Strong Public Support for Protecting Essential Infrastructure and Port Ownership

A new nationwide poll has revealed that two-thirds of New Zealanders support greater public ownership of essential services and infrastructure, sparking calls from transport unions to secure the future of Aotearoa’s ports. The Talbot Mills Research survey, commissioned by New Zealanders for a Democratic Economy and conducted between 17 and 29 September, found that 66 percent of the 1,010 adults surveyed want the Government to maintain or increase ownership of electricity companies, ports, and public transport. Following the release of the data on 18 October 2026, the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) and the Rail and Maritime Transport Union (RMTU) have urged both central and local government to protect these strategic assets. MUNZ National Secretary Carl Findlay stated that ports are critical national assets that underpin trade and regional economic development. The unions argue that ownership decisions should prioritise the long-term interests of communities, workers, and exporters over short-term financial gains. The findings show that support for public ownership spans the political spectrum, including voters from the governing coalition. RMTU National President Aubrey Wilkinson emphasised that ports and rail corridors must be viewed as interconnected components of a national logistics network. The poll also highlighted specific opposition to the sale of the Interislander ferries, with 56 percent of respondents against such a move. For Māori, the stability of these assets is particularly significant. Reliable transport infrastructure and competitive port access are vital for iwi commercial enterprises and Māori businesses across the forestry, fisheries, and agricultural sectors. The unions highlighted that maintaining public accountability is essential to ensuring these supply chains remain sustainable and accessible for all communities across Aotearoa.