The New Zealand Government has allocated $80 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the development and processing of domestic critical minerals, according to Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Regional Development and Resources Minister Shane Jones. Critical minerals play a vital role in modern life, underpinning technologies in clean energy, electronics, aviation, and medical industries.
Since the release of the Minerals Strategy and Critical Minerals List last year, global interest in securing supplies of critical minerals and rare earths has grown. Minister Peters emphasized that New Zealand is well-positioned to be a reliable source in the international supply chain and that government backing demonstrates a commitment to the sector. He also highlighted ongoing engagement with international partners and the New Zealand public to align market interest with national priorities.
Minister Jones stated that the $80 million package will help transform the country’s mineral resources into jobs, investment, and long-term value for regional communities. He noted that critical mineral deposits could support sustainable economic recovery and position New Zealand in high-value industries, creating opportunities in extraction, processing, and technology development.
The initiative aims not only to boost domestic production but also to develop advanced processing techniques that could assist other countries, fostering deeper international partnerships and supply chain resilience. Projects that meet the fund’s criteria, including existing and new applications, will be evaluated, with successful initiatives announced once ministers have made decisions.
