Recent news and announcements from Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit.
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Hydrogen RIF package to support regional opportunities
A new $30 million funding package has been set aside within the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to support projects that help grow New Zealand’s hydrogen sector.
28 August, 2026
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Supporting Chatham Islands connectivity
The government is investing more than $15 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to strengthen critical transport and fuel infrastructure on the Chatham Islands.
26 August, 2026
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Northland dry dock fast-track consent application lodged
The Northland shipyard and dry dock project has reached an important milestone, with a substantive fast-track application submitted to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on 20 August.
26 August, 2026
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Ngāmotu Marae to be built in central New Plymouth
The Government is providing up to $8.6 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to Ngāti Te Whiti, the mana whenua of New Plymouth, to establish a new marae in the heart of the city.
8 July, 2026
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RIF loan supports new freight hub
A loan of up to $22.4 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) will support the rail component of Te Utanganui – a major new freight hub in Palmerston North that links rail, road, air and sea.
8 July, 2026
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RIF backs joint iwi mussel spat project
A new mussel spat nursery will be established in Houhora Bay, Northland, supported by a $4.5 million Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loan.
7 July, 2026
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Crucial flood resilience work begins in Southland
One of the largest flood resilience investments by the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) is underway in Southland, with physical works beginning on the Mataura River flood resilience infrastructure upgrade.
25 May, 2026
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Solar project begins on Rakiura / Stewart Island
Physical works have started on a major renewable energy project on Rakiura / Stewart Island that will significantly reduce the island’s reliance on diesel-generated electricity and help deliver cheaper power and a more resilient network.
22 May, 2026
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Three more regional airlines receive loans
Three more regional airlines will receive Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loans from the $30 million ear-marked to help support at-risk regional air routes and safeguard essential services.
28 April, 2026
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Port Nelson upgrades to buoy local economy
The completion of major works at Port Nelson with funding support from government will strengthen the region’s ability to service medium to large vessels and support long-term regional economic growth.
20 April, 2026