Public-policy think tank advocating road pricing based on distance, time and location, with integrated RUC, tolling and congestion payments.
The New Zealand Initiative is a Wellington-based public-policy think tank funded by New Zealand members and donors. Its research covers economic policy, education, housing, local government and other public issues. It publishes its research freely and describes its work as non-partisan.
Formed in 2012 through the merger of the New Zealand Business Roundtable and the New Zealand Institute, it combines research with submissions, events and public commentary. Its transport work focuses on how prices can fund roads and manage demand.
The Initiative’s 2024 report Driving Change proposed Smart Road User Charges. Under that approach, charges would reflect distance, time, location and vehicle type, rather than relying chiefly on fuel purchases.
Its January 2026 submission broadly supported the Land Transport (Revenue) Amendment Bill. It called for RUC, tolling and time-of-use charging to work together, with compatible technology and simpler payment arrangements. It also sought clear market-readiness criteria and privacy safeguards.
Publishes studies of economic and social policy, including transport funding and road pricing.
Makes recommendations on legislation and regulatory proposals.
Brings researchers, business leaders and policy makers together to debate policy choices.
Formed through the merger of the New Zealand Business Roundtable and the New Zealand Institute.
Published Driving Change, proposing Smart Road User Charges.
Submitted on the Land Transport (Revenue) Amendment Bill in January.
Executive Director
Chief Economist
Senior Fellow, Economics and Advocacy
The Initiative advocates a longer-term move to Smart RUC, bringing distance charging, tolls and congestion charges into a coherent system.
2026-01-08 - Land Transport (Revenue) Amendment Bill
Broad support, with recommendations on integration, market readiness, privacy and transparent revenue use.
