When small towns experience a major shock, such as a
'mill' closure, the effects can be devastating. We analyse the
effects of two major meat works closures in New Zealand, Patea (1982)
and Whakatu (1986). These examples provide an interesting comparison:
Whakatu is located close to a city, while Patea is relatively isolated.
We describe the impacts of these shocks on population, employment and
housing in each town, and contrast adjustment dynamics resulting from
their differing locations. Both towns experience negative population and
employment impacts; however, consistent with benefits of a near-city
location, the effects on Whakatu are mainly temporary, whereas the
effects on Patea are more permanent. Population age-groups respond
differently to the shocks, consistent with homeownership being a factor
stifling migration responsiveness. The results have implications for
regional development policy and programmes designed to stimulate
homeownership.
KEYWORDS: Mill closures; rural infrastructure; homeownership
Comments and reviews
What are comments? Add a commentNo user comments or reviews for this work
Show comments and reviews from Amazon users