The Pukekohe Detailed Business Case process is expected to be completed later this year and scheduled for consideration by the Auckland Transport and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Boards in September 2023.

We expect to lodge the Notices of Requirement to designate the land required for projects in October 2023.

The proposed future transport network in and around this area was updated following feedback from community consultation and our ongoing technical investigations We understand that for some people, a change may be welcomed, but for others, this will be unforeseen and could result in an unexpected potential impact to their property.

The Notice of Requirement Process

Select the image below to view a larger version, or download a copy here.

The public hearing and appeals process

A public hearing will be held where the requiring authority (Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and/ or Auckland Transport) and all submitters are able to be heard. Auckland Council will make a recommendation as to whether or not the designation should be confirmed in the Auckland Unitary Plan (with or without modification to the conditions) or be withdrawn.

There will be an opportunity for any submitter to appeal Auckland Council’s decision. Appeals are lodged with the Environment Court. Auckland Council will contact you directly and invite you to make a submission on the proposed designation.

What changed following further assessment and public feedback?

During public consultation, we heard that you opposed the proposed North East Arterial option, specifically, the section proposed to upgrade Grace James Road.

As a result of ongoing assessment and the feedback we received during consultation, we have made changes to the proposed North East Arterial alignment. The proposed alignment is now:

• Sitting away from the Future Urban Zone. This is similar to a route identified in the Pukekohe-Paerata Structure Plan 2019.
• A more easterly alignment in the southern section at the intersection of Pukekohe East Road.

This map shows the full transport network and the revised alignment for the North East Arterial.

This map shows the full transport network and the revised alignment for the North East Arterial.

Investigating various routes/alignments that could make up the proposed transport network is part of the process leading to lodging Notices of Requirement. Changes to initial proposals and options can occur as a result of additional investigations, further assessment, and public engagement.

The North East Arterial alignment was revised for a number of reasons including:

• Our additional work shows that it directly connects the proposed Paerata and western arterials.
• Community and stakeholder feedback during consultation.
• Further assessment indicates that the revised alignment will be more direct and will be used more by general traffic, including freight.

• For the southern section of the revised alignment (which now has a more easterly route), there are reduced impacts on ecologically significant areas compared to other options. It integrates better with future urban development on the eastern side (closer to Runciman Road).

In summary, the value of the North East Arterial route to the overall transport network for Pukekohe-Paerata and south Drury increases with these changes.