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

Join us on Thursday 6 August and hear direct from ACT leader David Seymour, Greens co-leader Chloe Swarbrick, Labour leader Chris Hipkins, National’s infrastructure spokesman Chris Bishop and New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones about their plans for our infrastructure crunch.

The discussion will dig into how policy translates into concrete outcomes – from planning and funding to delivering the infrastructure communities need for the future.

Register now to watch the livestream and submit your questions in advance for the politicians to answer.

Election conversations: Engineering priorities

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

Videos of the conversations will be recorded and uploaded here in July.

Question submissions for the conversations are closed. Thank you for your submissions – they'll help ensure your voice is heard.

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: