The AA welcomes the Finance Minister’s announcement today that the government is committed to paying for Auckland transport projects that have already been announced.

Dr Cullen made the announcement after Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard called for the government to move away from taxing fuel by the litre to taking a percentage of the cost, as it does for GST. Mr Hubbard said higher fuel prices and more fuel efficient cars will reduce petrol sales and therefore the amount of money collected from tax and spent on Auckland roads.

“Today’s announcement by the government is great news for the region’s motorists,” says AA spokesperson Simon Lambourne.

“We agree with Dr Cullen that Mr Hubbard’s idea of moving away from taxing fuel by the litre to taking a percentage is impossible due to the fluctuations in oil prices.”

“Now that we have a funding commitment, the AA looks forward to working closely with both central and local government to ensure Auckland’s current roading projects are completed as quickly as possible,” says Mr Lambourne.

For more information contact

Simon Lambourne
Media Relations Manager
New Zealand Automobile Association
T. +64 9 966 8608
F. +64 9 966 8896
M. +64 21 659 029
E. slambourne@aa.co.nz