News Archives - Page 10 of 13

Conference report back: 2 Walk and Cycle conference

Conference report back: 2 Walk and Cycle conference – moving towards healthy communities, Auckland 6 – 8 July

“Cities have the capability of providing for everybody only when and only because they are created by everybody” Jane Jacobs (quoted by Tyler Golly, conference presenter)

PM John Key and Mayor Len Brownat the Quay St cycleway opening

I attended the 2 Walk and Cycling Conference 2016, the premier national conference addressing walking and cycling issues held every two years. The conference’s focus was on active, human-powered transport to achieve healthier, smarter and more liveable cities.

A great deal has changed since I attended my first 2 Walk and Cycle Conference in 2008. The debate has shifted from trying to convince politicians “why” cycling should be funded and on the agenda to “how” to best deliver cycling infrastructure as part of an integrated transport network. The funding situation has improved massively. Eight years ago a very small percentage of Council and Government transport budget was directed to walking and cycling. Previously the conference has been dominated by advocates arguing the case for increased investment and discussing case studies from overseas.

This year the conference, with significant sponsorship from NZTA, was attended by a range of professionals many of whom are working on projects in NZ boosted by the Urban Cycling Investment fund.

Auckland played host to the conference putting on a number of associated events. Delegates were treated to a Pecha Kucha special transport edition sponsored by Auckland Transport, Auckland Conversations with the conference keynote speaker Gil Penalosa and were invited to attend the opening of the Quay Street cycleway that includes Auckland’s first visible cycle counter (10,000 trips recorded within the first 19 days!).

Delegates were also able to experience Auckland’s growing cycling network and the award winning Te ara i whiti/Lightpath.

I participated in the conference as delegate, workshop presenter (Vision Zero workshop detailed in Attachment A), as networking breakfast host (with Margaret Lewis, to discuss the success of K’rd Open Streets event – photo right) and as one of the judges of the Bike to the Future awards announced at the conference dinner (Attachment B).

Conference informal networking breakfast with K'rd's Margaret Lewis — Conference informal networking breakfast with K’rd’s Margaret Lewis

I found the conference hugely encouraging and affirming of how far we have progressed in Auckland with making cycling a viable option for more people to enjoy. There is however still much to do if Auckland is going to unleash the huge benefits that can be realised from prioritising walking and cycling. My only disappointment about the conference was the lack of diversity that failed to capture the many cycling “tribes” of Auckland.

There were a number of key themes that I took away from the conference

Healthy communities designed for everyone

There is overwhelming evidence that policies encouraging walking and cycling provide major health benefits. The Minister of Health should be the biggest champion of active transport when considering ways to combat soaring obesity related illnesses such as diabetes.

Karen Witten in her presentation Healthy places and spaces bringing a children’s voice to city planning noted that children involved in active transport have higher rates of physical activity. “Cities that work for children work for everyone”

The keynote speaker Gil Penalosa talked about all ages, all abilities networks that encourage activity that helps everyone (see more from Gil’s presentation below). Another keynote speaker Ben Rossiter from Victoria Walks said that “walking is fundamental to healthy communities.”

Shared paths

Dr Ben Rossiter from Walk Victoria gave a hard hitting, evidence based assessment on the need to design for walkability.

His presentation, Walking promotion and advocacy: An Australian story explained very convincingly why safer road design is needed for older pedestrians and why shared paths are not best practice.

25- 40% of those who suffer from a hip injury die within one year
If want to deal with health and obesity walking is critical
Constraints to older people walking – dogs off leash, bike riders on shared paths
If you need sign to slow down the street is designed wrong!

His view is that shared paths should only be supported where designed for low speed, recreational environments where it is clear that cyclists must give way.

This is a particular issue in Australia and New Zealand where shared paths are often preferred to avoid difficult decisions about re-allocating road space for separate cycle lanes. This presentation is relevant to a number of designs that are currently being considered for Auckland’s cycleway network eg Ian McKinnion Drive that has recently gone out for consultation and Nelson Street phase 2 that included a section of shared path opposed by the Waitematā Local Board.

Pop- ups and temporary trials

I have heard many experts recommend trials and pop ups as a low cost, quick way to demonstrate the benefits of new street design and build community support. Tyler Golly in his presentation Communities Designing Communities, shared ideas from Canada such as bike corrals, painted kerb extensions and parklets.

The Waitematā Local Board has been a supporter of trials particularly for cycling infrastructure but it has proved very difficult to progress. Part of the problem has been the lack of a nimble, empowered AT team who are able to focus on trials.

However we hopefully might start seeing “parklets” in the city. An Auckland Council parklet popped on Lorne Street during the conference (photo right). Providing additional space for people by removing two car parks was an instant success for nearby food vendors who reported a tripling in trade. High Street retailers take note!

We’ve also heard that AT is working a temporary brightly painted contra-flow cycle lane on Federal Street.

Road safety

A number of speakers highlighted how essential it is to make city roads safer for walking and cycling with a range of measures:

Lower speeds
Changes to the give way rules
Vision Zero policy
Creating more traffic free areas and restrictions (a pro liveability measure discussed by Glen Koorey, What can NZ learn from cycling in Europe)
Network of cycleways
Traffic calming measures

Disappointingly the CEO of Auckland Transport does not appear to prioritise safety over efficiency. In his opening address he responded to the challenge of more pedestrian walking zones by saying the real problem in the city centre is not the speed and volume of traffic but the number of people walking while looking at their phones!

Vision Zero is a policy that I have been championing with the support of the Board. Together with Cycle Action Network, Brake NZ and Walk Auckland I took part in a workshop on Building a grassroots campaign for Vision Zero: Why we need a new approach to road safety and how we can make it happen. (see Attachment A)

Auckland Conversations and keynote speaker, Gil Penalosa. The 8 80 City: Creating Vibrant and Healthy Communities

How can we create vibrant and healthy cities for everyone, regardless of age or social status? What is the role of streets – the largest public space in any city? How can parks improve the quality of life that attracts and retains people to their communities?

Gil answers these questions while also explaining a simple and effective principle for inclusive city building: ensuring the safety and joy of children and older adults (from 8 year olds to 80 year olds) are at the forefront of every decision we make in our cities. Drawing on his experience as Commissioner of Parks and Recreation in Bogota, Gil presents some of the now widely celebrated approaches to urban regeneration through investments in parks and public spaces. Gil also draws upon examples from cities around the world which demonstrate the power of parks and public space in making lives happier, communities better, and economies stronger.

Key points:

Sustainable mobility: moving people towards a brighter, healthy more equitable future

Gil was responsible for starting Ciclovia (Open Streets) in Bogota – his advice is to just do it as requires no capital investment, works to change minds and is an inclusive event that belongs to everyone (In Auckland we have now held three “ciclovia” type events and more are planned)

When saying “no” also saying “yes” to something else eg more cars, more pollution and obesity.

Designing a city for everyone is not a technical issue or funding issue but a political issue

Need to evaluate cities by how they treat the most vulnerable

Transport policies have a direct impact on equality and equity. 25% of income is tied up with mobility by car but for lower income is often nearer 50%

Supports a focus on putting pedestrians first to encourage walkability: Vision Zero, max speed limit of 30Km p/h, quality infrastructure that shows a respect for people

Benefits: environment, economic activity, health

Skypath

It is great news that in the same month as the conference councillors agreed unanimously to progress Skypath the walk/cycleway over the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

See Attachment C for the presentation I gave in support at the Finance and Performance Committee on 21 July.

Unanimous vote to support Skypath

Yesterday Auckland Council voted unanimously to support a Private Public Partnership funding model to deliver the Skypath project. This now clears the way for a walking and cycling connection to finally be built on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

At the Finance and Performance Committee meeting I was privileged to speak in support on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board (the full report to Council is available here):

Thank you for the opportunity to speak in support of the PPP proposal in front of you today. I’m Pippa Coom Deputy Chair of the Waitematā Local Board joined by member Richard Hill who will also present on behalf of the Kaipatiki Local Board. Chair, Shale Chambers would have liked to have been here but gives his apologies.

We have been unflagging supporters of Skypath since day one of the Super City. Our consistent support is found in our Local Board plan and each year as an advocacy position in our Local Board Agreement (extensively consulted on with our communties through the formal consultation process). I would like to acknowledge those who have worked so tirelessly on this project over a long period of time (*listed below).

Support from the Waitematā community is strong. You will have seen the map of submitters . Of 63 submitters in St Marys Bay all are in support. In Freemans Bay 133 submitted in support. In Herne Bay there is only one household in opposition . From the LTP consultation 558 submitters specifically mentioned Skypath as a project with 485 in support.

The St Marys Bay Association statement of position on Skypath notes they agree in principle to walking and cycling connection, note that there are technical and viability concerns but note that these technical issues can be resolved through NZTA licence to use process. They also say the concerns raised by NRA about Council’s legal ability to fund Skypath are properly matters for Council.

The benefits to the Waitematā community are numerous:

Improved transport options to the North shore
Less congestion and less impact on the environment
Improved health and wellbeing of residents and greater productivity
Create the conditions for stronger local economies
Make both sides of the bridge more liveable
Opportunities to recognise mana whenua connections at Pt Erin

I recommend NZ Govt/ NZTA’s recently published document Benefits of investing in cycling in New Zealand communities a comprehensive analyisis of the key benefits of investing in cycling, for councils, communities and individuals.

