In his web-based ‘Letter from Len’ Auckland Mayor Len Brown says the isthmus is facing “many challenges” this year, including tackling Auckland’s transport issues, but he is telling ratepayers it’s time for action.

”Our roads are congested, our train network is hobbled by a central station that trains have to reverse out of instead of run through, and there are parts of Auckland with inadequate bus services.  We’ve done the planning, now it’s time to get things done.

“The Manukau Rail Spur will open soon - this is the first extension of the rail network since the 1930s,” he says.

“A fleet of new fast and efficient electric trains is also being built and will be ready next year.

“However, there is much more to do because our population will grow to two million by 2040.” 

On Wednesday February 1, Len Brown welcomed into the world a new baby born at Auckland Hospital who was symbolically chosen as the person who tipped Auckland’s population over the 1.5 million mark. Back in September, Auckland Council released its draft Auckland plan, which sets out how Auckland will absorb an additional one million people and build 400,000 dwellings to accommodate them in the next 30 years.

All those people will inevitably need to drive cars and in Len Brown’s latest letter to ratepayers he acknowledges Auckland needs another harbour crossing, improved transport links to south-east Auckland, and the City Rail Link to open up Britomart and unlock the rail network.

“These projects need huge investment and we face a large funding gap. We want your feedback on funding options for these major transport developments, which could include congestion or network charging, tolls or a dedicated petrol tax - all options need to be considered if we want to get Auckland moving,” he said.