Transport reform in Auckland: changes from 1 October 2026

In 2025, the government agreed to make changes to transport legislation to give Auckland Council more control over transport decisions in Auckland.

Transport reform has changed the way Auckland Council and the government work together to plan transport, with new 10-year and 30-year plans. It also brings transport planning and development closer together to support Auckland’s growth.

From 1 October 2026, Auckland Transport is a council-controlled organisation focused on delivering reliable, efficient and safe public transport services in Auckland. Responsibility for many other transport functions has transferred to Auckland Council.

What changes for customers?

See at a high level the activities each organisation is responsible for.

Auckland Transport

Responsible for public transport services including:

• bus, train and ferry services
• routes and timetables
• fares, ticketing, HOP cards and contactless payments
• information, journey planning and customer support.

Auckland Council

Now manages:

• roads and maintenance including streetlights, road resealing and pothole repairs
• parking services and enforcement (AC Parking)
• building and maintenance of public transport infrastructure including bus stops, wharves, train stations and bus and transit lanes
• road safety including speeds
• footpaths and cycleways.