These benefits return not just to Waitematā but to the wider Auckland region as Skypath plugs into a wider and growing network of cycleways. Like ATEED we are also excited by the tourism potential. I guarantee that no tourist will leave Auckland before experiencing Skypath and on to the harbour circuit. It will be one of the must do attractions in NZ.

Concerns have been raised about parking. But I think parking issues have been over played and are based on the assumption that the Skypath experience starts and ends at the foot of the bridge. Skypath is a missing connection of a much wider and growing network . The starting point on the city side is likely to be any number of locations on the network such as Tamaki Drive or the downtown car park for those who really want to drive to a bike ride or a walk.

We supported AT’s view that it is unnecessary to do a parking survey on the southern side until we understand the extent of the currently hypothetical problem once Skypath opens. We can then look at what tools are necessary to manage parking such as time restrictions or a residents priority parking scheme. Fortunately AT now has a parking strategy with a suite of tools fit for purpose.

In the same way I think the query around patronage is also based on misconceptions about how Skypath is used – Barbara from Bike Auckland has addressed that well but just to also mentioned we are talking about trips – walkers, cycling, joggers – and the many return day trippers who will not exit at Northcote Point.

Skypath has been put under enormous scrutiny that is unprecedented for any other strategic transport project – except perhaps the CRL . (I would love to see councillors push for the same level of assessment to roading projects ) It represents incredible value for money and is better value than most transport projects because of the wide benefits – environmental, tourism , health and well being, connected communities. We would prefer for Skypath to be funded in the same way as nearly all regionally significant transport projects – from taxes and rates – but the PPP provides an excellent opportunity for a way forward that Council should support.

As the report in front of Councillors outlines the benefits of the PPP proposal are:

Skypath can be delivered sooner that would otherwise be possible and without Council carrying the entire financing cost
The private sector is incentivised to design, manage, finance, operate and maintain Skypath on an innovative and efficient whole of life basis
Appropriate delivery and operating risks are transferred to the private sector

Even if Council becomes liable for costs of any demand shortfall (which is incredibly unlikely ) it is a relatively low cost project for the benefits we what we are getting . PWC review of the proposal concludes that the commercial terms are comprehensive and appropriate

If the PM and 3 ministers show up for the opening of 1km Quay St cycleway (not to mention the Mayor , Councillors, Chairman of the AT Board) – imagine the jostle of politicians when Skypath opens next year! But of course this is not about feel good photo ops for politicians. This project is for all Aucklanders that we just need to get on with and the means to do that are in the hands of Councillors today.

Award winning Te ara i whiti Lightpath has really opened Aucklanders eyes to how inspiring, innovative and transformative a walking and cycle project can be – Skypath is going to absolutely blow us away and will bring Auckland priceless international attention.

Thank you for your support.

*The many people we can thank for Skypath (from a list collated by Cr Chris Darby)

1970s & 1980s: Keith Salmon, Michael Bland and PATH group.

John Strevens, Colin Kay, Barry Curtis, Eric Salmon, Audrey van Ryn, Bryan Pulham, David Sidwell, the University of Auckland Cycle Club, the ARC Cycle Planning Group.

2003-2004 Petition: Graeme Knowles, Isy Kennedy, Ann Hartley MP, Bevan Woodward, Judy Barfoot,

Cycle Action Auckland: Including Adrian Croucher, Sally McAra, and others

Original Getacross Launch 2008:

Bob Harvey (now patron of the PathwayTrust)

Trustees:

Christine Rose (chair), Alex Swney, Andy Smith, Bevan Woodward, Kirsten Shouler (Coordinator), Roger Twiname (Airey Consultants engineers),Barry Copeland & Finn Scott (Copeland Associates Architects

Advisors: Lance Wiggs & Ed Willis

Cycle Action Auckland/Bike Auckland:

Graham Knowles, Barbara Cuthbert, Paul Shortland.

Launch of Initial Concept Design (2011):

Rod Oram, Mayor Len Brown, Nikki Kaye MP, Hopper Developments

Organisations – active support

Akina Foundation (then Hikurangi Foundation)

Ministry for the Environment (Community Environment Fund), Buildmedia, Heart of the City, Public Infrastructure Partnership Fund, Waterfront Auckland (John Dalzell), ATEED (Brett O’Riley), Auckland Transport (Kathryn King), Auckland Council (Marguerite Pearson), NZTA (Stephen Town), Beca Infrastructure, WT Partnership, KPMG, Russell McVeagh.

Advocacy: Generation Zero, Bike Auckland, Transportblog, Cycle Advocates Network, Walk Auckland.

Auckland Councillors: Chris Darby, Mike Lee.

Local Boards: Waitematā, Kaipatiki, Devonport-Takapuna.

Hundreds of Aucklanders donated time and money and many other Aucklanders donated money to pay for project expenses or gave pro-bono professional services including: Raul Sarrot, Graeme Lindsay.

Related reading

Unanimous vote for Skypath, NZ Herald

Greenlight for Skypath, Radio NZ (audio)

Auckland Council vote yes on Skypath, Stuff

The long road to Skypath – a 40 year time line, Bike Auckland

Where is Skypath- the story so far, Bike Auckland

Council gives Skypath green light, Bike Auckland

Council unanimously approves Skypath, Transport Blog

Call for Vision Zero to be adopted for NZ to bring down road toll

At the recent 2 Walk and Cycle conference in Auckland I collaborated on a Vision Zero workshop with Caroline Perry, Brake the road safety charity, Abby Granbery, Walk Auckland, Patrick Morgan, Cycle Action Network and Lucinda Rees, NZ School Speeds. We used our workshop Building a grassroots campaign for Vision Zero: Why we need a new approach to road safety and how we can make it happen as an opportunity launch Vision Zero NZ.

I wrote about my motivation for a Vision Zero campaign in June last year .

Media Release

15 July 2016

Vision Zero workshop presenters Patrick Morgan, Caroline Perry, Abby Granbery, Pippa Coom

With the number of road deaths currently increasing in New Zealand, a group of organisations has come together to call on Government and local authorities to adopt a Vision Zero approach to road safety – aiming for zero road deaths and injuries. The #VisionZeroNZ campaign was launched at the 2 Walk and Cycle conference recently held in Auckland. Vision Zero is an approach used in a growing number of countries and cities around the world and at its core is the principle that life and health can never be exchanged for other benefits within society.

The calls come from Brake, the road safety charity, Cycling Action Network, NZ School Speeds, Waitematā Local Board Deputy Chair Pippa Coom, and Walk Auckland, who jointly held a workshop on Vision Zero at the conference.

The organisations say NZ needs to go beyond the current safe system approach by aiming for Vision Zero and creating a safe, sustainable, healthy and fair transport system for everyone.

Already this year 181 people have been killed on NZ roads, a 5% increase on the same time last year and continuing a worrying trend of increases to the number of road deaths over the last two years. Vision Zero (also known as Target Zero) is a proven strategy to bring down the road toll and ultimately bring an end to road deaths and serious injuries.

With the final Safer Journeys action plan now being implemented, the group say it’s time to look beyond 2020 to the future of transport in New Zealand.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set challenging targets, including some for road safety and sustainability:

Halving the number of road deaths and injuries worldwide by 2020
Substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from air pollution
Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all

New Zealand has signed up to the SDGs as part of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. To achieve these goals, and ultimately achieve Vision Zero, this group is urging the government and local authorities to take action by prioritising walking, cycling and public transport, creating more traffic-free civic spaces and lowering speed limits in urban areas and outside schools to 30km/h.

Caroline Perry, Brake’s NZ director, said: “Working with bereaved families, we see the devastating consequences of crashes, and all of these deaths are preventable. We need action now to reduce our road toll and will shortly be releasing our campaign agenda for Vision Zero. This approach is reducing road deaths abroad and it’s vital we have it in NZ and show that the only acceptable number of deaths on the road is zero.”

Patrick Morgan, Cycling Action Network spokesperson said: “Safety is no accident. It’s time we moved beyond the Safe System approach, which is past its best-by date. With road deaths increasing this year, we need to adopt Vision Zero, and protect people.”

Lucinda Rees, NZ School Speeds, said: “Make roads safer with consistent and safe lower speed limits so that all can travel safely, and children have the opportunity to journey to school on foot or bike. Action is needed now.”

Pippa Coom, Deputy Chair, Waitematā Local Board said: “For too long politicians and transport planners have accepted road fatalities are inevitable. We urgently need a new approach that is proven to work. The Local Government elections coming up in September is an opportunity to vote for candidates who support Vision Zero.”

Abby Granbery, Walk Auckland, said: “Vision Zero (or target zero) is a key component in making Auckland the world’s most liveable city. We must inject vitality into our streets. This is only possible by ensuring an environment where Aucklanders feel, and are, safe to play, work, and live.”

Organisations and individuals with an interest in Vision Zero are urged to find out more and get involved by contacting the organisations above, or going to www.facebook.com/VisionZeroforNZ.

