“If we say no to tolls, we’re saying no to new highways, because infrastructure doesn’t come free, and someone has to pay,” says Infrastructure New Zealand Chief Executive Nick Leggett. “Therefore, it’s disappointing to see local mayors lining up to oppose tolling the proposed Woodend Bypass.”

“We all need to face facts; if we want safer, faster, better highways, the users of those roads need to be willing to pay something for them. As a nation, we naturally want the best of everything, but that doesn’t come for free.” 

“The fairest and most sustainable approach is for those who use the road to contribute to its upkeep and operation. Having a charge for each user also properly tests demand. It is not fair to ask all taxpayers, many of whom will never use the road, to foot the bill,” Leggett says.

“International experience proves the point. User charging in the form of tolling or congestion charging delivers safer, less-congested and better-managed roads all over the world because other countries understand that asking users to contribute directly is both fair and effective.”

“Roads will last longer with less traffic and there will be a direct revenue stream that will mean users can expect the road to be maintained properly,” Leggett says.

“The National Infrastructure Plan makes clear that without sustainable, affordable funding mechanisms, our infrastructure deficit will keep growing. Communities like those in North Canterbury deserve the safe roads they’ve been demanding, but users should be expected to pay towards the cost.”

However, According to a report by David Hill, Mayors Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon and Hurunui Mayor Marie Black are Disappointed By Woodend Bypass Toll - '$1300 A Year For Commuter' 

NZTA is proposing two tolling points, with each charging $1.25 per passing light vehicle, and $2.50 for heavy vehicles. More than 21,000 vehicles use this section of SH1 every day, with freight making up just nine percent.

Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon said this meant Waimakariri and Hurunui residents would bear most of the cost. 

‘‘For a resident in Pegasus or Ravenswood, at $2.50 per return trip, that’s around $1300 a year for the average workday commuter - a bill many families simply can’t afford.’’ 

Mr Gordon said his council has raised concerns with NZTA about ‘‘rat running’’ and congestion through local streets, in Woodend, Kaiapoi and Tuahiwi, as drivers try to avoid the toll.