Regional Development Minister Shane Jones to speak in Rotorua

Shane Jones. Photo/File

He's the man responsible for a $3 billion fund earmarked for regional development – now Rotorua people have a chance to hear from, and question, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones.

Jones, who also holds the forestry and infrastructure portfolios and is Associate Minister of Finance and Transport, will speak at the Rotorua Chamber of Commerce speaker series on Wednesday, April 4. He officially launched the Provincial Growth Fund at the end of February, declaring the fund "open for business" and with the potential to make a real difference to the people of provincial New Zealand.

Rotorua Chamber of Commerce chief executive Allison Lawton said it was a real privilege to have Jones speaking in Rotorua and she hoped local business people would turn up to hear what he had to say.

"His portfolios are ones with the potential to have a significant impact on Rotorua."

Lawton said the Pukeroa Oruawhata sponsored speaker series was a great opportunity for local business people to hear from a range of relevant and inspiring speakers.

"The Rotorua Chamber of Commerce wants to see Rotorua become the fastest growing regional economy in New Zealand, with the chamber supporting this by leading and partnering with industry for economic and business growth.

"We are excited to have Mr Jones speaking and to learn more about the opportunities available for Rotorua."

Tickets are $40 for members and $54.99 for non-members, including lunch. They can be bought from the chamber website, www.rotoruachamber.co.nz.

The event is being held at Holiday Inn Rotorua and runs from 11.30am to 1.15pm.