NZTA Must Consider Consequences Of Woodend Bypass Toll - MP

Thursday, 28 August 2025, 5:38 pm
Article: David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey says rat-running and other unintended consequences must be considered before slapping a toll on the new Woodend Bypass. 

The Government is likely to impose a toll on the Woodend Bypass, if Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency recommends it, Mr Doocey said. 

But he expects NZTA to take on board the concerns about increased traffic volumes in Kaiapoi and Tuahiwi. 

The toll proposal has received widespread opposition from the community, including from Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon and Hurunui Mayor Marie Black. 

Mr Gordon said his council raised concerns with NZTA about "rat running" and congestion through local streets, in Woodend, Kaiapoi and Tuahiwi, as drivers try to avoid the toll. 

NZTA is consulting on its proposal to impose a toll on the planned Woodend Bypass when it opens, with submissions closing on September 9. 

‘‘We do not need the unintended consequence of increased traffic in Kaiapoi or Tuahiwi, which is why it’s so important that NZTA carries out robust modelling and consultation,’’ Mr Doocey said. 

‘‘Traffic volumes in Woodend are expected to decrease dramatically as a result of the bypass.’’ 

NZTA is proposing two tolling points, with each charging $1.25 per passing light vehicle, and $2.50 for heavy vehicles - or up to $5 a day for a return trip for light vehicles. 

Williams Street and Smith Street in Kaiapoi have been identified as an alternative, toll-free route, while community leaders fear Revells Road through Tuahiwi will also be used by motorists. 

The Waimakariri District Council has been working with Kaiapoi North School and Tuahiwi School to address safety concerns with speeding motorists on Williams Street and Revells Road. 

Mr Doocey has been speaking publicly for sometime about the prospect of a toll being imposed, as the Government looks at alternative ways of funding infrastructure. 

‘‘The Government has been clear from the beginning that tolling provides an opportunity for an additional source of revenue to support faster delivery of new motorways.’’ 

He encouraged everyone to have their say through the consultation process. 

An NZTA spokesperson said the potential impact on Williams Street in Kaiapoi has been considered. 

The spokesperson said NZTA will work with the Waimakariri District Council and the Kaiapoi and Tuahiwi communities to address the potential impact. 

Cameras take a photo of vehicles as they pass the tolling points. 

Motorists can set up a toll account on the NZTA website. If they don’t, the registered vehicle owner will be sent an invoice after five days.

-LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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