Paula Thompson BOP Regional Councillor www.envbop.govt.nz

Sincere congratulations to Simon and Natalie Bridges on Simon's recent appointment as a Cabinet Minister.

That is the result of focus, determination, dedication, talent and support. And now Tauranga has a fresh, energetic, supporter (and team) in the heart of government.

Tauranga's time has arrived to make the most of its huge potential.

And that is why I believe Tauranga should do what it can to achieve a university ‘campus' – not just because it provides tertiary opportunities within the Bay of Plenty but also because it will provide the Bay with much more research and development capacity and capability. At a recent Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Harbour symposium we heard about the fabulous work being undertaken in a huge cross section of areas in terms of exploring the Ocean's bounty.

Aquaculture, harvesting bio fuels from sea lettuce, marine pharmaceutical potential, eel farming, etc.

As we move to thinking about how to better position the Bay of Plenty to meet the demands of the future it is clear that one of our top competitive advantages is the ocean environment coupled with outstanding research capability.

We are already blessed with natural abundance and some outstanding academic talent – but there is still a deficit in research investment to nurture and harvest responsibly, the magic of the sea.

We have the opportunity to be a leader in taking a sustainable approach to exploring, protecting and responsibly farming the ocean.

It will take focus, determination and lots of support – but it is time.