The Government is pouring $140 million into the West Coast to go towards tourism, digital connectivity and issuing loans to mining and milk projects.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement today, saying the West Coast "has so much potential".
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said $87.5m would go towards tourism projects. Additional capacity for the TranzAlpine service, developing trails and upgrading the Pike29 Memorial Trail were among the projects to gain funding.
"This investment will not only improve visitor experiences and safety at Punakaiki, but also protect the unique environment and cultural significance of these sites by creating more sustainable tourism offerings," he said.
A loan of $10m will go towards mining garnet near Hokitika.
"West Coasters know a thing or two about mining and this project will make the most of the range of mining skills and infrastructure that already exists in the region," Mr Jones said.
"Up to 50 permanent, high-paying jobs will be established through the Ruatapu Garnet Project, as well as boosting support industries like transport and trades in the region."
The funding will make a $9.9m loan to create a milk segregation project to collect and process different types of milks.
"The objective is to encourage farmers to produce milk that can be turned into much higher value products, delivering higher returns without requiring an increase in herd numbers," Mr Jones said.
"Westland Milk Products has indicated it may explore using the facility to produce non-bovine milk, such as sheep and goat milk or plant-based protein."
An improvement of digital connectivity is also on the cards, with $44.8m invested to extend internet access and mobile coverage across the West Coast.
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