Minister Shane Jones Highlights Regional Growth and Infrastructure in Final Stretch of Election 2026

As the Aotearoa New Zealand general election campaign enters its final weeks, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones is placing the prosperity of provincial communities at the heart of the national conversation. Speaking with Waatea News on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, the New Zealand First deputy leader emphasised that regional New Zealand remains a critical battleground for the future of the country’s economy. Jones, who also holds the Resources, Oceans, and Fisheries portfolios, has been traversing the country to engage with local communities. His campaign focuses on tangible outcomes for those outside major urban centres, specifically highlighting regional investment, infrastructure projects, and job creation. According to Waatea News, Jones believes the response at community meetings reflects a strong desire for Wellington-based decisions to translate into real-world opportunities for the provinces. Central to this strategy is the Regional Infrastructure Fund, which Jones has utilised to support various projects across the country. The Minister argued that these investments are vital for the long-term economic development of regional Aotearoa. His message suggests that for the regions to thrive, there must be a sustained focus on energy, transport, and local employment. The campaign has also turned its attention to specific electorates like West Coast–Tasman. New Zealand First has fielded former Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine, who served his community from 2019 until 2025. The contest in this electorate is seen as a key test of how provincial voters respond to the party's focus on regional infrastructure and economic resilience. Throughout his discussions with Waatea, Jones utilized his characteristic style, employing proverbs to illustrate the importance of the regional vote. As the 2026 election approaches, the role of these communities will be pivotal in determining the final composition of Parliament and the direction of regional policy for the next term.