The Government has made significant strides in addressing New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit and improving its transport systems, say Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown, noting that sustained action is needed to overcome years of underinvestment.

From Sunday, a new national infrastructure agency (built on Crown Infrastructure Partners) will start operating to facilitate private sector investment and strengthen infrastructure financing. The agency will: Act as the Crown’s interface for unsolicited private proposals.

Partner with agencies and local governments on privately financed projects. Manage central government infrastructure funds. 

Work has begun on a 30-year National Infrastructure Plan to provide long-term stability in planning, funding, and delivering infrastructure. A discussion document, open for feedback until December 10, outlines the country’s long-term infrastructure needs, planned investments, and gaps. The government aims for bipartisan support to ensure enduring success.

A refreshed PPP framework has been released to enhance delivery, funding, and financing of infrastructure projects while attracting international capital and expertise.

In response to over 62,000 potholes on NZ roads this year, a record $5.5 billion has been allocated to state highway and local road maintenance. To ensure efficiency: 95% of potholes on main state highways will be repaired within 24 hours of identification. 85% of potholes on regional highways will meet the same timeline. Efforts include using premium materials and innovative technologies to prevent recurring potholes.

The Government has revived the cancelled RoNS programme, committing to 17 projects to enhance economic growth and safety. Construction is underway on key routes, including four-laning the Hawke’s Bay Expressway, a vital freight corridor carrying 29,000 vehicles daily. The programme aims to reduce travel times, improve resilience, and boost regional and national productivity.

Reforms to planning laws will speed up infrastructure project approvals. The Fast-Track Approvals Bill, expected to pass this year, includes 43 priority projects giving way to at least 180km of new road, rail, and public transport routes. Additional projects can apply to use this process once approved.