Climate change stories
Rising visitor numbers are putting New Zealand’s lakes, tracks and towns under strain, with a watchdog warning current policy will not curb damage.
Long-term upgrades to tracks, trains and ferries could finally be unlocked as the government shifts rail funding away from annual budget battles.
Fresh funding and planning reforms could speed up roads, water and housing delivery as New Zealand seeks to ease infrastructure bottlenecks.
Contractors still need project-by-project details, with major transport work due to wind down within 18 months and risking industry capacity gaps.
Marine ecosystems face mounting pressure as pollution, fishing and warming seas threaten species, habitats and coastal communities.
Grid operators face mounting strain as battery electric vehicle demand is forecast to lift installed base above 100 million by 2029.
Researchers say both plans favour congestion relief and global image over health equity, leaving outer suburbs short-changed.
With 2.5 billion more people heading for cities, planners are eyeing stacked mixed-use towers as a way to save space and build community.
Fire crews can now practise dangerous bushfire scenarios more safely and cheaply, without toxic foam or live flames, using virtual reality.
Without user charges, the new drinking water regulator could still leave New Zealand councils struggling to fund overdue upgrades and growth.
Australia faces a 1 percent of GDP infrastructure gap as rapid city growth, labour shortages and slower productivity strain new projects.
Urban developers face rising pressure to add renewable power, fibre and automation as tenants demand cheaper, smarter services.
Britain could cut aviation emissions and landfill use as a planned waste-to-fuels plant near Immingham seeks approval, creating 130 jobs.
Christchurch inspired social entrepreneurs with the Social Enterprise Challenge and UCE Impact Summit, focusing on climate change and sustainability.
Questions over Auckland's airport rail spending have intensified as Aeromovel is pitched as a way to slash costs and delivery time dramatically.
Sensors, drones and automation are reshaping building upkeep, with smarter systems promising lower costs and better occupant comfort.
The cancelled Waitaha project exposes how uncertain consents can waste years and millions for regional developers and renewables alike.
Insect bioconversion could turn millions of tonnes of food waste into animal feed, biodiesel and packaging materials, while cutting emissions.
A new report says devolving housing and transport could improve delivery, while central government keeps most tax revenue and oversight.
New draft carbon standards and a new expo zone will give New Zealand building owners practical steps towards net zero by 2050.
