The Hibiscus Coast residents will see significant changes in transport infrastructure following Auckland Council’s endorsement of the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) 2024-2034.

The plan outlines a $62 billion investment in transport over the next decade.

From 17 May to 17 June, locals provided feedback on the draft RLTP, highlighting their priorities for the region’s transport network.

Councillor John Watson, Chair of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, noted the public's strong support for public transport services and network maintenance.

“The RLTP also reflects Aucklanders’ strong support for prioritising investment in new public transport infrastructure projects, and I look forward to NZTA taking this priority into account and seeing it reflected in funding decisions,” Cr Watson said.

Key highlights of the plan include $28 billion for public transport services and infrastructure, $17 billion for state highway improvements, and $13.3 billion for maintenance and renewals, with $5.5 billion specifically for the local road network.

Additionally, $3.1 billion is allocated for local road improvements, $0.9 billion for walking and cycling, and $0.7 billion for safety measures.

Hamish Bunn, Auckland Transport’s GM Transport System Strategy, expressed satisfaction with the public’s engagement.

“We were really pleased to see so many Aucklanders take an interest and tell us what’s most important to them when it comes to transport,” Bunn said. Feedback indicated a desire for faster, more connected, and reliable public transport, as well as enhanced local road maintenance.

Changes to the draft plan, based on the feedback, include bringing forward funding for unsealed road improvements and bus optimisation programmes, and increasing the priority of state highway improvement projects.

An additional $600 million has been allocated to make public transport faster, more reliable, and easier to use, with $503 million directed to removing the Takaanini rail level crossings and $92 million to park and ride programmes.

The RLTP will now go to the Auckland Transport Board for approval on 30 July 2024 before being submitted to NZTA for funding allocation from the National Land Transport Fund.