Consultations

We’re committed to a collaborative approach to transport planning, funding and development. It’s an approach that delivers integrated transport solutions that best meet the needs of New Zealanders. To achieve these results, we seek open and honest consultation across a range of activities with all our stakeholders, including road users, business, local government, communities and iwi.

The activities we consult on

Projects, policies and programmes

We undertake consultation for programmes, policies and projects according to specific scope, process and consultation principles set out by the Land Transport Management Act 2003.

Read the Land Transport Management Act 2003 (external link)

Land transport rules

We undertake consultation on behalf of the Minister of Transport for the making of land transport rules. The Minister of Transport has a statutory responsibility under the Land Transport Act 1998 to notify the intention to make the rule and to consult with interested groups on the proposed rule.

Read the Land Transport Act 1998 (external link)

We go beyond the minimum statutory requirements by maintaining a database of interested groups and individuals and undertaking extensive consultation on each rule. Submissions received on draft rules are summarised and analysed and the rule redrafted to take into account the submissions received. If necessary, we undertake further consultation with key groups before submitting a proposed rule to the government.

Policy – planning and management of land transport activities

We consult and communicate with relevant organisations and individuals whenever we substantively develop, enhance or review policy around the planning and management of land transport activities. These are activities that can be funded from the national land transport fund.

Appendix 3 of the Planning, programming and funding manual details this consultation and communication process.

What we’re currently consulting on

SH88 Dunedin to Port Chalmers shared path and safety improvements
The SH88 Dunedin to Port Chalmers safety improvements project will see the final section of the Dunedin to Port Chalmers shared path constructed, giving cyclists and pedestrians a safe way to travel away from traffic. Feedback closes at 5pm, Friday 29 June 2018.

Melling transport improvements
The NZ Transport Agency, Hutt City Council (HCC) and the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) are seeking feedback on three options for a new Melling interchange and for how a new bridge should connect into Hutt City as part of the RiverLink (external link) project. Submissions closed on Sunday, 10 June 2018.

Important information about making a submission Your submission will become publicly available information, so please indicate clearly if your comments are commercially sensitive or if there is some other reason they should not be disclosed. Any request for non-disclosure will be considered in terms of the Official Information Act 1982. Read the Official Information Act 1982 (external link)

