149 fast-tracked projects

The New Zealand government has announced a list of 149 projects to be fast-tracked under a new approvals process aimed at revitalizing the economy. These projects, selected from 342 applications, include 58 for housing, 43 for infrastructure, 22 for renewable energy, and 11 for mining, among others. Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop emphasized that the selected projects will deliver jobs and economic growth, although not all listed projects are guaranteed to be built. The selection process involved analysis by officials, an independent advisory group, and final Cabinet decisions. The Fast Track Approvals Bill aims to simplify the approvals process and is expected to pass soon, allowing developers to apply for assessments by expert panels. The initiative has raised concerns among environmentalists and indigenous groups regarding potential impacts on conservation and land use.