Notes to Editors:
[1] Total road deaths in NZ by year:
2016 (as at 15.07.16) – 181 (a 5% increase on this time last year)
2015 – 319
2014 – 293
2013 – 253
2016 stats from NZ Transport Agency road death statistics
Historic data from Ministry of Transport annual road toll reports

Vision Zero
The Vision Zero approach is a commitment to aim for zero road deaths. It began in Sweden and is founded on the core principle that no loss of life on the road is acceptable, and life and health cannot be exchanged for other benefits within society. People on foot and bicycle are prioritised with low urban speed limits, traffic-free zones and safer streets and crossing points. Safety is prioritised over speed and efficiency in transport design and planning.

UN Sustainable Development Goals
At the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in September 2015, all 193 UN Member States, including New Zealand, adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change by 2030.

The Waitematā Local Board, Auckland Council has a current safer streets advocacy position: Auckland Transport to adopt a target of zero serious injuries or deaths on our roads as part of a comprehensive safe systems approach to road safety including safe road design, enforcement, safer speeds and driver education (Waitematā Local Board Agreement 2016/17)

Brake: www.brake.org.nz
Cycling Action Network: www.can.org.nz
NZ School Speeds: www.facebook.com/NZSchoolSpeeds
Walk Auckland: www.walkauckland.org.nz
Vision Zero Auckland: www.visionzeroauckland.org

Quay Street Cycleway opening

It would have been hard to imagine even a few years ago politicians flocking to the opening of a cycleway. In fact there were hardly any cycleway openings in Auckland until the PM opened Grafton Gully cycleway in September 2014. However that all changed when serious investment in cycling got underway thanks in part to the Urban Cycling programme. The additional government funding matched with Auckland Council interim transport levy funding is starting to have an impact. As the network of cycleways grows on busy routes cycling numbers are increasing with a doubling of numbers coming into the city centre in the last year.

Protected cycleways like the new one on Quay Street feel safe and pleasant to ride. They attract commuters, recreational riders, tourists and families with children. They unleash the huge latent demand for opportunities to ride safely. They are good for businesses , good for health & wellbeing and good for improving the liveability of Auckland*. It is not surprising politicians of all colours want to celebrate when new cycleways open!

High Five for Kathryn King, AT’s walking & cycling manager from Ropata Selwyn from Mangere Bikefit

PM John Key and Mayor Len Brown at the opening of Quay St cycleway 2016

Members of the Waitemata Local Board, Cr Chris Darby and the Mayor Len Brown

PM John Key and Hon Simon Bridges the first to ride the Quay St cycleway (Photo credit: Transport Blog)

Cycleway selfie with Auckland Transport cycleway project managers

Auckland Transport Media Release

8 July 2016

Auckland’s waterfront will be an improved urban space and an even busier cycle route following the opening of the Quay St Cycleway today.

The Prime Minister, Transport Minister Simon Bridges, Mayor Len Brown and a large group of people on bikes, were the first to use the city centre’s newest cycleway. The opening was preceded by a dawn blessing with Iwi representatives.

A new cycle counter on the promenade, a first for Auckland, will highlight the number of people cycling along one of Auckland busiest routes.

On the waterfront side of Quay St, the 1km, two way cycleway goes from Princes Wharf at Lower Hobson St to Plumer St. The $2.18m cycleway is being delivered by Auckland Transport and has local funding and an investment from the Government through NZ Transport Agency and the Urban Cycleways Programme.

It will benefit everyone who spends time at the waterfront and will encourage more people to start cycling into the city centre says Kathryn King, Auckland Transport’s Cycling and Walking manager.

“Having a dedicated cycleway like this means there is more space on the promenade for people to walk and enjoy the harbour views. The planter boxes, which provide protection from traffic, improve this wonderful space by adding some greenery.

“The cycle route into the city centre along Tamaki Dr is the busiest route in Auckland, and this will make cycling from the east even more attractive. Providing a protected cycleway on Quay St gives people working in the downtown area greater travel choice and an excellent cross-town route that avoids a lot of city traffic.”

Mayor Len Brown says it’s another important chapter in his vision for Auckland as the world’s most liveable city as it transforms the city centre into a pedestrian and cycle friendly destination.

“This project is another example of Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and the Transport Agency working well together to achieve a great outcome.”

Bike Auckland, chair, Barbara Cuthbert says the cycleway is a great addition to downtown Auckland. “It’s hugely exciting to have a safe separated space for people cycling and those walking close to rail and ferry services.”

The three-metre-wide cycleway connects with the Beach Rd Cycleway at Britomart Pl and by the end of 2018 will link with the Nelson St Cycleway and Westhaven to City Cycleway at Princes Wharf and the Tamaki Dr Cycleway.

When phase two of Nelson St Cycleway is constructed next year, the city centre cycle loop will be complete. This loop includes Lightpath, Nelson St, Grafton Gully, Beach Rd and Quay St cycleways.

Auckland Transport is working with project partners Auckland Council and the Government through the NZ Transport Agency and the Urban Cycleways Programme on a $200m programme of cycle improvements from 2015 to 2018.

Quay St Cycleway

The Quay Street Cycleway is delivered by Auckland Transport and is one of the projects funded in the 2015-18 Urban Cycleways Programme (UCP).
Auckland Transport is working with project partners Auckland Council and the Government through the NZ Transport Agency and the Urban Cycleways Programme on a $200m programme of cycle improvements from 2015 to 2018.
The UCP involves central government partnering with local government to accelerate the delivery of $333 million of key cycle projects around New Zealand over the next three years
The $2.18 million cycleway is funded from $0.70M Central Government, $0.75M National Land Transport Fund, $0.73 million Auckland Transport. This project is part of the wider Auckland city centre package project announced through the Urban Cycleways Programme.
The one kilometre long, three metres wide, two-way cycleway goes from Princes Wharf, Lower Hobson to Plumer St. The majority of the route is on-road, physically protected from traffic with concrete separators (similar to Nelson St Cycleway) and planter boxes.
This cycleway connects with the existing shared path on Quay St in the east. By 2018 AT will have delivered another cycleway that will connect Quay St Cycleway at Plumer St with the start of the Glen Innes to Tamaki Dr Shared Path at Hobson Bay. People will be able to cycle and walk from Glen Innes to the city centre.
Beach Rd Cycleway connects with Quay St at Britomart Pl allowing people to cycle all the way to the Northwestern Cycleway via Beach Rd Cycleway and Grafton Gully Cycleway.In the west, people can now cycle over Te Wero Bridge to Wynyard Quarter and around the Viaduct. Ultimately it will connect with Westhaven Dr to City Cycleway and Nelson St Cycleway when they are completed in 2017.
When Nelson St Cycleway phase two is complete next year, a city centre cycle loop will be complete including the pink Lightpath, Grafton Gully Cycleway, Beach Rd Cycleway and Quay St Cycleway. The project team is currently working on how best to connect Nelson St Cycleway (which currently ends at Victoria St) with Quay St Cycleway.

Cycling in Auckland by numbers

750 cycle trips per day on pink Lightpath since it opened December
A doubling of the number of people cycling into the city over three years.
50% increase in people cycling in Symonds St/Grafton Gully corridor following opening of Grafton Gully Cycleway in 2014
20% increase in people cycling on Northwestern Cycleway in May 2016 compared with May 2015.

Upcoming cycle projects in Auckland

Mangere Future Streets opening late September
Mt Roskill Safe Routes opening late October
Ian McKinnon Dr Cycleway public consultation starts July
Karangahape Rd Streetscape Enhancement and Cycleway public consultation by August.
Great North Rd Cycleway public consultation by the end of 2016.

Related reading

Key unlocks Quay Street – Transport Blog

A gray, sunny day for lots of joy on Quay Street – Bike Auckland

Prime Minister John Key geared up on Auckland’s Quay Street cycleway – Auckland Now

*Benefits of investing in cycling in New Zealand communities – NZTA

Parking update – the good, the bad and the ugly

First the good news:

As soon as Auckland Transport got underway in early April with consultation on the Ponsonby Paid Parking Zone Ponsonby residents raised concerns about the impact on residential streets. Auckland Transport reacted almost immediately with a decision to fast track the consultation on the Ponsonby Residential Parking Zone so that it and the Ponsonby paid zone can be implemented together (following the implementation of the Freemans Bay residential parking zone now confirmed for 1 August).

Auckland Transport also advised that they are still intending to use Licence Plate Recognition camera enforcement in the residential parking zones. This should allow them to provide an effective compliance monitoring without increasing staff numbers. (photo – Auckland Transport’s parking open day at Studio One)

More good news – we now have visitor bike parking installed at our new Local Board office on Swanson Street.

And more- Auckland Transport has confirmed that bike parking will be included in the design of new bus stops at Fanshawe Street by Victoria Park. This follows a saga over many years to get bike stands put in place for people commuting to the North Shore.

Four stands suddenly appeared a few months ago and then three of those stands disappeared. No one in Auckland Transport would take responsibility and the response from the bus team was that bike parking was not needed.

Fortunately we got there in the end with assistance from the parks portfolio. (Photo above – remaining one bike stand that is about to be replaced)

The bad – footpath parking

I have raised with Auckland Transport the issue of increased parking on the footpath in the commercial areas of Ponsonby and Grey Lynn.

