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Transpower is advocating for reforms to the Public Works Act to facilitate the expansion of New Zealand's electricity transmission system, with demand expected to increase over 60% by 2050. The Public Works Amendment Bill aims to streamline land acquisition processes, reducing timelines from two to five years.

Transpower prefers negotiating land access but may resort to the act if necessary. The bill includes updates on compensation and eligibility, while concerns about procedural fairness and environmental considerations have been raised. Changes are also sought to protect Māori land and ensure adequate time for disaster recovery infrastructure projects.