Infrastructure New Zealand is calling for a fundamental overhaul of how the country plans, funds and delivers major infrastructure projects, arguing New Zealand already spends enough on roads, hospitals, water and public assets but consistently receives poor value for that investment.
The organisation has released its 2026 Election Manifesto, urging all political parties to commit to a long-term national infrastructure strategy that extends beyond election cycles and provides certainty for industry, investors and communities.
Infrastructure New Zealand says the country invests billions of dollars each year in infrastructure, yet international comparisons continue to rank New Zealand among the least efficient developed nations when it comes to delivering projects on time and within budget.
The organisation argues the problem is not the amount being spent but how projects are selected, prioritised and managed.
According to the manifesto, frequent changes in political direction, inconsistent investment pipelines and short-term decision-making create unnecessary costs that are ultimately borne by taxpayers and households.
Projects are often delayed, redesigned or cancelled following changes of government, disrupting the construction sector and making it difficult for companies to invest confidently in workers, equipment and innovation.
A key recommendation in the manifesto is the development of a long-term national economic vision that survives changes in government.
Infrastructure New Zealand argues decisions about transport, water, energy, health and digital infrastructure should be guided by an agreed vision for the country’s future economy rather than short-term political priorities.
The organisation says infrastructure should be viewed as the foundation for economic growth, regional development and improved living standards rather than an end in itself.
Among the reforms proposed are:
- establishing a nationally sequenced infrastructure pipeline;
- strengthening long-term planning across central and local government;
- improving procurement and project delivery;
- recognising the value of high-quality design;
- providing greater certainty for construction firms and investors.
Infrastructure New Zealand believes these changes would reduce costs, improve productivity and help retain skilled workers who currently leave the industry during periods of reduced investment.
The organisation says infrastructure costs directly affect the cost of living.
It argues that every dollar wasted through inefficient project delivery is money that cannot be invested in better public services, lower taxes or future economic growth.
By improving planning and delivery, New Zealand could achieve better infrastructure outcomes without necessarily increasing overall spending.
The manifesto also has implications for Māori communities.
Long-term infrastructure planning influences investment in transport links, water services, broadband connectivity, housing, schools and healthcare across regions where many Māori live.
For iwi and Māori organisations increasingly investing in infrastructure, renewable energy, housing developments and regional economic projects, a more stable investment pipeline could provide greater certainty for partnerships and long-term planning.
Many Māori leaders have also argued that future infrastructure decisions should incorporate Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, support regional development and ensure Māori are involved in planning projects that affect whenua, wai and local communities.
Infrastructure policy is expected to feature prominently during the 2026 General Election, with parties already outlining competing approaches to transport, housing, water reform, energy security and climate resilience.
Infrastructure New Zealand says its manifesto is intended to provide practical, evidence-based recommendations rather than ideological solutions, drawing on approaches used successfully in other developed countries.
As New Zealand faces growing demands from population growth, ageing infrastructure and climate adaptation, the organisation believes greater political consensus will be needed if the country is to deliver better value from future investment.
The manifesto argues that with better planning, stronger governance and greater certainty, New Zealand has the capability to build world-class infrastructure without paying world-class prices.
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