Trucking industry disappointed two Auckland roading projects put in the slow lane
The New Zealand trucking industry has expressed disappointment over the government's decision to delay two major Auckland roading projects. Officials cite a 'phased approach' to managing the costs and implementation of national infrastructure.
Why it matters
Infrastructure delays impact logistics efficiency and economic growth, highlighting the tension between ambitious government promises and fiscal reality.
The trucking industry is disappointed to see two Auckland roading projects relegated to the slow lane as part of a "phased approach" to the Roads of National Significance delivery.
Auckland's East West Link and Mill Rd were among five of the 17 Roads of National Significance that would progress more slowly.
Last week, Transport Minister Chris Bishop said not all projects could happen at once , and the programme would be phased.
He accepted 2023 commitments the government made were "ambitious".
The Roads of National Significance have been a key transport priority for the government, but it has been dogged by questions over their costs and their implementation.
National Road Carriers chief operating officer James Smith told Morning Report the two Auckland projects had been around for decades and were key to reducing congestion.
"These are not new projects, they've been on planning boards for decades."
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