Patterson: Rural NZ Faces a "Massive" Infrastructure Deficit

He says this needs to be fixed because it's inhibiting development in these areas.

He cites a report by the combined Chambers of Commerce of the South Island which points out the funding for infrastructure across the country is wrong because it prioritises population growth over economic growth.

Patterson says, for example, the South Island is only getting 11% of the national roading funding. Yet, he says, there are rural roads in the South Island that need resealing and bridges that need repairing.

"We have got to be wary that some of the big mega projects don't suck out the potential to maintain our rural infrastructure, because it is under a lot of pressure to severe weather-related events. If you look at really productive areas like Tairawhiti, they face huge challenges at times getting their product to market," he says.

Patterson says lack of infrastructure is hindering economic development in areas with known huge potential.

Another issue that is inhibiting growth in some rural areas is a lack of quality internet access. He says the telcos keep saying everything is right, but Patterson says that's not the feedback he's receiving. He says the rollout of broadband has reached 87%, but asks, what about the remaining 13%?

"We can't have digital poverty in NZ and a lot more work needs to be done. Lack of quality broadband is not only affecting farmers to run their businesses properly, but it's making some people think twice about working in some remote places. There's a perception in Wellington that the job is done - well it isn't," he says.

Finally, Patterson says in all his interactions with rural communities, the issue of most concern is that of health.

He says health services are under pressure in multiple places and are just being held together by very dedicated and hardworking professionals on the frontline.

He says Labour's decision to restructure the health service in the middle of the Covid pandemic was madness. 

He says a number of moves are underway to improve the situation.

"Often some of the problems could be fixed with the addition of a few thousand dollars. And this could result in a more comprehensive service," he says.

Patterson says there is a need to fortify rural health services to take the pressure off base hospitals.