National pledges $1.75b for Mill Road highway in Auckland

New Zealand's National Party has pledged $1.75 billion to begin construction on the Mill Road highway in Auckland by late 2028 if it wins the next election, marking a major commitment to one of its Roads of National Significance projects. The funding, allocated in Budget 2028, would cover Stage One between Manukau and Alfriston, with an additional $100 million for route protection on Stages Two and Three extending to Drury. Transport spokesperson Chris Bishop said the four-lane, 21.5km corridor would reduce congestion by 30 percent and cut journey times by 25 percent. The project has faced nearly two decades of controversy, including legal challenges from climate groups and uncertainty for almost 300 property owners. It was recently deprioritised in July due to cost concerns, but Bishop said fast-track consenting is now providing greater cost certainty.