The New Zealand Government has committed $2.68 billion in Budget 2024 to enhance roads, rail, and public transport infrastructure, aiming to support economic growth and ensure safe, efficient transport for Kiwis and freight.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced the funding, which represents a significant increase from previous plans.

“This funding includes a billion-dollar increase over that signalled during the consultation on the GPS on land transport,” Brown said.

“This funding has been secured to accelerate the delivery of priority projects including the Roads of National Significance.”

Key components of the investment include $1 billion to expedite major road and public transport projects, and $939.3 million to repair roads damaged by last year’s severe weather events in the North Island.

Additionally, $266.9 million is allocated for upgrading and maintaining Auckland and Wellington’s metropolitan rail networks, while $200 million supports KiwiRail's maintenance and renewals of the national rail network.

The budget also allocates $10 million for Airways New Zealand to complete the minimum operating network of Ground Based Navigation Aids and $44 million for the Civil Aviation Authority to continue core functions during a fee and levy review.

Critical frontline rescue services will receive $23.1 million to respond to severe weather events and emergencies, and Surf Life Saving New Zealand and Coastguard New Zealand will get $63.6 million.

An important aspect of the budget is the refocusing of $59.7 million over the next four years to decarbonise the bus fleet, including investments in zero-emissions buses, charging infrastructure, and improvements to bus driver safety and working conditions.

Transport Minister, Simeon Brown.

Brown emphasised the importance of this investment for economic recovery.

“Investing in transport infrastructure is critical to our plan to rebuild the economy so we can lift incomes and afford the health, education, and other frontline services New Zealanders depend upon,” he said.

The Government's plan builds upon the $20.7 billion already outlined in the draft GPS on land transport and the Roads of Regional Significance programme.

This existing funding is aimed at boosting investments in roading, rail, and public transport.

Key projects include 17 Roads of National Significance and major public transport initiatives such as the Alternative to Brynderwyns, Whangarei to Port Marsden, and Warkworth to Wellsford routes.

Additionally, $500 million is earmarked for a Pothole Prevention Fund.

Brown highlighted the commitment to repairing and rebuilding vital transport links affected by North Island weather events.

“The Government is fully funding the recovery of the State Highway network and supporting local councils with the recovery,” he said.

The budget also includes significant investment in rail networks to prepare for the opening of the City Rail Link, ensuring improved reliability and safety of services in Auckland and Wellington.

“Fully funding the completion of the Auckland rail network rebuild supports the opening of the City Rail Link by increasing the reliability of the line and wherever possible removing speed restrictions that limit the operation of services,” Brown noted.

“Our Government is investing in the transport infrastructure needed to help Kiwis get where they need to go quickly and safely, and unlock economic growth and opportunity,” he concluded.