S3E4: Shaping New Zealand’s Infrastructure Future with Minister Chris Bishop
In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we sit down with Hon. Chris Bishop, New Zealand's Minister for Infrastructure, Housing, and RMA Reform, to explore the country’s long-term infrastructure vision. Speaking at the International Public Works Conference, Minister Bishop outlines his priorities for the next 10–20 years, including asset management reform, housing growth, and the development of a national infrastructure plan.From tackling consenting bottlenecks to introducing distance-based road user pricing, Bishop discusses the bold reforms needed to lift productivity, deliver affordable housing, and build resilience against future challenges. He also reflects on the importance of bipartisan consensus, learning from global best practice, and strengthening leadership capacity in asset management.Whether you’re in local government, policy, or infrastructure delivery, this conversation provides valuable insights into how New Zealand is working to transform its infrastructure system for the future.
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S3E3: Boosting Productivity and Building Capacity with Peter Achterstraat, NSW Productivity and Equality Commissioner
In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Peter Achterstraat, New South Wales Productivity and Equality Commissioner, for a deep dive into the state’s productivity performance, housing pressures, infrastructure challenges, and workforce capacity.Peter shares valuable insights on how productivity trends have shifted over the past century, the role of technology and regulation, and what New South Wales must do to remain competitive in a global talent market. He unpacks challenges in the construction and infrastructure sectors, highlights the need for long-term thinking, and explores how micro-credentials, better training pathways, and smarter regulation can help solve Australia’s skills shortage.Whether you're a policymaker, planner, engineer, or local government professional, this episode is full of thought-provoking ideas and real-world solutions for building a more productive and equitable future.
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S3E2: Leading with Purpose – Asset Management Through an Elected Member’s Eyes with Rachel Chambers
In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Rachel Chambers, former Mayor and passionate advocate for community-focused governance. Rachel brings a unique perspective to the world of infrastructure — not as an engineer or asset manager, but as an elected member who learned to navigate and champion asset management from the top.Rachel opens up about her journey from private business owner to local government leader, how she embraced the complexities of asset management, and why long-term planning matters more than political cycles. She shares candid reflections on curbing the urge for flashy new projects, prioritizing maintenance, building trust with staff and community, and fostering a culture of collaboration between elected officials and technical teams.Whether you're a director of infrastructure, a policy advisor, or aspiring local government leader, Rachel’s insights will help you bridge the communication gap and create shared language for better decision-making.
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S3E1: Funding, Resilience, and the Future of Local Government with Susan Freeman-Greene
In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Susan Freeman-Greene, Chief Executive of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), for a rich discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing local councils across Aotearoa New Zealand.Drawing from her background as a lawyer, mediator, and former CEO of Engineering New Zealand, Susan brings a unique perspective on the intersection of infrastructure, politics, and public service. We explore the financial pressures on local governments, the infrastructure funding deficit, climate resilience, and how collaboration and long-term planning are essential for sustainable communities.Listen in as Susan shares insights on rethinking service delivery, reframing conversations around asset maintenance, and building capacity in smaller and rural councils. She also outlines how LGNZ is addressing voter engagement and advocating for electoral reform to better support the sector.Whether you're in engineering, finance, or public policy, this episode offers timely strategies and thought-provoking leadership lessons from across the Tasman.
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S2E10: Fleet Innovation and AI Insights with Will Batty from Geotab
In this special episode of Infrastructure Matters, recorded live at the IPWEA Fleet Conference, we’re joined by Will Batty, Associate Vice President, Business Development - APAC at Geotab, to explore the future of fleet management through data, AI, and innovation.Will shares insights into how connected vehicle data is reshaping asset management, improving safety, and driving sustainability. From predictive maintenance powered by AI to planning infrastructure with anonymised fleet data, this episode reveals how fleets are evolving into intelligent, strategic assets. We discuss Geotab’s open ecosystem, the power of their Marketplace, and what’s next for fleet managers adapting to rapid technological change.Whether you're managing vehicles, planning infrastructure, or aiming to future-proof your operations, this episode will give you a front-row seat to the innovations transforming the fleet industry.
Welcome to Infrastructure Matters by IPWEA, a podcast where we discuss all things infrastructure, asset management and public works. My name is David Jenkins, CEO of IPWEA and I have the very fortunate job of talking to inspiring and passionate thought leaders from around the globe. Our podcast is a chance to reflect, hopefully learn something new and get a glimpse into the great minds of our industry and their personal journeys.
New Zealand