There's cynicism a planned second harbour crossing in Auckland will actually come to fruition on time.
The Government has agreed to the most ambitious of the proposed Waitemata Harbour plans, and will push forward with two three-lane tunnels for cars and trucks, and a light rail connection.
As the tunnels are built, the use of the existing bridge would change, with two lanes becoming dedicated bus lanes, and some clip-on lanes for cycling and walking.
The goal is to begin construction by 2029. It's marked down to cost between $35 and $44.5b, and it's not clear yet how exactly it will be funded... tolling and public-private partnerships have been pitched as possibilities.
Labour and National are both in favour of the idea, but mayor Wayne Brown says it won't happen unless they work in partnership with Auckland.
Chris Hipkins, David Parker and Carmel Sepuloni at the announcement of the plan on 6 August. Photo: Lucy Xia / RNZ
