Transport projects that meet the needs of residents, businesses, and the environment should be included for funding in the 10-year plan for Auckland’s transport network, says Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board.
In its response to the draft Auckland Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) 2024-2034, local feedback has sharpened the board's focus.
Board chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich comments, “It goes without saying, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu is a vibrant and diverse community in Tāmaki Makaurau, and we rely on the RLTP to meet our local transport needs.
"During community consultation on the plan, our community told us that their priorities are public transport improvements, active modes – walking and cycling, and safety on our roads.”
The Wheel Deal
Alongside the highlighted local feedback priorities, the board will advocate for a decade-long trial of free local public transport to eliminate cost barriers and decrease private vehicle usage.
They will also request AT and Waka Kotahi/NZTA to establish an efficient, interconnected transport network linking families, businesses, workplaces, and recreational areas. This includes expanding bus routes to popular destinations like schools, healthcare facilities, and town centres, enhancing coverage and frequency.
Bakulich adds, “Māngere is the gateway to Auckland City Centre and our board area is grappling with some unique challenges like the urgent need for affordable and different modes of public transport, addressing English language barriers hindering effective partnerships, reducing community ownership, and limiting service uptake.
“To add to this, economically driven housing developments in our area have neglected local road improvements, compromising connectivity, safety, and community wellbeing.”
Feedback also backed Ōtara-Papatoetoe local board’s focus on the Airport to Botany link to ensure efficiency is prioritised for tourists, locals, and workers accessing the precinct.
Bakulich notes, “For the past decade, we have tirelessly advocated for free public transport – with four business centres; this would enable local economic and social activity. Our board area and South Auckland at large deserve equitable and adequate funding, and we are determined not to be left behind.”
AT's strategy to improve public transport, expand cycling networks, and enhance safety aligns with the local board plan [5.47 MB] and is vital for Māngere-Ōtāhuhu. The board supports swift delivery of these projects, including dynamic bus lanes, upgraded stations, low-emission options, and climate resilience, within the next three years.
The RTLP sets out the projects, programmes, and activities that Auckland Transport, along with NZTA Waka Kotahi and KiwiRail are seeking to fund, or partly fund, from the National Land Transport Fund. It proposes $63 billion worth of investment in transport over the next 10 years.
The statutory role of local boards within the development of the RLTP is to provide a community perspective.
Details of the board’s views on the RTLP draft plan found here [221 KB}.
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