The Infrastructure Commission says at the end of the day, congestion charging is all about efficiency

Legislation is coming to clear the way for councils to propose making motorists pay for using busy routes at rush-hour.

The aim is to encourage public transport, car-pooling, and off-peak travel.

Infrastructure Commission General Manager Geoff Cooper says it allows councils to make the most of the transport network they already have.

He says the focus is now on efficiency across the network, which is a positive step for future investment.