China plans under wraps
While a deal may not be in the immediate pipeline, there’s a strong possibility China Railway could become investors in Northland’s infrastructure needs.
China is looking to fund infrastructure projects in New Zealand.
It’s part of its ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative which is creating land and maritime corridors around the world. What it could offer Northland has not yet been disclosed.
Northland Regional Council’s chief executive Malcolm Nicolson rejects claims by Northland MP Winston Peters that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Northland Regional Council and China Railway exists yet, however admits one is expected to be finalised shortly.
‘‘A MOU outlining a proposed, high-level strategic relationship between the council and China Railway – effectively a ‘handshake on paper’ – is currently under development,’’ Nicolson says.
‘‘The council’s role includes advocating for infrastructural improvement in Northland and attracting investment and associated job creation into the region.’’
It does this both in its own right and via its council controlled organisation Northland Inc, Nicolson says.
‘‘The intent of the MOU is to facilitate introductions between agencies, private businesses and potential Chinese investors. The regional council is not in the business of building roads, rail and other similar infrastructure itself and has no say in national roading contracts.’’
A New Zealand Transport Agency spokesperson says the upgrade of SH1 between Whangarei and Port Marsden Highway alluded to by Peters as being one attracting Chinese interest, would be subject to funding approval through the National Land Transport Programme which was the usual funding process.
Northland Inc chief executive David Wilson says ’’Northland needs its infrastructure fast tracked as quickly as possible, but any foreign investment has to work for us.’’
‘‘It has to mean jobs for locals...it’s got to mean we can supply some of the contracts and be involved in the build itself. Any foreign investments have to benefit the local economy or it’s not worth it.’’