A crowd of people walk down the main street in Leeson surrounded by stalls

More Selwyn residents are gaining jobs and spending locally as the district’s economy continues to lead the country in growth.

New economic figures from Infometrics show employment in Selwyn rose by 5% in the year to December 2024, while national employment levels were unchanged. The number of businesses in Selwyn also rose by 3.7% for the year, compared to 1.9% growth in businesses in Canterbury and 1.3% nationally.

While overall economic growth was slower than in previous quarters, Selwyn continues to outstrip national economic activity. Selwyn's economic activity rose 0.9% in the year to December 2024, ahead of a 0.5% decline nationally.

Signs of business confidence in Selwyn are also shown in the large increase in the value of non-residential consents. Non-residential building consents worth $293.4 million were issued in Selwyn District during the year to December 2024, with the value of consent up by 46% compared to the year earlier. In comparison, the value of consents decreased by 0.9% in New Zealand over the same period.

The growth in consents in Selwyn included several large infrastructure projects, Mayor Sam Broughton says, showing the Council’s investment in relationships through the Kai Aku Riki Economic Development Strategy which continues to support economic growth in the district.

“These figures are encouraging and show that even in tough times nationally, Selwyn is still a great place to live, to get a job or start a business.”

Selwyn residents are also spending more in the district, as consumer spending grew 6.1%. The district also saw a boom in international tourists finding Selwyn a destination. International tourist spending in Selwyn grew by $10 million or 27%, while overall tourism spending was up 8.2%.

“More Kiwis have been discovering the opportunities we have in Selwyn, from great food and fantastic activities on the plains and our stunning high country. It’s good to see the secret is spreading to international visitors that Selwyn is a wonderful place to visit.”

Last modified: 27 Feb 2025 10:44am