Auckland Council advances zoning changes and congestion charging plans

Auckland Council is advancing two major urban management initiatives involving zoning changes and new road pricing schemes.

Regarding housing and land use, the council has opened the submission period for Plan Change 120. This proposal seeks to modify planning rules concerning housing density, building heights, and protections against natural hazards such as flooding. Residents have until September 24 to provide feedback, with the council providing interactive maps and advisory services to assist the public in understanding the proposed changes.

Simultaneously, the council is moving forward with three proposed congestion charging options, referred to as ‘time of use charging’. These schemes aim to reduce peak-hour traffic by encouraging motorists to use public transport or travel during off-peak times. The shortlisted options range from a central city cordon with lower fees to a wider city fringe cordon, and a third option that would extend charges to the core motorway network. Public engagement on these transport options is scheduled for November.