Critical infrastructure projects will face fewer delays after Parliament passed the Public Works Act Amendment Bill.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Land Information Minister Chris Penk say the changes are designed to speed up land acquisition and reduce costs for large-scale builds such as transport networks.

The new law introduces an accelerated land purchase process. It includes:

• Incentive payments of 15% (up to $150,000) for landowners who sell early.
• Recognition payments of 5% (up to $92,000) for all landowners affected.
• Objections handled by the Minister or local councils rather than the Environment Court.
• An opt-out option to use the standard process.

Bishop says the reforms will help New Zealand address its infrastructure deficit more quickly.

Penk adds that faster delivery of roads and transport links will lower costs for households and businesses.

For the Hibiscus Coast, this could mean earlier progress on key road upgrades that locals rely on for commuting into the city, getting goods to market, and easing congestion that affects daily life.

Faster builds could also support local contractors and jobs.

Further reforms to modernise the Public Works Act are expected later this year, with the public able to provide feedback through the select committee process.

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