2026 Government Election

With the 2026 election fast approaching, this page highlights how Engineering New Zealand is advocating for the engineering profession. It breaks down the political priorities that affect you – including political manifestos and key announcements.  We’ll keep it updated with key announcements and what they mean for the engineering profession.

Election 2026: New Zealand’s big infrastructure debate with Stuff

Engineering New Zealand Te Ao Rangahau partnered with award-winning media outlet Stuff to present New Zealand’s Big Infrastructure Debate. The debate was moderated by Rebecca Wright, one of New Zealand’s most experienced political and investigative journalists.

The discussion featured ACT spokesperson for infrastructure Simon Court, Green spokesperson for infrastructure Julie Anne Genter, Labour spokesperson for infrastructure and public investment Kieran McAnulty, National infrastructure spokesperson Chris Bishop, and New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones. Together, they shared their parties' approaches to addressing New Zealand's infrastructure challenges ahead of the 2026 election.

The conversation explored how infrastructure policy translates into real-world outcomes – from planning and funding through to delivering the infrastructure New Zealand communities need for the future.

Watch the full debate recording below

Election conversations: Engineering priorities

Engineering New Zealand Chief Executive Richard Templer hosted a series of election‑year chats with representatives from across the political spectrum about how their parties’ plans affect your profession. In June, he talked to ACT leader David Seymour, Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick, Labour leader Chris Hipkins, National’s infrastructure spokesman Chris Bishop, New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones and Opportunity Party leader Qiulae Wong.

David Seymour, ACT Party leader

Chlöe Swarbrick, Green Party co-leader

Chris Hipkins, Labour Party leader

Chris Bishop, National Party infrastructure spokesperson

Shane Jones, New Zealand First deputy leader

Qiulae Wong, Opportunity Party leader

Our priorities for the election

We have developed key messages to help start our conversations with political parties. These messages are the same across each of the documents, but the topics are tailored to reflect each party’s priorities. You can read the letters here: