Articles tagged with Ct

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Government Invests $30M to Boost New Zealand’s Hydrogen Sector and Economy

12 Aug 2026, 10:34 AM | 1 month ago | 500 views

The Government has allocated $30 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support projects that grow New Zealand's hydrogen sector, emphasizing hydrogen's potential to diversify renewable energy and reduce emissions in heavy transport and industry. This initiative complements existing renewable resources, aims to enhance energy security, and encourages innovation and private investment, particularly in regional areas. Additionally, the Government is developing a regulatory framework for emerging white and orange hydrogen industries to provide clarity and attract further investment.

Tags: Shane Jones New Zealand Hydrogen Regional Infrastructure Fund Renewable Energy Hydrogen Action Plan White Hydrogen Orange Hydrogen Kānoa Energy Sector

Government Invests $30 Million to Boost New Zealand’s Hydrogen Sector Growth

12 Aug 2026, 10:34 AM | 1 month ago | 535 views

The Government has allocated $30 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support projects aimed at growing New Zealand’s hydrogen sector, emphasizing its potential to enhance renewable energy, reduce emissions, and improve energy security. Minister Shane Jones highlighted hydrogen’s role in heavy transport and industry where electrification is less viable, and noted ongoing efforts to establish regulatory frameworks for white and orange hydrogen development. This funding package aims to foster innovation, attract private investment, and strengthen regional economic growth through emerging hydrogen technologies.

Tags: Shane Jones New Zealand Hydrogen Regional Infrastructure Fund Renewable Energy Hydrogen Action Plan White Hydrogen Orange Hydrogen Kānoa Energy Sector

$15M Regional Fund Boosts Aspiring Materials' Green Hydrogen & Critical Minerals Plant

12 Aug 2026, 10:32 AM | 1 month ago | 518 views

The Regional Infrastructure Fund will invest $15 million in Aspiring Materials Limited to develop a $31 million commercial-scale facility in Southland that produces green hydrogen and critical minerals using patented technology. This government-supported project aims to boost economic development, reduce emissions in sectors where electrification is challenging, and strengthen New Zealand’s energy sector through innovation and advanced manufacturing. The funding, part of an $80 million allocation for critical minerals, highlights the government's commitment to diverse energy solutions and regional growth.

Tags: Shane Jones Aspiring Materials Limited Regional Infrastructure Fund New Zealand hydrogen green hydrogen critical minerals Regional Development Hydrogen Action Plan Christchurch

Government Invests $15M in Southland Facility for Green Hydrogen and Critical Minerals

12 Aug 2026, 10:32 AM | 1 month ago | 580 views

The Regional Infrastructure Fund will invest $15 million in Aspiring Materials Limited to develop a $31 million commercial-scale plant in Southland that produces green hydrogen and extracts critical minerals from quarry waste using patented technology. This government-backed initiative aims to boost economic development, support energy innovation, and position New Zealand’s regions to capitalize on emerging industrial opportunities, particularly in sectors where hydrogen can reduce emissions. The funding, part of an $80 million allocation for critical minerals projects, aligns with the Hydrogen Action Plan to diversify energy solutions and enhance economic resilience.

Tags: Shane Jones Aspiring Materials Limited Regional Infrastructure Fund Hydrogen Green Hydrogen New Zealand Regional Development Hydrogen Action Plan Critical Minerals Energy Innovation

Chatham Islands Boost Connectivity with $15.5M Wharf, Fuel & Air Upgrades

12 Aug 2026, 9:03 AM | 1 month ago | 538 views

The New Zealand government is investing over $15 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to upgrade critical wharf and fuel infrastructure on the Chatham Islands and expand air travel connectivity through an interlining agreement between Air Chathams and Air New Zealand. These improvements include major wharf repairs, upgraded fuel facilities to support a new supply vessel, and enhanced airport infrastructure, culminating in the new terminal at Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport as part of a broader $45 million investment since 2018. These projects aim to strengthen the islands’ economic sustainability, improve transportation reliability, and support essential services such as healthcare, tourism, and business growth.

