MEDIA RELEASE
Date: 8 October 2024
For Immediate Release
Government Launches New $1.5 Billion Infrastructure Development Fund
Wellington – The Government has today announced the creation of a new $1.5 billion infrastructure fund aimed at upgrading essential public services across New Zealand, with a focus on improving transport networks, schools, and hospitals. This initiative, part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to future-proof the country's infrastructure, will see significant investment in both urban and regional areas.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated that the fund will help address critical infrastructure needs while creating jobs and stimulating the economy.
“This investment will not only improve the everyday lives of New Zealanders by modernizing our schools, roads, and healthcare facilities, but it will also create thousands of jobs across the country,” Ardern said. “We are prioritising projects that will benefit future generations and make New Zealand more resilient.”
The fund will be rolled out over the next five years, with key projects including:
- Transport Network Upgrades: $600 million will be dedicated to upgrading highways and public transportation, focusing on easing congestion in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, as well as improving access in rural areas.
- Education Infrastructure: $400 million will be invested in the refurbishment and expansion of schools, particularly in growing regions where student numbers are increasing rapidly.
- Healthcare Facilities: $500 million will go towards modernizing hospitals, upgrading equipment, and ensuring that regional healthcare services are fit for purpose.
Minister for Infrastructure, Megan Woods, emphasized that regional New Zealand would see significant benefits from this initiative.
“While our cities continue to grow, we must ensure that our regions do not fall behind. This fund will ensure that every part of New Zealand has the infrastructure necessary to thrive, from better roads to improved health and education services,” Minister Woods said.
The Government has also committed to ensuring that these projects meet the highest environmental standards, with a focus on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
“The infrastructure of tomorrow needs to reflect our commitment to a clean, green New Zealand. We are taking a long-term approach by integrating sustainable practices in every project funded under this scheme,” said Minister for Climate Change, James Shaw.
Further Details: The Government will work closely with local councils, iwi, and private sector partners to identify and prioritize projects. Consultation with affected communities will begin in the coming weeks, and construction is expected to start in early 2025.
For further media inquiries, please contact:
Communications Office
Ministry for Infrastructure
Phone: (04) 123 4567
Email: media@infrastructure.govt.nz
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