Investing to kick-start key infrastructure in Kaipara

The Government will help pave the way for future economic growth in Kaipara with a $20.39m investment from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) to strengthen the district's transport infrastructure and food and horticulture sector.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones made the announcement at Otamatea Marae in Kaipara today.

"There has been a long history of underinvestment in Northland, particularly in infrastructure. The Government is absolutely committed to investing in the public services and infrastructure that make our country and communities strong," Jacinda Ardern said.

"The PGF is at the heart of our Government's plan to grow New Zealand's regions and ensure all New Zealanders share in a strong and growing economy. One of the key priorities of the PGF is investing in infrastructure to create strong regional foundations, create new long-term jobs and drive growth.

"Reliable transport infrastructure is crucial to Northland's economic success as it affects every part of the region's economy. Strengthening transport links is critical to fully unlocking the potential of the North and enable new opportunities for local people and business.

"That's why we have announced that the Government will invest $19.41 million to upgrade transport links in Kaipara. An additional $6.84 million will be invested from the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF); this plus local contributions bring the total investment in Kaipara transport infrastructure to $27.26 million.

"We will also explore upgrading Kaipara wharves and water transport with the Kaipara Moana helping the district leverage more benefits from the Kaipara Harbour, the biggest in New Zealand.

"The Government will also invest $980,000 towards Kaipara Kai – a project that will explore new crop and stock types, and aquaculture opportunities for the region. The initiative will also promote high-value cropping on the district's significant fertile whenua assets by utilising existing soil and crop research and environmental best-practice. This will move faming activities further up the value chain as well as developing capability in the local farming community.

Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones said the projects will not only enable greater land utilisation but also create more resilient communities and have significant environmental impacts for the district.

"From primary industry to tourism, Northland is primed for strong growth and resilient, reliable transport network is an important part of achieving this growth," Shane Jones said.

"Local people have told us that infrastructure is a priority for them and a key enabler of future economic growth. Today's announcement demonstrates our commitment to working with regions to generate new economic opportunities.

"When the Provincial Growth Fund was established, core infrastructure investment was identified as a powerful catalyst for regional development. Today's commitment to Kaipara will help the region leverage its substantial assets in the primary sector and generate meaningful and sustainable economic growth.

"While there are improvements, we know that Northland still faces significant economic and social challenges, such as 5.6 per cent unemployment which is far above the national rate, and an economy that has been growing much slower than the national average.

"Investments like those announced today demonstrate our commitment to tackle these challenges and turn around the economic fortunes of the North and its people," Shane Jones said.

Notes to editors: Funding from the Provincial Growth Fund is approved in principle and announced, after which contracts are negotiated. Some funding may depend on completion of business cases. Payments are made once agreed milestones are met. These are set as part of contract negotiations, and differ from project to project.

PGF Funding announced today (Roads $14.46m, Moana $4.95m, Kai $0.98m)

*Plus additional $4.91m contribution from NLTF

** Plus additional $10,000 contribution from Te Roroa Iwi

*** Plus additional $1.93m contribution from NLTF and $1.0m from Kaipara District Council

Northland Provincial Growth Fund announcements to date: