New Zealand First introduces the Local Government (Auckland Council) (Disestablishment of Auckland Transport) Amendment Bill, which seeks to reinstate democratic control over transport management in Auckland by abolishing Auckland Transport (AT) and transferring authority back to the Auckland Council.
AT was established as a council-controlled organisation (CCO) in 2010, with the intention of managing transport services across Auckland. Over the years, its governance structure has been a topic of debate, with policies being criticised for not aligning with Auckland’s specific needs and the Aucklanders’ lack of influence on the decisions made about their transport system.
New Zealand First Leader Rt Hon Winston Peters described AT as a “failed experiment” and that the organisation “has held too much power, with insufficient accountability to the Council and to the people of Auckland. “
The proposed bill seeks to dismantle AT and create a new council-controlled organisation that would operate under the Local Government Act 2002. This change is intended to guarantee that transport decisions are made by elected representatives who are directly accountable to the public, thereby addressing the disconnect between transport services and community needs.
“Aucklanders deserve a transport system that addresses their needs and is governed by those they have elected to represent them.”
“Every Aucklander should have confidence that their city’s transport system is being managed with transparency and democratic integrity.” Peters stated.
The bill includes a one-year delay in its commencement, providing the Auckland Council with adequate time to establish new governance structures and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.