Auckland Transport Archives - Page 5 of 9

Chair’s monthly report June 2017

Report covering the period 4 May – 9 June 2017.

Summary

Presented to the Finance and Performance Committee on our Local Board priorities for 17/18 as part of the Annual Budget (presentation Attachment A). Approved the Local Board Agreement and work programmes 2017/18 at an extraordinary meeting on 6 June.
At our May business meeting we acknowledged the passing on 29 April 2017 of Ken Havill, inspirational and highly respected principal of Ngā Puna o Waiorea Western Springs College for 19 years until 2016, and extended our sincere condolences to Mr Havill’s family and the school community.
Opened the Grey Lynn Greenway with Mayor Phil Goff on 2 June (My speech on behalf of the Board and Auckland Transport media release Attachment B). The Grey Lynn pump track informally opened on 24 May.
Met with the 254 Ponsonby Road facilitation group and relevant Council officers to progress the community-led design for Ponsonby Park
Consultation on the draft Waitematā Local Board Plan got underway on 22 May. Have your say events held in Parnell, Grey Lynn and at the board office. Information sessions held at libraries and farmers’ markets. Consultation closes on 30 June.
Followed up a number of transport issues including:
- Resurfacing on Ponsonby Road between Williamson Ave and Hopetoun Street without any safety improvements
- Pedestrian safety and footpath clutter at the intersection of Carlton Gore Road and Davies Crescent
- Leaf collection and maintenance of street trees by Auckland Transport contractors
- Parking in Arch Hill and rollout of the Ponsonby Residential parking zone
- Final Grosvenor Street cycleway design removing a large number of car parks and failure by AT to install crossing points along greenway route at the intersection of Grosvenor and Crummer Rd
- Safety issues with car transporters using bus stops and the flush medium for unloading on Great North Road
- Parking on the grass in the Domain (enforcement issues are being addressed through the Domain Committee)
Provided feedback to Auckland Transport on behalf of the Board on the Pt Chev to Westmere cycle improvements (Refer Auckland Transport monthly report)
Traffic calming polka dots installed on Shortland Street (following pedestrian safety concerns raised by the Local Board. Attachment C).
Construction got underway on Teed Street, Nelson Street cycleway stage 2 and continued on the Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Improvement Project (photo right)
Community Reference Group established by Auckland Transport to progress the design of the Gladstone Road cycleway.
Media coverage included Local Board reports in Ponsonby News (Attachment D) and the Hobson (Attachments E)
Attended an event to mark Word Fair Trade Day at Albert Park organised by a student Christine Zhang (Photo right with Christine and Julie Anne Genter MP). Auckland became a Fairtrade Region in 2012.

Meetings and workshops attended:

Weekly Chair’s meeting every Monday morning
Ponsonby Business Association monthly board meetings on 4 May and 8 June
Uptown Business Association presentation to the Local Board to discuss BID obligations on 4 May
Site visits to Wood Street and Hakanoa Street to discuss constituent issues on 5 May
Panuku discussion with local board members regarding urban development tools on 8 May
Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 8 May
Waitematā Local Board workshops on 9, 23, 30 May and 6 June
2017/2018 Annual Budget Waitemata Local Board advocacy. Presentation to the Finance and Performance Committee on 9 May (Photo right. Presentation Attachment A)
Franklin Road community reference group meeting on 10 May
Meeting to discuss support for the Santa Parade with representatives of the Council family on 11 May
Meeting to discuss the Franklin Road lights on 11 May
Meeting with Business Lab to discuss the City Fringe Economic Development Action plan refresh on 11 May and 1 June
Meeting on 15 May to discuss partnership opportunities with Western Springs College arising from the school rebuild
Local Boards sub-regional workshop on 15 May
Pre- agenda briefing for the Domain Committee
Meeting with AT’s parking manager on 16 May
Meeting to discuss Western Springs Precinct with Regional Facilities
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 16 May and extraordinary meeting on 6 June
Transport portfolio catch up on 17 May
NZTA strategic direction presentation to invited stakeholders on 17 May
Meeting to discuss the development of Council’s homelessness policy
Monthly Local Finance Advisor catch up on 23 May
Auckland Domain committee workshop and business meeting on 24 May
Attended the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting on 24 May (as alternate)
Community Reference Group for the Parnell cycle route workshop organised by Auckland Transport on 31 May
Chair’s recommendations run through meeting on 11 and 31 May
Meola Reef Reserve development plan site visit with mana whenua on 31 May (photo right)
Tour on 1 June of the Central Library planned refurbishment
Meeting on 2 June with Christina Sayers-Wickstead to discuss the NZ Suffrage Museum project
Phone interview as part of research looking at road user pricing
Workshop with the 254 Ponsonby Road facilitation group on 7 June
Agenda run-through meeting on 7 June
Spoke at the Economic Development workshop with city fringe business representatives to assist with the refresh of the ED plan held at ATEED on 8 June
One-day workshop on 9 June for Chairs developed by the Institute of Directors

