Agriculture, Food and Fibre

Clutha’s Integrated Value Chain

From productive land to global markets, Clutha strength lies in the connections between each stage of the value chain. Local businesses, infrastructure and skilled people work together to add value, create jobs and deliver quality products to the world.

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A Productive Region Built on Quality and Innovation

Agriculture has shaped the Clutha District for generations and remains the foundation of one of New Zealand's most productive regional economies. Supported by fertile land, a favourable climate, experienced people and well-established supply chains, Clutha is recognised for producing high-quality food and fibre for domestic and international markets.

Agriculture, forestry and fishing contribute almost one-third of the district's GDP, making it Clutha's largest industry and a key driver of economic growth, employment and export earnings.

Agriculture, Food and Fibre at a Glance

Indicator	Figure Source: Infometrics Regional Economic Profile.
Contribution to GDP	30.9%
Employment	28.4% of filled jobs
Key Industries	Dairy, sheep and beef, forestry, cropping, food processing
Export Focus	Domestic and international markets
Supporting Industries	Engineering, transport, contracting, veterinary, professional services

Why in Clutha?

Productive Land
Clutha's fertile soils, reliable rainfall and favourable climate support a diverse range of farming systems, from intensive dairy production through to sheep and beef, cropping and forestry.
Established Supply Chains
Businesses benefit from mature supply chains that connect producers with processors, transport operators, exporters, contractors and specialist service providers, creating an efficient and collaborative operating environment.
Skilled People
Generations of farming, processing and manufacturing have developed a workforce with practical knowledge, technical capability and a strong culture of innovation.
Access to Markets
The district's strategic location, strong transport links and proximity to Port Otago enable efficient access to domestic and international markets.

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Innovation Driving Productivity

Clutha's primary industries continue to evolve through the adoption of new technologies, improved environmental practices and productivity gains.

Across the district, businesses are embracing precision agriculture, automation, digital technologies and sustainable farming practices to improve efficiency, enhance product quality and meet changing market expectations.

Innovation is supported through collaboration between industry, research organisations, education providers and local businesses, ensuring the sector continues to adapt and remain internationally competitive.

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Opportunities for Growth

Clutha offers opportunities across the agriculture, food and fibre value chain.

Areas with strong potential include:

Food and fibre processing
Value-added manufacturing
Agritech and digital technologies
Forestry and wood products
Farm services and engineering
Agricultural logistics and transport
Renewable energy applications within the primary sector
Export-focused businesses

As demand for sustainably produced food and fibre continues to grow, Clutha is well positioned to support further investment and business expansion.

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Sector Profile

Agriculture, food and fibre in Clutha extends well beyond primary production. The sector encompasses farming, forestry, food processing, transport, engineering, rural servicing, research, professional services and export businesses, creating a highly integrated ecosystem that supports economic growth across the district.

From family-owned farming operations to nationally recognised processors and exporters, businesses throughout the sector contribute to a resilient economy that continues to innovate and adapt to changing markets.

Want to See Agriculture in Action?

Discover how Clutha businesses are innovating, expanding and adding value across the agriculture, food and fibre sector through our Business Case Studies

How Clutha Development
Can Help

Whether you are considering a new investment, expanding an existing operation or exploring opportunities within Clutha's agriculture, food and fibre sector, Clutha Development can provide local knowledge, connections and practical support to help progress your plans.

Our team can assist with: