North Canterbury has a population base of more than 50,000 with 75% resident in the Waimakariri District.  The region boasts strong agricultural and horticultural sectors based on some 800,000 ha of productive land. There are over 8,000 businesses which, in the main, employ fewer than five people.

The significant population growth in the south of North Canterbury is being driven by lifestyle choice rather than job location. Significant residential development in the north of the region is driven by recreation needs.

North Canterbury has major comparative advantages in its fertile soils, temperate climate, significant water resources, and natural features that present opportunities for the further development of the agriculture, horticulture, viticulture, forestry and tourism sectors with their associated service industries.