Industry leaders welcome the government’s new Freight Action Plan and Advisory Council, calling it a major step for NZ’s supply chain resilience and data-led reform
The government’s announcement of a new Freight Action Plan, an updated National Freight Demand Study, and the establishment of a Freight Advisory Council has drawn a largely positive response from New Zealand’s freight sector, though with some caution.
National Road Carriers (NRC) chief executive Justin Tighe-Umbers described the move as a “huge win” for the industry, praising the government’s emphasis on supply chain resilience, freight data, and structured collaboration between industry and government.
“Transport Minister Chris Bishop has listened to calls for a data-led, collaborative approach,” Justin says. “The Freight Advisory Council brings seasoned leaders together to address the complex challenges our sector faces.”
He emphasised the importance of these initiatives to exporters and manufacturers, noting that as a geographically isolated country, New Zealand’s competitiveness depends on efficient domestic and international freight connections.
Transporting New Zealand, another industry body, also welcomed the announcement but urged a more ambitious approach. Chief executive Dom Kalasih expressed concern that the proposed changes may fall short of the transformative impact needed to meet the government’s goal of doubling export value within a decade.
“If the Government is serious about its export targets, we need reforms now –especially in areas like heavy vehicle licensing and investment in high-productivity trucks,” says Dom.
Transporting New Zealand also highlighted the need for updated freight data. The last National Freight Demand Study used pre-COVID figures, and the sector has since seen notable changes, including a decline in rail freight volumes despite significant investment.
Both organisations support the formation of the Freight Advisory Council but stress that it must remain focused and results driven.
As freight demand is forecast to grow by 55% over the next 20 years, industry leaders say timely, evidence-based investment across all transport modes is essential.