A new report from Infrastructure New Zealand has called for a rebalance in how the nation invests in infrastructure, with more focus on maintaining and optimising what already exists.
The report, written by Beca, warns that decades of underinvestment in maintenance, combined with fragmented funding approaches, are placing increasing pressure on essential infrastructure networks across the country.
Infrastructure New Zealand Chief Executive, Nick Leggett says the findings point to a fundamental shift required in how New Zealand approaches infrastructure.
“New Zealand doesn’t have a shortage of infrastructure ambition – we have a discipline problem. We’ve prioritised building new assets while allowing existing ones to degrade. That set-and-forget mentality is now catching up with us,” said Mr Leggett.
The report calls for a decisive move toward long-term asset management, improved planning, and funding models that support maintenance and renewal, not just new builds.
“Better outcomes for communities and the economy will come from getting more out of what we already have. That means investing earlier, more consistently, and with far greater discipline across the full lifecycle of assets.”
Mr Leggett says the current fuel supply disruption highlights an immediate opportunity for the Government.
“A fuel shock means there is a strong case for prioritising maintenance and renewal work across central and local government assets. That keeps businesses operating, supports jobs, and ensures productivity continues,” he said.
The report outlines how improved asset management practices can extend asset life, reduce long-term costs, and improve service delivery. Key recommendations include:
- Embedding long-term asset management planning across all infrastructure sectors
- Aligning funding tools with asset management approaches
- Strengthening accountability for maintenance and renewal performance
The report also highlights the need for stronger system-wide oversight and assurance.
“If we are serious about lifting performance, we need to strengthen assurance across the system. That means empowering the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission to play a more active role in setting expectations, monitoring performance, and driving consistency across agencies.”
Current funding settings are also criticised for favouring new capital expenditure over maintenance, increasing long-term costs and reducing resilience.
“Smarter funding is not about spending more, it’s about investing better. Right now, we are often deferring maintenance only to pay significantly more later.”
With population growth, climate pressures, and fiscal constraints all intensifying, the report argues that improving asset management is one of the fastest and most practical ways to lift national productivity.
“This is not just about fixing pipes and roads. It’s about ensuring New Zealand’s infrastructure system is reliable, resilient, and economically productive. If we get this right, the gains are immediate and long-lasting.”
The full 43-page report Looking After What We Have, Better is available to read here.
