2.3 Commercial opportunities The tourism industry based on the Lake’s natural features and values and the hydropower schemes of the Tongariro and Waikato Rivers, provide national economic benefit.
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What does the community want to achieve? •
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ECO Development - growing the economy while protecting the ecology (growing and diversifying the economy while protecting the environment) Economic development that builds on the community values and does not negatively impact on them Commercial ventures that provide meaningful and long-term employment, which does not degrade the Lake and its catchment for future generations.
What are the main threats to commercial opportunities? Threats to: •
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What is currently happening to manage this value? The Taupo community, through the Lake Taupo Communities Economic Partnership Steering Committee, has developed an economic strategy for the District. The Lake Taupo Development Company currently has a three-year contract with TDC to implement the strategy. The Lake Taupo Development Company holds regular industry reference group meetings to provide guidance and advice on commercial activities or issues.
Key existing Policy documents actions include • •
Taupo District Economic Development Strategy VAST - Vibrant and Sustainable Taupo.
Overview Values
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Business development - limited infrastructure, restrictive regulatory environment, low educational status of workforce, poor water quality Diversification of land use - climate and soil fertility Energy generation - natural hazards, climate change, fluctuating Lake levels, land subsidence “Added value” developments for primary industries - low educational status of workforce, lack of suitable land for industry, lack of infrastructure Tourism expansion - poor water quality, limited infrastructure, high crime, overcrowding, noise, loss of scenic/landscape values Community development - lack of tourism infrastructure, lack of skilled workers Water quality - nutrients, land intensification, forestry harvesting, recreational boating, increased visitor numbers and traffic volumes, new roads/buildings
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Recreational resource - nutrients, erosion, increased numbers of boats and visitors, water abstraction and damming, Lake level changes, overcrowding Habitat and ecological values - nutrients, sediment loads from forestry and construction, water abstraction for hydropower, Lake level changes, new tourist infrastructure, marinas, increased numbers of users and visitors Aesthetic qualities - water clarity, large tracts of plantation, low Lake levels, noise, over development, increased visitor numbers.
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