NZTA has recommended that Penlink Road, still under construction, be tolled to recuperate the costs of infrastructure and maintenance. 

Although the government’s current stance favours tolling, there is a clear lack of public support for the proposal.

Under the previous government, then-Transport spokesperson Simeon Brown advocated investigating and reversing the tolling decision. 

Councillor John Watson of the Albany Ward opposes the tolling of the Penlink Road.

In a letter addressed to Brown on July 19th 2024, Watson notes much of the same advice provided in 2022 by the Ministry of Transport.

Albany Ward Councillor - John Watson.

That same consultation indicated over 60 per cent of respondents did not support tolling, despite the quoted 90 per cent public support. 

The Ministry reflected that given the nature of tolling Penlink for maintenance and revenue, it is unlikely to accrue popular support.

It will not assist with government climate and safety priorities or the growing budget deficit.

Tolling was expected to reduce the benefits of the Penlink Road by 42 per cent, or $151 million in welfare benefits. 

Like Watson, residents continue to await Brown and the present government’s final decision on tolling within the Hibiscus Coast community.