Quarter 2 of the 2025/26 year has marked a clear shift from planning to delivery across the Wairarapa Economic Development Strategy (WEDS) work programme.

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In Food & Fibre, the Future Options project has moved from broad opportunity exploration to a refined shortlist of practical pathways grounded in existing Wairarapa production systems. These options build on what our region already does well and will now be tested alongside producers where there is clear interest.

The Capability Boost pilot has also progressed to implementation readiness, with confirmed industry endorsement and a delivery model focused on targeted, one-on-one business capability uplift. The pilot will launch in early 2026, supporting farm and food businesses to strengthen resilience and performance.

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In Skills & Workforce Development, stronger regional coordination is emerging. Skill Wairarapa has identified a shared focus heading into 2026: “Youth ready for work, and work ready for youth.” Momentum is building across several initiatives:

- A new Strategic Connector is now in place under Attract, Connect, Stay.

- Three-year external funding has been confirmed to support Better Health Workplace workshops.

- 150 ex-MBIE laptops have been secured to enable Digital Fluency delivery and improve equitable access to technology across the region.

- Workplace Visits will launch in 2026 to strengthen connections between employers and future talent.

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In Water Resilience, the A Case for Action report has been finalised and shared with elected members, providing a clear foundation for the next stage of implementation. The first Water Summer Series event was successfully delivered, bringing together 35–40 participants from across industry and government to showcase practical irrigation innovation in action.

Overall, the quarter reflects steady progress, practical delivery, and stronger alignment across partners and sectors.

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What to look forward to

The next quarter will see:

- The launch of the Capability Boost pilot and commencement of business discovery sessions.

- Further testing of Future Options pathways with producers.

- Additional Water Summer Series events in February and March.

- The rollout of the Digital Fluency pilot with Mākoura College in Semester 2.

- The launch of the Tū Hauoranga Trust website, including the Tūhono portal.

- WEDS remains focused on practical action, partnership, and long-term regional impact.