The Land Transport (Revenue) Amendment Bill aims to fund New Zealand’s roads on a true “user-pays” basis, using tolls to let motorists directly fund the infrastructure they use.
The Taxpayers’ Union supports the principle but flagged key concerns. “Corridor tolling” without a clear definition risks charging drivers for roads they never use. Using toll revenue for existing road maintenance creates double-charging alongside Fuel Excise Duty and Road User Charges. Restrictions on heavy vehicles could turn voluntary tolling into a compulsory levy. We’ve called for clear definitions, strict user-pays application, and preserved access to alternative routes.
Genuine user-pays protects fairness and transparency. Hidden or compulsory tolls raise costs for businesses and households, increasing the cost of living and undermining economic growth. Tolling should deliver real productivity gains, not become an opaque revenue grab that penalises everyday Kiwis.
