PM launches $6bn works, critics call it spin
Mortgage advisers could see new opportunities on the horizon as the government launches a $6 billion infrastructure package aimed at jumpstarting the construction sector and boosting regional economies.
With thousands of jobs expected and major transport, health, and education projects in the pipeline, advisers should prepare for shifts in property demand, lending activity, and client needs – especially in areas set to benefit from new investment.
As the construction sector shows early signs of recovery after a tough period of job losses and subdued sentiment, the government’s promise of “spades in the ground” by the end of 2025 could help restore confidence and unlock new lending opportunities.
Job creation and faster freight the key focus
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (pictured left) joined ministers Nicola Willis and Chris Bishop in Drury to launch the infrastructure update, highlighting the economic and transport benefits of the pipeline, RNZ reported.
“This means spades in the ground, jobs throughout the country and a stronger economy,” Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis (pictured centre) said.
Bishop (pictured right) said the package included nearly $4 billion in transport projects alone. These include the SH1 Ōtaki to Levin expressway, Melling Interchange, SH76 Brougham Street upgrade in Christchurch, and several Auckland projects such as the Waihoehoe Road and Omanawa bridge upgrades.
“The projects will create thousands of jobs and lift productivity by getting people and freight to their destinations quickly and safely,” he said.
Mixed reaction from opposition and industry
Labour’s infrastructure spokesperson Kieran McAnulty criticised the announcement as “an announcement of an announcement,” claiming most of the projects had already been planned or begun under the previous government.
“What the infrastructure sector actually want is certainty,” McAnulty said, citing a recent loss of 15,000 construction jobs.
Green MP Julie Anne Genter added, “This is really a government trying to govern with PR stunts and slogans… Spending billions on roads won’t solve our productivity crisis.”
Industry leaders call for pipeline certainty
Infrastructure New Zealand CEO Nick Leggett welcomed the announcement as a much-needed injection into a sector “bleeding capability”.
A recent Infrastructure NZ survey showed 65% of firms had cut staff in the past year, with many workers leaving for overseas opportunities.
Leggett acknowledged most projects were not new, but added: “We’re hopeful that by December of 2026, there’ll be even more work.”
Private sector partnerships and productivity promises
Luxon said the government would collaborate with private investors “where it made sense,” reiterating the goal of getting transport and public service upgrades underway fast.
Among the 2025 project list are new hospitals, road upgrades, school facilities, and seismic strengthening of the Parliamentary Library. The full list spans health, education, environment and justice infrastructure, RNZ reported.
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