Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says New Zealand must continue backing regional industries and infrastructure projects that create jobs and strengthen economic resilience, while balancing growing environmental expectations.
Speaking on a range of issues following Budget 2026, Jones defended New Zealand’s commercial fishing sector after new data showed the country’s bottom-trawl footprint remains confined to a relatively small proportion of New Zealand waters.
Jones says the latest information demonstrates that trawling activity is concentrated within a limited area and that significant parts of New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone remain untouched by the industry. However, environmental groups continue to argue that the impacts of bottom trawling within those areas can be substantial, particularly for fragile seabed ecosystems and marine biodiversity.
The debate comes as pressure grows for stronger marine protection measures and increased restrictions on commercial fishing activities in sensitive environments.
Jones maintains the seafood sector remains a critical contributor to regional economies, supporting thousands of jobs and generating significant export revenue for New Zealand.
He says future policy must balance environmental stewardship with the economic realities facing coastal communities that rely on fishing and seafood processing for employment and economic activity.
The Minister also welcomed the commencement of construction on a major solar energy project on Stewart Island/Rakiura.
The project is expected to significantly reduce the island’s reliance on diesel-generated electricity while lowering long-term power costs for residents and businesses.
Jones says the development demonstrates how renewable energy projects can improve energy security for remote communities while reducing carbon emissions and exposure to volatile fuel prices.
The Stewart Island initiative is being viewed as a potential model for other isolated communities across Aotearoa, particularly those facing high electricity costs due to dependence on imported fuels.
Regional leaders have increasingly called for greater investment in locally generated renewable energy as part of wider efforts to strengthen economic resilience and sustainability.
Jones says regional development funding can play a key role in supporting projects that deliver both economic and environmental benefits.
He argues investments in infrastructure, energy generation, transport networks and resource industries can help regional communities adapt to changing economic conditions while creating new opportunities for future growth.
The Minister also defended Budget 2026, describing it as a pragmatic package focused on economic recovery, infrastructure investment and supporting productive sectors of the economy.
While critics have argued the Budget falls short in areas such as housing, health and social services, Jones says the Government is focused on rebuilding economic strength and ensuring regions are not left behind.
The Budget includes funding aimed at regional infrastructure, resource development, energy security and economic growth initiatives, areas Jones has consistently championed throughout his ministerial career.
As debates continue over environmental protection, renewable energy and economic development, Jones says New Zealand must avoid false choices between prosperity and sustainability.
Instead, he argues regional communities need policies that deliver jobs, investment and resilience while ensuring natural resources are managed responsibly for future generations.