It is particularly prolific at the Ponsonby Rd end of Williamson Ave. Auckland Transport is unfortunately not helping by undertaking footpath renewals & consenting traffic plans for developments that add big expanses of inviting concrete for parking rather than creating a pleasant walking environment (for example by including tree pits and greening ). It is likely to get worse once the Ponsonby paid parking zone and residential scheme is in place.

I have received the following response from the parking team at Auckland Transport:

I have discussed this with our Compliance Manager and we will ensure parking officers are looking out for illegal footpath parking in Ponsonby. We have three enforcement areas along Ponsonby Road which are covered by three officers. In the weekends this drops to two officers across the same area. We will look at whether we need to commit some additional resources in this area, especially in light of increased coverage of restrictions.

In terms of street design, AT now has the Transport Design Manual which provides design standards of transport assets including footpaths. I have raised your concerns with the owner of the Transport Design Manual.

We will be approaching the Ministry of Transport later this year regarding increasing overstay infringement fines and I will raise the issue of footpath parking fines.

The ugly – car transporters putting people at risk

Auckland Transport’s response (6 April) to the ongoing issue of car transporters unlawfully unloading on Great North Road. This is a particular concern for parents at Newton School.

I have discussed this at length with our head of parking compliance and if an officer is present, that officer will undertake an assessment on a case by case basis to determine a suitable and safe means to disembark the vehicles at the location the transporter sits or an agreed nearby location. Issuance is one tool that we use and we are very conscious of the Health & Safety risks posed by these transporters.

The more permanent solution instigated in response to perceived victimisation based on infringement issuance was undertaken in September/October in consultation with a number of the Car yards on Great North Road and one of the Transporter firms. This more permanent solution involves the creation of another Loading Zone on Great North Road that provides a solid and safe option to support transporter deliveries.

The Loading zone implementation is in consultation now and we can discuss that further as required.

Unfortunately anyone who is following Tina Plunkett on twitter will know this dangerous practice continues on a daily basis.

Monthly board report May 2016

My monthly board report covering activities from 1 April until 1 May 2016. Included on the agenda for the Waitemata Local Board meeting on 10 May 2016.

Highlights

Annual budget 2016/17

An extraordinary meeting of the Board was held on 26 April to confirm the Board’s position on Local Development Initiatives budgets, our advocacy positions and regional annual plan issues.

Included in the report for the meeting was an overview of 147 submissions received for Waitematā. The board received clear support for the priority projects we wish to take forward in 16/17.

Franklin Road

Following a community liaison group meeting in early April Auckland Transport released the latest designs for the upgrade of Franklin Road.

Features include:

Improved pavement surface, footpaths and drainage.
Protecting tree root zones from vehicles by redefining the berm area.
Providing for the safe movement of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.
Retaining as much street parking as possible.
Working with utility providers to minimise disruption and deliver an integrated programme of works.
Improving street lighting – suspended lighting is currently proposed

I am particularly pleased to see included in the design raised tables on all the side streets. This is a pedestrian safety outcome the Local Board has advocated for since the beginning of the project.

A final round of engagement was undertaken on the detailed design by Auckland Transport until 10 May. Stage 1 (utility upgrade) physical works is due to start in May. Stage 2 works will start in October/November. The current completion date is mid to late 2017

Renaming lower Khartoum Place

In December 2015 I brought a Notice of Motion to the Board proposing the renaming of lower Khartoum Place with a suitable name associated with women’s suffrage, and in recognition of the Women’s Suffrage Centenary Memorial 1893-1993 ‘Women Achieve the Vote’.

The proposal received Board support opening the way for a name changing process to commence. Consultation on naming options is taking place until 25 May.

Path widening in Grey Lynn park for the new Greenways route

Greenways Design Guide

Work is underway on a design guide which covers both on-street and parks and open space greenways that is intended to become the key resource for the implementation of greenways across Auckland.

The feedback I collated in Attachment A was provided on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board to the Greenways team.

Photo right: progress on the widening of the Greenways route through Grey Lynn Park

Signage trial

As part of a Regional signage project Auckland Transport is trialling various signage elements in four precincts. Signage being trialled includes street signs, pedestrian signs, information hubs (large and small), cycling signs and routes, and public transport signage.

It is good to see the trial at Wynyard Quarter with signage designed for tourists and locals to be able to navigate around central Auckland attractions. There are lots of positive features included including te reo Maori. However as the Transport portfolio has previously highlighting we still consider the background colour is too dark, the map is not useful without showing where it fits into a wider area and the descriptions are too subjective. The map also shows Wellesley Street as a walking route through to the Domain – a long standing issue we have raised with ATEED and Auckland Transport.

Feedback is open until 20 May 2016

Weona – Westmere Walkway

Phase one of the Weona –Westmere walkway is now open and phase two is well underway. It is now possible to take a scenic walk along coast line that has not been accessible for over 80 years. After visiting on beautiful day in April I felt very proud that the Board (with Shale leading the way) has stuck with this project for the last 5 years. I think locals and visitors will be very impressed when the 1.4km route is fully opened in September.

Maungawhau/Mt Eden is glorious to visit now the maunga is free of vehicles

Mt Eden is not in Waitematā but I give thanks to all those who worked so hard over the last 10 years to get cars off the summit. On a recent visit at sunset it was great to see how many people were enjoying the easy walk to the top.

Berm planting guidelines

The Board gave feedback on Auckland Transport’s draft guidelines in September last year. We are still waiting on the final draft that was promised before Easter.

In the meantime I am enjoying all the neighbourly interactions that occur whenever I am outside looking after my (non-complying) berm.

Parking – the good, the bad and the ugly

I have been following up on a number of parking issues and concerns outlined in Attachment B.

Auckland Conversations – The value of well designed cities

Joe Minicozzi, Principal of Urban3 presented, in a very entertaining way, the research that illustrates the benefits of urban density, heritage conservation and mixed-use developments. These have an economic impact that lead to creating sustainable and vibrant cities.

The image right shows the maths of land value plus improved value (CV) applied to Auckland (by Kent Lamberg from MR Cagney).

Workshops and meetings

From 1 April until 1 May 2016 I attended:

Ponsonby Community Centre Board meeting on 4 April
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 5 April
Communications catch up on 5 April
Franklin Road Community Liaison Meeting on 5 April
Ponsonby Road paid parking zone consultation open day at Studio One on 6 April
Parks portfolio meeting on 7 April
Elected member professional development focus group meeting on 8 April
Albert Park safety meeting on 8 April organised by Hon Nikki Kaye with Superintendent Richard Chambers, Inspector Jill Rogers, Area Commander for Auckland City Central and Gary Davy from the Police, Naisi Chen (Chinese NZ Students Association) and Will Matthews (President AUSA) and Auckland Council representatives
Youth Voice Phase 2 Cluster Workshops on 9 April at Auckland Central Library to explore youth-led models options under an empowered communities approach
Richmond Rovers strategic plan community meeting on 11 April
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 12 April in Parnell
Waitematā Local Board hui with iwi regarding Khartoum Place name change
Elected member development programme – political advisory group meeting on 13 April
Stakeholder meeting regarding the Khartoum Place name change on 13 April
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 14 April
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 14 April
Wynyard Quarter neighbours forum on 19 April
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 19 April
Ponsonby Business Association meeting for PBA members with Auckland Transport’s parking team on 19 April
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 20 April
Meeting to discuss the Board’s transport advocacy positions on 21 April
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 26 April
Presentation from Fresh Concept on Lower Queen St Activation Plans
Waitematā Local Board Extraordinary Meeting on 26 April – Annual Budget information
Auckland Transport open day on the wayfinding signage trial at Wynyard Quarter
Community portfolio meeting on 27 April
Inner City Network meeting and presentation on accessibility

Events and functions

From 1 April until 1 May 2016 I attended:

Auckland Theatre Company’s You can always hand them back at Sky Theatre on 2 April (at the invitation of ATC)
Bike breakfast at Scarecrow café on 6 April
Auckland Conversations on 7 April
Opening of the SKIP/ Women’s Centre Francis Reserve (photo right) community garden on 9 April
Jam on Toast at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 10 April
Japan Day at the Cloud opening reception on 10 April
Kokako turns 15 celebratory event on 15 April
Welcome morning tea for the new general manager of the K’rd Business Association on 15 April
Farewell to Charlotte from Splice on 15 April
Between Tides at Westmere beach on 17 April
Anzac day service hosted by the Grey Lynn RSC
Open Streets K’rd on 1 May (photo below with Margaret Lewis from the K’rd Business Assocation and Kathryn King, Auckland Transport’s walking and cycling manager who hosted the event). Congratulations to everyone involved in putting on such a fantastic event. K’rd was full of people enjoying the vehicle – free space.

Monthly board report April 2016

This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 1 March – 31 March 2016 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, and Chair of the Grants Committee, and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Local Board “Democracy shop” – open for business

On 2 March the Board officially moved into our new offices at 52 Swanson Street just off St Patricks Square. The offices are a huge improvement on our location at Graham St and provide a much better working environment for our hard working Local Board services team (photo right) and space for board members. I like to think we now have a “democracy shop”- a front door to our community that is easily accessible and welcoming.

