Q+A with Jack Tame Chris Bishop: Construction job losses and Luxon’s popularity
Aug 2, 2025
Chris Bishop, a senior minister in New Zealand focusing on Housing and Infrastructure, dives deep into pressing issues facing the construction sector, including significant job losses linked to government policies. He expresses a willingness to adjust homelessness strategies in response to rising rough sleeping. Additionally, Bishop assesses the low popularity of Christopher Luxon as a potential concern for the campaign, highlighting the importance of addressing voter enrollment deadlines in light of electoral dynamics and public sentiment.
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Economic Context Behind Construction Job Losses
- Job losses in construction reflect broader economic challenges, not just government policy changes.
- Investing in infrastructure and reducing red tape are key parts of the economic recovery plan.
Impact of Infrastructure Policy on Jobs
- Scrapping Auckland Light Rail and some housing projects had limited immediate impact on jobs.
- Additional funding has been allocated to community housing sector to offset cancellations.
Macroeconomic Impact on Construction Workforce
- The construction slowdown is mainly due to macroeconomic conditions, not government infrastructure decisions.
- There is latent market capacity and infrastructure projects starting soon will attract workers back.