16 April 2013 Significant new collaboration in education, research and commercial gain for the Nelson-Marlborough region

Four South Island organisations today announced their intent to dramatically expand collaboration for the benefit of the Nelson-Marlborough region in areas of economic and environmental activity, particularly in aquaculture, wine, horticulture, related foods and, more broadly, marine activity.

Meeting this week at the Nelson-Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) in Nelson were NMIT Chief Executive Tony Gray, Cawthron Institute Chief Executive Professor Charles Eason, Nelson Economic Development Agency Chief Executive Bill Findlater and Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Dr Andrew West.

“NMIT, the Cawthron Institute, the Nelson EDA and Lincoln University have had a successful partnership for some years. We have now decided to ramp this up very significantly. For a start, we shall develop a framework of educational qualifications from certificates to PhDs in aquaculture, backed by exceptional research and development from the Cawthron Institute, with the aim of galvanising the aquaculture sector” says Tony Gray.

“The Nelson Marlborough region is set for rapid economic growth in its food and fibre industries, particularly aquaculture, wine and horticulture, and related food products and services. This must be underpinned by industry linked R&D of the highest quality and greatest relevance, which is Cawthron Institute’s specialisation. NMIT and Cawthron Institute are already linked through aquaculture training programmes. We will support further targeted education and training offered by NMIT and Lincoln University” says Charles Eason.

“The EDA is delighted to join with the partnership in seeking to accelerate the development of the region as a specialist hub for marine and maritime education, research and development, and commercial activities. Recent developments at Horoirangi (the Glen) between research, educational and commercial operators is clear evidence of the opportunities available. The partnership believes such developments can and will lead to opportunities for the wider business community and contribute to the region being recognised as a world leader in the marine sector” says Bill Findlater.

“Lincoln University is now working as part of the partnership in establishing a presence in Nelson and to reinforce its long-standing commitment to Blenheim and Marlborough. We can help secure exceptional economic gains for the Nelson-Marlborough region through a highly-energetic partnership with NMIT, the Cawthron Institute and the Nelson EDA” says Dr Andrew West.

Significant work is about to commence on qualifications, R&D planning and other developments, with roll out to begin in 2014.