The New Zealand Council for Infrastructure Building Nations Symposium, which kicks off today, focuses on key issues.
With 400 of the industry's who's-who gathered in Christchurch today and tomorrow, Deputy Prime Minister Bill English will open proceedings with the launch of the latest 30-year New Zealand Infrastructure Plan, which proposes a step-change in New Zealand's approach to infrastructure planning and management focused on better use of existing infrastructure and allocation of new investment.
Governance and funding for the Canterbury rebuild is a significant focus, with Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee and Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel setting the scene and international speakers providing insights.
Transport Minister Simon Bridges will lead the discussion on transport, infrastructure and innovation and delegates will await clarity from Environment Minister Nick Smith on the plans for RMA reform.
Driving improvements to water services delivery, speeding up investment in water storage and irrigation and leveraging private capital and expertise in the provision of social housing will be debated.