Events and functions attended:

Opening night of Amadeus at ASB Waterfront Theatre at the invitation of Auckland Theatre Company
Community planting day at Hakanoa pollinator Park (Photo right with Bike Grey Lynn volunteers) and the Grey Lynn Pump Track on 6 May
Farewell to Carla van Zon, Auckland Festival director
Spoke on the IAP2 Australasia 2017 Engagement Symposium K’rd Walking Tour about Myers Park consultation on 12 May (photo right)
Fairtrade Festival in Albert Park on 13 May
NZ Book Awards on 16 May
Writers Festival Gala Opening night on 18 May
NZ Trio at Q Theatre 21 May
Auckland Conversations on 23 May: Manhattan to Manukau – Lessons from New York
Innovators in discussion at MOTAT on 25 May
Autumn Biking bee adventure on 27 May
John Macdonald’s Induction as Methodist Mission Northern Head of Mission on 30 May
Grey Lynn Greenway opening on 2 June (Attachment B)
Presided at the Central Citizenship Ceremony on 6 June (photo right)

Draft Local Board Plan consultation events:

Have your say events in Parnell, Grey Lynn and at the Local Board Office
Information sessions held at Parnell Farmers Market, Grey Lynn Farmers Market and at Libraries (photo below with members Richard Northey and Adriana Christie at Parnell Library)

Grey Lynn Greenway opening

On 2 June we opened the Grey Lynn Greenway with the Mayor Phil Goff and Auckland Transport. Wayne Donnelly, Deputy Chair of the AT Board was MC for the speeches. Here is my speech on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board

Tēnā koutou huihui mai nei

Talofa lava

Warm greetings to everyone gathered here

As the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau we’re really fortunate to attend and host many openings of new and upgraded community assets. The Grey Lynn Greenway is one that I have been especially looking forward to and feel very fortunate to be opening as Chair of the Local Board. Thank you to everyone who has come along this afternoon. I’m joined by my local board colleagues Adriana Christie, Rob Thomas and Shale Chambers . We’re fortunate Mayor Phil has had a lot of practice lately for opening new pathways and is able to join us. I’d especially like to acknowledge former board member Christopher Dempsey who is here to celebrate with us (Tricia Reade sends her apologies).

When I am out and about one of the positive comments I hear the most from locals is how much they enjoying the walking and cycling improvements in our area. There is a tremendous desire to be able to jump on bikes at any age for local trips or recreational rides.

When I moved into this area over 10 years ago with my partner Paul (here with Bike Grey Lynn) we bought bikes to get around. Like most people cycling back then we were shocked at the hostile road environment and the lack of cycling facilities. At the same time there seemed to be some really obvious “quick wins” to make walking and cycling far more pleasant. Paul first suggested to me the idea of a “Greenlink” connecting Grey Lynn Park with Coxs Bay. This was on a wave of hearing about Bicycle boulevards and greenways transforming neighbourhoods overseas. I am sure many people had similar ideas at the time as an extension to the existing walking connection established by the Western Bays Community Board (Graeme Easte just called from Whangerei to give his apologies – probably just as well he is not here as I’m sure he’d tell me I have the history of this route wrong!)

The super city finally provided the opportunity to tackle some of those so called quick wins in Waitematā. The Greenlink idea was embraced by the first Waitematā Local Board supporting a network connections linking our green spaces and reserves that then became a real project with a Waitematā Greenways Plan approved in 2013 – the second local board to complete a plan after Puketāpapa.

