Update on the status of transport projects

Following our previous programme update in September 2020, a number of Te Tupu Ngātahi Supporting Growth transport projects are now progressing towards route protection (designation). We’ve continued to plan these necessary future transport projects to support urban growth in Auckland as they will help contribute to the economic recovery of New Zealand. 

1. Projects proceeding to route protection via Notice of Requirement:

We’re now underway with business cases, further investigations, and preparing Notices of Requirement (NoRs) to protect the land needed for the projects outlined below:

North West projects

The Detailed Business Case for all North West projects is nearing completion. We expect to submit it to Auckland Transport and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency for approval late-2021 to early-2022.

Preparation for route protection for projects in Redhills and Whenuapai within the North West Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) remains on hold and is dependent on future funding decisions.

South Auckland projects

KiwiRail is delivering new train stations at Drury Central, Drury West and Paerata. Find out more about the Auckland Metro Rail Programme(external link).

Mill Road will become a smaller scale project as part of recent changes to the New Zealand Upgrade Programme(external link). Find out more about the Mill Road project(external link).

Projects within the Drury Arterial Network were lodged for route protection with Auckland Council(external link) (Notice of Requirement) in January 2021.

2. Projects under further investigation or proceeding to Detailed Business Cases:

In September last year, some projects were put on hold as a result of budget constraints following the implementation of Auckland Council’s Emergency Budget due to the effect of COVID-19.

Project teams have recently reformed and are now beginning their planning work for the projects outlined below:

North Auckland projects

Detailed Business Cases for all projects in Warkworth, Silverdale, Dairy Flat, Wainui and Orewa areas.

South Auckland projects

Detailed Business Case for the Takaanini Frequent Transport Network routes and safety improvements including rail crossings and grade separations.

Further investigations into the feasibility of the Pukekohe Urban Arterial, Pukekohe Expressway and connections to State Highway 22.

The next step is to undertake more detailed investigations as well as further consultation for each of the North Auckland and South Auckland projects listed above.

Keeping you informed

Over the coming months we’ll continue to engage with landowners and the community to share information and keep everyone updated on all projects.

In the meantime, you may have questions about how COVID-19 could impact on Supporting Growth projects. We’re still working to establish this and will keep you updated via our website and in future email updates.

In line with the Government’s response to COVID-19, what it does mean is that we’re currently unable to carry out face-to-face conversations, as we must put the safety of our communities and teams first. As the situation evolves we’ll continue to keep you informed when we have information to share.