Community Grants

The Waitematā Local Board grants committee met on March to discuss the grant application to the Quick Response Fund and the Local Grant fund. In total we had $70,330.58 remaining to distribute from the 15/16 financial year with one Quick Response Grant round to go (currently open until 6 May for grants up to $3000).

The grants committee minutes and recommendations for the Local Grant Fund are attached to the April agenda.

Community consultation – Annual budget 2016/17

Consultation on the Council’s Annual Budget 2016/17 and local board priorities took place until 24 March. Community meetings in Ponsonby, Grafton Parnell and Grey Lynn were well attended but the official Have your Say consultation meeting at the Town Hall attracted only 4 members of the public. The low attendance may partly be due to the number of events on that evening but I think the problem is mainly with the format which is very unsatisfactory for groups that wish to present feedback. The Board’s public hearings style meeting held on 10 March provided a much more effective forum for presentations to the Board.

Cycling improvements consultation

During March Auckland Transport consulted on the network of cycling routes in the inner west area (map right) and asked for feedback on cycling improvements to make riding a bike for local trips safer. The feedback period was extended to 5 April.

I attended the consultation events in Grey Lynn Park on 13 and 20 March.

This is the first time that Auckland Transport has consulted on the actual routes that make up the Auckland Cycle Network and support the routes in our Greenways plan.

Te ara i whiti / Lightpath

The electronic counter doesn’t lie! The aphorism “Build it and they will come” proved ever so true when it comes to the amazing magenta adventure.

Christopher and I were very happy to celebrate the 100,000 trip over Lightpath since opening day on 3 December 2015. Almost 1,000 people a day are riding the route.

There are also huge numbers of people enjoying Lightpath on foot at all times of day and night. Unfortunately the walking counter has not been working so Auckland Transport is unable to provide exact data at the moment.

Lantern Festival – transport planning

The Lantern Festival, held for the first time in the Domain in February was the first Auckland Council funded evening event to promote active transport. The valet parking provided at the venue was a big success working to encourage people to give cycling ago – many bringing along children. However the overall communication and coordination regarding transport to the event was not well managed by Auckland Transport and there were a lot of lessons for next time. I have sent the following email to the CEO of ATEED and the Manager Event Design who responded that it would be included in the mix for their debrief.

Congratulations to everyone involved on the success of the Lantern Festival (if the numbers attending are the best indicator of success!). I really enjoyed attending on the Friday and Sunday evenings.

I’m sure there will be a big exercise underway with Auckland Transport to look at the transport management plan and the messaging for the event next year. I just wanted to give some feedback while it is still fresh in my mind:

Although the map handed out on site was not intended as a travel map it was clearly being used for that purpose – it needs to clearly show all the walking and cycling connections (especially as people were arriving up hill at Grafton Station and able to walk down hill back to town but as previously mentioned the map showed the Domain as an island )
Creating a “Lantern Trail” in the same style as the RWC Fan trail (suggested route from Britomart via Beach Road, Churchhill street, and up Lovers Lane) – a few people have mentioned this idea to me
Improve the lighting on Lovers Lane – if felt too dark to use safety but is the logical connection to the Domain from the city
Close Grafton bridge to cars and only open to buses and ambulances – implement bus priority lanes
Provide wayfinding signage from all directions but particularly for those walking from different points in the city centre (the Wellesley St – Grafton Gully route particularly needs signage as previously mentioned but hopefully by next year AT will have finally got that sorted)
The valet bike parking was brilliant and I loved using it (of course!) but difficult to access so lots of bikes were parked all over the place (there was no signage to the bike parking)
Security guards were directing cyclists to dismount but did not know where the bike parking was located
Online information needs to spell out all the transport options including the location of car parks (I estimate there are at least 15 car parks in walking distance to the Domain but the online information just said “ the Domain is a 10 minute drive from the city centre” !!!).
Wayfinding signage needed throughout the entire site

Auckland Conversations: Climate Solutions: Cities in Action, Mark Watts, Executive Director C40 cities

Auckland has become the newest member of C40, a network of the world’s megacities committed to addressing climate change. C40 supports cities to collaborate effectively, share knowledge and drive meaningful, measurable and sustainable action on climate change. Auckland will be working with more than 80 of the world’s greatest cities, representing more than 550 million people and one quarter of the global economy. Sharing research, experiences and ideas, C40 is helping to find and implement innovative solutions to urban climate issues such as transport, energy, buildings and waste.

At the Auckland Conversations on 15 March Mark Watts talked about the initiatives that cities around the globe are putting in place to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks.

Cities are central to delivering greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets (Auckland’s target is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in 2040) through a focus on land use planning, transport and buildings. Every city needs to aim to get to 1.5 tons per person per year if we have any chance of avoiding dangerous levels of climate warming. Auckland is currently at about 7.2 tons (US cities are on 16.5 tpp).

The good news from Mark is that we know what we need to do create successful, prosperous, healthy cities. No city will be successful in the future unless it is low carbon. He made comments in relation to three key areas:

1 Compact City

Sprawl is the enemy, density is the friend. 6% of growth in energy consumption is urban sprawl. For example Copenhagen spends 4% of GDP on transport whereas Houston spends 16%.

2. Connected Cities

‘Return of the bike the most important tool in urban transport’

There are now 700 cities with bike share. 40% cycle to work in one of the richest cities.

Benefits from health care cost savings, cuts in air pollution and economic benefits

C40 consider that road pricing is inevitable in most big cities. In London as a result most people are not driving. Stockholm has seen a 35% fall in emissions and 40% growth

3. Co-ordinated cities

Successful cities will run on data. Benchmarking is a catalyst to change. For example in NYC they are looking for a 30% GHG emissions reduction from buildings between 2005 and 2017.

Mark ended by asking what if Mayor’s ruled the world? Political leadership is being shown by mayors from around the world.

The Waitematā Local Board received a special mention at the event for having a Low Carbon Community Action plan and a low carbon community network.

Greenways

Local board members came together on 31 March to hear an update on the work that has been underway to progress Greenways across Auckland. Simon Randall, Chair, Maungakiekie- Tamaki Local Board is the local board representative on a Greenways Leadership group set up by Stephen Town CEO, Auckland Council. That group has been looking at how best to deliver a connected Auckland through active transport.

We heard about the work underway to create a Greenways identity, an overview of a Greenways Design Guide and the potential level of investment in Greenways.

It is great to see the enthusiasm for Greenways from Local Boards and the commitment to making Auckland the world’s best city for cycling where Greenways are embraced.

In Waitematā we have recently made progress on the Grey Lynn greenways route with the widening of the Hakanoa reserve pathway (photo right). The design of the on-road sections of the route is in the process of being finalised by Auckland Transport and will shortly be available for public input.

Neighbours Day in the City Centre

Member Deborah Yates and I, with officer support, organised a Waitematā Local Board display at the Neighbours Day event in Freyberg Square and Ellen Melville Hall as part of Neighbours Day Aotearoa. The event was aimed at inner city residents and involved a wide range of community organisations. Thanks to Splice, ADCOSS, Heart of the City and everyone who made the celebration of the city centre happen.

Ponsonby Road improvements

Fresh Kermit! New feeder lanes and advance stop boxes on Ponsonby Road included as part of recent re-surfacing at the Board’s request are small but significant safety improvements for all road users.

Update on the Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience is reported on our agenda by Auckland Transport.

IPENZ transportation group conference

I attended the IPENZ transportation group conference 7-9 March with funding from the Board’s professional development budget.

The report back from the conference is attached to my monthly report (item 22).

Workshops and meetings

From 1 March – 31 March 2016 I attended:

Waitematā Local Board workshop on 1 March
Tamaki Drive Cycle Route Preferred Option/s Workshop hosted by Beca on behalf of Auckland Transport on 2 March
Have your say event for the Annual Budget 16/17 consultation at the Auckland Town Hall on 3 March
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 8 March at our new offices on Swanson St
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 9 March
Waitematā Local Board Annual Budget 2016/17 Hearing on 10 March
Met with Mik Smellie from the Residents Advisory Group on 10 March
Grafton Residents Association meeting to discuss the Annual budget and local board priorities on 14 March
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 15 March
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 16 March
ADCOSS Forum on 17 March at Western Springs Community Hall: Towards an Age-friendly Auckland: The missing links
Elected Members Professional Development Programme – Social Media Forum on 18 March
Local Board Briefing on the new Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 on 18 March
Elected Members – Local Government Excellence Programme LGNZ Briefing on 21 March
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 22 March
Monthly media catch up on 22 March
Meeting organised by Auckland Transport to discuss the “Open Streets” event planned for 1 May on K’rd
Community portfolio meeting on 24 March
Grants Committee meeting on 30 March
Meeting to discuss the Ponsonby Cruising Club lease with Panuku Development Agency
Newmarket Lanesways project working group meeting to discuss progress to date
Local Board briefing on the Greenways project on 31 March

Events and functions

From 1 March – 31 March 2016 I attended:

