You know me. I don’t sugarcoat things. The latest data on our economy and on our tamariki and rangatahi shows we’ve got some challenges – but also some real strengths.
Yes, Porirua’s economy is under pressure. GDP fell 2.2% over the past year. Unemployment is a bit above the national average. Jobseeker numbers are up. That’s the reality.
But we’re also seeing signs of resilience. Residential consents are rising. House listings and sales are climbing. Tourism spending is up. Housing affordability is improving. These are all encouraging signs.
On the youth front, there’s good news too. More young people are in school regularly, and more are achieving NCEA Level 2. Immunisation rates are higher than the national average. Council events and facilities are getting solid feedback.
Of course, some issues persist. Youth unemployment is up, and more young adults are relying on benefits. Housing quality and crowding remain areas of concern. Disparities do exist, but so does the hard work being done to address them.
Council doesn’t control everything, but we have a role to play – and we take it seriously. We lead where we can, we partner where it makes sense, and we advocate when it counts.
With a third of our population under 25, supporting their growth and wellbeing is a key part of building Porirua’s future.
These reports help us track where we’re at and where we’re headed. They keep us honest and focused.
So yes, there are things we need to improve. But there’s also a lot that gives us confidence. We’re a city that sticks together, faces facts, and backs its people. That’s what I see – and that’s what keeps me optimistic about what comes next.
10 Jun 2025
