04 Nov 2026
3 hours ago
19 views
A new concession agreement with Milford Sound Tourism Limited has now been signed – bringing certainty for the iconic tourism destination ahead of summer, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says. The concession enables Milford Sound Tourism Limited (MSTL) to continue managing the Piopiotahi Milford Sound visitor terminal and Freshwater Basin carparks through to 2050. “I’m pleased to announce the completion of this process ensuring the long-term operation of important visitor infrastructure in time to support a predicted record tourism season for Piopiotahi,” says Mr Potaka.
16 Oct 2026
2 weeks ago
251 views
The New Zealand Government will invest around $40 million from Budget 2026 to enhance the resilience of State Highway 94 between Te Anau and Milford, a crucial route for tourism to Milford Sound. Upgrades include widening roadways and strengthening retaining walls at key sites to prevent disruptions from natural hazards, with additional work planned on SH94 and other vulnerable South Island highways. This $150 million-plus package aims to reduce community disruptions, support businesses, and improve freight and visitor access, reflecting a significant funding boost for South Island roads under the 2024-27 National Land Transport Plan.
14 Oct 2026
3 weeks ago
259 views
The Government has designated two Aquaculture Settlement Areas in Marlborough to enable iwi participation in the region’s expanding open ocean aquaculture industry while negotiations under the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act continue. These areas, totaling nearly 6,000 hectares, will support future marine farming projects subject to regulatory approval without affecting current fishing activities. The initiative aims to boost the local economy through export income, job creation, and sustainable seafood production, aligning with the broader goal of reaching $3 billion in annual aquaculture revenue by 2035.
05 Oct 2026
1 month ago
330 views
The Regional Infrastructure Fund will allocate $5.7 million in working capital grants to regional airlines to help them manage rising operating costs, particularly due to increased fuel prices, and maintain essential regional air services. These temporary, targeted grants, ranging from $300,000 to $1.2 million, are based on airlines’ passenger volumes and flight movements, with the expectation that service levels will be preserved. This funding complements nearly $26 million already provided in loans for aircraft acquisition, maintenance, and debt refinancing, demonstrating the Government's commitment to sustaining regional connectivity and supporting remote communities.
16 Jun 2026
4 months ago
954 views
The environmental impacts of the former Endeavour Inlet antimony mine site in Marlborough Sounds are being investigated for remediation, with a two-year project funded equally by the Ministry for the Environment and the Department of Conservation. The investigation will assess contamination risks to soil, water, and ecology, consider sea level rise effects, and inform mitigation and safety measures to protect the surrounding recreational, coastal, and heritage areas. This effort aims to manage risks and preserve the environment for continued public enjoyment of the region.
24 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1138 views
Three regional airlines—Air Chathams, Sounds Air, and Island Air—will receive loans from the $30 million Regional Infrastructure Fund to refinance debt, upgrade fleets, and maintain essential air services connecting remote communities. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Transport Minister James Meager emphasize the importance of these airlines for regional connectivity, economic wellbeing, and access to healthcare, especially amid pressures from rising fuel costs and global uncertainties. The government is also considering temporarily adjusting loan conditions to support airlines further and continues to assess additional funding applications.
02 Mar 2026
8 months ago
1377 views
Publicly funded X-ray and ultrasound services are now available locally in Wānaka, eliminating the need for patients to travel outside the area for routine diagnostic imaging. This expansion, expected to provide around 2,900 imaging tests over 18 months, responds to community feedback and aims to improve timely access to healthcare for rural residents. The new service operates through outsourcing arrangements and requires referrals via the Community Referred Radiology Programme, while urgent imaging remains at Dunstan Hospital in Clyde.
20 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1368 views
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has approved a long-term concession for Milford Sound Tourism Limited to operate key visitor infrastructure at Milford Sound Piopiotahi until 2050, providing certainty for essential facilities in this important conservation area. The decision emphasizes balancing conservation, safe visitor access, and support for regional economies, while recognizing the cultural significance of the site through a partnership with Ngāi Tahu. Officials will now negotiate terms to ensure statutory obligations, capital investment, and broader tourism interests are addressed, supported by government funding for the Milford corridor.
06 Jan 2026
10 months ago
1456 views
Elaine Bay Fuel Services has received a $350,000 grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to install a 20,000-litre petrol tank and dispensing infrastructure, restoring critical fuel access for communities, marine operators, and emergency services in the outer Marlborough Sounds. This investment supports key regional industries like aquaculture, tourism, and farming by reducing the need for a one-hour drive to Rai Valley for refuelling and enhancing resilience against road closures caused by extreme weather. The project, co-funded with $235,000 from EBFS, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
12 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1543 views
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced an extended seasonal closure for blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds, aiming to reduce fishing pressure and support sustainability. Commercial catch limits for the fish stock were reduced in 2022 due to concerns about high fishing pressure impacting the fishery. An advisory group has been established to provide expertise on improving the health of the blue cod population, with further exploration of factors affecting the fishery planned for the future.
03 Jul 2025
1 year ago
4258 views
Market soundings with international and local toll road investors, operators and financiers will begin next week as the next step in exploring how toll concessions could help fund, build and operate important road infrastructure, Infrastructure and Transport Minister Chris Bishop says. “The Government is focused on improving high-quality road infrastructure to boost economic growth and ensure people and freight can travel efficiently and safely. To accelerate the delivery of vital transport projects, we’re looking into alternative funding and financing methods, including the use of toll concessions.