We’re making the way we plan and deliver state highway infrastructure projects more efficient and effective.
To support the priorities set out in the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) 2024 – 27, NZTA was tasked to review and improve the current business case process to make it more efficient.
The National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) 2024-27 will also deliver record investment across the land transport network over the next 3 years. This will require accelerated delivery and continuous improvement to investment planning for our projects.
Taking a decision-led approach to develop state highway infrastructure projects is one of the ways we’re improving how we set up our projects to support faster, cost-effective outcomes. This will drive the clear management of scope, budget and risk from the beginning of a project.
We’re using the approach to support the successful delivery of the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) and the Northwest Busway project.
Existing business case guidance and resources will be updated to align to the Guide to using the Decision-led approach to project development document (once finalised).
The guidance document is focussed on the investment case phase within the project lifecycle.
Discovery work for guidance to support the next project phase (pre-implementation) is currently underway.
From July 2025 onwards, the use of this guidance will be applied across NZTA state highway infrastructure projects.
We will have resources and support available to help our suppliers adopt this approach when working with us on our projects. We will also have support and resources for our Approved Organisation (AO) partners to adopt this approach, as is relevant to them and for the projects we’re delivering together.
The decision-led approach ensures project teams do the right work at the right time to enable the right decisions. It emphasises tailored analysis and evidence to support decisions through each phase, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all process. This approach accelerates investment case development and project delivery while maintaining a focus on value for money and affordability. It aligns with the five-case model and NZ Treasury’s Better Business Cases methodology.
Key elements include:
The decision-led approach is guided by the following principles:
The investment principles and policies continue to apply. They provide the rules for National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) investment, ensuring clarity and consistency in developing investment proposals. These principles align with legislative requirements under the Land Transport Management Act 2003, environmental planning, property considerations, and NZTA delegations for transport planning, funding, investment, and reporting.
Approved Organisations (AOs) are encouraged to adopt the decision-led approach. NZTA will support AO partners in applying this approach to relevant projects, leveraging shared internal capabilities and consultants to deliver investment cases that support both AO and NZTA decision-making.
The next step is to continue engaging with partners and the sector to embed the decision-led approach as the standard for NZTA project development from July 2025. For further inquiries, contact:
decisionledpdinfo@nzta.govt.nz
