Aucklanders’ transport destiny at stake this election
City Vision elected members and candidates welcomed the legislation for Auckland Transport reform announced today, but cautioned that the changes mean voters face a choice this election between evidence-based policy and a failed 20th-century approach, exemplified by C&R elected members, that will only worsen congestion.
Waitematā Local Board candidate and transport writer Connor Sharp says, “We know what works. Space-efficient modes such as public transport, cycling, and walking are what keeps our transport system moving, while forcing everyone into their cars and into congestion slows this city down.”
The legislation, announced in Auckland today by Transport Minister Chris Bishop, Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown, and Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown, will substantially reform Auckland Transport’s purpose and powers. Auckland Transport was established in 2010 at the same time as the Supercity, with the intent of separating high-level transport strategy (set by Council) and delivery. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened in practice.
The new legislation keeps control over public transport with Auckland Transport, but delegates other functions, including policy and strategy, to the councillors and local board members who will be elected this year. This year’s election now has the potential to determine the future shape of transport in Auckland.
Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Councillor Julie Fairey says, “It’s important we get this right so that the increased transport powers for local boards are actually to empower local communities, not tie elected members up in bureaucratic knots. It’s a great opportunity for Aucklanders to control their own transport destiny. Let’s work together to make that happen.
Cr Fairey points out, “We’ve had a lot of Wellington coming over the top of local community wishes lately, particularly overruling neighbourhoods who chose safer speeds and defunding public transport commitments like electric ferries. This has the potential to give Aucklanders more power over our own transport destiny, done right.”
Auckland Council will become a Road Controlling Authority, with local boards controlling local and collector roads, and the Governing Body controlling arterial roads and the City Centre. Policy functions also return in-house, and regional planning over a 30-year horizon will be done by a Regional Transport Committee, made up of Auckland Council elected members and other members appointed by the Minister.
“This is a potentially positive move,” says Waitematā & Gulf candidate Patrick Reynolds, “but the devil is in the detail. It will mean councillors will no longer be able to blame Auckland Transport for their decisions. This will not make difficult trade-offs go away, say between bus lanes and parking, but it will mean responsibility for the decision will clearly land at the political level. The quality of your elected members will now matter more than ever. Vote wisely!”
Transport choice not only benefits the efficient functioning of the transport system, but also has numerous co-benefits. Mr Sharp says, “Providing proper transport choice isn't just good for the transport system. Investing in, and prioritising, public transport gets more Aucklanders to where they need to go faster, while reducing emissions. Making cycling safer allows people to get around in a fun, healthy way. And by making our communities more walkable, we lessen noise and air pollution, while creating space to build connections with our neighbours.”
This local election there is a clear choice between voting for policies that will make congestion worse or policies that make for a functioning transport system. City Vision is committed to a safe, efficient transport for all Aucklanders.
City Vision media release 5 September 2025: Auckland Transport reforms offer voters a clear choice this year
