February 20, 2020
Northland says kia kaha to infrastructure
Moving the Navy to Whangarei and completing a four-lane expressway from Whangarei to Auckland are on the wish list of a campaign to get central government to boost the Northland economy by funding five infrastructure projects.
Kia Kaha Northland is backed by the region's mayors, iwi and business organisations.
The projects also include:
- A $240 million dry dock to enable ships from New Zealand and Australia to be serviced and repaired in Whangarei rather than have to go to Asia
- An expanded Northport to take the cars and containers currently entering New Zealand through the Port of Auckland;
- Fast-tracking a double-tracked rail line from West Auckland to Whangarei, including the planned spur to Port Marsden.
The Government is expected to make decisions on each project by the ned of May.
Far North Mayor John Carter, Whangarei’s Sheryl Mai and Kaipara’s Jason Smith say it's critical Te Taitokerau speaks with one voice to ensure the Big Five are supported by all parties in Parliament.
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