In 2001 the people of the West Coast received $92 million from the New Zealand Government as an adjustment package for the loss of indigenous forestry and privatisation of much infrastructure in the late 1990s.

Set up as a charitable Trust, Development West Coast was formed to manage, invest and distribute this fund within the region.

Our aim is to promote employment, generate economic benefits and support positive initiatives on the West Coast.

To achieve this we invest in regional development, business and educational projects that benefit West Coasters – now and in the future.

We are wise investors We make sound, sensible and carefully considered decisions. By 2006, with advice from financial experts, we had grown the initial capital investment by $23 million to $115 million.
We create opportunities By supporting local businesses and education & training initiatives we are providing new opportunities for employment, learning and growth within our communities.
We look ahead We are planning for the future by investing in the people of the West Coast. Each year we fund and facilitate education and training programmes throughout the region. We also provide business mentoring, training and leadership services.
We get results Since 2001 we have invested up to $10 million annually in businesses, organisations and initiatives that benefit the West Coast. Today business confidence on the West Coast is soaring, unemployment has plummeted to 5% and the local economy is booming.

Trust Functions

Development West Coast is involved in four main areas:
Financial market investment Of the capital fund to create revenue to lend to West Coast businesses.
Business services Including business support, training and mentoring.
Business support Including development funding; loans and equity into new and developing West Coast businesses.
Community support Through community funding and sponsorship initiatives.

Our Mission

To assist in creating an environment for sustainable investment, development and employment to which people are attracted.

Our Vision

“Development West Coast will play an ongoing, valuable role in promoting the West Coast as a wealthy, growing, sustainable, vibrant and socially inclusive region. It will foster a positive attitude to life and learning.”

Core Values

  • Exhibit long term planning and good judgement for the benefit of future generations
  • Have a broad perspective, understanding and interaction with the region
  • Promote dialogue, debate and effective communication
  • Display leadership and vision
  • Foster and encourage innovation in a supportive environment
  • Be equitable and consistent in dealing with clients
  • Strive for systemic, sustainable solutions
  • Acknowledge the role and contribution of individuals and organisations
  • Incorporate these core values in all aspects of our operations

Development West Coast is for the benefit of the community of the present and future inhabitants of the West Coast region – Deed of Trust.

West Coast NZ
Westcoastnz.com has been developed by Development West Coast in conjunction with regional stakeholders
Development West Coast
 1st Floor, 112 Mackay Street, P O Box 451 , Greymouth , New Zealand
Phone: 03 768 0140
Fax: 03 768 0150 Email: info@dwc.org.nz