Business Opportunities
Numerous entrepreneurial businesses have been set up in Whakatāne in a variety of fields, targeting niche markets in both the domestic and export sectors. If you are interested in starting or taking over a business, you will find that a relatively modest wage structure adds to Whakatāne’s attractiveness as a location for business.
Research has identified opportunities for growth in timber processing for export and domestic markets. These have the potential to make a big contribution to economic growth in the region. Excellent road and rail links connect the hinterland with the country's largest export port at Tauranga in the Western Bay of Plenty.
Whakatāne’s spectacular inland and coastal attractions, including the marine volcano White Island, have encouraged the growth of tourism. Local marketing activities are helping to lift visitor numbers and strengthen the district’s economy. Tourism contributes more than $100 million to the local economy, and 10% of the workforce are employed in tourism and associated businesses.
Our fertile soils, high sunshine hours and reasonable rainfall make horticulture a viable small to medium business. There are a number of berry farms in the District who process and export their products. There’s plenty of opportunity for adding value to our abundant produce. Honey production and processing, including valuable mānuka, is rapidly expanding, along with premium bottled water.
A major aquaculture development with the potential to create more than 400 jobs is planned for the Ōpōtiki area.
Byproducts from the pulp and paper industry have the potential for further processing into marketable products, offering opportunities for entrepreneurs. Vast amounts of waste fibre and bark are available for growing aggregate or landscaping, while trade waste recycling also has much potential.
Some of the key business sectors in the region are summarised below. All of them are brimming with possibilities for motivated entrepreneurs and businesses.
Tourism — A major industry and an attractive prospect for sole operators and businesses all around the district.
Timber processing — Kawerau is expanding its industrial area. Manufacturing, wholesale trade and utility services will also need to expand in support of primary production industries.
Education and training — Te Whare o Awanuiarangi, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, and Anamata all need skilled educators.
Marine industries — Aquaculture, boat building and marine maintenance activities will benefit from the proposed development of Ōpōtiki Harbour.
Iwi resource use — Improving land productivity, geothermal power, and commercial development arising from treaty settlements.
Digital services — Good broadband speeds, especially ultra-fast broadband in Whakatāne, make digital businesses feasible.
Service industries — This is a wonderful area to retire, and with an increasing retiree population, services—particularly medical services—will be increasingly important.
Renewable energy — Additional geothermal energy resources near Kawerau are coming on line. There will be a ready supply of process heat for energy-hungry industries, including glasshouse horticulture.
Businesses for sale
Someone else has done the hard yards and established a viable business in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Here is your opportunity to take it over and take it to the next level. There’s plenty of options for businesses in some of the District’s growth sectors.