The Grey Lynn Greenway has been built in stages as funds have allowed. The boardwalk in Coxs Bay was rebuilt and paths widenedin 2014 . Widened paths in Hakanoa Reserve and Grey Lynn Park were completed last year. The on road sections finally got the green light with a funding contribution from the Urban Cycling Investment fund. We now have a complete, attractive off road route from West End Road to Williamson Ave through our beautiful parks. It opens up connections to sports facilities, schools, local shops and will link into the network of safe routes about to get underway on Great North Road, Richmond Road and Surrey Cres. And of course a connection to the new Grey Lynn pump track (great to see Scott here who has been instrumental in that project). We fortunate that the community has got behind the Grey Lynn pump track and the pollinator path planting that will further enhance to the greenway. We’re already hearing about the wider mobility and accessibility benefits of the Greenway. A bike school bus has started from Grey Lynn School and wheelchair users are able to easily cross Richmond Road for the first time on the new crossing.

There are still things to get right and we’ve heard AT acknowledge the design and consultation issues on one section. Auckland Council also has a path section in Coxs Bay to finish off that got held up by the resource consent. I’m confident that we’ll work through these issues with AT and the community so that everyone can enjoy and benefit from a new community asset.

We’re also looking forward to working with AT on our next Greenway project to open up the old Parnell train tunnel – but more of that another day!

I’d like to end with the many thanks in order.

Members of the project team with Mayor Phil Goff

To the community for all the support for the Greenway and for your patience with the construction.
To the volunteers and guardians of the park we look forward to continuing to work with you into the future to further enhance the greenway.
To the advocates for who have been unwavering in the task of making Auckland a great place to get around.
Thanks to the designers, planners, engineers, technical and support people who all do the hard work behind the scenes. The thanks on this goes back over many years to David Little and Lynda Lucas who worked on the Greenways plan.
The many parks people who worked on the off road sections – too many to name today.
The AT team who have worked on the project including Priscilla and Ben (the former and current local board liaison manager) – the quiet operators who know how to bang heads together to achieve results for local boards
And thanks to all those involved in the AT part of the project from Auckland Transport, MR Cagney, MWH and TSL including
- AT – Ken Lee Jones (Project sponsor) Paul Buckle (W&C client), Ameer Bahho (Project Manager)
- MWH – Sagar Kariya (Designer)
- MRCagney – Abby Granbery (Peer Review lead)
- TSL – Ikram Patel (Contractors Rep) Mohammed Buksh (Site Engineer)

I hope you will all join me for a ride over once we’ve finished the formalities.

After the ribbon cutting the Mayor jumped on a bike for a ride to the Grey Lynn Pump Track

Further reading

Grey Lynn walking and bike path opens. Auckland Transport media release

Mayor Phil Goff at the Grey Lynn Pump Track

City Building: Auckland Transport’s “expectations” should not dictate our planning

An attachment to my March 2017 Board report

On 10 March I attended a joint Planning Committee and Waitematā Local Board workshop hosted by Panuku to discuss the extensive Waterfront and City Centre Work Programme. Over the next year we are going to see the refresh of the Auckland Plan, the City Centre Masterplan and the Central Wharves Strategy and further work on the Wynyard Quarter Framework Plan. The invite described the workshop as follows

Significant progress has been made towards achieving Auckland’s vision of our CBD waterfront as a world-class destination and economic driver for the region. The Council family is currently working together to build on this progress and refresh our thinking with respect to the changing context of the waterfront, so as to ensure that we continue to deliver on the potential for this crucial part of the city – from Harbour Bridge to Teal Park.

You are invited to a workshop to inform the next stage of waterfront planning. The workshop will help you to fully understand the current state, interrogate the impending decisions, and provide guidance for the strategic refresh.

This complex and ambitious development programme is being planned and delivered by an integrated taskforce from across Council, Panuku Development Auckland, ATEED and Auckland Transport.

