25 Jul 2012

Road tolls seen as acceptable in Auckland

9:39 am on 25 July 2012

The Council for Infrastructure & Development says most people in Auckland would happily pay to use motorways if it meant less congestion and better investment in public transport.

In a survey by the organisation, road tolling was the only option which attracted more support than opposition.

Almost half of the 1000 people surveyed said they would be prepared to pay $2 each time to use the motorway network.

Chief executive Stephen Selwood says that by charging higher tolls in busy periods, commuters would be encouraged to drive at different times, car share or take public transport.

Other ideas include a regional fuel tax, higher parking fees and congestion pricing for cars using the central city at peak times.

But the Automobile Association says it's unfair to target only motorists.

Auckland Council says it will evaluate a short list of options next year.