Past consultations

2018
- SH58 speed reduction consultation
  The NZ Transport Agency and Porirua City Council sought feedback on its proposal to lower the speed limit of roads connecting to this section of SH58 to 60km/h. The Transport Agency is working with the Upper Hutt City Council and the Hutt City Council to determine safe speeds for the remaining roads that connect to this section of SH58. Submissions closed on Friday, 20 April 2018.
- Ōtaki to north of Levin shortlisted corridor options
  The NZ Transport Agency released the shortlisted corridor options for the Ōtaki to north of Levin (Ō2NL) project. Community information days were held in February and March 2018. The community were invited to provide feedback on the proposed options. Submissions closed at 5pm on Friday 23 March 2018.
- Rural Activated Warning Signs (RIAWS) consultation
  The NZ Transport Agency invited people to have their say on plans for Rural Intersection Activated Warning Signs, also known as Intersection Speed Zones, to improve safety. Submissions closed 30 March 2018.
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2017
- SH3 Waitara to Bell Block
  The NZ Transport Agency is looking at ways to make State Highway 3 between Waitara and Bell Block safer and keep traffic flowing. Community information days will be held on 6 and 7 December and an interactive online feedback form is available for the community to provide their comments on the proposed improvements. Submissions closed at 5pm on Wednesday 7 February 2018.
- SH6 Frankton bus lane [PDF, 1.1 MB]
  The NZ Transport Agency is proposing to create a bus priority lane on the eastern side of State Highway 6, Frankton from Grey Street to the southern entrance of the weigh pit. A bus priority lane was considered following discussions with the Queenstown Lakes Council (QLDC), Otago Regional Council and Queenstown Airport Corporation. They are concerned about the efficiency of the bus network when new and expanded services are introduced soon. Download the notice [PDF, 1.1 MB] for more information on how you can provide feedback. Submissions closed on Tuesday 14 November 2017.
- SH44 Moturoa safety improvements
  The NZ Transport Agency is investigating options for minor safety improvements on State Highway 44 (SH44) at the Moturoa Shops. A community information day will be held on Friday, 6 October 2017 at Revival Hall, corner of Bayly Road and Breakwater Road, Moturoa from 9.00am–4.00pm where you can provide feedback on the options. Submissions close at 5pm on Wednesday 1 November 2017.
- 110km/h speed management consultation
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on increasing the speed limit to 110km/h on the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road (SH2), between the Paengaroa roundabout and Domain Road interchange, and the Cambridge section of the Waikato Expressway (SH1), between the Cambridge Southern and Tamahere interchanges. Submissions closed on Thursday 26 October 2017.
- SH3 Manawatū Gorge alternative route consultation
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on the short list of options for the Manawatū Gorge alternative route. The Gorge has been closed since slips caused damage on 24 April 2017. Continued instability at the slip sites has resulted in the indefinite closure of the road with safety of all road users our number one priority. The short list will be reviewed to identify a preferred corridor by mid-December 2017. The consultation closed on Wednesday 25 October 2017.
- Multi Criteria Analysis (MCA) for transport business cases guidance
  The current draft MCA guidance has been withdrawn early from consultation. Due to the feedback received to date, the intent is to rescope this guidance to ensure it reflects the Transport Agency’s new operating model and strategic direction, and to ensure it provides best 'fit for purpose' to our internal and external stakeholders. Consultation withdrawn on 7 September 2017.
- Auckland electric vehicles – Phase 2 trial Bylaw 2017
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on a proposal to allow electric vehicles access to specified special vehicles lanes on state highways in Auckland. This work supports the Government’s package to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles in New Zealand to 64,000 by the end of 2021, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Submissions closed on Thursday 3 August 2017.
- State Highway 1 Pūhoi Valley speed limits consultation
  During mid-2017 the NZ Transport Agency and Auckland Transport consulted on proposals to reduce the legal speed limits approaching the State Highway 1, Pūhoi Road intersection.
- State Highway 16 Kaukapakapa Village speed limits consultation
  During mid-2017 the NZ Transport Agency consulted on proposals to reduce the legal speed limit in three locations on State Highway 16 approaching and within Kaukapakapa.
- Proposal to remove parking from SH6 in Frankton near Queenstown
  In May 2017, the NZ Transport Agency consulted on a proposal to remove all parking on SH6 in Frankton between the Lower Shotover Bridge and Kawarau Falls Bridge following requests from the Queenstown Lakes Council (QLDC) and Queenstown Airport Company.They were concerned about a potential safety risk from parked vehicles on what is a busy highway. Both organizations also believe parked vehicles along SH6 on Kawarau Road between the BP roundabout and Kawarau Falls Bridge, does not create a positive impression of Queenstown for visitors.The Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Queenstown Airport Company (QAC) and the NZ Transport Agency are working together to deal with these issues. Providing viable parking alternatives is seen as crucial to successfully managing this situation. Feedback closed on 9 June 2017 and the submission summary [PDF, 608 KB] is now available for viewing.
- State Highway 1 Pukenui and Houhora speed limits consultation
  During mid-2017 the NZ Transport Agency consulted on proposals to reduce the legal speed limit on State Highway 1 through Pukenui and Houhora.
- Setting of Speed Limits Rule [2017]
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on the (yellow) draft of Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits [2017] which determines how speed limits are set in New Zealand. The consultation closed 5pm, Friday 16 June 2017.
- Draft Traffic Control Devices Bylaw
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on a draft bylaw that will consolidate all traffic controls that apply to State highways into a single bylaw. The consultation closed on Monday 8 May 2017.
- Picton to Christchurch alternate route speed limits consultation
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting on changes to speed limits on the Picton to Christchurch alternate state highway route (state highways 63, 6, 65 and 7). The consultation closed on May 3 2017.
- Draft (revised) accidental archaeological discovery specification
  The NZ Transport Agency has released for consultation a revised Specification for accidental discovery of archaeological sites and material including koiwi (human remains) and taonga (P45). Consulation is now closed.
- Auckland Electric Vehicles Trial Bylaw
  The NZ Transport Agency is looking at the viability of allowing electric vehicles access to special vehicle lanes on the State highway network. This work supports the Government’s package to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles in New Zealand, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Consulation is now closed.
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2016
- Land Transport Rule: Small Passenger Services Reform 2017
  Your comments are sought on proposed changes to the regulatory framework for small passenger services. These are summarised in the public consultation (yellow) drafts of the Land Transport Rule: Operator Licensing (2017), Land Transport Rule: Work Time and Logbooks Amendment (2017) and Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Amendment Rule (2017). Consulation closed Friday 18 November 2016. Please refer to Land Transport Rules: Small Passenger Services Reform 2017 which contains the latest information about the changes that came into effect on 1 Ocotber 2017.
- Tailoring the low volume vehicle certification process to risk
  The NZ Transport Agency would appreciate your feedback on a proposed change to the Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification process, which will apply to commercial vehicle modifiers who carry out the same modifications to a number of vehicles. Submissions closed 5pm, Friday 30 September 2016.
- Low volume vehicle certification review (phase 2)
  The NZ Transport Agency is proposing some changes to the existing Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification process, in order to streamline the process for lower-risk modifications. Submissions closed 5pm, Friday 30 September 2016.
- Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2016
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting, on behalf of the Minister of Transport (the Minister), on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2016 ("the Rule").
  
