New Zealand faces a major infrastructure challenge: we have a lot to build and limited funds. How do we ensure we get the best bang for our buck? Do we chase the cheapest upfront cost, or do we take a smarter, long-term approach that considers durability, maintenance, sustainability, decarbonisation and fuel savings?

If we’re serious about the long game, we must ask ourselves: why are we not prioritising concrete roads as the most cost-effective, sustainable option?

We’ve all heard the myths about concrete: it’s too expensive, too noisy, unsuitable for our terrain, vulnerable in earthquakes and difficult to source locally. But here’s the kicker – none of these excuses stack up.

Recent Infometrics data shows concrete roads are, on average, 17% cheaper than asphalt over their entire lifespan and produce lower emissions. Countries with high seismic activity, like Japan and the US, use concrete roads successfully – so why wouldn’t they work in New Zealand?

Think back to this past summer. Many of us watched our asphalt roads melt in the scorching sun. A concrete road capable of withstanding a four-hour fire is far better suited to endure our summer temperatures. More durability means lower maintenance costs and a higher return on investment over time.

So, what’s stopping us? A lack of political courage. We need leaders willing to invest now for long-term benefits rather than defaulting to short-term political cycles.

NRC has been pushing for a 50-year roading infrastructure plan, independent of political agendas. The creation of a National Infrastructure Agency, tasked with a 30-year roadmap, is a step in the right direction – but we need more action.

We also need to rethink our industry’s reliance on imported, oil-based asphalt and bitumen – products subject to volatile oil prices. In contrast, concrete is largely sourced within New Zealand, usually within 90 minutes of its destination. About 65% of our cement is produced locally, with stable pricing and a robust supply chain supported by Concrete NZ’s 200 batching plants nationwide. While we don’t currently have an industry geared for large-scale concrete roads, the expertise exists just across the Tasman in Australia.

If we want to lift New Zealand’s productivity and build roads capable of handling heavier trucks and increased freight, we must invest in infrastructure that makes financial sense long-term. As we sit at the bottom of the OECD for productivity, we need a plan to change that. Concrete roads could be the catalyst for real economic growth – supporting business, reducing maintenance costs, and providing a solid foundation for the future.

It’s time to invest in infrastructure that truly supports productivity growth. The question isn’t whether we can afford to build concrete roads but whether we can afford not to.