17 Jul 2026
3 months ago
731 views
The government announced that KiwiRail will operate two new Cook Strait rail ferries, paying commercial fees to ports and Ferry Holdings, securing a practical and affordable ferry service that preserves rail connectivity and supports freight and passenger resilience. This decision follows the cancellation of the over-budget and over-complicated iReX project, with a renewed focus on delivering within a $1.7 billion budget through expert-led, risk-managed commercial contracts and partnerships. The ferries will be named Kupe and Cook, honoring New Zealand’s maritime heritage and reflecting a commitment to acknowledging the country’s complex history while providing a reliable transport link for generations to come.
01 Jul 2026
3 months ago
874 views
New Zealand has launched SafetyNet Critical Communications, a new independent Crown company replacing Next Generation Critical Communications to enhance emergency preparedness and response across the country. SafetyNet will provide reliable, shared emergency communication services to public safety organizations on a commercial basis, supporting a modern, secure communications ecosystem. The company is led by a board including Rob Fyfe as Chair and CEO Steve Ferguson, with expert advice from key emergency service leaders.
19 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1303 views
The speech highlights the shift from the failed, wasteful iReX ferry project to a fiscally disciplined, pragmatic approach that saves taxpayers $2.3 billion by focusing on essential infrastructure upgrades and acquiring two new ferries within a $1.7 billion budget. The new plan maintains support for rail, keeps costs low to benefit consumers, and involves collaboration with experienced industry partners, including a reputable Chinese shipbuilder, ensuring timely and efficient delivery by 2029. Emphasizing commonsense and practical expertise over costly overreach, the project is already underway with strong leadership and community support, promising a sustainable future for New Zealand’s Interislander ferry services.
16 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1421 views
Newly appointed and reappointed directors will bring expertise to the Boards of Crown Infrastructure Delivery Ltd (CID), National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Ltd (NIFFCo), and New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, according to Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop. Pamela Bell, Philip de Joux, and Adrian Wimmers will join the CID Board, with Bell becoming Chair in March 2026. David Webster, Tim Brown, Greg Lowe, and Melissa Cameron have been appointed to the NIFFCo Board, and Sue Tindal has been reappointed as Deputy Chair for the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Te Waihanga.