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November 2023

New business group calls for urgent investment into Northland’s roading infrastructure

“Northland has stepped up its economic contribution but the lack of a robust transport corridor between Northland and Auckland is a massive handbrake on realising the regions true potential” says Andrew McLeod , Chief executive of Northpower and co-chair for the Northland Corporate Group (NCG).

NCG has come together around a common belief in the economic potential of Te Tai Tokerau Northland, and our interest is ensuring the right infrastructure investments are made to empower the untapped potential of the region.  

“We’re now stepping up publicly to make the case that the deficiency in our roading infrastructure is an economic barricade and we need a robust passage to the North to improve freight, tourism, regional growth and road safety” says McLeod.

“During the past 20 years, Northland’s population growth has been 30% higher than the rest of the country,” says McLeod. “The region is rich in primary production, energy, logistics and human capability. So alongside having resources for its own economic prosperity, Te  Tai Tokerau Northland is integral to supporting Tāmaki Makaurau’s, and Aotearoa’s, economic and environmental aspirations.”

“Not only would these upgrades give a much-needed boost to Northland’s economy, but also the onflow effects would lift social, health and educational outcomes across the region.”

“The winterless north feels very much like the isolated north, and we want to make the case to fix that.  But first we need to demonstrate the economic prosperity that can be unleased with robust roading links and that’s why we are calling on all businesses to complete our survey, which will support a case for investment.”

NCG has distributed a survey to the wider Northland Business community to better understand the impact of infrastructure on Northland businesses and the economic benefits of extending the motorway on State Highway 1 north of Auckland to Whangārei and Kaikohe.

“We plan to show that there is alignment among the region’s businesses, local government and Iwi leaders and that these upgrades are critical to the region’s, and Aotearoa’s economy.”

The Group will present its business case to key stakeholders and local MPs early in 2024.

About Northland Business Group

The Northland Corporate Group (NCG) comprises Northland business heavyweights Channel Infrastructure NZ, Culham Engineering, Marsden Maritime Holdings Limited, McKay Limited and Northpower. Together, they have a combined annual turnover exceeding $1b, employ more than 3,500 people and deliver essential services to 65% of the region’s population.

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Released by Pead for Northland Business Group

For further information contact:

Emily Sayes

Emily.sayes@pead.co.nz

+64 21 055 2814

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