Projects.
We partner with clients across Aotearoa New Zealand to deliver transport planning, strategy and investment projects that make a lasting impact. From business case development to peer review, governance and project scoping, our work spans complex, multi-modal initiatives at local, regional and national levels. Here are some of the projects we’ve been proud to support.
Business Case Development.
Tauriko West RoNS.
Supporting NZTA to deliver quickly
The Tauriko West Road of National Significance (RoNS) is a transformative infrastructure project designed to support regional growth and improve freight connectivity, in the Western Bay of Plenty. NB Consulting helped the NZ Transport Agency complete the investment case for this nationally significant project.
With critical deadlines approaching, NB Consulting worked closely with the NZTA project team to craft a concise and robust investment case to support key investment decisions. Our deep familiarity with the Tauriko West Project, combined with extensive experience in the region’s transport landscape, meant we were able pick up the pen to develop the investment story and finish this RoNS investment case.
NB Consulting took the lead in organising and rewriting technical content to create a concise, engaging investment case that clearly communicated the project’s ‘why’, what; and ‘how’. The investment case was endorsed by the NZTA Board and funding approach to start the pre-implementation phases.
NB Consulting’s work on the Tauriko West RoNS Project exemplifies our ability to combine technical expertise with strategic storytelling to prepare compelling and robust investment cases that unlock funding.
Hamilton Southern Links RoNS Project.
Transport planning leadership and compelling investment storytelling
NB Consulting served as the System Design Lead for the Hamilton Southern Links (HSL) RoNS Project, supporting the NZ Transport Agency to deliver a robust and compelling investment case for one of New Zealand’s strategically important growth corridors.
The team led the refinement of the previously designated corridor design to support the revised project objectives and achieve best value for money. This work included upgrading the main HSL corridor to a 110km/h expressway, optimising interchange layouts, and integrating infrastructure to support housing and industrial development. These improvements enhanced value for money, reduced construction risk, and ensured the corridor could better support long-term growth.
In addition to technical leadership, NB Consulting played a central role in shaping the investment storytelling for the HSL RoNS project. This involved crafting a compelling narrative that connected transport outcomes with regional growth, economic productivity, and community benefits. Their work helped communicate the strategic importance of the project to decision-makers and stakeholders.
Matatā wastewater system, Whakatāne District Council.
Waste water investment case for a healthier Matatā, and growing Whakatāne District
NB Consulting played a leading role in preparing the investment case for the Matatā Wastewater Project. Their work focused on developing a clear and compelling case for change, grounded in both technical evidence and community values.
A key part of NB Consulting’s contribution was crafting and shaping investment story. Using the technical material, they helped articulate why the current wastewater system in Matatā is failing and why urgent action is needed. The story they crafted explained the environmental and public health risks posed by leaking septic tanks, the cultural importance of protecting local waterways, and the opportunity to support future growth and development in the township.
Overall, NB Consulting’s work helped transform a complex infrastructure challenge into a well-structured and meaningful investment proposal.
Coromandel- Hauraki Resilience Strategic Response – NZTA.
Improving resilient access for people, freight, and whānau
NB Consulting worked with the NZTA project team to complete the Coromandel–Hauraki Resilience Strategic Response (RSR) Business Case to address the impacts of Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle on the region’s transport network and improve future resilience. Delivered in 12 weeks, the business case assessed over 360 known hazard sites and proposed a 15-year, $1.3–1.75 billion programme to improve network resilience, reduce recovery timeframes, and enhance safety and environmental outcomes.
The recommended programme includes targeted preventative works on key state highways and local roads, replacement of end-of-life bridges, and the establishment of clean fill sites to support future recovery. NB Consulting worked with the project team to apply NZTA’s Strategic Recovery Framework and multi-criteria analysis to evaluate five programme options, ultimately recommending a solution that balances resilience, value for money, and strategic alignment.
By combining technical analysis with clear investment storytelling, NB Consulting helped position the Coromandel–Hauraki RSR programme for future inclusion in the National Land Transport Programme. The business case demonstrates NB’s ability to lead complex infrastructure planning under pressure and deliver compelling, investment-ready solutions that support long-term regional resilience.
Safety Cameras, NZTA.
Safety Camera investment to improve road safety
NZTA needed a clear, evidence-based business case for expanding and optimising New Zealand’s safety camera network.
