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Last updated
Project status Planning

Project details

Start date

2018

End date

2055

Location

Auckland-wide

Transport involved

Walking, driving, bus, train and cycling

Overview

Auckland is the country’s fastest growing region. The city is projected to increase by 720,000 people to reach a population of 2.4 million by 2050. 

The Auckland Plan 2050 guides Auckland’s future and sets a strategic direction for how this growth will be accommodated to ensure a quality, compact, urban form. While the majority of this growth will be within existing urban areas, around 30% will extend out into future urban growth areas (greenfields areas) in North, North West and south Auckland. 

Auckland Transport (AT), Auckland Council and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) are working together to develop transport networks to support the development of Auckland’s new future urban growth areas over the next 30-plus years.

Timeline

North Auckland and Warkworth Projects

In progress
2025 to 2055

Over the next 20 to 30 years urban growth will mean that North Auckland will need a range of new and improved transport choices to help new communities move around.  
 
We’re planning future transport connections and several upgrades to arterial roads in the urban growth areas of Dairy Flat, Redvale, Silverdale, Silverdale West, Wainui East and Warkworth. 

Learn more about our North Auckland and Warkworth projects.

North-West Auckland Projects

In progress
2025 to 2055

Well-connected communities enjoy lots of transport options. Public transport, walking and cycling networks and new and improved roads will give people lots of options to move around safely and easily via a sustainable transport network.  

Extending public transport connections and offering safe, accessible and sustainable travel choices, to serve future communities and to take action on climate change, is at the heart of the North West’s long-term transport network. 

Learn more about our projects in North-west Auckland.

South Auckland Projects

In progress
2025 to 2045

We are preparing South Auckland for future growth by planning solutions for improved public transport, better and safer walking and cycling options, and new and upgraded roads. We want future generations of South Aucklanders to have more choice about how they get around.  

Learn more about our projects in South Auckland.

Project background

What is a designation? 

A designation is a provision made in a district plan to give effect to a requirement made by a requiring authority (in this case Auckland Transport) for a project or work. 

A designation authorises AT to undertake the project or work on a specific site/route, as well as any other area where the restriction is necessary for the safe or efficient functioning or operation of the project or work. Designations form part of any relevant district plans and authorise the associated land use activities specified in the designation. Separate regional consents may still be required to authorise works. 

Designations have two primary functions: 

To allow the proposed public work to be carried out in accordance with the purpose and conditions of the designation. 

To protect the land from activities that may compromise the proposed public work, by either preventing or hindering the work from taking place. 

For more information about what it means to have a designation on your property you can view or download our landowner guide here.

What will happen to the directly affected properties? 

Because there is no funding for detailed design or construction of this project, Auckland Transport is not wishing to purchase any property at the moment. This means landowners can continue to use their properties as they do now. 

Can I carry out works on my property if it’s designated? 

If you are planning works in your property, such as residential or commercial development, you may need approval from Auckland Transport before you can undertake the works. Please contact Auckland Transport using the contact details below to discuss any development you would like to do on your property. More information can also be found here. 

When will Auckland Transport purchase the designated area of land? 

Auckland Transport normally only seeks to acquire land when it is actually required for works and this is generally around 2 years prior to construction starting. 

What does the designation mean for business owners and operators and occupiers of properties within the designation? 

A designation can impact business owners and operators and occupiers of properties in a similar way to landowners, depending on how the property is used. Check with the property owner to find out whether you need approval to make any changes to the way you use the property. 

Where can I get support? 

If you are a landowner and feeling anxious about the designation or the project, you can contact us to access free, confidential services. Alternatively, you can access services at one of the following services. 

  • Anxiety Helpline – 0800 269 4389 (0800 ANXIETY) for people with all forms of anxiety and families and friends. 
  • Rural Support – 0800 787 252 for people in rural communities dealing with challenges 

Landowners

If you are a landowner within a designation and would like further information about this project, please contact the Auckland Transport Consent Planning Team.

Developers

If you are a developer and would like further information about this project, please contact the Auckland Transport Strategic Development Programmes Team.

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