Auckland’s Kings Quarry wins fast-track approval for century-long expansion

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Resources Minister Shane Jones announced the decision, marking another milestone in efforts to streamline infrastructure-critical projects.

A second major Auckland quarry project has been approved under New Zealand's Fast-track consenting system, with Kings Quarry Limited receiving the green light to significantly expand its operations. Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Resources Minister Shane Jones announced the decision, marking another milestone in efforts to streamline infrastructure-critical projects.

Fast Approval for a Long-Term Regional Resource

Kings Quarry lodged its application in May 2025 seeking to expand extraction and processing activities to produce approximately 500,000 tonnes of aggregate per year. The approval allows the operation to continue for up to 100 years—with Stage 2 spanning up to 60 years and Stage 3 a further 40 years.

Minister Bishop noted the speed of the process:"The project has been approved by an expert panel in just 66 days from appointment of a panel."

This rapid turnaround showcases the efficiency of the Fast-track system, which consolidates consents and authorisations that would otherwise require years of navigation under the Resource Management Act (RMA).

Supporting Infrastructure and Reducing Costs

The expansion is expected to deliver long-term, locally sourced aggregate for Auckland's critical infrastructure projects. Quarry materials are essential for road building, housing developments, rail investments, stormwater upgrades, and civil works.

By securing a large, local supply of aggregate, projects across the region will no longer rely on materials sourced from farther afield. According to Minister Bishop, localising supply will:

• Help keep construction and infrastructure costs reasonable

• Reduce transport emissions and heavy truck traffic

• Improve efficiency and project timelines

These benefits support both Auckland's economic development and its environmental goals.

Job Creation and Regional Development

Minister Shane Jones emphasised the importance of quarrying to New Zealand's wider economic and infrastructure needs.

"Quarrying provides long-term job opportunities in the regions," he said. "As well as producing materials vital for addressing New Zealand's housing and infrastructure deficit, it provides good, long-term employment nationwide."

Jones also praised the Fast-track system for reducing the multi-layered, time-consuming processes previously required under RMA rules.

Another Success for the Fast-Track Programme

Kings Quarry is the second Auckland quarry project to receive approval under the government's accelerated consenting regime, further demonstrating the programme's intent to prioritise nationally and regionally significant projects.

The decision reinforces the Government's broader goal of speeding up essential infrastructure development while supporting local supply chains and regional employment.