NB Consulting was engaged to support the NZTA Programme Team in creating the Safety Camera Investment business case for funding approval. Our role included testing the robustness of the investment logic, helping NZTA identify the optimal safety camera model, and assessing the delivery and operational risks to support the transfer of existing and rollout of the expanded safety camera network.
Through this work, NB developed a compelling case for investment, giving decision-makers confidence that the new safety camera programme is cost-effective and will deliver measurable benefits enhancing the safety and efficiency of New Zealand’s transport system.
Strategic Advice.
EV bus growth business case, Metlink.
Accelerating the transition to electric buses
As New Zealand moves to decarbonise its transport system, public transport has a key role to play in reducing emissions. Transitioning to electric buses requires careful planning to balance environmental benefits with cost, reliability, and community expectations.
NB Consulting was engaged to support the development of the EV Bus Growth Business Case, working alongside partners to assess options, test assumptions, and ensure the case aligned with national investment frameworks. Our role included providing independent analysis, highlighting risks and opportunities, and shaping recommendations to deliver a credible, future-focused pathway for electric bus adoption.
Through this work, NB helped decision-makers gain confidence that the transition to EV buses is achievable, affordable, and aligned with New Zealand’s climate and transport goals.
Tolling Advice, NZTA.
Strategic tolling advice for NZTA
Over several years, NB Consulting has supported NZTA as a trusted advisor on tolling, providing both project-specific assessments and wider strategic guidance. Our work has included developing tolling assessments for major projects such as the Ōtaki to North of Levin corridor and the Takitimu North Link, ensuring robust analysis of viability, revenue, and customer impacts.
Beyond individual projects, NB has provided strategic advice on tolling policy and frameworks, helping NZTA respond to shifting government positions on tolling as a user-pays mechanism.
By combining technical expertise with policy insight, NB Consulting has helped NZTA ensure tolling decisions are evidence-based, publicly defensible, and aligned with wider transport and funding objectives.
Transport Planning.
Western Bay of Plenty Urban form and Transport Initiative (UFTI), SmartGrowth.
Shaping the future of growth and transport in Western Bay of Plenty
NB Consulting played a central role in developing the investment case for the Urban Form and Transport Initiative (UFTI), a 50-year strategy for growth in the Western Bay of Plenty. Their work focused on designing and testing integrated land use and transport scenarios, culminating in the Connected Centres programme—a future-focused plan to guide housing, infrastructure, and transport investment.
NB Consulting translated complex technical analysis into a clear, compelling investment narrative aligned with investment priorities and local values. They led the preparation of the programme business case, incorporating stakeholder engagement, economic modelling, and spatial planning.
Their work supported the development of implementation principles, governance frameworks, and benefit realisation measures, positioning the Connected Centres programme for inclusion in regional and national planning and funding frameworks. NB Consulting’s strategic leadership helped turn a complex planning challenge into an investment-ready solution that balances growth, resilience, and liveability.
Business case training, NZTA.
Building capability in Business Case development
The NZTA sought to strengthen the capability of its transport planning and investment advisor teams by providing training that went beyond the theory of business cases to focus on lessons from real-world experience.
NB Consulting developed and delivered a 2-day in-house training course, tailored to NZTAs needs and context. Across four courses, we worked with approximately 55 professionals, blending practical case studies, interactive exercises, and insights from applying the business case approach in practice.
The programme gave participants the tools and confidence to prepare robust, evidence-based business cases, improving the consistency and quality of investment decision-making across the organisation. By focusing on practical application, NB helped NZTA build lasting capability in one of its core disciplines.
End of life bridges, NZTA.
Support for the National Bridge Replacement Programme
As state highway bridges approach the end of their service lives, they require significant renewal or replacement to maintain safety, resilience, and connectivity. To secure investment for the highest-priority structures, NZTA launched the National Bridge Replacement Programme, with a need for robust, right-sized, repeatable business cases to support funding decisions.
NB Consulting was engaged to provide transport planning and business case support and creating repeatable processes and templates to streamline future work. A key focus was building NZTA’s internal capability by working collaboratively with in-house staff, rather than delivering in isolation.
Through this partnership, NB helped accelerate delivery of bridge business cases, reduce programme risks, and leave NZTA with the tools and confidence to progress future cases efficiently.
