Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has proposed a major restructuring of Auckland Transport (AT), suggesting it should become a council-controlled organisation (CCO) with a focus solely on service delivery.

The proposal includes removing AT’s planning and strategy functions and transferring these responsibilities to elected representatives.

In a statement supporting the Mayor’s plan, Auckland Ratepayers’ Alliance Spokesperson Sam Warren expressed strong approval.

“Mayor Brown’s proposal is on the mark,” Warren said. “Auckland Transport’s independence looked good on paper, but the reality has been something else.”

Warren criticised AT’s current operational model, describing it as having a “we-know-best arrogance” that has alienated many Aucklanders.

He argued that the perceived distance between the Mayor, councillors, and AT has allowed the transport provider to pursue its own agenda, which he claims does not align with the needs of the public.

“The region’s transport provider has had virtually free rein,” Warren continued.

“Aucklanders just want the basics done well. No amount of spin from AT will change the feeling of your bus being delayed or your train cancelled.”

Warren also called on Local Government Minister Simeon Brown to collaborate with the Mayor to enact legislative changes that would significantly alter AT’s operational structure.

“Restoring a sense of accountability to Auckland Transport is desperately needed,” he said.