The government has agreed to enable tolling on roading infrastructure.
Transport Minister Simeon Brown says tolling will bring forward critical investment in New Zealand's transport network. The key policy changes will allow the approach to be applied more effectively, making it possible to deliver infrastructure sooner and more efficiently. Those who benefit from new roads will share in the cost of building them.
The Government has agreed on clear principles for the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) when proposing toll roads and set clear expectations for consultation processes. This will give communities clarity on the benefits of toll road proposals and consider wider impacts on local roads.
Tolling will be considered for all Roads of National Significance to help deliver this roading programme across New Zealand. Existing National Land Transport Fund resources can be protected for maintaining existing state highways and local roads. Legislation giving effect to these changes will be introduced next year.
The Government has also agreed to toll three new roads following public consultation: Ōtaki to north of Levin, Takitimu North Link, and Penlink. Tolling on these roads will support the ongoing cost of delivering these roads and maintaining and operating them.