Mott MacDonald helps develop New Zealand motorway strategy

Mott MacDonald has supported the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) - which is also called Waka Kotahi - in developing the Auckland Motorway Strategic Plan (AMSP), a strategy designed to guide the region’s motorway network over the next 30-plus years as Auckland’s population grows. Mott MacDonald acted as lead consultant, working with sub-consultants Arup and SMEC to develop a strategic framework and investment roadmap for the AMSP. The work brought together transport planning, modelling, operations, economics and stakeholder engagement expertise. Working closely with NZTA and key partners, the team applied a decision-led planning approach to turn complex technical evidence into a practical, long-term strategy for Auckland’s motorway network. Since the mid-1950s, Auckland’s motorway network has played a key role in the region’s land transport system. The network extends more than 170km and carries more than 1.5M trips each day. It is also important to the wider Upper North Island, connecting Auckland’s communities and supporting New Zealand’s economy through links to the Port of Auckland and Auckland Airport. The AMSP provides decision makers with a suite of investment options, supporting upcoming planning for Auckland’s 30-year transport plan and guiding regional and national transport priorities. It focuses on three core outcomes: optimising the existing network, targeted increases in capacity and wider system improvements. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown said: “People and businesses want to spend less time stuck in traffic and more time getting where they need to go. “This plan recognises that we can’t simply keep widening motorways forever. We need to make better use of the network we’ve got through optimisation and investing in small, sensible projects that will make the biggest difference for Aucklanders. He added: “It’s also about making sure roads, public transport, freight and the wider transport network work together to keep Auckland moving as the city grows.” Mott MacDonald managing director in New Zealand Mike O’Halloran said: “The AMSP represents a step change in how Auckland plans, prioritises and invests in the future of its motorway network. “By taking a whole-of-system approach, the plan provides a clear, long-term framework to improve performance, resilience and sustainability, while making the most of existing infrastructure.” He added: “We’re proud to have supported NZTA in delivering this important piece of work, helping shape how people and freight will move across the region for decades to come.” Have your say or a new account to join the discussion.