Policy & Regulation
Government, regulators and the rules that shape the transport sector.

Eastern Busway flyover opens early and under budget
A long-awaited flyover designed to ease one of the country’s busiest intersections has opened to traffic — five months ahead of schedule and more than $4…

Summer highway rebuilds set for Southland, while Northland lines up 204km of renewals
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is shifting into peak season for road maintenance, with full reconstructions kicking off across key Southland routes and a major…

Govt revives freight study, unveils action plan and new industry council
The Government has unveiled a three-part package to shore up New Zealand’s freight network, including the reinstatement of a national freight demand study. The move reverses…

Auckland mayor praises new accord between council, port and union
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has signed a landmark agreement with the Port of Auckland (POAL) and the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ), formalising a new…

Stricter emissions rules for heavy imports from November 2025
Heavy vehicle importers are being urged to prepare now for tighter emissions standards that take effect from November 1, 2025. The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association…

Govt unveils new residence options to bolster workforce
More New Zealand businesses, including automotive trades, will soon be able to attract and retain the workforce they need under the Government’s introduction of two new…

RUC exemption for heavy EVs an incentive boost, Hiringa says
Heavy electric vehicles, including hydrogen fuel cell trucks, will remain exempt from Road User Charges (RUC) until June 30, 2027 — a move welcomed by clean…

Democracy back in the driver’s seat for Auckland transport, ministers say
The Government has unveiled sweeping changes to how transport is run in Auckland, shifting most powers from Auckland Transport (AT) to Auckland Council and creating a…

NZTA awards $42m Ōmanawa Bridge contract
Construction of a new Ōmanawa Bridge on State Highway 29 is set to begin in October after the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) awarded the first major contract for the Tauriko West Road of National Significance.

Second Ashburton bridge a step closer as NZTA signs design contract
A long-awaited second bridge over the Ashburton River has moved a step closer, with a key agreement signed to advance detailed design ahead of construction next…