Established in 2005, AucklandPlus is responsible for implementing key elements of the Auckland Regional Economic Development Strategy which was developed to boost the performance of the region’s economy. The strategy aims to generate a virtuous cycle of business growth and skills development, one that will increase business productivity and people’s participation in education, training and the labour force.

AucklandPlus is the official investment agency for the region and we are responsible for promoting the Auckland region as a place to invest and do business in. Our service is free of charge and we can help you by:

* Connecting you to business networks, professional expertise, sources of support and finance
* Providing you with information on local market opportunities and knowledge to help you make the most of investing, working and living here

AucklandPlus facilitates large, multi-agency, cross-boundary/council regional economic development projects. We are currently managing the implementation of a number of projects that are part of the Metro Project Action Plan which aims to ensure Auckland is a world-class region and a great place to live and work.

AucklandPlus is a member of the Economic Development Association of New Zealand (EDANZ), the national networking body which promotes economic development, best practice and knowledge in New Zealand.

Auckland's advantage is multifaceted:

* Set between two of the most beautiful harbours in the world on a narrow isthmus, Auckland stretches over 16,140 km2 - with about 1600 kms of coastline.
* The largest of New Zealand's region's - Auckland represents over 30 percent of the population and economic output.
* Auckland is ranked fifth in the world for quality of life. The Mercer Index in 2008 placed Auckland well ahead of Sydney, Melbourne, San Francisco and Adelaide. With a spectacular natural environment, Auckland continues to attract talented migrants to its pool of skilled and motivated workforce.
* In 2008 the World Bank ranked New Zealand number two for ease of doing business, ahead of the US at number three and Australia in eigth. Auckland is one of the easiest places in the world to do business with a deregulated and diverse economy, stable government and time zone advantage.
* Infrastructure in Auckland is robust. The region has a bustling port and airport, strong telecommunications connectivity and reliable utilities.
* Businesses are supported by a strong service sector including major finance and banking institutions.
* Comprising seven cities and districts including urban and rural areas, Auckland's diversity is compelling and as result continues to experience strong growth and investment interest:

Business sectors
Auckland is a thriving modern economy with robust infrastructure catering for current and future business needs. Supporting this are cost-competitive utility services and telecommunications of the highest standard.

Confirming the strength of Auckland's business advantage, a variety of industries operate in Auckland.

* Manufacturing and tourism have long been the backbone of the Auckland economy and still play a strong role. With time though Auckland’s specialisations have focused on biotechnology, food and beverage, ICT, film and marine.
* Auckland’s business services sector, including finance, banking, and property has also experienced strong growth and provides service throughout the AsiaPacific region.
* Auckland’s biotechnology sector had its roots in New Zealand’s internationally renowned agriculture, which leverages a world-class scientific industry had developed with the world’s ninth largest dairy company, Fonterra, headquartered in Auckland.
* Film and television production has discovered Auckland. An ever growing list of international producers are captivated by the scenic variety and the cost competitive facilities including world leading animation and post production.
* Specialised software technology in healthcare, payment solutions and display technology has leveraged the relatively low cost engineering talent and an available lifestyle.
* The recreational marine sector offers the highest quality construction capability in the luxury and super yacht industry. Our maritime history of the nation and the expertise in technology enabled New Zealand to compete in and host the America's Cup, the pinnacle of yacht racing, against teams from other cities with much larger financial resources.