The Role of local government in the social and economic development of the Wairoa district : an evaluation of policy options

Abstract

There are major obstacles to social and economic development for the Wairoa area, which arise from land use problems, isolation, peripheral location, a narrow economic base, the lack of long term Investment, and a lack of observance of the Treaty of Waitangi. Unstable hill country, high drought risk, and periodic cyclonic rain give tree cover advantages over pastoral land use. There Is a markedly unequal distribution of power between local Treaty of Waitangi partners, a declining population, and comparatively high local unemployment by national standards. The argument is made that social and economic development for the area involves the strengthening of the physical and social environment, as inseparable from the community and economy. In evaluating the options with this criterion, it Is contended that increased central, regional, and local government intervention is needed, particularly in the land use change process. Considerable changes are also needed in the application of the Treaty of Waitangi to the district. The necessary land use change will create significant social shifts, and there will be risks to biodiversity and other values in the continuation of current local forestry trends. The strategy recommended for the Wairoa District Council is one of an increased emphasis on research, planning, communication, resource management, and regard for the Treaty, as a foundation to other development options.