The New Zealand Upgrade Programme multi-billion investment in Auckland will provide more travel choices, help people get where they’re going safely and support the economy.
Waka Kotahi is making good progress on construction of SH1 Papakura to Drury, which includes a new shared path for walking and cycling. Consents for the next stage have also been approved through the fast track process.
The project will support growing communities in South Auckland, improving access, safety and travel choices.
Also in South Auckland, KiwiRail has begun construction of a third main rail line. They are building the project as part of an increased investment in rail that also includes three new rail stations in Drury and Papakura to Pukekohe rail electrification.
KiwiRail – third main rail line(external link)
KiwiRail – bringing electric trains to Pukekohe(external link)
KiwiRail – Drury rail stations(external link)
In North Auckland, the Penlink project alliance is completing detailed design and carrying out investigations ahead of construction starting in December.
It will provide a vital new transport link as more people live, work and grow up in Silverdale, Whangaparāoa and the Hibiscus Coast. Along with the planned extension of the Northern Busway, the new two-lane road and shared walking and cycling path will support connected transport networks in north Auckland as people will enjoy better transport choices that are more reliable and improved travel times between Whangaparāoa and wider Auckland.
To support new housing and access to new rail stations, the Government has approved pre-implementation funding for two proposed Drury local transport upgrades at SH22 Drury and on Waihoehoe Road to allow design work to progress.
Construction of these projects is subject to the Government’s funding approval through a business case for Drury local transport upgrades and safety and public transport options for Mill Road.
Waka Kotahi is working on a rescoped business case for Mill Road after the Government decided in June 2021 not to proceed with the full Mill Road corridor upgrade. The aims of the rescoped business case are to improve safety, walking, biking and public transport connections and support additional housing. It is due to be presented for ministers’ approval mid-2023.
In October 2021, the Government confirmed that it would not proceed with the standalone bridge portion of the Northern Pathway and asked Waka Kotahi to explore further options for people to walk and bike across the Waitematā Harbour. We have worked with our partners and key stakeholders to identify an alternative option and await a decision from the Government on the next steps.
