People fill their cars with fuel at a gas station in Auckland, New Zealand, June 30, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

WELLINGTON — New Zealand unveiled its 10-year transport plan on Thursday, including 14 new routes as "critical nation-building transport priorities," with a record funding of 20.8 billion NZ dollars ($12.3 billion) over the next three years.

The plan will "grow the economy and create jobs, help Kiwi households and businesses cut emissions, and help Kiwis get around regions and cities faster and safer," said Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.

The comprehensive transport plan will strengthen New Zealand's infrastructure to close the infrastructure deficit, Hipkins said

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The country needs fast progress on key transport infrastructure that will support economic growth and improve productivity, Hipkins told the media.

According to the National Land Transport Plan, the 14 routes include a balanced mix of public transport and roads, which require work as a priority to reduce congestion, manage emissions, improve safety, grow the economy, and open up areas for housing.

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The comprehensive transport plan will strengthen New Zealand's infrastructure to close the infrastructure deficit, Hipkins said.