Tags: Shane Jones Mark Patterson Inia William Tuuta Air Chathams Air New Zealand Chatham Islands Crown Infrastructure Delivery Kaingaroa Wharf Regional Development Minister Associate Regional Development Minister

Government Seeks Feedback to Strengthen New Zealand’s Organic Sector Regulations

11 Aug 2026, 4:26 PM | 1 month ago | 515 views

The Government, led by Associate Agriculture Minister Mike Butterick, is seeking feedback on proposals to strengthen New Zealand’s organic sector through a modern regulatory framework, including a national organic mark and updated regulations. The organic sector is valued at $1.18 billion with significant exports, and the new Organic Products and Production Act 2023 aims to boost consumer confidence, business certainty, and international trade. Ongoing consultation with the organic community ensures the regulations support growth and reflect stakeholder input, with detailed proposals available on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.

Tags: Mike Butterick New Zealand Organic Products and Production Act 2023 Ministry for Primary Industries organic sector organic regulations organic exports government consultation regional communities sustainable products

Westgate Station Opens Early, Boosting Auckland’s Northwest Busway Transit

11 Aug 2026, 11:16 AM | 2 months ago | 534 views

Westgate Station, the first completed part of the Northwest Busway project in northwest Auckland, has been delivered on time and under budget, providing a modern public transport hub that supports growing communities and improves connectivity. The broader Northwest Busway will offer a rapid transit connection between Brigham Creek and Auckland city centre, significantly enhancing transport capacity, reducing congestion, and promoting economic growth with expected future passenger journeys rising from 1,000 to over 13,000 daily by 2041. The project exemplifies efficient infrastructure delivery, with ongoing development including Brigham Creek Station, and aligns with government priorities to invest in practical, value-for-money public transport solutions for Auckland’s expanding population.

Tags: Chris Bishop Wayne Brown NZ Transport Agency Auckland Transport National Infrastructure Funding and Finance Westgate Station Northwest Busway Brigham Creek Station WX1 service Auckland Mayor

18 Proposals Submitted for Local Government Reform Under Head Start Initiative

11 Aug 2026, 6:00 AM | 2 months ago | 534 views

Eighteen proposals have been submitted to the Government under the Head Start local government reform initiative, aimed at simplifying and streamlining local councils in response to community needs and past reform challenges. The proposals will be assessed by officials and reviewed by Cabinet in September to decide which proceed to a detailed design phase, with final implementation decisions expected before the 2028 local government elections. The Government will also address areas not progressing through Head Start by considering feedback and lessons learned, and will provide further updates after Cabinet's review.

Tags: Chris Bishop Simon Watts Head Start local government reform RMA Reform Minister Local Government Minister government proposals Cabinet local councils 2028 local government elections

Fast-Track Approval Boosts Hananui Aquaculture Project and NZ Economy

10 Aug 2026, 1:55 PM | 2 months ago | 511 views

The Hananui Aquaculture Project off Stewart Island, the first aquaculture venture approved through New Zealand's Fast-track process, is expected to produce 14,400 tonnes of salmon annually, generating over $310 million in sales and creating up to 480 jobs. This approval aligns with government efforts to support Māori commercial aquaculture and aims to boost the sector towards a $3 billion annual revenue target by 2035 through large-scale open-ocean farming. The Fast-track process, which has approved 31 projects so far, accelerates development timelines, supporting regional growth, job creation, and New Zealand’s leadership in sustainable seafood production.

Tags: Chris Bishop Shane Jones Ngāi Tahu Seafood Resources Limited Hananui Aquaculture Project Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act New Zealand salmon farms Aquaculture Development Plan Southland

Delmore Auckland Housing Project Gets Fast-Track Approval Boosting Local Economy

10 Aug 2026, 12:02 PM | 2 months ago | 498 views

The Delmore residential development in Auckland, covering over 61 hectares and including 1,200 dwellings, commercial areas, parks, and ecological restoration, has received Fast-track approval, marking it the 30th such project approved. The development will contribute $1.22 billion to the local economy over 25 years and features a privately managed water and wastewater system designed to meet current and future needs, with conditions ensuring environmental and infrastructural compliance. Overall, 30 projects have been approved through the Fast-track process, with 59 currently progressing and 65 referred, reflecting the government's ongoing commitment to accelerating infrastructure and housing developments.

