Waka Kotahi and Lets Get Wellington Moving intend to install the crossing and lights across Cobham Driver near the ASB Sports Centre.
The speed limit would be lowered from 70 kilometres per hour to 60.
But the pushback is strong, with a range of groups supporting the airport's decision to apply for a judicial review.
Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Nick Leggett says Cobham Drive - part of State Highway 1 - needs to be protected.
He says 35-thousand vehicles use the road each day, and a lot of that's freight.
