The transport sector has experienced its share of drama this year, starting with Cyclone Gabrielle wiping out so many roads and bridges across the north island.

The cyclone was blamed for a sudden change in the direction in government policy. Back in February, Minister Michael Woods announced a climate-friendly plan, in its three-year transport plan, the Government Policy Statement. For the first time it prioritised the emissions impact of transport. But just days later, he reversed many of those priorities to focus on rebuilding damaged roads.

Last week the government also announced five options for a second harbour crossing and reiterated its commitment to the tunnelled version of a light rail network.