Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is home to 33 percent of New Zealand’s total population. The Auckland Region covers 4,941.13 km squared with an estimated population of 1,739,300 as of June 2023 and, at current projections, will increase by another 260,000 people over the next ten years.
Despite Auckland’s geographical spread and a rapidly growing population, Auckland Transport (AT) is on a mission to connect Aucklanders with everything that makes the region so great, by developing world class transport and infrastructure, with an integrated transport system that’s more sustainable, affordable, efficient, and reliable.
“We want people to know that AT has a plan and we’re making progress in building better transport infrastructure for Aucklanders,” says Murray Burt, AT Director Infrastructure and Place.
There are several seemingly unrelated projects in progress that are all designed to build a more connected Auckland; where all modes of transport work together, connecting urban and suburban communities and improving access for all Aucklanders to live, work and play across the region.
“As Auckland’s population continues to grow, and suitable space in the city centre for buses remains limited, Auckland Transport needs to make some bold changes to allow greater priority for buses if we are to keep Auckland moving,” says Pete Moth, AT’s Head of Public Transport Services Planning and Development.
A groundbreaking development is in progress in Pakūranga with the construction of a flyover that’s set to soar above Reeves Road and across Tī Rākau Drive.
Planned to open in 2026, the four-lane flyover will provide a direct connection between Pakūranga Road and the South Eastern Highway to improve the flow of traffic and reduce congestion around Pakūranga town centre.
The Eastern Busway is connecting East Auckland to the city’s rapid transit network. Once fully completed, the 7km busway will span from Botany, to Pakūranga town centre, to Panmure train station. It will enable trips between Botany and Waitematā Station (Britomart) in about 40 minutes by bus and train.
The city centre is at the heart of an integrated transport system that includes buses, trains, walking, cycling, micro-mobility, freight and cars.
Currently the city is undergoing a significant transformation with several major transport projects including the new City Rail Link, Midtown Regeneration, a new bus plan and an updated parking strategy.
“Te Waihorotiu station is going to be a major new access point in the city centre, revitalising the streets, creating great public spaces with widened footpaths, new seating, planting, artwork and a new bus interchange on Wellesley St (similar to Lower Albert St). There will be increased pedestrian footfall for a thriving retail and dining precinct, similar to what we’ve seen at Commercial Bay and Britomart,” says Murray Burt.
Transport plays an enormous role in people’s experience of a city. Auckland Transport is transforming how we move around Auckland - putting people first with improved connections and increased safety for everyone.
