Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

Every now and then I am reminded of how much Tauranga is progressing. Figures recently released by Priority One show that $722.6 million worth of commercial building consents had been issued between January 2012 and December 2016.

I have no doubt that figure is continuing to increase, with several more projects on the horizon, but it is great to see how much is being done and how many opportunities this is creating for people in Tauranga and the Bay.

Looking around, you can spot so many new businesses or developments going on – this is creating jobs and is boosting our local economy.

Also, statistics from the Companies Office show that in 2016 there were 2066 new company incorporations in Tauranga. This was a 25 per cent increase on the year before in which there were 1684 new company incorporations in Tauranga.

It is clear to see why the Bay of Plenty economy is going from strength to strength and recently topped the country for GDP growth. Figures from Statistics New Zealand show that the Bay saw a 7.7 per cent increase in GDP, followed by 6 per cent in Auckland and 4.8 per cent in Otago, while the national increase was 4.1 per cent.

This increase was underpinned by strong performances across the professional and administrative services, and agriculture industries, primarily kiwifruit.

There is a great vibe here in Tauranga and the Bay. Our city has become a place that people want to move to, not just for our lifestyle, but as a place to work and do business.

This is also being supported by recent Budget announcements. There's funding for new schools and classrooms to cater for roll growth, there's funding for new hospitals and roads. We're also supporting families with changes to tax thresholds, Working for Families and the accommodation supplement.

These changes, plus Tauranga's economy and great lifestyle offerings, means our city is a great place to live, work and raise a family.