"Direct shipping access between Wellington and the major ports of Hong Kong, Keelung (Taiwan), Shanghai, Ningbo and Shekou is a very welcome development for our region," says John Milford, chief executive of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.
Wellington Chamber and Business Central Chief Executive, John Milford, said the size of the budget comes as no surprise considering the pandemic we are coming out of and the global economic crisis ahead.
"It has certainly not been easy and the lockdown has been stressful for business owners and employees alike.
The Manawatū Gorge replacement highway is a crucial transport link for the Lower North Island network. Since the closure of State Highway 3, now three years ago, the road transport industry has been forced to use side roads and residential streets not accustomed to heavy transport traffic.
"The Government has managed the situation well so far and have helped keep the lights on for many businesses, but some businesses are still finding it difficult to cope with expenses while at the same time not receiving any income.
"We appreciate the Hon. Grant Robertson’s update on the Government’s response to COVID-19.
"We welcome yesterday’s announcement but the Government must move with urgency.
The provision in this Bill to allow councils to create special purpose vehicles (‘SPV’) is not a silver bullet to solve all infrastructure funding constraints they have. However, it is a worthy addition to their funding options, particularly high-growth councils.
We urge policy-makers to continue to use a strong evidence base for making decisions, and this applies equally to the science as well as the economic impacts of new policies.
Overall, the ability of contractors to independently negotiate their own arrangements with other businesses provides the economy with necessary flexibility and certainty.
"Sir Des was a great presence in the city and his family can proud of his achievements. He had the most personable touch and showed what it meant to be a real leader in the city," says Chamber chief executive John Milford.
"This is what Wellingtonians need to hear - that every avenue for moving these projects ahead and funding them will be explored," says Chief Executive John Milford.
"These are big-ticket items that cannot be paid for by ratepayers through even higher rates.