Internationalisation of the Rotorua economy and changing local-global links : the restructuring of manufacturing, wholesale and state sector activity between 1985-1991 : this thesis is presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Geography, Massey University

Abstract

This thesis focuses on changes which have occurred in selected manufacturing, wholesale and state sector services within Rotorua since the mid 1980s, particularly between 1987 and 1990. The period between 1987 and 1990 witnessed considerable and far reaching restructuring of both private and state sector activity within both the Rotorua and New Zealand economy. The year 1987 is of significance for two reasons. Firstly, the state sector restructuring commenced in April and secondly, the stock market crashed in October. The fallout from these two events contribute in part to the ongoing character of the restructuring process in Rotorua and New Zealand. This thesis emphasises that the current restructuring of activity rests on particular organisational and technological processes which are international in perspective and which alter the direct and indirect (often unrecognised) links activity in Rotorua has to the wider national and international economy. This thesis also argues that the current restructuring of activity comprising the Rotorua economy, through technological and organisational changes, are in fact the local response to a global phenomenon - the continuing internationalisation of production and consumption.