Changing the way we get to work could change our health, both in the short term and in later life.

Dr Lester Levy, one of New Zealand's top transport and healthcare leaders, believes changing our mode of transport may be the best way to improve our health.

Dr Levy oversees the transport of a third of New Zealand, as chairman of Auckland Transport.

He also oversees healthcare for a quarter of New Zealand, as chairman of Auckland and Waitemata District Health Boards.

Dr Levy told newstalkzb.co.nz research shows walking or cycling to work or school can make us healthier, happier and up to five kilograms lighter.

He said walking or cycling as part of our daily commutes can reduce our risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which are both extremely common in New Zealand.

"With my transport and health hats on, it's more than just congestion in the transport system, it's going to deal with congestion in your own arteries.

Dr Levy hoped more cycleways, pedestrian spaces and public transport options will get people more active on their way to work.

He said increasing those options, through projects like the City Rail Link, will get people using more healthy and active active modes of transport.

"There will be much more walking encouraged.

"It just makes for much better place-making, and it just makes for much better opportunities for people to take care of their health."