The Government has launched the Te rautaki ueā me te rautaki whakawhiwhinga o Aotearoa – New Zealand freight & supply chain issues paper, the first step in developing a strategy that will optimise the supply chain over the next 30 years.

“Through Covid we saw how major international disruptions to supply chains can disrupt Kiwi businesses, limit the availability of key goods and services and increase the price of everyday goods and services,” said Transport Minister Michael Wood.

“We are taking action to future proof our supply chain, limiting the impact of the next global shock on our businesses across the country,” he said

Wood said the strategy will help tackle the underlying challenges of New Zealand’s freight and supply chains, future proofing the system against climate change, international shocks, population growth and urbanisation, technological advancements, and shifts in international geopolitics and trading patterns.

“Covid-19 has also shone a light on supply chain vulnerabilities across the globe and domestically. I commend how quickly the sector, including businesses and government agencies, came together to develop innovative solutions to help alleviate some of the immediate pressures. This strategy takes a longer-term view,” he said

“The supply chain’s performance affects every New Zealander. The movement of goods to, from and around our country is essential for our society and economy to function and flourish and impacts our quality of life.

“The supply chain system is very complex, and we need industry and government working together, so we have a high performing freight sector and supply chain into the future.”

The issues paper is based on discussions the Government has had with more than 100 stakeholders from across the supply chain system.

Submissions on the proposal can be made through Te Manatū Waka Ministry of Transport’s consultation process, which is open until 3 June 2022.