Locals on the Hibiscus Coast can look forward to a streamlined approach to infrastructure development as the Government rolls out its final 2024 Action Plan.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced yesterday that the fourth quarter (Q4) plan will focus on removing barriers to growth and speeding up critical building projects as part of the wider effort to rebuild New Zealand’s economy.

"We’ve been working hard since coming into office, and there’s no slowing down as we move toward the end of the year," Mr. Luxon said.

"This final action plan for 2024 will help us continue to deliver on our key priorities: rebuilding the economy, restoring law and order, and enhancing public services."

The Q4 Action Plan outlines 43 actions, with a strong emphasis on modernising infrastructure.

Six of the key initiatives include:

• Fast-Track Approvals Bill – Designed to accelerate the delivery of important regional and national projects.
• First Resource Management Amendment Bill – Aims to reduce the regulatory burden on the farming and primary sectors.
• Second Resource Management Amendment Bill – Targets cutting through red and green tape that has been slowing growth in the infrastructure, energy, housing, and farming sectors.
• Offshore Wind Farms Legislation – Introducing new laws to simplify the construction of offshore wind farms, boosting New Zealand’s renewable energy capabilities.
• Housing Funding and Financing – Taking decisions to improve funding and financing tools, helping get more housing built across the country.
• Council Reform Decisions – Streamlining processes to ensure local councils focus on core responsibilities, improving local infrastructure.

Mr. Luxon emphasised the importance of this plan now that inflation and interest rates are falling, creating a better environment for economic growth.

"We’re shifting our focus to lay the groundwork for long-term development," he said.

In addition to infrastructure, the Government is taking steps to address other key areas.

"By the end of the year, we will introduce stronger consequences for serious youth offending, begin the rollout of free breast cancer screening for women up to age 74, and release a final curriculum for English and Maths for primary schools, to be implemented in 2025."

Mr. Luxon reassured Kiwis that they can go into the summer knowing that the Government is focused on action and delivery.

"Our goal is to make life better for New Zealanders and their families," he concluded.