Waka Kotahi NZ Transport announced today a $1.3 billion investment in Manawatū/Whanganui to strengthen the region’s land transport system as a strategic freight hub for Aotearoa.
The planned investments are detailed in the 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), published today.
Ngā Kaupapa Huarahi o Aotearoa | 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP)
The planned $1.3 billion investment for Manawatū/Whanganui over the next three years is part of a wider $24.3 billion investment in the New Zealand transport system and marks a 101 per cent increase compared to the previous NLTP.
The NLTP comprises $15.6 billion from the National Land Transport Fund, generated through fuel excise, road user charges and other revenue sources; $4.6 billion from local government, generated through rates; and $3.8 billion in other Crown investments.
“We’re investing $335 million maintaining and improving state highways and local roads in Manawatū/Whanganui, reflecting the region’s importance as a transport ‘crossroads’, where road and rail corridors critical for Aotearoa’s economy intersect,” Director of Regional Relationships Linda Stewart says.
“Part of this investment goes toward $661 million already committed to build the Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua highway, which is underway now and, when complete, will connect the region with Hawke’s Bay and northern Wairarapa.”
Ms Stewart says road safety is a top priority for Waka Kotahi.
“We’re committed to reducing the number of people dying on our roads. In Manawatū/Whanganui, $81 million will be invested in programmes and improvements that will reduce the number of people being killed or seriously injured on our roads. This will include road improvements around Ōtaki, Levin and Bulls and speed management from Palmerston North to Ashhurst.
“To help ease congestion and make our cities healthier and more sustainable places to live, $44 million will be invested in public transport and $36 million in walking and cycling. This will include funding to extend commuter rail services from Levin to Wellington and continuing to deliver new walking and cycling paths throughout the region.”
Investment through the NLTP will contribute to a land transport system for Manawatū/Whanganui that will be safer and easier for people to use, effectively support the region’s economy and keep communities connected.
Full details of the investments being made through the National Land Transport Programme, including detailed regional breakdowns, can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/nltp
