Column by Porirua City Mayor, Anita Baker
You know me. I don’t sugar-coat things. The latest reports on Porirua’s economy and on
our tamariki and rangatahi show a mixed picture – some challenges, some steady
progress. We’ve got work to do, but we’re also making headway.
Our economy has taken a knock. Over the past year, GDP fell by 2.2% – a steeper drop
than the national average. Unemployment is at 5.4%. Jobs have been lost in
construction, retail and professional services, and Jobseeker numbers are up. These are
signals we need to pay attention to.
But it’s not all negative. Residential consents are up 12%, and there’s more movement in
the property market. Rents have dipped slightly, and housing affordability has improved.
Tourism spend is up 4.5%. These may be modest gains, but they show that people still
value what Porirua offers.
We’re in a tough cycle, and we’re not alone. What matters is that Porirua has solid
foundations – and reason for optimism. One of those reasons? Our young people.
The Tamariki and Rangatahi Status Report for 2024 gives a snapshot of how our kids
and young adults are doing. Some results are encouraging: school attendance is
improving, more are leaving with NCEA Level 2, and immunisation rates are better than
the national average. Council events and facilities are getting good feedback.
Other areas need more attention. Youth unemployment is up, and more young adults
are receiving benefits. We still see issues around housing quality and crowding.
Disparities for Māori and Pacific youth are present, but so are the efforts by families,
schools and local organisations working to improve outcomes.
The report isn’t about sweeping conclusions. It’s about understanding where we are and
what needs attention. For council, that means staying focused on areas where we can
help – our services, our planning, our partnerships, and our voice in Wellington.
And we will keep using that voice. Not to overstate problems, but to advocate for the
support and resources our communities need. With a third of our population under 25,
supporting their wellbeing and development isn’t just important – it’s essential.
That’s why we continue to back local initiatives that support young people in housing,
learning, work and wellbeing. Where we can lead, we do. Where we can partner, we do
that too. And where we don’t hold the levers, we speak up.
These reports are part of how we stay grounded and accountable. They help guide the
choices we make.
Porirua is a strong, proud and diverse city. We’ve got more to do – but we’re heading in
the right direction. If we stay focused, keep listening, and keep backing our
people – especially our young people – I’m confident we’ll continue to build a city we’re
proud to call home.