Delaying infrastructure projects has cost New Zealand $11.8 billion over 25 years, report finds
A New Zealand Infrastructure Commission report has found that pausing, cancelling and delaying infrastructure projects has cost the country NZ$11.8 billion over the past 25 years. The commission recommends strengthening the strategic planning framework.
RNZ Business · RNZ NewsA report from New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Te Waihanga has identified that pausing, cancelling or rescheduling infrastructure projects over the past 25 years has produced a total cost of NZ$11.8 billion. Commission Chief Executive Geoff Cooper said: 'The findings show that an infrastructure framework independent of political cycles is critical.'
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop said: 'The government is committed to publishing the second draft of the 30-year national infrastructure plan by year-end.' Labour Party shadow minister Megan Woods said: 'Previous governments share responsibility; a bipartisan framework is needed; a single-point political solution is not the right answer.'
New Zealand Council for Infrastructure Development CEO Nick Leggett said: 'Business needs predictability to make long-term project economic decisions.' By contrast, economist Brad Olsen assessed: 'Projects that were saved must also be accounted for; not all delays constitute a loss.' The government will start public consultation on the infrastructure draft next month. Procedural framing only.
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