Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown wants to build a new harbour crossing between Birkenhead and Point Chevalier, instead of a tunnel under Waitematā Harbour. He criticized the previous Labour government’s plan for a tunnel that could cost more than $45 billion, calling it unaffordable.
Brown suggested using a causeway or several bridges from Meola Reef in Point Chevalier to Kauri Point in Birkenhead. He argued that the natural shape of Meola Reef makes it a suitable place for building a crossing, as it sticks out into the harbour. Additionally, he stated that bridges are much cheaper to build than tunnels.
He proposed that the new bridge could connect to government-owned land on the North Shore that could be subdivided to help pay for the project. Brown estimated the cost of his bridge plan would be only about 10% of the tunnel’s cost, noting that the bridges would not need air conditioning or special airflow systems.
Brown did not provide a specific timeline for the construction but assured that it would take less time than waiting for the government to make a decision on the tunnel. He compared Auckland’s situation to cities like London and Paris, suggesting that new bridges can help reduce traffic by providing alternate routes.
When asked about the impact on local roads like Meola Road, Brown acknowledged ongoing work there but claimed that the bridge plan would not require tearing up roads. He has not yet discussed the plan with Transport Minister Simeon Brown but expressed confidence in his proposal.
Brown also mentioned he previously told Prime Minister Christopher Luxon he would “sink” the tunnel plan, suggesting it was a costly and embarrassing option for the government. He hopes Luxon supports his bridge idea.
