When I can talk about what’s happening with my property?
The team are committed to engaging with all property owners and tenants who may be affected by the project. We will be holding regular meetings with owners in July. Once the consents and applications are lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority later this year, we will continue discussions to purchase land. We will work closely with owners and tenants affected by the project over the next two years. If you have any questions about property, please contact us.
What if my property is affected by the project?
If your land is required for the project, the NZ Transport Agency (on behalf of the Crown) is able to purchase your land under the Public Works Act 1981. We will appoint an independent Land Information NZ (LINZ) accredited property supplier to negotiate with you, who will ensure that the purchase negotiated is fair to you as the property owner, your tenants (if appropriate) and the Transport Agency. You can also find more details of the property process and your rights as owners or tenants on the LINZ website
Why do we need the East West Link?
The project is one of Auckland’s top priority transport projects and is featured in the ‘Auckland Plan’ – the planning guide for the city. The link is critical to support the Onehunga and Penrose areas which are the industrial and manufacturing engine room of the economy. Together with Mt Wellington and East Tamaki, these areas contribute over 15% of the city’s GDP. The project will improve access to the rail freight hub at Southdown and also improve travel times for freight, motorists and public transport users.
Does the project allow for rail to the airport?
Yes it does. We are working closely with Auckland Transport’s rail to the airport team. This is to make sure that the East West Link design provides for both heavy and light rail options in the future.
More information and a flythrough of Auckland Transport’s current designs for rail are available here.
How does the project improve traffic in Onehunga?
The project will make it easier for local business owners, truck operators and customers to get in and out of Onehunga-Penrose by removing a third of local traffic from Neilson Street. This will support the growing Onehunga town centre and businesses.
What about developments at the Port?
We are working closely with Panuku Development Auckland and Auckland Council on how the project can support better walking and cycling routes and improved roads from the town centre to the Onehunga Port area.
What happens to the foreshore?
The route design creates an opportunity to create a more natural edge at the Mangere Inlet (north side) than what is currently there. We are looking at improving access to the edge on a new coastal walkway as well as ways to capture and treat stormwater from the area.
Why are there changes at the Princes Street Bridge in Otahuhu?
A new interchange is needed to provide a wider and safer bridge. We are also widening the motorway lanes underneath to four lanes each way between Mt Wellington and Highbrook. There will be new walking and cycling paths on Princes Street to make it safer to walk to Otahuhu Intermediate and the surrounding streets.
How can I find out more?
Please contact the East West Link project team if you have any questions or would like to meet with us. East West Link project office, 10 Gloucester Park Road, Onehunga (phone for an appointment)
Email: eastwest@nzta.govt.nz
Freephone: 0508 NZTA EWL (0508 6982 395)