Climate change stories
Broader criteria could help irrigation spending support jobs, freshwater quality and climate resilience, not just land productivity.
New Zealand projects claimed three prizes as the inaugural IPWEA Australasia awards recognised public works judged best across the region.
Labour’s rail-heavy plan and National’s road focus could reshape funding, but both face questions over congestion relief and costs.
Farmers could cut water use and improve river quality as sensors and automation help meet New Zealand's swimmable-water target.
Businesses want more roads, rail and broadband investment, but most doubt the current plan will deliver the best economic outcomes.
Polls show climate policy is now central to voters, with every major party except New Zealand First facing science questions on emissions.
A shift to wind, water and solar could cut air pollution deaths, create millions of jobs and save trillions in health costs by 2050.
Strong productivity gains lifted KiwiRail to a $52 million underlying surplus despite a $40 million hit from the Kaikoura earthquake.
Mass timber is gaining traction because it can match concrete on strength while cutting build times, waste and carbon emissions.
Heavy electric vehicle operators in New Zealand will save on road user charges, as councils gain power to open bus lanes to EVs.
Auckland faces a USD $5.9 billion transport funding gap over the next decade as revised population forecasts point to faster growth.
The award recognises a nationwide rapid-charging network that lets New Zealand EV drivers travel the length of the country and cut emissions.
Scientists warn the changes could depress carbon prices, deter low-emission investment and leave New Zealand's ETS uncertain for years.
Freight may return to the quake-hit South Island rail line within a month, easing road pressure and cutting transport costs for customers.
Higher carbon prices and a steadier emissions trading scheme could prompt more planting, replanting and avoided deforestation across New Zealand forests.
Auckland businesses could gain GBP £1.3 billion a year if peak-time gridlock is eased, according to a new report warning of mounting costs.
Native bird numbers and water quality have improved in Palmerston North after a 16-year community planting effort won national recognition.
Councils across Australia and New Zealand could cut street-light bills by USD $120 million a year as new specs ease LED procurement.
Pacific islands face more floods and droughts as extreme El Niño events are expected to double, even if warming stays at 1.5C.
The revised standard aims to speed approvals for volume builders while reducing compliance costs and lifting the quality of new homes.