  Consultation on the proposed changes is being carried out to ensure that legislation is sound and robust and that the Rules development process takes account of the views of, and the impact on, people affected by proposed Rule changes.
  
  The issues that are raised during consultation will be analysed and taken into account in preparing the proposed changes for the Minister of Transport's consideration. Submissions closed 5pm, Friday 12 August 2016.
- Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass (2016)
  The Transport Agency has released this proposed Rule for public consultation. The proposed Rule is designed to deliver productivity improvements, greater regulatory efficiency and reduced compliance costs without compromising the road transport system and road user safety outcomes.
  
  If you wish to comment on this draft Rule, please see the page headed ‘Making a submission’. Submissions closed at 5pm, Friday 12 August 2016.
- Land Transport Rule Dangerous Goods Amendment 2016
  The proposed amendment Rule will require drivers or operators of vehicles carrying dangerous goods to comply with any sign that indicates a restriction or prohibition on the transport of dangerous goods on a specified section of road.
  
  If you wish to comment on this draft Rule, please see the page headed ‘Making a submission’. Submissions closed 5pm, Monday 20 June 2016.
- Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999: Driver Licensing Review (external link)
  The Government is consulting on proposed changes to the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999 which specifies the requirements for obtaining and renewing a driver licence or licence endorsement in New Zealand, and outlines the requirements for the approval of courses and course providers. Submissions closed on 5pm, Thursday 2 June 2016. The discussion document and supporting information are available online at www.transport.govt.nz/dlr (external link)
- Draft State highway public engagement guidelines
  The Transport Agency has released this draft State Highway Public Engagement Guidelines for public consultation. This guide sets out the requirements for public engagement that meets the Transport Agency’s commitment to social responsibility and the requirements of statutory approval processes under the Resource Management Act. Submissions closed on Friday 29 April 2016.
- Engagement on the development of a SuperGold Bulk Funding Allocation Methodology
  On 8 June 2015, Government agreed that from 1 July 2016 the funding model for the SuperGold scheme will change from a demand driven fare reimbursement model to a capped bulk funding model.The Transport Agency has been tasked with developing, in collaboration with regional councils, a principles-based approach to the annual allocation of bulk funding to regional councils in time for the 2016/17 financial year.The Ministry of Transport will carry out a review of the effectiveness of the bulk funding model in 2018/19.The Transport Agency is seeking feedback from regional councils and other affected stakeholders on the preferred option which is discussed in the engagement document. The engagement document also summarises the other options that were explored in the development of the preferred option.
  
  The engagement period closed on 29 February 2016. Please send feedback to sarah.downs@nzta.govt.nz.
- Proposed changes to Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (VDAM Rule) (external link)
  The Government is consulting on proposed changes to the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (VDAM Rule) which regulates the size and weight of vehicles able to travel on New Zealand roads.
  
  Submissions were open until 17 February 2016. The discussion document and submission form are available online at www.transport.govt.nz/vdam (external link) .
- Guide to assessing social impacts for state highway projects
  The Transport Agency has released this draft Guide to assessing social impacts for state highway projects for public consultation. This guide sets out the requirements for assessment that meets the Transport Agency’s commitment to social responsibility and the requirements of statutory approval processes under the Resource Management Act.
  
  Please send feedback to environment@nzta.govt.nz. The feedback period close don Monday 29 January 2016, after which the final document will be prepared and released.
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2015
- Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (2016)
  The Transport Agency has released this proposed amendment Rule, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, for public consultation. The aim of this proposed amendment Rule is to allow road controlling authorities to issue permits for higher axle loading on all buses. A previous amendment to this rule (which came into effect on 1 October 2015) introduced permits for higher axle masses, but only for high-capacity buses (double-deckers) used on urban public transport routes. Consultation closed on 21 December 2015.
- Specification for Traffic signals
  The Signal New Zealand User Group (SNUG) and The Transport Agency has developed guidelines to assist traffic signal asset owners, design consultants and suppliers capture the maximum benefits from the newer technologies available, and to provide a best practice guideline. Submissions closed Monday 26 October 2015.
- Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2015
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting, on behalf of the Minister of Transport (the Minister), on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2015 ("the Rule").
  
