The government aims to introduce road user charges before the next general election in a bid to deal with traffic congestion in Auckland. The Independent understands Transport Minister Mark Gosche accepts tolls are necessary to help fund road construction, and is increasingly supportive of congestion pricing. He just wouldn't say so, as implementing any road pricing mechanisms would involve a major policy u-turn.
Congestion pricing is a tax on using a road during peak hours.
It might be levied by, for example, placing sensors under the tarmac and electronic chips in people's cars. Sources say the Opposition can't wait to accuse the government of hypocrisy. National's own move towards tolls and congestion pricing was sharply criticised by Labour when it was in opposition, However, the Labour-Alliance coalition would encounter widespread support in Auckland for the introduction of tolls or congestion pricing. That's not to say that somewhere down the track you don't have to confront the issue. The Cabinet is also known to be formally discussing congestion pricing at the minister's request.