Gisborne is an early winner from the Government's $1 billion-a-year Provincial Growth Fund, with $4.2 million announced for several projects.
But many were surprised the rail line to Napier was not mentioned at the fund launch in Gisborne, where $5million was announced for the rail line from Napier to Wairoa, about half-way to Gisborne.
Funding for the final leg has been hindered by a lack of unity. When asked about Gisborne rail Regional Economic Development Minister, Shane Jones said there were "mixed signals here amongst various leader in Gisborne".
"We're not writing Gisborne rail out of the script but I wouldn't be honest if I didn't say today that I have not been presented with that case," he said.
"There's political will to back rail, but there's also an acknowledgement that ports and coastal shipping is equally as important."