Waitematā Local Board – official office opening on 2 March
IPENZ transportation group conference 7 -9 March (see Attachment A for my conference report back)
Auckland Arts Festival shows at the invitation of the AAF Trust (I have declared these tickets as gifts in accordance with Auckland Council’s code of practice)
- Te Po
- Cucina dell’ arte
- St James Play: Part 1 (photo right at the opening night reception with Steven Miller who plays James I)
- Carabosse Fire Garden at the Auckland Domain
Little Day Out at the Mt Eden Village Centre on 5 March
Music in Parks at Western Park (free music in parks event) on 5 March
Pasifika Festival Saturday 12 March
Ponsonby Market Day on Saturday 12 March
White Nights. Making Light performance by the Velociteers on Lightpath on 12 March
St Patricks Day parade along Ponsonby Road on 13 March
Learn to ride and consultation event in Grey Lynn Park on 13 and 20 March
Auckland Conversations on 15 March
One Planet Living launch at Unitec on 17 March
Grey Lynn school Aloha night on 18 March
Neighbours day city centre event on 19 March
David Haigh’s farewell from the Grafton Residents Association
Member of the official party at the Citizenship ceremony in the Town Hall on 22 March
Official opening of the Auckland Zoo’s new African savannah development by the Prime Minister, the Rt.Hon. John Key on 24 March 2016 (photo right)
Celebration of Lightpath with free ice cream on 30 March provided by Auckland Transport for the 100,000 trip since opening day on 3 December
Regional Facilities hosted local board function at Auckland Zoo on 30 March

Free water in Waitematā

Icecream to celebrate the 100,000 trip made on Lightpath

At the icecream celebration for the 100,000 trip on Lightpath on 30 March a rider thanked me for the drinking station the Waitematā Local Board installed nearby on the Nelson St cyclepath. He told me he enjoys using all three of the water stops we’ve put in on cycle routes (the other 2 are on the NW cycleway and on Carlton Gore Road).

This friendly feedback reminded me that one of the things I really appreciate about Local Boards is the ability to get stuff done especially projects that may be small but have the potential to have a significant impact.

Across the Waitematā area the Local Board has been quietly installing drinking stations and fountains in convenient locations. The first drinking station went in to West Lynn with legacy funding from the Western Bays Community Board (the Community Board endorsed Grey Lynn 2030’s proposal for a “village pump” triggered by the community screening of Tapped the Movie for World Water Day in 2010). The Local Board from an early stage committed budget to drinking stations in parks, reserves and the street environment.

The next step is to get all the water drinking stations mapped so they are easy to find. I’d also like to see the initiative expanded so it becomes “Refill Auckland” modelled on Refill Bristol with the aim to make refilling your water bottle a cultural norm, with refill points on every street, via cafes, retailers, and businesses.

I’m a big fan of this project as it provides an alternative to expensive shop bought water, cuts down on plastic pollution and the need for expensive recycling and reduces exposure to unhealthy levels of BPA found in plastic drinking bottles. By providing access to fresh filtered tap water for residents and visitors when out and about there is no reason why Waitemata couldn’t become a plastic bottle-free area.

Intersection of Upper Queen Street and Ian McKinnon Drive

A people friendly premier park for Auckland

Draft plan display at the Auckland Lantern Festival

The grand Auckland War Memorial Museum sits in the city’s premier park, the Auckland Domain. You would expect the Domain and Museum to be easily accessible, a pleasure to visit on foot or bike with strong transport connections for tourists and locals. I therefore find it almost shocking the extent to which vehicles are prioritised to the detriment of everything else. Footpaths are missing on all the main roads, there is no legible walking access to the entrance of the museum and the Domain is severed from the city centre by a hostile motorway. Tourists are left bewildered and lost when they try to walk from the city centre to the Museum.

I’ve heard the Domain described as Auckland’s second biggest car park. This might make it a great place to drive to and through but also works to diminish the experience for everyone who just wants to visit. It also encourages a huge amount of non-Domain visitor parking (up to 75% of parking is taken up by commuters )

Grandstand Road (currently closed to traffic and parking)

Many of the issues are highlighted in this Transport Blog post –Why can’t you walk to the Domain (illuminated further in all the comments)

I think part of the reason why the Domain is so lacking in safe walking and cycling connections is due to the fact Auckland City was historically governed by people who predominantly lived in the Eastern suburbs and enjoyed the Domain as a thoroughfare by car to the city centre or a place to drive to for sporting activities. They would not have seen any political mileage in championing a more people- friendly Domain.

Things started to improve after the formation of the Super City in 2010. With the support of the Waitematā Local Board, Auckland Transport installed speed tables, a down hill cycle lane and improved crossing points on Domain Drive as part of package of safety initiatives. The Board adopted the following advocacy position in 2012:

Auckland Transport to improve walking and cycling access to and around the Domain, while discouraging commuter parking use of the Domain through:
i) Implementation of a parking scheme for the Domain that works to discourage commuter parking (e.g. through pricing)
ii) Improving walking and cycling options
iii) Contribute to the development of a Masterplan for the Domain (to be led by Auckland Council).

The idea for a Domain masterplan progressed slowly due to the unique governance arrangements for the park that splits the decision making between the Governing body and Waitematā Local Board. Once a joint Auckland Domain committee was established in February 2015 (Chair, Shale Chambers, members Vernon Tava and Rob Thomas represent the Board on the Committee) a draft plan was able to be finalised for public feedback.

The draft masterplan released in early February 2016, is a twenty-year aspiration for how the park can develop and consolidate its position as Auckland’s premier park. It responds to issues and pressure points as well as coordinating projects and work streams impacting the Auckland Domain.

I haven’t been directly involved with the development of the draft but I’m pleased to see a variety of proposals that will greatly improve the connections for all visitors to the Domain. The proposals will also improve access to those needing to drive and open up more parking for Domain users. Headlines on the draft have focused on the walking and cycling proposals but there are also a range of other initiatives in the draft that will contribute to making the Domain worthy of its premier park status.

A series of Council videos about the Domain are worth a watch.

Consulation is open until 24 March 2016. Feedback form online

Draft Domain Masterplan – Transport blog post

Auckland Domain to be more pedestrian friendly, Stuff

Auckland Domain development – roads to be closed, NZ Herald

Creating safe connections to Lightpath

[Update 11 February 2016: Auckland Transport and NZTA have provided updates in response to our December Board resolution – AT’s walking and cycling team response to each point in italics below]

We can’t get enough of the new Te ara i whiti/Lightpath and Nelson St Cycleway. It is a pleasure to ride and the magenta magic is stunning (#LightpathAKL for all the images).

However we are concerned about the poor standard of connections to this fantastic cycling infrastructure. The approach roads to the Canada St entrance are not pleasant to ride on especially for less confident riders and a number of detours are expected of commuters wanting a smooth ride and direct route. There is also a lack of signage to Lightpath from K’rd .

First hoon opening on 3 December — Photo: Ronald Andreasson

We (transport portfolio of the Waitemata Local Board) have asked Auckland Transport and NZTA to follow up on a number of issues that we are already aware of since the opening on 3 December. Many of these will get fixed as part of the proposed K’rd cycleway and some are already being investigated by a NZTA safety auditor but we wanted to confirm the urgent action we think is needed on the connections to the Canada St entrance to Lightpath from K’rd, Grafton Gully cycleway and Ian McKinnon Drive. Fortunately there is a lot of road to work with and low parking demand on Canada St. Please let us know if we have missed anything from the list below (either use the comments or email me pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz)

At the Waitemata Local Board meeting in December 2015 we passed the following resolution:

Moved by Deputy Chairperson PJ Coom, seconded by member CP Dempsey:

i) That the Auckland Transport Update – December 2015 report be received.

ii) That the Waitematā Local Board notes the public feedback analysis for the Nelson Street Cycleway Phase 2 and requests Auckland Transport provide a direct connection to Wynyard Quarter via Market Place and the Western side of Nelson St in addition to the proposed Quay St connection.

