Hibiscus Coast locals and Aucklanders alike can expect a significant shift in how transport decisions are made, following the Government’s announcement to restore democratic accountability to transport governance in Auckland.

This reform aims to give elected representatives, and ultimately voters, greater control over policies that directly impact daily travel.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown stated the changes come in response to growing frustration among Aucklanders over a perceived lack of responsiveness from Auckland Transport (AT).

According to AT’s latest Annual Report, only 29% of Aucklanders feel their voices are heard and addressed.

The reforms include several key measures to realign transport governance with public accountability:

• Regional Transport Policy and Planning: These functions will be returned to Auckland Council, mirroring the approach of other regional councils across New Zealand.

• Auckland Regional Transport Committee (ARTC): A new statutory body will develop a 30-year Integrated Transport Plan, ensuring long-term collaboration between local and central government.

• Road Controlling Authority Designation: Auckland Council will take over as the Road Controlling Authority, sharing decision-making power with Local Boards.

• Revised Transport Organisation Focus: Auckland Council will oversee a transport council-controlled organisation (CCO) dedicated solely to project delivery, with its structure finalised within six months of legislative approval.

Minister Brown emphasised the importance of empowering elected representatives to approve vital plans such as the Regional Land Transport Plan and the Regional Public Transport Plan.

“By returning decision-making power to elected representatives, we are enabling Aucklanders to directly influence transport policies,” he said.

Local Boards will also see enhanced roles, managing community-specific matters like speed limits, parking, and pedestrian crossings.

Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed the reforms, stating, “Aucklanders elected me to take back control of Auckland Transport, and I am fulfilling that promise. These changes restore local democracy to Auckland’s transport system.”

The ARTC will play a pivotal role in developing a unified vision for the city’s future, addressing diverse needs across roads, rail, public transport, and freight for the next 30 years.

“Long-term alignment between local and central government is critical to Auckland and New Zealand’s success,” said Minister Brown.

The legislation formalising these changes marks a "fundamental reset" in Auckland's transport governance.