End of 'pinky promise' migration green light angers infrastructure sector

End of 'pinky promise' migration green light angers infrastructure sector
Immigration rules are being tightened due to a mixture of economic conditions and system flaws. (Image: Getty)
Dileepa Fonseka
The coalition government's immediate tightening of immigration rules includes tougher English language requirements and not following through on its predecessor's plans to give some construction jobs a clearer pathway to residency. Speaking to BusinessDesk after the announcement on Sunday, immigration minister Erica Stanford said the measures were partly a response to worsening economic conditions.  But she said they were also due to “the very permissive settings we’ve had over the last couple of years where it has...

More Infrastructure

Port of Auckland gets first fast-track approvals
Policy

Port of Auckland gets first fast-track approvals

The port is undertaking wharf expansions to make it big ship capable. 

Oliver Lewis 21 Aug 2025
Got $50m? Help rebuild Scott Base
Infrastructure

Got $50m? Help rebuild Scott Base

Antarctica NZ is seeking private funds, and the UAE is touted as a possible source.

Oliver Lewis 21 Aug 2025
Auckland Council proposes downzoning 12,000 properties
Policy

Auckland Council proposes downzoning 12,000 properties

The council is also proposing to enable 10-15 storey apartments around more than 40 hubs.

Oliver Lewis 19 Aug 2025
Port of Tauranga gets expert panel for Stella Passage
Policy

Port of Tauranga gets expert panel for Stella Passage

A decision on the major wharf upgrade isn't expected until next year.

Oliver Lewis 15 Aug 2025