Critiques voiced by Timothy Welch, a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland, underscore a growing concern regarding the feasibility of transport projects in New Zealand.

Welch's remarks echo sentiments shared by many who question the practicality and viability of recent proposals.

Reflecting on the past five years of transport planning, Welch invokes the words of renowned American architect Daniel Burnham, highlighting the need for ambitious endeavours to inspire progress.

However, the reality in New Zealand paints a different picture, with projects lacking credibility and failing to capture public enthusiasm.

Irrespective of political affiliations, the country faces a daunting challenge in materialising realistic transport initiatives.

Recent endeavours, including proposals by both Labour and National governments, have been met with skepticism and criticism.

One notable example is the SkyPath project, a cycle and walking way proposed for Auckland's Harbour Bridge.

Despite initial momentum, the project's abrupt cancellation left many disillusioned.

Subsequent replacement proposals, such as the SkyPath replacement bridge, failed to gain traction due to exorbitant costs and limited support.

Similarly, the re-envisioning of light rail for Auckland met with skepticism, particularly due to the astronomical price tag attached to tunnelled lines.

The impracticality of such ventures became apparent with the discovery of geological obstacles, further inflating projected costs and undermining feasibility.

Labour's slate of options for a new Auckland Harbour crossing further fuelled concerns, with each option surpassing previous estimates in terms of cost.

The selected plan, with a staggering price tag of approximately $35 billion, raised eyebrows and prompted further scrutiny.

Welch criticises these headline-grabbing proposals as vanity projects, serving primarily to maintain political visibility rather than address pressing transportation needs.

He highlights the missed opportunities and adverse consequences associated with unrealistic planning, emphasising the tangible impact on commuters and communities nationwide.

The transition of power in 2023 saw the cancellation of various projects, albeit with mixed reactions.

While some initiatives were deemed extravagant and unjustified, others, such as the Interislander ferry upgrade, held promise for enhancing connectivity and resilience.

However, the resurgence of costly ventures, including the revival of Roads of National Significance (RONS) and the introduction of the East West Link, raises concerns about fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.

The astronomical costs associated with these projects raise doubts about their value and sustainability.

The latest proposal, the Long Tunnel, epitomises the trend towards grandiose yet impractical solutions.

With an estimated cost in the billions, the project's feasibility is called into question, overshadowing more sensible alternatives.

Welch's critique underscores the need for ambition tempered by pragmatism in transport planning.

While grand visions are admirable, they must be accompanied by achievable projects that address genuine needs and foster sustainable progress.

As New Zealand navigates its transportation future, Welch's insights serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible planning and strategic investment in infrastructure.

Only through concerted efforts to pursue realistic and impactful initiatives can the nation overcome its current challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.