Listen "S3E6: Planning Sustainable Infrastructure with Geoff Cooper, CEO of the NZ Infrastructure Commission"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of Infrastructure Matters, we’re joined by Geoff Cooper, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, to explore how long-term planning, affordability, and asset management are shaping the country’s infrastructure future.Geoff breaks down New Zealand’s new National Infrastructure Plan, highlighting the importance of balancing new projects with maintaining existing assets. He discusses the funding challenges facing local and central governments, the risks of sprawling urban growth, and the need for smarter revenue models that truly support sustainable cities.We also dive into the role of systems thinking in tackling climate change, housing affordability, and demographic pressures—and why breaking down silos across sectors is critical for better outcomes. Geoff shares how the Infrastructure Commission is evolving, building capability across thousands of small projects while ensuring whole-of-life costs are embedded into decision-making.Whether you’re in government, utilities, planning, or asset management, this episode offers practical insights and forward-looking strategies to create infrastructure systems that serve future generations.
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