National has unveiled a plan to bolster growth across the South Island.
National Party Leader Christopher Luxon says a re-elected National Government will invest in the infrastructure, exports, energy and public services needed to drive the South Island's next chapter of growth.
“The South Island is a powerhouse of the New Zealand economy. Worth around $100 billion a year, its farms, vineyards, mines, ports and tourism operators help drive growth, create jobs and generate export income that benefits the entire country.
“National is already delivering for the South Island, including by increasing transport investment by 42 per cent to nearly $4 billion and securing a free trade agreement that will provide a major boost for farmers and growers across the island.
“There's a lot going well in the south, but there's more we can do to unlock its full potential.
“National backs the South Island to succeed, and today we're announcing a package of commitments that will drive further growth and create more opportunities, jobs and higher wages.
“We're investing in infrastructure to support growing communities, cutting red tape that is holding back energy generation, jobs and tourism, and delivering better public services with more hospital beds and classrooms.
“By getting the books back in order and managing the economy responsibly, National can continue investing in growth while improving the public services New Zealanders depend on.
“We're fixing the basics, backing growth and building the infrastructure needed to help the South Island reach its full potential.”
Read more about National’s Plan for the South Island in the attached policy document.
Commitments in National’s Plan for the South Island include:
- Enabling investment in the Rolleston intermodal freight hub.
- Making public transport funding available for Queenstown gondola solutions in the National Land Transport Fund.
- Development of a new Government Policy Statement on mining and extraction under the Fast Track Approvals Act.
- A new requirement for data centre projects to be accompanied by new, firmed generation.
- Completion of Tower Three at Christchurch Hospital, delivering 96 additional beds for patients.