National Road Carriers Association (NRC) is broadly supportive of the move announced today by Transport Minister Chris Bishop towards a single system of collecting the revenue for the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF).

“Our Road User Charges (RUC) system gives New Zealand a unique opportunity to transition the entire vehicle fleet onto a single platform that is proven to allocate cost based on actual impact on the roading infrastructure,” says NRC CEO Justin Tighe-Umbers. “And while it is a single system, it allows for digital innovation for payment options.

“Revenue generated from the current RUC user pays model is declining, while the need for roading investment and maintenance grows. This is an unsustainable situation, and a wholesale fix is needed, including a move away from the fuel excise duty. NRC supports the Government's recognition of the urgency of this situation and encourages the rapid application of expertise and resource to get it done.

“NRC looks forward to continuing to work with officials on this fundamental transition and evolution of Road User Charges.”