After the workshop I wrote the following in a facebook post in reaction to one of the slides from the presentation:

Interesting to attend the Planning Committee workshop this morning on the waterfront and city centre work programme. What it really highlighted to me is how much of our planning is still being dictated by Auckland Transport engineers and their “expectations” and modelling of traffic volumes. The design of the city is a political decision. As we know from smart people like Ethan Kent (one of many international speakers we’ve been fortunate to host in Auckland) if we design for “cars and traffic we will get more traffic. If we design for people and places, we will get people” This is so clearly demonstrated on O’Connell Street. If we’d listened to the engineers the upgrade would have included car parking. Instead the politicians led by Shale Chambers set the vision for a shared space. It is working so well, especially while it is now temporarily closed for the developments nearby, the retailers would like it permanently closed to cars. As we move ahead into the next version of the Waterfront plan and City Centre master plan, Auckland Transport needs to ask what the vision is (e.g. a carfree city centre, a pedestrian first city centre, a child friendly city, low carbon city etc), the politicians should then confirm, after public consultation, the outcomes we want and we must then demand the city is built to achieve that vision.

O’Connell Street before and after (Photo Credit: Transport Blog)

Related reading

Council saves Linear Park from Auckland Transport’s clutches, Transport Blog

Auckland’s transport crisis: How it was made and why it will only get worse The Spinoff

Chair’s monthly report March 2017

Report covering the period 10 February until 13 March 2017.

Highlights

Following the extreme weather event in March Aucklanders are being urged to reduce water use for several weeks to avoid the need to boil water due to the amount of silt that has entered the treatment plant
Consultation got underway on the Annual Budget 2017/18. The Waitematā Local Board held a Have your Say hearing style event on 8 March attended by Mayor Goff and Councillors Mike Lee, Daniel Newman and Desley Simpson (Photo right). Feedback is open until 27 March
Guest speaker at an International Women’s Day morning tea hosted by Panuku Development Auckland
Auckland Arts Festival 2017 started on 8 March
Beating the Bounds triennial event on 4 March in partnership with Walk Auckland. A walk of the Waitemata Local Board boundary from Meola Reef to Pt Resolution
Construction has started on the Grey Lynn Pump Track (a community-led project), Grey Lynn Greenways route connecting Coxs Bay to Grey Lynn Park and on the Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Improvement Project
Waitemata Youth Collective at Myers Park Medley

Myers Park Medley successfully held on 26 February (photo right with members of the Waitemata Youth Collective at their engagement stand)
Myers Park Splash pad opened (photo below)
245 Ponsonby Road community-led design exhibition and voting on the preferred concept (underway until 19 March)
Opening of the Parnell Train Station on 13 March (Attachment A)

Meetings and workshops: 11 February until 14 March 2017

Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 13 February and 13 March
Waitematā Local Board workshops 14, 23, 28 February and 1, 7, 14 March
Professional development sessions (Kura Kawana): Engaging with Maori and Wellbeing & Resilience
Meeting with Panuku to discuss St Mary’s Bay Water quality project
Domain Committee Chair introductory meeting on 15 February with Rod Sheridan, Community Facilities Manager to discuss proposed maintenance approach in the Auckland Domain
Wai O Rea Central Community Recovery Centre Project Design Workshop Workshop with Albert-Eden and Puketapapa Local Boards on 16 February
Domain Committee agenda run through on 17 February
Meeting to discuss Poynton Terrace Streetscape upgrade
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 21 February
Elected Member Communications & Engagement reference group meeting on 22 February
Briefing by Auckland Transport on CRL development, Albert Street design
Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting (as alternate)
Site visit to Hopetoun Street to meet with residents concerned about a number of safety and street maintenance issues
Briefing from the Auckland Museum on 23 February
Inner City Network Monthly Meeting on 23 February
Waitemata Youth Collective meeting with the Board on 23 February
‘Delivering for Auckland Symposium’ for all elected members on 24 February
Monthly regional workshop for elected members on 27 February
Auckland Domain Committee Workshop and Meeting on 28 February
Weekly Chair’s meeting every Monday morning
Agenda run-through with the Deputy Chair on 8 March
Transport portfolio catch up on 1 March
Meeting to discuss Italian Festival 2017 with the Events portfolio and Festival organiser on 2 March
Introduction meeting with Auckland Police Commander Matt Srhoj
Regular catch up meeting with Newmarket Business Association General Manager
Meeting with Chair, Friends of Symonds St cemetery on 3 March
Meeting to discuss transport outcome for the draft Local Board Plan 2017
Western Bays Community Group AGM and presentation on the Annual Budget 1207/18
PBA board meeting on 9 March
Meeting with Auckland Design Office regarding traffic calming and pedestrian safety improvements on Shortland Street
Presentation by Heart of the City to the Board and discussion on City Centre issues on 9 March
Joint planning Committee and Local Board workshop: City Centre and Waterfront work programme (City Building: Auckland Transport’s “expectations” should not dictate our planning Attachment C)

