Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says he is not worried Canterbury's economy has an over-reliance on the Christchurch rebuild, but dismissed suggestions the rebuild's peak is imminent.
Gerry Brownlee Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
Speaking at the launch of the Canterbury Regional Economic Development Strategy yesterday, Mr Brownlee said various groups had predicted when the rebuild will peak and the region's economy might flatline.
But he said he was incredibly optimistic the levels of construction currently being seen in Canterbury - especially in dollar terms - would continue for some time.
"What you're getting is various agencies almost out peaking each other, but I think you've only got to look around to see it's going to go on for some time."
The Minister said the last five years had been difficult for Canterbury but local authorities had responded well.