Responsibility for most transport functions will shift to Auckland Council
Chris Bishop, transport minister; Simon Watts, Auckland minister; and Wayne Brown, Auckland mayor, have shared that the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Bill – with transport governance reforms aimed at ensuring democratic accountability – has passed the third reading.
In a news release, Bishop explained that the amendments seek to foster a closer transport partnership between New Zealand’s government and the Auckland Council.
“An aligned approach between local and central government is critical to set long-term direction, make the most of shared resources and deliver regional and national transport goals,” Watts said in the government’s news release.
According to Bishop, the bill allows the government and Auckland Council to work together via the new Auckland Regional Transport Committee, which will prepare and deliver a 30-year transport plan, included in the Auckland City Deal.
Bishop noted that the reforms intend to empower local boards to make decisions regarding local and collector roads, including imposing speed limits, closing roads during events, managing parking, and establishing cycleways.
According to Bishop, the Auckland Council has not been able to take the lead and decide on the direction for the city’s transport, given that Auckland Transport has held powers for 16 years
which local councils typically manage.
“For too long, Auckland Transport has failed to listen to Aucklanders and take their views into account,” Watts said in the news release. “That’s why we’re changing the law.”
“Auckland Transport will be a much smaller organisation, solely focused on delivery of public transport services – with strong oversight from councillors,” Brown added. “Their job will be to make sure the buses and ferries show up on time, and to make the most of the City Rail Link.”
Bishop explained that the bill will enable the Auckland Council to:
Bishop noted that the Auckland Council’s governing body, comprising the mayor and 20 councillors, will be in charge of arterial roads, city centre roads, roads in the Eden Park precinct, and other roads with regional significance.
“The legislation sets the foundations for restored democratic accountability, with Aucklanders able to hold their elected members responsible for transport policies at the ballot box,” Bishop said in the government’s news release.
“This Government is committed to improving transport in Auckland and putting decision-making back in the hands of Aucklanders,” Watts added. “This will boost productivity and economic growth by providing for better accessibility, reduced congestion and increased urban density.”
According to Bishop, the reforms can also help the government address Auckland's transport priorities.
“Earlier this month, we signed the Auckland City Deal, which set out agreed transport priorities, including North‑West Rapid Transit, Botany to Airport public transport, Mill Road, and level crossing removals,” Bishop said. “We are also working closely on the additional Waitematā Harbour crossing, time‑of‑use charging, and more efficient transport network management.”
According to information on Parliament’s website, the bill was introduced on 13 August 2025 and passed its first reading on 19 August 2025 and its second reading on 23 April 2026, with the Committee of the Whole House concluding on 30 April 2026.
In the government’s news release, Bishop expressed gratitude to those who provided their input on the legislation, including Mayor Brown, the Auckland Council, and members of the public.
