Transport reform in Auckland

The government and Auckland Council are proposing changes to how transport is governed, planned and delivered in Auckland. These changes are known as transport reform.

Why this is happening

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

It also agreed to a smaller council-controlled organisation (CCO) focused on delivering public transport services. The rest of Auckland Transport’s current responsibilities will move to Auckland Council.

To allow this change, the government released draft legislation (a bill). The Bill had its third reading in the House on 30 April 2026. It was debated and a vote passed by members.

The Bill will now be made an act by royal assent. We expect this to happen 1 to 5 days after the third reading.

What transport reform will do

Transport reform will:

• change the way Auckland Council and the government work together and plan transport, with new 10-year and 30-year plans
• create a CCO focused on reliable, efficient and safe public transport
• plan transport and development together to support regional growth
• clarify who makes transport decisions and at what level.

What happens next

There will now be a maximum 6-month transition period to set up the new CCO and move other functions into Auckland Council.

During the transition period, a transport CCO with most of Auckland Transport’s current powers and functions will continue. A temporary board has been created for the transition period.

The transition period will end by the end of October 2026.

Other upcoming decisions

Over the next few months, Auckland Council will:

• finalise the legally required transition plan to guide the changes
• confirm how the new public transport CCO and council will be designed
• approve organisational structures and staffing
• complete any other steps required before the new arrangements begin.