Two major transport projects in Auckland are a step closer to construction

They're part of the 6.8 billion dollar "New Zealand Upgrade Programme".

The Transport Agency says the first stage of improvements on the Southern Motorway between Papakura and Drury South are expected to begin later this year.

A start to construction on the Penlink connection from the Northern Motorway to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula is anticipated late next year.