NZ’s abysmal productivity record continues
Labour productivity fell by 0.9% during the March 2023 year - the largest fall since 2009. This is one of the most disgusting economic statistics that I have seen in a long time, and it's disappointing.
Blog
Lower food prices not good for all
Why on earth does a moderation to food pricing pressures concern me? Well it is because a big part of the decline has been driven by a weakening of fortunes for key export commodities.
Happy 5th birthday to Benje Patterson Ltd!
I can scarcely believe that my economic consultancy has turned 5. Since 2019, I have worked on hundreds of projects for a large range of clients. These projects have spanned the length and breadth of New Zealand, and have even included some forays abroad.
NZ back in recession
The official data is only confirming what we already knew. People and businesses have shut their wallets, everything is falling in per capita terms, and the only thing that has been keeping up the headline is sky high population growth.
Economic impacts of The WILD on the Queenstown Lakes economy
This report estimates the economic impacts on the Queenstown Lakes economy from spending by trail runners who attended the WILD’s inaugural 2023 pioneers’ edition.
Economic impacts of a worker accommodation complex in Queenstown
Benje Patterson was commissioned by the developers of 1 Hansen Road, Queenstown to consider the economic and social impacts of a proposed worker accommodation complex that would contain 554 bedrooms (residential units) and house 710 people.
Employment growth of 11%pa for Queenstown Lakes
Queenstown-Lakes’ labour market continues to have the fastest employment growth in the country. Over the past 12 months, there has been an 11% increase in employment within the District, backed up by a surge in working age people moving into the local area.
Population growth in 65 of 67 territorial authorities
Population growth nationally accelerated from 0.1%pa in the June 2022 year to 2.1%pa growth in 2023. Of New Zealand’s 67 territorial authorities, 65 recorded growth, with only Buller and the Chatham Islands showing decline.
Which regions have larger tourism sectors than before Covid?
This blog post looks at tourism spending across New Zealand’s regions to establish how the tourism sector recovery is going since borders reopened. The findings of which regions have more visitor spending than before Covid-19 may surprise you.
Feasibility study: Economic impacts of extending the Otago Central Rail ...
Benje Patterson estimated the potential use and economic impacts of a proposed Taieri Gorge extension to the Otago Central Rail Trail. An extension would give opportunities for bikers or walkers to travel between Middlemarch and Taieri, allowing for easy access from Dunedin with its large population and range of supporting visitor amenities.
Navigating government change: A guide for Economic Development Agencies
A change in government can have a significant impact on economic development. As the priorities and policies of a new government take shape, it's crucial for economic development agencies to adapt and align their strategies accordingly.
A career in economic development: From entry to executive
Economic development is evolving. As more seasoned professionals approach retirement, there is a growing expectation that younger talent will fill these key roles. This blog considers some of the factors you may need to succeed in economic development leadership.