ACCIONA highlighted New Zealand’s opportunity as an investment market at the Smart Funding for Infrastructure conference in Auckland recently, emphasising the need for efficiency, certainty, and trust to attract long-term capital.

Craig McGrory, Chief Transformation Officer for Australia and New Zealand, addressed government, industry, and investment leaders at the conference.

"New Zealand is viewed as a trusted and stable economy, but certainty and efficiency are what give investors confidence," Mr McGrory said.

"Consistent processes, clear pipelines, and strong relationships are essential to unlocking long-term commitments." He said.

Craig also highlighted the potential of emerging technologies.

"AI offers a chance to redesign long-standing processes and improve coordination across the sector," Mr McGrory said.

ACCIONA opened the session on private investment in infrastructure by outlining why New Zealand’s stability, skilled workforce, and modern market structure position the country well for future growth.

The address underscored the significance of streamlined processes and national pipeline clarity in supporting sustainable infrastructure development.

ACCIONA’s decade-long presence in New Zealand includes the delivery and operation of the Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway and the ongoing construction of the Eastern Busway in Auckland.

These projects reflect the strength of local skills and capability and the benefits of combining global experience with established New Zealand expertise.

Craig also noted New Zealand’s competition for capital at a time when many countries are turning to private partners to accelerate infrastructure delivery.

ACCIONA expressed confidence in New Zealand’s potential to lead in modern infrastructure delivery, noting that a willingness to adopt innovative technologies and agile processes could strengthen the country’s position as an attractive market for global capital.