regional wellbeing, with a strategic focus on community initiatives, economic development and providing for future generations in Tairāwhiti. The Trust was formed following the electricity reforms in 1993 when the $20 million equity of the local power board was retained
in the region through a community trust model. The Trust Deed outlines two central objectives - to preserve the Trust's capital and provide for future generations. The Trust will be a perfect partner should you choose the Tairāwhiti region to invest in.
About Tairāwhiti
The Demographics
The region of Tairāwhiti is located on the mid-eastern coast of the North Island and covers a land area of 8,386 square kilometres2 (838,600 ha), stretching from Potikirua in the north to Wharerata in the south, and inland towards Tiniroto and Motu. Its main centre of population is Gisborne. Tairāwhiti has a population of 51,135, almost 18% of the population are Māori and the median age for the entire population is 38.1.
The Economy
GDP in Tairāwhiti measured $2,540.9m in the year to March 2023, up 0.7% from a year earlier. Economic growth in Tairāwhiti averaged 3.1%pa over the 10 years to 2023 compared with an average of 3.0%pa in New Zealand. Tairāwhiti accounted for
0.7% of national GDP in 2023. The per capita income is $43, 464.
Industry within the area is highly diverse. The largest industry in Tairāwhiti (agriculture, forestry and fishing) contributed 17.8% to its GDP in 2023, which was higher than the average contribution (13.1%) of the largest industry across 16 regional councils.
The second largest industry in Tairāwhiti (health care and social assistance) contributed 8.5% to its GDP in 2023, which was lower than the average contribution (10.0%) of the second largest industry across 16 regional councils.
Climate
In comparison with regions exposed to the west, Tairawhiti experiences a greater number of weather and climatic extremes. The climate is generally congenial, with a large number of sunshine hours per year and a low mean wind speed. However, rainfall is unevenly distributed throughout the year, with a prominent winter maximum
Council (s)
There is just one council within Tairāwhiti, Gisborne District Council. It serves as both a district and regional council. For more information on the Council follow this link.
Useful Links
Follow this link to learn about how to set up operations in NZ, raising capital and investor visas.
Strategy
Te aka rautaki ki te tau 2029
Strategic Plan 2029
Our people, whānau, and communities of Tairāwhiti are able to live the lives we value in ways that matter to us. Together we will transform Tairāwhiti into a place of
Te mana - Shared Pride
Where culture connects, relationships empower and nature thrives.
Te Ihi- Shared Prosperity
Where people flourish, businesses grow.
Te Wahi - Shared Opportunity
Where children dream, communities unite and futures inspire
As the sun rises over Tairāwhiti, you'll find our people where they are needed most. At the heart of our communities on this journey of transformation. Kaitaki of precious taonga. Shared for generations to come.