Upper Queen St missing connection to GGC — Missing crossing point between Grafton Gully Cycleway and Canada St shared path. Photo: Christopher Dempsey

iii) Congratulate NZTA and Auckland Transport on the successful opening of the Nelson St cycleway Phase 1

vi) Requests that NZTA and Auckland Transport urgently undertake measures (interim if necessary) to provide safe connections from K’rd, Grafton Gully Cycleway and Ian McKinnon Drive to the entrance of Te ara i whiti/Lightpath at Canada St including:

Installation of an advance cycle box on K’rd at the intersection of Pitt St and Mercury Lane for the right hand turn on to Mercury Lane In the short term we are proposing to trial a cycle barnes dance at this intersection which will enable people on bikes to cross the road and access Mercury Lane without conflict with other vehicular traffic. In the longer term this movement will be improved further in the KRd Streetscape Upgrade project.
Traffic calming on Mercury Lane We are including traffic calming on Mercury Lane in the reference design for the street once the CRL works are complete. We will investigate ways of better enabling this movement in the short term.
Treatment to provide for riders moving across the traffic lane to enter the right hand slip lane on Mercury lane to cross over Canada St to the entrance to the Canada St bridge In the longer term access to the Light Path from Mercury Lane will be addressed in the upgrade of Mercury Lane as part of the CRL works.
Traffic calming on the approach to the Canada St give way sign at the intersection with Mercury Lane An improvement to this section of Mercury Lane will be included in the reference design for the street as part of the CRL works. We will investigate opportunities for temporary measures before the CRL works commence. .
Installation of a cycle facility from Upper Queen St bridge to the K’rd intersection on the western side of Upper Queen St We plan to upgrade this section of Upper Queen Street as part of the KRd Streetscape Upgrade project
Wayfinding signage on K’rd We have included the requirement for wayfinding signage as part of the KRd Streetscape Upgrade project. We will investigate opportunities for temporary signs in the meantime
Appropriate kerb ramps for riders wishing to enter the Canada St shared path from Mercury Lane The New Zealand Transport Agency are investigating this request as part of the final safety audit.
Signalised crossing from Grafton Gully to the southern side of Canada Street across Upper Queen St. This movement is currently catered for as a two part crossing over Upper Queen Street and Canada Street. As part of the KRd Streetscape Upgrade project we will look for opportunities to improve the level of service for people walking and cycling.

vii) Requests NZTA and Auckland Transport to report back to the February 2016 meeting of the Waitemata Local Board on the actions taken

At our February board meeting where AT verbally presented the updates we emphasised the need for quick fixes rather than waiting for the the improvements that are promised to be delivered as part of the K’rd Streetscape Upgrade Project (to be delivered by 2017/18) and the CRL works (2022).

NZTA has also provided this update:

The work around Murray Lane and Canada Street is being reviewed as part of the final safety audit which is due to be concluded imminently with remediation work to follow. I will provide an update on this when it is available.

Proposal to rename lower Khartoum Place

Notice of Motion to rename lower Khartoum Place

In accordance with Standing Orders, please place the following Notice of Motion on the agenda for the Waitematā Local Board meeting being held on 8th December 2015:

Recommendation:

That the Waitematā Local Board requests the Resource Consenting and Compliance team, in consultation with relevant council departments, report options for re-naming lower Khartoum Place with a suitable name associated with women’s suffrage, and in recognition of the Women’s Suffrage Centenary Memorial 1893-1993 ‘Women Achieve the Vote’ to a local board business meeting for its consideration in time for the renaming to occur by Suffrage Day 2016.

Background

The Women’s Suffrage Centenary Memorial 1893-1993 ‘Women Achieve the Vote’ (the memorial) is located in Khartoum Place, and honours the Auckland women who worked towards the goal of women’s suffrage. The memorial is made of over 2000 brightly coloured tiles and was designed by artists Claudia Pond Eyley and Jan Morrison. It was erected in 1993 with financial assistance from the Suffrage Centennial Year Trust and the then Auckland City Council. The suffragists depicted in the memorial are Amey Daldy, Anne Ward, Lizzie Frost, Matilda Allsopp, Elisabeth Yates, Annie Jane Schnackenberg, Fanny Brown, and Ida Wells.

Following a campaign to retain the memorial, in 2011 Auckland Council voted to protect the memorial in Khartoum Place in perpetuity. In the draft Unitary Plan the memorial is identified as “a historic heritage place”. It is a category B heritage item which has significant heritage values in terms of Social (B) and context (H).

Khartoum Place runs between Kitchener Street and Lorne Street with a stairway connection between the two street levels. Khartoum Place is named after the 1885 siege of Khartoum. Kitchener St is named after Earl Kitchener (24 June 1850 – 5 June 1916) who fought in the Sudan after the battle of Khartoum and became known as “Lord Kitchener of Khartoum.”

In September 2014 Khartoum place was re-opened following a $1.7million upgrade. Key features of the design are a new staircase that opens up a direct line of sight between Lorne Street and the Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki and the retention of the suffrage memorial.

In my address at the reopening I commented that Looking around now at how beautiful Khartoum place looks with the memorial at its heart I think all that is needed now is for this space to be named not after an imperial battle that New Zealand actually refused to take part in but in the future I look forward to it being named Suffrage Place or Kate Sheppard Place”.

The proposal to rename lower Khartoum Place has the support of the National Council of Women NZ Auckland Branch and Councillor Cathy Casey. The NCWNZ Auckland branch resolved unanimously at its November 2015 meeting to support the renaming of lower Khartoum Place to Suffrage Place with the upper level to remain as Khartoum Place.

Renaming lower Khartoum Place will not only provide a fitting tribute to the location of the suffrage memorial but will also end the confusion between the two distinct levels of Khartoum Place (that are known informally as Lower and Upper). From a google maps search there does not appear to be any roads etc in New Zealand named specially after women’s suffrage.

The retention of the upper level as Khartoum Place maintains the historical connection to Kitchener Street. There does not appear to be a historical connection between the naming of Lorne St and lower Khartoum Place.

Local Boards have been allocated decision making responsibility for the naming of local roads pursuant to section 319(1)(j) of the Local Government Act 1974.

Khartoum Place is categorised as a local road. The renaming will need to be carried out in accordance with the Road Naming Guidelines (April 2015) including appropriate consultation.

Monthly Board report December 2015

This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 1 November until 5 December 2015 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, and Chair of the Grants Committee, and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre. I was also acting chair from 15 – 19 November.

This is my final report for 2015. Many thanks to everyone who supports the work of the Board during the year.

HIGHLIGHTS

Parnell Festival of Roses on 15 November

Congratulations to the team who delivered an outstanding community-focused Parnell Festival of Roses this year (the festival is now in its 22nd year). I was particularly impressed to hear that the festival broke zero waste records. It is the most sustainable event in terms of zero waste since Auckland Zero Waste Alliance’s Zero Waste Event Project started operating in 2013 achieving a diversion from landfill of 98%. 90% of the event’s waste was composted, and another 8% recycled. Only 2% of the waste generated went to landfill.

David Seymour MP took a big interest in learning about zero waste

Freemans Bay School Think Big project

The launch of the Auckland Kids Voice website by Freeman’s Bay School was held on 11 November at Auckland Council. The website is a Think Big project developed by the school with funding from the Waitematā Local Board earmarked for youth initiatives as part of being a UNICEF Child Friendly City.

The website includes an adult survey form adapted by the school students for kids to be able to give local feedback on Auckland Transport’s New Network bus consultation. The project was recognised in a NZ Herald article Inner City youngsters have region’s interests at heart

Thanks to everyone who made this project happen.

Launch of the Low Carbon Community Action Plan at the Auckland Museum

Launch of low carbon plan at Auckland Museum

Waitematā is the first Local Board to launch a community low carbon action plan. The plan came out of community concern about the lack of action on climate change that led to the Board in 2011 committing to develop a localised plan for reducing emissions that will focus on reducing energy use, sustainable transport options, waste reduction, local food production and more effective and cooperative use of resources and land. I acknowledge the work of the Natural Environment Portfolio team (members Deborah Yates and Rob Thomas) who have seen through the project this term.

On Wednesday 4 November the plan and a Low Carbon Community Network was launched by the Board at the Auckland Museum. The network is intended as a loose collaboration of all those interested in climate change and forging a low carbon community. The Board aims to make the most of sharing the considerable ideas, news and events which make up our collective local knowledge.

At the launch the Museum’s Director of Corporate Services Les Fleming (pictured below with board members) described the huge success they have had in reducing their carbon footprint and took attendees on the roof to see the solar array which is contributing to their effort.

Ponsonby Rd Pedestrian Experience project

On 17 November consultation started on the proposal by Auckland Transport and the Waitematā Local Board to make Ponsonby Road more visually attractive and pedestrian-friendly through improvements to 8 side streets between Franklin Road and Williamson Ave. Additional improvements for Mackelvie Street include a new central island with plantings and an additional raised table. Depending on the preferred design the improvements will result in the addition of between 8 – 12 on street car parks, a new pedestrian refuge for crossing Ponsonby Road and new street furniture.

The improvements are funded from the Waitematā Local Board transport capital expenditure fund to support delivery of the Ponsonby Road Plan.

I’ve previously reported on the 2 year battle the Board had with Auckland Transport to achieve a pedestrian friendly design so it is great to see this project progress.

Consultation is open until 7 December.

Grey Lynn Transport project consultation

Auckland Transport has made unnecessarily difficult work of proposals for transport changes at the Grey Lynn shops. Auckland Transport failed to appreciate the impact of their original proposals (that started out as a project to just relocate one bus stop and improve the safety of two more in the town centre), didn’t develop a consultation plan with the Local Board and didn’t respond adequately to issues raised by the local business community.

It is unfortunate because there are many positive aspects of the revised project (following initial community feedback) that Auckland Transport started consultation on in early November. The new proposals include a new pedestrian crossing, relocation of a loading zone and revised changes to bus stops in the town centre, as well as the installation of traffic calming treatments on Prime Rd and Selbourne St. The changes aim to improve pedestrian safety, create a more pedestrian-friendly environment, and improve the operation of bus services. Importantly it is no longer proposed to remove a loading zone and substantial on street parking which was the focus of original concerns about the project.

On my request the feedback period was extended by 2 weeks (until 9 December) following the Surrey Cres working group raising concerns about the timeframe and extent of the consultation.

