Obituary - Peter McCombs: a visionary leader in transportation engineering
The global traffic engineering and New Zealand resource management communities are mourning the loss of Peter McCombs, a trailblazer whose remarkable career of 50+ years helped shape the transportation landscape in New Zealand and beyond. Peter passed away on January 8 2025; he was a highly respected professional engineer, expert transportation witness, inspiring mentor, tireless innovator, and a steadfast advocate for ethical leadership and collaboration. His contributions will resonate for generations.
A foundation of excellence
Peter earned his undergraduate degree in civil engineering from the University of Canterbury in 1965 after a tragic accident that nearly ended his life. That was followed in 1967 by a postgraduate qualification in traffic engineering and transportation planning with distinction from the University of New South Wales. These formative years laid the groundwork for a career marked by foresight, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives through better transportation.
Courage and vision: founding TDG
In 1976, Peter and his wife Beverley founded specialist consultancy Traffic Design Group (TDG) Ltd, a bold step that demonstrated shared resilience, boldness and an entrepreneurial spirit, and took much hard work. Under Peter’s leadership, TDG became the largest consultancy of its kind in the country, employing over 100 professionals across New Zealand and Australia. This success was fuelled by Peter’s ability to surround himself with skilled, passionate people, and his and Beverley’s desire to foster a culture of care and collaboration.
TDG’s achievements were built on technical excellence and a profound understanding of community needs. The firm’s 40th anniversary in 2016 marked decades of transformative work in urban network optimisation, intersection design, and operational planning, all of which reflected Peter’s enduring commitment to delivering sustainable, people-centred solutions.
Pioneering Intelligent Transport Systems
Peter’s passion for innovation was exemplified through his leadership roles with the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) between 2004 and 2018. He spearheaded Auckland’s Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), integrating technologies such as ramp signalling and traveller information systems into a cohesive framework. His emphasis was on revolutionising systems-engineering transport management, demonstrating how technology and strategic planning could create safer, more efficient networks.
Peter was instrumental in bringing agencies, councils, and stakeholders together to achieve shared goals. His ability to lead diverse teams showcased his technical expertise and his skills as a negotiator and communicator.
Mentorship, ethics, and community
Throughout his career, Peter created environments where ideas flourished and excellence thrived, surrounding himself with talented individuals. His mentorship extended to countless engineers who he inspired with his ethical approach, technical expertise, and genuine care for their growth. He believed in empowering others, and his leadership style reflected his humility, commitment to collaboration, and deep respect for his colleagues.
Peter’s influence was felt not only in professional circles but also within his local community. A dedicated member of the Hutt City Rotary Club, Peter’s contributions included leadership roles and significant service projects. He was honoured as a Paul Harris Fellow, recognising his commitment to making the world a better place.
A legacy of inspiration
Peter McCombs’ life was a testament to courage, innovation, and the power of collaboration. His achievements were not his alone; they were supported by a strong network of family, friends, and colleagues who shared his vision and contributed to his success. Peter’s ability to unite people around shared goals, solve complex problems, and inspire others to reach their potential leaves a lasting legacy.
For those in the transportation profession, Peter’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they combine technical expertise, ethical leadership, and a passion for the community. As we reflect on his extraordinary career, we honour his memory by embracing the same spirit of innovation, integrity, and service that he exemplified.
Peter McCombs will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the people he inspired, the systems he helped create, and the profession he so deeply loved.