Business // Pakihi

INVEST

OPEN  FOR BUSINESS.

This region has a game plan to support growth through connection.

Our unique centralised location and stress-free connections to major cities and neighbouring regions through road, rail, air and sea via port has attracted some of New Zealand’s leading businesses.

With over $8b of infrastructure investment completed, planned or underway in the current decade, and plenty of available land to grow, there’s nowhere with more potential.

Manawatū is your springboard to national and global markets. Our region’s dynamic and internationally oriented environment serves as a vital gateway, aiding local companies to not only succeed but excel.

The region provides solid foundations for a spectrum of enterprises, from corporate headquarters and research labs to manufacturing hubs, distribution focused enterprises, and high-tech firms. Our central location, bolstered by formidable technology infrastructure and a commitment to research and innovation, ensures our businesses are not just surviving – they’re thriving.

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We are not content for the region to just grow organically. Here in Manawatū we are committed to fostering strong connections, forging new opportunities and working with investors and businesses to drive sustainable growth.

Jerry Shearman, CEO, Central Economic Development Agency.

Palmerston North City is only

1.4 hours drive

to the capital city of

Wellington

SECTORS
of
STRENGTH.

Dynamic and Diverse Sectors

Manawatū stands as a beacon of economic diversity, with a vibrant tapestry of key sectors that drive its dynamic economy. From the bustling avenues of distribution and logistics to the innovative realms of science and agritech, our region offers fertile ground for a wide range of industries that hold our economy stable even in the toughest of times.

At the heart of the lower North Island, Manawatū is poised to shape New Zealand's evolving economic narrative. The region's rich history in food innovation and science, coupled with fertile natural resources, has positioned it as the epicenter of agrifood innovation. With more than 3,100 scientists and researchers, three Crown Research Institutions, and world-leading organisations choosing to operate from the region, Manawatū houses the largest collection of pilot-scale food processing equipment in the southern hemisphere.

Manawatū’s key sectors include distribution and logistics, education, defence, agritech and primary, research, science and tech, health, manufacturing, and tourism and visitor. These sectors contribute to the region’s economic diversity and resilience, positioning it well for growth and investment opportunities

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Our Business Community

A Hub of Connections and Collaboration

Manawatū thrives on strong cross-sector partnerships, which are the foundation of our thriving innovation and business success. The region’s collaborative environment fosters opportunities for companies to connect, grow, and lead in their industries. Here, businesses find more than just a location; they discover a community where collaboration crosses sectors, sparking innovation and growth.

Connectivity and collaboration are woven into the fabric of our region, reflected in a thriving business community. From small startups and multi-generational enterprises to a strong presence of large-scale employers, the region is bursting with opportunity and rich in meaningful connections.

Meet our Business Community

The future of Manawatū is very promising – new roading coming in, new access, new rail being built. It’s going to really grow the region and grow the opportunities for people.

Stephen, FTL Manager, Booth's Logistics

Investment Opportunities.

This region has a game plan to support growth through connection and is brimming with opportunities for investors and businesses alike.

With over $8b of infrastructure investment completed, planned or underway in the current decade, and plenty of available land to grow, we’re growing at pace and we’re open for business.

With plenty of available land for growth, coupled with existing development and investment opportunities, along with our growing pipeline of commercial development, Manawatū is where you need to be.

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why here?

Manawatū isn’t just another place to do business – it’s a region built for ambition, innovation, and long-term success.

Here, growth isn’t left to chance; it’s driven by a strategic approach to economic development, strong connections, and a commitment to creating opportunities. Explore what makes Manawatū the smart choice for investment.

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the region at a glance

TOURISM SPEND

$564 Million

in Manawatū

In the year to December 2023

HIGHLY SKILLED
WORKFORCE

One of the highest PHD's per capita

In New Zealand

TECH COMPANIES

120+

SCIENTISTS AND RESEARCHERS

3,100

CROWN RESEARCH
INSTITUTES

126 LANGUAGES
SPOKEN HERE

150+

cultures represented

LETS CHAT.

Contact us today to explore how your business can prosper in Manawatū. We are committed to fostering strong connections, and working with investors and businesses to drive sustainable growth and opportunities.