Vic Crone

Auckland Mayoral Candidate

12 May 2015

Auckland motorway toll irresponsible

Auckland Mayoral Candidate Victoria Crone says the Mayor’s 2016/17 lower rating proposal is an improvement on the last few years but the suggestion of a motorway toll is irresponsible.

“Auckland ratepayers have had a big whack in the pocket over the last five years with a 50 per cent increase in rates for declining services, rising congestion and lagging housing supply,” says Ms Crone.

“This 2016/17 rates package is an improvement but the Mayor himself is predicting rates to rise again the year after - when he’s long gone. I’ve made a promise that if elected Mayor I will cap average residential rates rises at 2 per cent over the next three years. I’ve done the numbers and I know with good leadership this can be achieved in a sustainable way.”

Ms Crone says the suggestion of a motorway toll during peak times is outrageous especially given reports and surveys over the last couple of days showing a growing number of Aucklanders who don't have proper access to good public transport.

“The $2 motorway peak charge supported by the Mayor and Phil Goff is plain unfair. We’re talking about this at a time when a disjointed transport and housing approach will see our reliance on cars skyrocket,” says Ms Crone.

“Aside from the policy being inappropriate, it sounds as if funds raised will end up in a huge leaky bucket. The feedback I’ve received around Auckland is that rates and charges should not be increased if Aucklanders can’t see where the money is going and what it will achieve.

“Council is in need of strong leadership for a future-focused approach, better delivery of core services, and a closer connection with Aucklanders and their needs.”

Ms Crone also supported keeping the current business ITL rate which her opponent Phil Goff wanted to increase.

More information:

Vic on Auckland transport and housing planning

ENDS

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