Auckland’s next harbour crossing is being criticised over a cars-first tunnel approach.

An op-ed by Greater Auckland’s Connor Sharp says the New Zealand Transport Agency and the Government “seem to be converging” on a tunnel “primarily for cars” with no dedicated access for public transport, walking or cycling.

He says a 2016 tunnel estimate was $4 billion, and “more recent figures suggest it’s now over $20 billion.”

The piece questions why the work is “so shrouded in secrecy”, claiming “Hundreds of millions” have gone to plans and designs, “mostly to consultancies”, with no public input.

It argues NZTA is influenced by political pressure and lobbying, and underestimates demand for public transport, walking and cycling.

Sharp proposes an independent commission to rank major projects, with results considered by a citizens’ assembly, and points to a Watercare partnership with Koi Tū at the University of Auckland that convened a citizens’ assembly in 2022 on future water options.

Read the full op-ed here

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