Peer Review.
Otira Tunnel Single Stage Business Case, KiwiRail.
Independent peer review for KiwiRail
KiwiRail’s Otira Tunnel is a vital link for freight and passenger services across the South Island. To secure future investment, KiwiRail developed a Single Stage Business Case (SSBC) and sought an independent peer review.
NB Consulting was engaged to undertake this review, drawing on our deep expertise in transport planning, infrastructure resilience, and investment decision-making. We rigorously tested the business case against national guidance, assessed the robustness of the evidence, and identified key risks and opportunities to strengthen the proposal.
Our recommendations provided KiwiRail with greater assurance, improved alignment to safety and resilience outcomes, and confidence for funding decisions under the Rail Network Investment Programme. This work demonstrates NB’s role as a trusted advisor, helping clients navigate complex business cases and deliver long-term value from infrastructure investment.
Western Bay of Plenty Public Transport SSBC.
Independent peer review of the Western Bay of Plenty Public Transport SSBC
The Western Bay of Plenty is experiencing rapid growth, driving demand for better-connected and more reliable public transport. To secure investment for key infrastructure and service improvements, a Single Stage Business Case (SSBC) was developed.
NB Consulting was engaged to provide an independent peer review of the SSBC. Our review tested the case against NZTA business case guidance, assessing eligibility, option development, appraisal, risk analysis, and alignment with investment criteria. We provided clear recommendations to strengthen the case and ensure defensibility through the approvals process.
Through this work, NB gave partners confidence that the business case was technically sound, well-structured, and ready for consideration within the National Land Transport Programme.
Hawke’s Bay PT SSBC, Hawkes Bay Regional Council.
Peer review of Hawke’s Bay Public Transport SSBC
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council commissioned a Single Stage Business Case to guide investment in its public transport network. Before progressing to funding consideration, an independent peer review was required to test the case’s robustness and alignment with NZTA guidance.
NB Consulting was engaged to provide this assurance. Our review assessed the business case against Waka Kotahi’s 16 investment questions, covering eligibility, do-minimum choice, options analysis, cost-benefit appraisal, risk assessment, and sensitivity testing. We provided clear, evidence-based commentary on the quality and materiality of findings, along with practical recommendations to address any issues identified.
Through this work, NB gave the Council and NZTA confidence that the business case was, technically sufficient, and compliant with national standards.
Matakoina SSBC Peer Review, Masterton District Council.
Independent peer review of Mataikona Road SSBC
Mataikona Road provides an important connection for the Wairarapa, but faces challenges from resilience, safety, and access issues. To address these, a Single Stage Business Case (SSBC) was prepared to secure investment for improvements.
NB Consulting was engaged to provide an independent peer review of the SSBC. Our review assessed the strategic alignment, options analysis, economic appraisal, and risk assessment against NZTA investment requirements. With clear investment risk linked to the recommended option, we provided constructive feedback and suggested an alternative pathway to strengthen the case.
By offering both critique and practical solutions, NB supported the council and NZTA with clear guidance on how to refine the business case, giving confidence that future investment decisions will be based on a stronger and more defensible foundation.
Project Scoping.
Manawatu Regional Freight Ring Route business case, Palmerston North City Council.
Scoping the Manawatu Regional Freight Ring Route Indicative Business Case
NB Consulting supported Palmerston North City Council in scoping the MRFRR Indicative Business Case, a key component of the PNITI programme aimed at enhancing freight movement and regional connectivity. Their role focused on shaping the strategic context and investment objectives, helping define the preferred freight route linking the North-East Industrial Zone and KiwiRail Freight Hub to key state highways.
NB Consulting provided upfront strategic input to manage cost, scope, and delivery risk, ensuring alignment with PNCC’s broader transport and urban development goals. They contributed to the development of the RFP by clarifying the scope boundaries, identifying critical interdependencies, and proposing measurable triggers for implementation.
Their work laid the foundation for a robust, right-sized business case process that integrates land use planning, resilience, and affordability considerations. By translating complex infrastructure needs into a clear and actionable framework, NB Consulting helped position the MRFRR for future funding and delivery, supporting Palmerston North’s role as a strategic freight hub for the Lower North Island.
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Contact.
If you have a project or transport investment you need help progressing, get in touch and we’ll be in contact.