Having recently returned from Japan, I find myself comparing experiences abroad to every day life in New Zealand. Despite New Zealand remaining my home of choice, I could only dream of us having the bullet train system of Japan. Imagine travelling 275km, the equivalent of Auckland to Taupo, in 1 hour.
Below is a relaxed, family travelling with comfort at 300KM/H.
Interestingly, these bullet lines are also utilised for domestic freight, a market in Japan worth $12.5B (NZD) in 2023.
Despite the unique, world class capabilities of this service, it moves just 10-15% of Japan’s freight, specifically for heavy and bulk freight. This is comparable to approximately 15% of freight by rail in New Zealand as per Kiwirail’s integrated report 2023.
As is the case in New Zealand, the vast majority of freight in Japan remains on the road due to its flexibility and capacity for last-mile delivery.
The extra $2B allocated in the NZ Budget 2024, to accelerate the delivery of the Roads of National Significance + repairing weather damaged roads in the North Island (in addition to the $20B already outlined for the next 10-years) shows our government’s commitment to continue to build our countries transport capabilities.
I am hopeful contractors can make hay when the sun shines over the coming months, to recover from what has been a challenging period.
Difference Maker Moment
Trade Finance & Flexible Security
The bank would not fund the purchases as the trailers were outside its age criteria. Auckland Finance recognized the value of refurbishment and funded the purchase & repair work.
- Fast Turnaround, Finding Solutions
- Low deposit
- Working Capital Retained