AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

17 May 2007

Mayor says it’s a momentous day for Auckland

Mayor of Auckland City Dick Hubbard is delighted at the government’s Budget announcement that a regional fuel tax will help fund a world-class transport network for Auckland.

He says the regional fuel tax (of up to 10 cents a litre), in conjunction with direct government funds, will give the green light to the desperately needed electrification of Auckland’s train network, along with the completion of major road projects, particularly State Highway 20.

“Today is the culmination of three years’ hard work. I’ve been fighting tooth and nail to get this across the line,” he says.

Mayor Hubbard says electrification will mean faster, more efficient and more environmentally friendly travel. More people will choose to travel by train, it will free up our roads for cars and other road users, and air quality will be better.

“It also means we can start planning for an inner-city underground loop, an essential part of any world-class city.”

Mayor Hubbard says congestion costs the region $1 billion a year and Aucklanders know too well the frustrations of getting around the city. He hopes Aucklanders will understand the need for a regional fuel tax, which will be phased in slowly over the next five years.

“This money will be specifically ring-fenced for essential transport projects that aren’t covered by government funding,” he says. “I can assure you it won’t be swallowed up in the system.

“Aucklanders will have a say in how the money is spent. Ultimately, the use of the fuel tax is up to the people.

“Our dirty, tired, clapped-out old diesel trains will be a thing of the past. It’s no more Thomas the Tank Engine for Auckland.”

Ends

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