The 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will help deliver the first three years of the 10-year Auckland Transport Alignment Project (ATAP) package, which was agreed by Cabinet and Auckland Council in March 2021. The ATAP package is a $31.4 billion, 10-year investment package for Auckland funded from:

  • $16.3 billion from the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF)
  • $10.2 billion from Auckland Council (through rates, borrowing and the Auckland regional fuel tax)
  • $4.9 billion from the Crown.

This NLTP will deliver the first three years of the ATAP programme as detailed in Auckland’s RLTP, following extensive engagement with the public. The RLTP was approved by Auckland Council, and Auckland Transport and incorporates KiwiRail’s Rail Network Investment Programme (RNIP). The NLTP will enable significant progress towards meeting ATAP objectives.

Investment of $4.2 billion through the 2021–24 NLTP will enable appropriate levels of maintenance, operation and renewal of the existing network, continuing critical safety and minor improvements programmes, supporting City Rail Link with wider rail network improvements and progress significant projects, such as:

  • Eastern Busway (Panmure to Botany)
  • Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway extension
  • Northern motorway improvements, including a shared path and an extension of the Northern Busway to Albany
  • Auckland Transport’s cycling programmes
  • City centre bus improvements
  • Connected Communities programme of bus and cycle lane and safety improvements on key arterial routes
  • Steps towards decarbonising the ferry fleet
  • Seed funding for Rapid Transit
  • Completion of the final stage of the Glen Innes to Tāmaki shared walking and cycling path
  • Glenvar/East Coast Road improvements

Investment through the NLTP will be supported by the Government and Auckland Council’s funding of City Rail Link and the $1.2 billion the Government will make through the NZ Upgrade Programme (NZUP). Over the next three years, NZUP will progress the SH1 Papakura to Drury improvements, the development of Penlink, rail upgrades between Wiri and Quay Park, and rail electrification between Papakura and Pukekohe.

The 2021–24 NLTP also supports planning the next generation of major investments in Auckland that are in the ATAP package. This work includes planning and designing light rail and other rapid transit corridors, major bus and cycle lane programmes, and significant investment to support growth in both new and existing urban areas. These projects focus on improving access, increasing travel choice, reducing emissions, improving safety and supporting ongoing growth. If additional funding or financing becomes available, it may be possible to bring forward delivery of these future investments.

In the spotlight: Auckland Transport Alignment Project