New Zealand's Regional Infrastructure Fund Loans $120M to Private Companies Amid High Default Risk

The New Zealand government has approved over $120 million in loans from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to private companies, despite concerns over loan defaults. Of 135 projects approved, only a few have been completed, with more than half of the $433 million in support loans at risk. Key recipients include Wellington's OpenStar Technologies and several irrigation companies. The fund aims to enhance regional productivity and energy security, with ongoing applications from various sectors, including critical minerals and renewable energy.

Published Mar 24, 2026

New Zealand's Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) has allocated over $120 million in loans to private companies, with significant concerns regarding the financial health of these investments, as over half of the government’s $433 million in loans are at risk of default. Key loans include $35 million to OpenStar Technologies for nuclear fusion energy, despite not meeting regional criteria.

AI-curated by Theia

Other loans target irrigation projects, including Opuha Water ($20.8 million) and Waimakariri Irrigation ($15.6 million). The fund also aims to support energy security and regional development, with ongoing applications from various sectors, including critical minerals.