  Consultation on the proposed changes is being carried out to ensure that legislation is sound and robust and that the Rules development process takes account of the views of, and the impact on, people affected by proposed Rule changes.
  
  The issues that are raised during consultation will be analysed and taken into account in preparing the proposed changes for the Minister of Transport's consideration. Submissions closed Friday 10 July 2015.
- Draft Guide to the management of reverse sensitivity effects on the state highway network
  The Transport Agency released a draft Guide to the management of reverse sensitivity effects on the state highway network for public consultation. This guide describes how we manage reverse sensitivity effects, working together with territorial authorities and landowners/developers. Submissions closed on Friday 1 May 2015.
- State Highway 3, Awakino Gorge to Mt Messenger corridor
  As part of the government’s Accelerated Regional Roading Package, the New Zealand Transport Agency investigated improvements to the section of State Highway 3 between Awakino Gorge and Mt Messenger. We sought public feedback on the current route and submissions on this project have now closed (Monday 13 April 2015). We received 251 responses to the survey from a range of submitters, including council, interest groups, and members of the public, and are currently collating the feedback.
- Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2015
  The NZ Transport Agency consulted, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002. Consultation on the proposed changes was carried out to ensure that legislation is sound and robust and that the rules development process takes account of the views of, and the impact on, people affected by proposed rule changes. Submissions closed on Thursday 2 April 2015.
- State highway safe network activity manual
  The State highway safe network activity manual provides advice and best practice guidance to network safety managers and road safety practitioners working on New Zealand roads in terms of road safety and replaces the Transit state highway safety management system manual, edition 4, March 2007. Submissions closed on Friday 27 February 2015.
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2014
- Review of the requirements for urban buses in New Zealand
  The NZ Transport Agency sought comments as part of a regular three year review of the Requirements for urban buses in New Zealand (RUB) document. Submissions closed on 24 October 2014.
- Cycling Safety Panel consultation
  The Cycling Safety Panel was convened by the NZ Transport Agency in response to the findings of a coronial review (external link) of cycling safety in New Zealand, released in November 2013 by Coroner Gordon Matenga. This consulation is now closed.
- Specification and guidelines for road lighting design
  The Transport Agency developed these guidelines to assist lighting asset owners, design consultants and suppliers capture the maximum benefits from newer lighting technologies, particularly LED road lighting. Submissions closed 30 September 2014.
- Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed changes to a range of land transport rules. Submissions closed on 20 June 2014.
- State Highway 3 north of New Plymouth – proposal to make the temporary 80km/h speed limit permanent
  The NZ Transport Agency proposed making the two temporary speed limits on State Highway 3 (Devon Road) between Bell Block and Waitara permanent. Submissions closed on 20 June 2014.
- Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Amendment Rule 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed rule changes that introduce time limits for learner and restricted licence holders, more flexibility around transactions and changes to evidence of identity requirements. Submissions closed on 28 May 2014.
- Land Transport Rule: Light-vehicle Brakes Amendment 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed rule changes to make the fitting of electronic stability control in new and used light passenger and commercial vehicles mandatory. Submissions closed 22 April 2014.
- Proposed changes to legislation relating to overweight and high-productivity motor vehicles
  We sought comments on proposed changes to the legislation (rule and regulations) relating to overweight and high-productivity motor vehicles. Submissions closed 7 April 2014.
- Funding assistance rates (FAR) review options discussion document
  The Transport Agency invited feedback on the second stage of the funding assistance rates review into how to appropriately share the costs of building, operating and maintaining the land transport network across regions and the country between local government and the National Land Transport Fund. Submissions closed 28 March 2014.
- Vehicle certification and road user charges administration fee review
  The NZ Transport Agency reviewed the administration fees associated with vehicle certification (certificate of fitness and warrant of fitness) and Road User Charges (RUC). Submissions closed 11 February 2014.
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2013
- Interim guidelines for preparing regional public transport plans
  The NZ Transport Agency invited feedback from the public transport sector on the Interim guidelines for preparing regional public transport plans. These guidelines reflect recent legislative and operational policy changes. Submissions closed 4 November 2013.
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