NZTA Waka Kotahi have released the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) 2024–27. Although the Government made their intentions clear in the Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 in June, the National Land Transport Programme is nonetheless a shocking read.
First and foremost, it is a bizarrely unbalanced investment plan.
The United Nations calls on countries to invest at least 20% of their transport budgets in walking and cycling. Under the National Land Transport Programme, New Zealand invests 1.4%. In Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, that investment is much tinier again, at just 0.01%.
The NZTA will use this sum to finish and maintain existing cycling and walking infrastructure projects. The document makes it clear that there are no funds for new cycling and walking infrastructure.
A reversal of National’s vision
It’s a tragic and embarrassing reversal from the previous National government who promised to develop urban bike networks, to build 21st century cities that unleash the productive power of cycling. Simon Bridges introduces this National Land Transport Programme. He has previously said:
“Cycling is an important part of an effective integrated transport network, it creates more vibrant and connected communities, it’s good for tourism and it’s a fun, healthy way to get around. We are committed to continuing to support cycling.”
The case for investing in cycling is strong
The evidence for investing in walking and cycling is compelling – at least $10 return on every $1 invested. It frees up roads. It frees up the health system. And it frees up wallets. Benefits that Simon Bridges talked about as Transport Minister in 2016 when he said he wanted more Kiwis to “understand the benefits of a ‘bike-friendly’ country, and the positive impacts of more people riding bikes.”
Kiwis are losing projects which they need today, and which the NZTA could deliver tomorrow. This investment plan is taking money away from much-wanted, shovel-ready projects which could be delivered quickly, in favour of massive motorway projects that we may not see for many years, if ever.
The Government is ignoring what Kiwis have said time and again they want: transport choice. An affordable A-to-B. Safer trips to school for kids. These are all good things that make sense, that Kiwis are absolutely right to ask of their government.
Bizarrely, the National Land Transport Programme does not deliver on the transport needs of everyday Kiwis.
