Submission on the Time of Use Charging Bill

Rock The Vote NZ Opposes Time of Use Charging Bill, Calls for Fairer Alternatives

Rock The Vote NZ is standing firmly against the proposed Time of Use Charging Bill, citing concerns about its negative societal impacts, lack of transparency in implementation, and potential expansion of surveillance infrastructure.

Under the current proposal, the bill seeks to introduce financial penalties to influence commuter behaviour rather than offering meaningful, positive incentives. Rock The Vote NZ firmly opposes this approach to social engineering and urges the government to focus on fair, constructive solutions—such as improving access to public transport options and reducing reliance on punitive measures.

Concerns have also been raised about the methodology behind enforcement. The implementation of this bill requires the expansion of tracking and surveillance technologies that actively monitor and transmit user data, a significant shift from existing traffic control measures. Historically, surveillance systems have been vulnerable to misuse, and Rock The Vote NZ strongly advocates for greater scrutiny before legislation is passed that could enable the growth of mass monitoring infrastructure.

The bill disproportionately affects everyday citizens commuting for work, particularly those with no flexibility in their travel routes. The introduction of congestion charges could deter low-income families from travel, limiting social interactions and placing financial burdens on those already struggling. The notion that reducing traffic congestion is always a victory fails to account for instances where people’s mobility is restricted due to additional costs. This bill risks reducing accessibility rather than enhancing efficiency.

Furthermore, the bill circumvents existing road toll regulations through new terminology, effectively enabling tolling at designated times without guaranteeing alternative routes. This departure from traditional tolling mechanisms raises concerns about accountability and fairness in road-use policies.

Despite widespread opposition, the bill is supported as part of a coalition agreement, meaning public input may do little to influence its passage. However, Rock The Vote NZ remains committed to raising awareness of these issues and advocating for better legislative solutions.

“We are strongly opposed to measures that impose unnecessary financial burdens on citizens without providing real, positive alternatives,” said Rock The Vote NZ Chair Michael Avenell. “Instead of penalizing workers, families, and commuters, the government should focus on strategies that encourage voluntary shifts in transport choices without resorting to surveillance-based enforcement.”

Rock The Vote NZ calls for a re-evaluation of the bill and encourages policymakers to seek fairer, more effective solutions that do not disproportionately impact everyday citizens.