As the local MP for the area served by The Helensville Community News, I’m keen to see the continuation of recent progress of transport planning in northwest Auckland.
First, though, I thought this column would be a good opportunity to confirm to my constituents that I am prioritising this advocacy as local MP. This is because I also have a role in government as “Minister of Land Information” and it’s important that I remove any perception of a conflict of interest. That ministerial role involves signing off decisions for the purchase of land for projects - sometimes as compulsory acquisitions - on behalf of the Crown.
For this reason, I have removed myself from that level of decision making in Wellington, meaning that another minister will be making those calls, on behalf of government. Hopefully, this leaves me free to advocate on behalf of Kumeu and surrounding areas without fear or favour.
Examples of projects in this area that could require the acquisition of land in the near future (whether by mutual agreement or otherwise) include the Alternative State Highway, also known as the “Kumeu Bypass”. This is planned to be a new dual carriageway motorway extending from Brigham Creek Road to State Highway 16 east of Waimauku. This project aims to alleviate congestion and enhance safety, recognising housing development in the area.
Another project is the Northwest Busway, which is a dedicated busway alongside SH16 between Brigham Creek and the city centre. Ground was recently broken for this new transport route, which will be completed in stages.
And of course, “Stage 2” (i.e. the Brigham Creek to Kumeu end) of the SH16 upgrade works - currently underway as Stage 1 at the Waimauku end - will need land to be acquired as well.
Further afield there are projects at the northern end of my large electorate, such as the motorway extension between Warkworth and Te Hana, for which I’m taking the same approach.
In summary, I fully support these initiatives as I know that the area desperately needs investment in infrastructure that will see our people get to and from work, school and leisure much more quickly and safely. To ensure that I can keep advocating for these projects and those most directly affected, I’ve decided to keep wearing my hat as local MP and recuse myself from decision making under the Public Works Act to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. Together, we can build a more connected and prosperous northwest Auckland!
