Minister for Regional Development Shane Jones talks regional development.
Minister for Regional Economic Development, Shane Jones, is spearheading a renewed investment drive across the country’s provinces-continuing his advocacy for targeted infrastructure funding to bolster economic growth, resilience, and local opportunity.
Since launching the $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) in 2024, Jones has conducted 15 regional summits-from Nelson and Tai Tokerau to Hawke’s Bay and Southland-inviting iwi, councils, local businesses, and community leaders to identify priority projects and inform funding decisions.
The RIF has so far allocated over $550 million towards initiatives spanning water infrastructure, energy security, Māori economic development, and resilience preparations. As Jones explained, “We’re looking to invest and co-invest in resilience infrastructure that improves regions’ ability to absorb, adapt and respond to stresses and shocks”.
On a recent visit to the Bay of Plenty, Jones officially opened two notable projects in Kaingaroa and Kawerau:
- The Kaingaroa Community Centre, part of an $11.1 million community development plan, which includes medical, kaumātua/rangatahi spaces, a digital hub, and more. RIF funding contributed $7.2 million alongside central and local co-investors. This project generated 306 full-time equivalent jobs during its build.
- In Kawerau, a new off-highway road, funded partly by a $2.8 million PGF grant and local business investment, now connects the industrial park to forestry routes—reducing heavy traffic through town.
Jones noted that even these “smaller” rural projects create meaningful ripple effects for local economies, community pride, and long-term growth.
Strategic Sector Investments: Geothermal, Mining & Aquaculture
Beyond visible infrastructure, Jones is championing innovation in energy and resource industries:
- He’s backed super‑critical geothermal exploration in iwi-owned lands along the Taupō Volcanic Zone, allocating $60 million for deep-drilling research and engaging directly with Māori landowners to shape a Māori-Crown-industry partnership.
- The RIF is also tracking applications for aquaculture, mining, and water storage, aiming at economic diversification and resilience through a “very rational regime” for land access and permits.
Looking Ahead: Bigger Fund, Deeper Reach
Jones signals ongoing expansion of regional investment plans. With the RIF exceeding the halfway mark in funding distribution, further rounds targeting resilience and growth priorities are expected. He remains committed to responding to region-led proposals while continuing direct engagement through local summits
However, his agenda has not been without controversy-some critics argue that aggressive mining and energy permitting risk environmental harm and may reduce regulatory oversight. Jones has defended these shifts, portraying them as essential to national energy security and provincial prosperity.
