NZTA board, not ministers, to decide on Wellington 'long tunnel'

NZTA board, not ministers, to decide on Wellington 'long tunnel'
Transport Minister Simeon Brown wanted NZTA to investigate the long tunnel option for Wellington. (Image: NZME)
Oliver Lewis
Transport Minister Simeon Brown says the New Zealand Transport Agency board will decide whether the proposed Wellington mega-tunnel should go ahead, although BusinessDesk understands ministers have now expressed a preference for a cheaper option.The so-called long tunnel, consisting of twin two-lane tunnels from north of the Terrace to Kilbirnie, bypassing the central city, would cost several billion dollars and, at 4km long, be the longest road tunnel in New Zealand.Brown accused the previous Government this year of overlooking the option and...

More Policy

Congestion charge bill introduced
Economy

Congestion charge bill introduced

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed the bill.

Staff reporters 18 Dec 2024
Business of Government: Brickbats and bouquets edition
Policy

Business of Government: Brickbats and bouquets edition

Our final weekly round-up of public sector news and analysis for 2024.

Jem Traylen 18 Dec 2024
Fast-track passes and the pendulum swings
Policy Analysis

Fast-track passes and the pendulum swings

Private interests, public good and the fate of frogs.

Ian Llewellyn 17 Dec 2024
Harbour crossing drilling to start in 2025
Policy

Harbour crossing drilling to start in 2025

Geotech investigations for NZ's biggest transport project due to start next February. 

Oliver Lewis 17 Dec 2024