Tags: Chris Bishop Vineway Limited Delmore Auckland Ōrewa State Highway 1 independent expert panel wastewater treatment infrastructure

New Child and Youth Mental Health Service Launched in Central Otago

10 Aug 2026, 11:19 AM | 2 months ago | 518 views

A new child and youth mental health and addiction service, Hono ki te Ora, has been launched in Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes to provide a single, coordinated point of access for young people aged 5 to 24 and their families. The service aims to simplify navigation of the mental health system, reduce fragmentation, and connect individuals to appropriate support without duplication, especially in this geographically isolated and fast-growing region. Since May, the service has received 80 referrals, actively supporting 35 young people and strengthening community relationships to ensure timely and effective care.

Tags: Matt Doocey Hono ki te Ora Central Otago Queenstown Lakes child mental health youth addiction service New Zealand mental health support young people community services

New Zealand Imposes 36th Sanctions Round Targeting Russia's War Supporters

08 Aug 2026, 11:58 AM | 2 months ago | 594 views

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced a new sanctions package targeting 33 individuals and entities supporting Russia's illegal war against Ukraine, with a focus on cyber actors and those involved in the forced relocation and re-education of Ukrainian children. The sanctions also address malicious cyber activities, propaganda efforts, and support from actors in Russia’s military-industrial complex as well as from the DPRK and Iran. Since March 2022, New Zealand has imposed sanctions on over 2,000 targets across 36 rounds, reinforcing its commitment to oppose Russia's aggression.

Tags: Winston Peters Russia Ukraine New Zealand DPRK Iran Moscow cyber actors sanctions Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Government Launches Second Round of Zero-Interest Loans for 10,000 EV Chargers by 2030

08 Aug 2026, 9:45 AM | 2 months ago | 571 views

The New Zealand Government aims to install 10,000 public electric vehicle (EV) chargers by 2030, launching a second round of zero-interest concessionary loans to stimulate private investment in charging infrastructure. This initiative addresses range anxiety and the low charger-to-EV ratio by partnering with the private sector and building on the success of the first funding round, which added 2,574 new charge points. Additionally, the Government is implementing complementary measures such as developing charger standards, easing solar and EV charger installations, and promoting time-of-use electricity plans to support electrification and reduce power costs.

Tags: Chris Bishop Simeon Brown National Infrastructure Funding and Financing NIFFCo ChargeNet Meridian Energy New Zealand Government electric vehicle chargers EV infrastructure public charging network

Kiwi Businesses Save Time Accessing $400M Government Grants with New Funding Explorer

07 Aug 2026, 11:11 AM | 2 months ago | 500 views

The upgraded Funding Explorer, launched by the New Zealand government, consolidates 15 funding opportunities from seven agencies into a single searchable platform, enabling businesses to quickly find relevant grants and support. This tool addresses previous fragmentation and navigation difficulties, allowing businesses to search by sector or objective, such as commercializing ideas or boosting productivity. The initiative, praised by industry leaders, aims to reduce time spent on government paperwork, fostering more investment, job creation, and stronger exports.

Tags: Cameron Brewer Catherine Lye Funding Explorer Small Business Manufacturing business grants government agencies Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa business funding business.govt.nz

New Zealand Government Monetises $702M Chorus Debt to Fund Key Infrastructure Projects

07 Aug 2026, 8:43 AM | 2 months ago | 607 views

The New Zealand Government has entered binding agreements to monetise $642 million of interest-free loans provided to Chorus for fibre broadband rollout, generating net proceeds of approximately $702 million. This early monetisation enables reinvestment in critical infrastructure projects such as roads, hospitals, and schools, supporting economic growth and addressing the country's infrastructure deficit. The transaction does not affect Chorus ownership or services and reflects the Government’s commitment to disciplined public finances and strategic infrastructure investment.

Tags: Nicola Willis Chris Bishop Chorus The Crown New Zealand NIFFCo Finance Minister Infrastructure Minister Budget 2026