NLTP Bulletin

Welcome to the NLTP Bulletin, our newsletter with information about management of the current National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) and what we're working on for the development of the 2021-24 NLTP.

Over the next few weeks, you can expect to receive more frequent updates as more information becomes available and we reach significant milestones in Regional Land Transport Plans (RLTPs) and the 2021-24 NLTP development.

Extension of RLTP and NLTP deadlines

• This year continues to bring new challenges and we’re looking for ways to support our partners and communities as we all navigate the impacts of COVID-19.
   
• Our Board has agreed to extend the deadlines for regional councils to submit their RLTPs - from 30 April to 30 June 2021, and to defer adoption of the NLTP - from 30 June to 31 August 2021.
   
• We believe this decision will help to reduce pressure and provide certainty for councils as they prepare and consult on their RLTPs, in alignment with Long Term Plans.
   
• This shift of two months is the same change to deadlines that was made for the 2018-21 NTLP adoption, after the change of government in late 2017.
   
• Under the Land Transport Management Act, 31 August is the latest date the NLTP can be adopted so there will be no deferral past this date.
   
• There will be an extension to the 2018-21 NLTP to cover the two month gap, and we’ll be working through what’s needed to ensure we continue to fund the approved activities being delivered during that period.
   
• We’ll continue to keep you updated on what this means for the NLTP development timelines and what you can expect from us over the coming months.

NLTP development updates

	Funding Assistance Rates (FAR) Last week the Board approved the FARs for Approved Organisations for the 2021-24 NLTP.   Under the new rates, 22 approved organisations will see their rates increase, 47 remain the same, while 11 will move to lower rates. The overall average FAR rate across all organisations remains at 53%. View the FAR rates for 2021-24   These decisions are based on the FAR principles and policy set by the Board in 2014, which takes into account key input factors to adjust for changes in relative affordability across the local government sector. View the FAR policy   The Board recognises that the response to COVID-19 has put considerable pressure on your revenue.   In setting the FAR now, the Board wants to provide you with certainty about funding arrangements so you can complete the planning and budgeting required for your RLTPs and your Long Term Plans.   The Board also confirmed the FARs for Special Purpose Roads (SPRs). In the absence of an agreed transition plan, the rate for SPRs for the 2021-24 NLTP is 100%. From 1 July 2024, these roads will revert to normal FAR.   This is in accordance with the Board’s 2014 decision to transition these roads to normal FAR over 10 years. Investment Decision-Making Framework (IDMF) The IDMF will be effective from 31 August and will apply to any business case that starts on or after 31 August.   We’ve set up a series of Q&A sessions with IDMF subject matter experts to provide you with an opportunity to find out more about the changes. The sessions will be held:   - Thursday, 3 September 9-10am   - Friday, 11 September 10-11am   - Thursday, 17 September 1-2pm   - Tuesday, 22 September 2.30-3.30pm   If you'd like to join one these sessions, please contact the team to register and get more details - decisionmaking@nzta.govt.nz.   You can also email your questions ahead of time, along with the session you intend to call into - decisionmaking@nzta.govt.nz.

Arataki Version 2

• Arataki V2 has been approved by the Board and is live today.
  See Arataki V2
   
• This new version takes into consideration the impacts of COVID-19. It acknowledges funding and financing challenges, and how we respond to growth and demand challenges and opportunities.
   
• We encourage you to read Arataki V2 to understand the COVID-19 changes for your region, working with our lead strategic planners on your investment plans, strategies, and RLTPs. 
   
• You should revisit demand assumptions on key corridors and review both the sequencing and timing of what was originally planned.
   
• In our cities, you need to revisit population growth assumptions and work to adjust programmes accordingly.
   
• Together, we should continue to ensure we make the most of the existing land transport system, including roads, rail and coastal shipping.
   
• We need to consider all land use, travel and technology options to address system performance gaps, before considering building new road infrastructure.
   
• We need to ensure that proposed transport solutions, where appropriate are integrated, offer travel choice and are focused on making the best use of available land and ensure we plan our spaces well.
   
• This is even more important in the current environment where there is significant funding constraints for both Waka Kotahi and our co-investment partners.
   
• If you have any questions or need help from the Arataki team, contact us on arataki@nzta.govt.nz.

More information

For more information on the NLTP, you can visit our website or contact us online.