Update on the berm planting guidelines

I’ve previously reported on the feedback we gave Auckland Transport on their draft berm planting guidelines. As part of the feedback the Board requested that Auckland Transport re-write the guidelines in conjunction with Local Board Services and that the guidelines include:

details about why berm planting is encouraged and supported
sets out an empowering and enabling criteria
clarifies the local board role
identifies how to mitigate potential hazards and maintenance expectations
tips on working with neighbours to achieve the best outcomes for the community from private plantings in the road corridor

However Auckland Transport has advised that a new draft of the guidelines will go to Auckland Transport’s Executive Team and the AT Board, with a final version of the guidelines likely to be available in the new year. In other words AT has ignored the Board’s request to have input BEFORE the guidelines are finalised.

I have therefore written to the CEO of Auckland Transport bringing his attention to the flawed process his senior managers are pursuing with regards to the berm planting guidelines and to ask that he takes action to ensure the guidelines are only finalised after AT has sought the input of Local Board services as requested (by Waitemata and many other Boards).

In ignoring the request for further input from Local Board Services AT is failing to recognise the Local Board’s placemaking role and desire to work with the community on this issue. AT is also acting contrary to the governance structure and engagement agreement with Local Boards. The current process proposed by AT is unacceptable and is likely to lead to Local Boards having no choice but to draft our own guidelines together with the community.

Freemans Bay Residential Parking Scheme

The results of Auckland Transport’s consultation on the Freemans Bay Residential Parking Scheme showed 59% overall support (78% support from residents). However AT advised the Freemans Bay Residents Association that further consultation may be necessary due to the low response rate (2439 letter sent out, 305 responses received). This led to over 140 emails from concerned residents to Board members asking that the scheme be implemented as soon as possible. I assisted the chair in drafting the following response to Freemans Bay residents:

Thank you for your email and for showing your support for the Freemans Bay Residential Parking Scheme. The Waitematā Local Board is very concerned about the ongoing parking issues in Freemans Bay.

We have asked Auckland Transport (AT) to implement the scheme as soon as possible.

The Board has been advocating for the introduction of the Freemans Bay Residential parking scheme since 2011 and we have actively supported the work of AT together with the Freemans Bay Residents Association to develop the proposed scheme that was recently been consulted on by AT.

One of our key advocacy areas in our Local Board Agreement 2015/16 is Auckland Transport to implement the residential parking zone scheme to manage commuter parking in central Auckland suburbs following consultation with residents.

On 3 November Auckland Transport’s parking team briefed Local Board members on their analysis of the consultation feedback. Although AT advised that they are satisfied they carried out a robust and thorough consultation process, the AT parking team raised with the Board their concern about the low response rate from residents and whether this might require further directed consultation such as door to door enquiries to ensure residents understand and support the scheme.

However we confirmed with AT that we do not think there is any reason to delay the implementation or undertake further consultation given the level of support at the public meeting we attended and that a low response rate is to be expected when the majority are favourable to a proposal.

I, on behalf of the Board, have therefore given AT a very clear direction of the Board’s support for the scheme which has also been backed up by the many positive messages of support, including your own, that we have received from residents.

The parking team confirmed that they will be recommending this month to the Auckland Transport Executive (the final decision maker) that the implementation of the scheme goes ahead based on the consultation results and the support of the Waitematā Local Board. AT have undertaken to get back to the Board with an implementation plan very shortly.

At our November Board meeting we also directed Auckland Transport to implement the scheme as soon as possible (thanks to the Freemans Bay Residents Association for supporting this work and attending the meeting). AT has now confirmed implementation will take place in March 2016.

Community Grants

Applications for the Quick Response Round Two 2015- 2016 were considered at the Community Grants Committee meeting on 2 December. 17 applications totally $36,622.00 were received for a remaining grants fund of $53,298.58.

Details of the applications and the committee’s decision is available on the Council website under agenda and minutes.

Franklin Road lights

The annual switch on of the Franklin Road lights took place on 1 December. This is a very special community event that the Board supports with a grant for the opening night celebrations and additional waste services.

Thanks to the organiser Roscoe Thorby who is to be congratulated on a fantastic opening night with record crowds and special guests Buckwheat and Tess.

Nelson St cycleway opening

The Nelson St cycleway and Canada St bridge opened on 3 December by Hon Simon Bridges. It is fantastic to see this cycleway project progress so quickly since receiving funding from the Urban Cycleway Investment fund. It is the most exciting and interesting cycling project happening in New Zealand if not the world right now. The magenta colour, lighting installation and clever repurposing of a disused motorway off ramp are sure to be award winning and a huge visitor attraction.

Workshops and meetings

From 1 November – 5 December 2015 I attended:

Central Local Boards briefing on financial policies for Annual Plan 2016/2017 on 2 November
Surrey Crescent working group meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss the Grey Lynn transport project on 2 November
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 3 November
Media and communications catch up on 4 November
Business Improvement Districts policy workshop for Councillors and Local Board member representatives on 5 November
Meeting for Board members to discuss proposed Unitary Plan rezoning
Meeting to discuss Waitematā Local Board Grants programme
Auckland Transport presentation to Parnell Inc members regarding the New Network bus consultation
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 10 November
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 11 November
Meeting on 11 November to discuss Ellen Melville Hall art concept proposals
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 12 November
Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss Franklin Road upgrade options and process
Presentation by 5 year two AUT students of their innovative ecological design project for Western Bays.
GHD hosted breakfast on 13 November and ‘Bikes are good for business’ presentation by Kyle Rowe, Transport Planner with the Seattle Department of Transportation
Catch up with NBA General manager on 13 November
Weekly update with Relationship Manager including update with Senior Advisor on 16 November (as acting Chair)
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 17 November
Transport portfolio monthly meeting with Auckland Transport on 18 November
Meeting at MacKelvie St organised by the Ponsonby Business Association with Auckland Transport to discuss the Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience project consultation
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 24 November
Meeting with Julian Hulls from Nextbike to discuss bike share
Waitematā Local Board extraordinary meeting on 24 November
Community Development Portfolio meeting on 25 November
Inner City Network meeting organised by ADCOSS on 26 November at Ellen Melville Hall
Meeting to discuss Greenways route through Parnell Station
Waitematā Local Board annual plan presentation to the governing body (presented by the Chair)
Tamaki Drive (Plumer St to Ngapipi Rd) cycle route workshop organised by Auckland Transport on 30 November at Beca
Ponsonby Community Centre Committee meeting on 30 November
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 1 December
Attended the Step it Up conference organised by Centre for NZ Progress opening plenary on 30 November and with Michael Wood (member Puketapapa Local Board ) presented at the Step It Up conference on 1 December Local government elections in 2016 – Fighting for progress
Waterfront Forum hosted by Panuku Development Agency on 1 December
Waitematā Local Board grants committee meeting on 2 December
Local Board Members briefing on Housing Affordability on 3 December

Events and functions

From 1 November – 5 December 2015 I attended:

All Blacks parade in Victoria Park on 4 November
Launch of the Low Carbon Community Action plan at Auckland Museum on 4 November
Community information event for the POP programme 2016 held at Studio One on 6 November
Hudson & Halls at the Herald Theatre on 6 November at the invitation of Silo Theatre
Opening of the Salisbury Reserve playground upgrade on 7 November
Auckland Transport’s New Network Consultation at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on 8 November
Freemans Bay School’s Think Big Project launch (Auckland Kids Voice website)
Armistice Day commemoration held at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on 11 November
Opening of the Short me Shorts Film Festival at the Civic Theatre on 11 November
Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks
Opening of the Onehunga Foreshore Taumanu on Saturday 14 November
Parnell Festival of Roses on Sunday 15 November
Auckland Architecture Association Awards and Lecture by the chief judge Rewi Thompson at the Auckland Art Gallery on 17 November
Parnell Community Committee AGM on 17 November
The Grey Lynn Book Launch at the Grey Lynn RSC on 18 November
Opening of the Air New Zealand 75th anniversary exhibition at the Auckland Museum on 19 November
Herne Bay Residents Association AGM on 19 November
Launch of the Arch Hill Art Wall at Lot 23 on 20 November
Bike Market organised by Auckland Transport at the Pitt St YMCA Hall
Announcement event for the Phil Goff mayoralty campaign on 22 November
Civic Trust AGM at the Leys Institute Library on 22 November
Cycle Action Auckland relaunch as Bike Auckland on 24 November
White Ribbon march on 25 November
Ponsonby Community Centre Christmas drinks on 25 November (I received coasters as a Christmas gift from the staff at the centre)
Drinks with Jarret Walker , author of Human Transit How clearer thinking about public transit can enrich our communities and our lives hosted by MR Cagney on 27 November
Grey Lynn Park Festival on 28 November
People’s Climate March on 28 November (photo right with Christopher Dempsey on the Climate March)
Ponsonby Community Centre AGM on 30 November
Waterfront Forum hosted by Panuku Development Agency on 1 December
Franklin Road Christmas lights opening on 1 December
Silo Park Christmas launch on 2 December
Dawn blessing and opening of the Nelson St cycleway on 3 December
First Thursdays on K’rd
Grey Lynn Community Centre Christmas gathering on 3 December
Ponsonby Market Day on 5 December
Bike Rave on 5 December