A petition condemning the government's decision to allow Auckland Council to introduce a regional fuel tax has been launched.

The levy would see drivers pay 10 cents more a litre to fund light rail to the airport and West Auckland

Incoming Transport Minister Phil Twyford said the mechanism will be made a priority, if and when the council requests such a tax.

But Jo Holmes from the Auckland Ratepayers' Alliance said the money raised through petrol taxes, should be used to upgrade existing roads.

"Why are we spending $5 billion on a huge tramway that few people are likely to use and will cause more traffic congestion?"

However, the proposed tax has the support of Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, who has long advocated for such a tax.

"People would prefer a regional fuel tax than the other option such as increasing general rates, and that was the clear message I got back from Aucklanders."

The proposed tax has divided Aucklanders down the middle, with those on the city's fringes the most vocal in their opposition.