$785m Auckland harbour cycling and walking crossing planned

A new bridge for cyclists (including e-bikers) and walkers alongside the existing Auckland Harbour Bridge has been announced by transport minister Michael Wood.

He says the $785 million project (which includes $100 million for the land section) is the Government’s preferred option, and it would take about five years to become operational, with work starting in 2022.

Meanwhile, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will continue to work on how to provide safe temporary trials of using existing bridge lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, Wood says.

A possible tunnel crossing which includes rapid transit is also being considered.

The separate bridge announcement comes just days after a Bike Auckland “liberate the lane” rally at Pt Erin Park involving about 2000 cyclists saw many storm police barricades to ride across the bridge.

The new “Northern Pathway” has been confirmed after geotechnical investigations and testing determined that building a structure connected to the Auckland Harbour Bridge is not possible as the existing piers are unable to accommodate the extra weight without considerable modifications to counter balance the increased load, involving additional risk to the bridge. 

 “We need this transport connection to move ahead but it isn’t technically possible to attach it to the existing bridge without putting the whole structure at risk,” Wood explains.

 “A stand-alone structure is the safest option that will not only provide a walking and cycling option for commuters but creates an outstanding piece of tourism infrastructure.

 “Major international cities all around the world have similar connections and we’ve all seen how well used the Te Ara I Whiti – Lightpath has become, with the Northern Pathway having the potential to be a bigger tourist drawcard.”

 Wood says the Northern Pathway is the missing link in Auckland’s walking and cycling network.

“Aucklanders finally will be able to get across the harbour by foot or bike – it’s important we get it right and make sure it’s an enduring piece of infrastructure, providing alternative modes of transport across the harbour and helping reduce congestion on our Auckland roads.”

Wood says the New Zealand Upgrade Programme (NZUP) is supporting economic recovery.

“But due to COVID-19 increasing construction costs globally and the need to further reduce emissions, we’re rebalancing the programme to increase investment in rail, public transport and walking and cycling.”

Work is also continuing on planning for an additional Waitemata Harbour crossing.

An initial business case was finished last year, and work is being done on enhancing the Northern Busway and developing an additional crossing that includes rapid transit, Wood explains.

“Given the next crossing is likely to be a tunnel, it would be unsafe to have a walking and cycling link as part of it – that why we need to build the Northern Pathway.”

Alternate options included a gondola, dedicated ferry or bus service, using existing lanes, and a separate multi-modal structure for walking, cycling and public transport  – the recommended solution being a full-height separate bridge option.