Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere claims National is set to break another election promise.
The construction of a second Mt Victoria tunnel this term appears unlikely as the government has yet to announce a clear plan or timeframe for its implementation. Transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere questioned how Minister Simeon Brown would manage to initiate construction given an investment case has been announced, but no budget allocated. The transport budget is currently facing a $6 billion shortfall.
Utikere emphasized that Wellington requires improved transport links and infrastructure, including better public transportation options such as mass rapid transit. However, the government's plan lacks clear details on how it intends to fund these projects or provide alternative solutions like toll roads or congestion charging.
The spokesperson also expressed concern over the potential impact of imposing tolls on near-completed projects, which were initially funded by the previous government in an attempt to address the current budget deficit.