Transport planning in New Zealand remains a contentious issue, with recent debates focusing on the balance between political influence and technical expertise.

According to Professor Imran Muhammad of Massey University, the politicisation of transport planning is unavoidable.

"Transport policy and planning are always political," he stated, citing examples such as the cancellation of Auckland's Light Rail Project and the adjustments to the Government Policy Statement of 2024.

The importance of understanding power dynamics in transport projects was highlighted by Professor Bent Flyvbjerg from Oxford University.

He argued that beyond technical knowledge, there is a need to explore societal power relations, asking, "who gains and who loses by advancing a particular transport project?"

New Zealand's recent transport projects, such as Transmission Gully and the City Rail Link, have faced significant challenges.

These include budget overruns and delays exacerbated by global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine conflict.

"Most transport projects go over budget and over schedule," Professor Muhammad noted, emphasising the inherent uncertainties and complexities of large-scale transport initiatives.

To define a successful transport project, Professor Harry Dimitriou from University College London proposed a multidimensional approach.

He suggested that success should encompass environmental, economic, social, and institutional sustainability.

Additionally, Dr Crystal Legacy of Melbourne University called for the re-politicisation of transport planning, advocating for coalitions and collective will to create opportunities for meaningful change.

She stressed the importance of engaging the public and professionals in the process.

Looking ahead, Professor Muhammad emphasised the need for New Zealand to consider Tiriti o Waitangi-led responsibilities in future transport planning.

He called for the integration of Māori communities' experiences and sociocultural values into transport policies.

As New Zealand navigates the complexities of transport planning, the ongoing debate underscores the necessity for political and technical collaboration to achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes.