Transporting New Zealand has launched its Election Platform 2026 in Wellington, calling on all political parties to back practical transport policies to improve supply chain resilience and support economic growth.
The platform identifies five priority areas for action: fuel and supply chain resilience, infrastructure, safer roads, workforce development, and lower-emission freight.
Road freight moves approximately 93% of New Zealand’s freight by tonnage and employs around 33,000 people.
Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive, Dom Kalasih says there is a significant opportunity to lift economic performance by focusing on transport infrastructure and freight.
“If we want a more productive and competitive economy, we need a transport system that is reliable and efficient,” said Mr Kalasih (pictured).
“Our platform is not about favouring one transport mode over another. It is about ensuring investment decisions are evidence-based, deliver value for taxpayers and support a resilient freight network that keeps New Zealand moving.”
Key recommendations include increased investment and prioritisation of road maintenance, improving fuel security, accelerated driver licensing pathways, and policies to support fleet renewal, freight productivity and uptake of lower-emission vehicles.
“Improving road safety is a fundamental priority for the sector and Transporting NZ is seeking stronger enforcement against drug driving and mobile phone use, as well as targeted action against transport operators who flout the rules. To match roadside enforcement across the ditch, we need to triple roadside drug testing and expand camera-based enforcement for mobile phone use and seatbelt non-compliance.
“Our members see dangerous driving every day, and too often there are few real consequences. If we’re serious about reducing deaths and serious injuries, enforcement and penalties need to send a much stronger message.”
The full Election Platform 2026 is available on the Transporting New Zealand website and outlines detailed policy recommendations intended to inform political parties, policymakers and voters ahead of the 2026 General Election.