Events and functions: 10 February until 14 March 2017

Rainbow Youth Open Day and exhibition (sponsored by the Waitemata Local Board) on 11 February (photo right)
Big Gay Out at Coyle Park on 12 February
Revolt. She said. Revolt again at Basement Theatre on 16 February at the invitation of Silo Theatre
T20 NZ v SA at Eden Park at the invitation of Auckland Cricket
Moa Periscope Launch on 20 February: Child Friendly Development Response in Freyberg Place
Launch of the Auckland Fringe Festival on 21 February in Aotea Square
Sea Change, Wet Hot Beauties performance at Parnell Baths (at the invitation of Wet Hot Beauties)
Attended the Grey Lynn 2030 Repair Cafe on 18 February
Watched the Pride Parade in the grandstand on 25 February at the invitation of ATEED (photo right with Brett O’Reilly, ATEED CEO, Stephen Town Auckland Council CEO and Lexie Matheson, Pride Trustee )
Opening of Japan Day at the Cloud
Myers Park Medley on 26 February
Bike Breakfast at Scarecrow Café on 1 March
Patrons night at Basement Theatre on 1 March
Beating the Bounds on 4 March
Ponsonby Park concept designs exhibition on 5 March
Stepping up our Climate Game Auckland Conversations on 8 March
Opening of the Auckland Arts Festival on 8 March
Revolutions: Auckland Art Festival
Opening ceremony for Parnell Train Station 13 March (Attachment A)

Gift Declarations

Tickets to the T20 NZ v SA at Eden Park at the invitation of Auckland Cricket
Tickets to the Auckland Art Festival

The End: Pt Resolution Bridge

Monthly Board report September 2016

This is my final report for the second triennium of Auckland Council. It includes my reflections on the last three years and covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 31 July to 6 September 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.

I have provided a report each month this term. My previous reports are available at www.pippacoom.co.nz.

Summary of August highlights

Unitary Plan passed

The Governing Body of Auckland Council passed the Auckland Unitary Plan (UP) on 15 Auckland following a mammoth five-year process to unify all former regional and district council plans into one. I sat in on several days of the decision making to hear the debate and support, with reservations, the passing of a unified planning rulebook for Auckland. The Board, particularly through the work and leadership of our Chair, Shale Chambers has been actively involved right from day one. There is a lot to reflect on with the community about the process and final decisions on the Independent Hearings Panel recommendations.

It is a significant milestone but there are still big question marks over whether the UP achieves affordable housing, heritage protection, density done well and quality design. There is a lot of work to be done to now deliver on the promise and potential of a unified plan that responds appropriately to inevitable future growth and delivers on the Auckland Plan.

Renaming lower Khartoum Place

Following consultation on 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 Board voted in July to adopt a bi-lingual name. After receiving further information about the suitability of a bi-lingual name and following a meeting between board representatives, Ngati Whatua and National Council of Women the Board held an extraordinary meeting on 30 August to confirm the new name as Te Hā o Hine Place.

I look forward to Suffrage Day on 19 September when we will be celebrating the new name and acknowledging all those who have contributed to the process and the claiming of a small space for women in the city centre.

Auckland Council media release

1 September 2016

Te Hā o Hine Place at home in the city centre

At a special meeting this week, the Waitematā Local Board voted to change the name of the lower section of Khartoum Place, to acknowledge the location of the Women’s Suffrage Centenary Memorial 1893-1993, ‘Women Achieve the Vote’.

On Suffrage Day 2016, September 19, Waitematā Local Board and iwi partners will unveil the new name for the lower section of Khartoum Place; Te Hā o Hine Place, in recognition of the struggle New Zealand Suffragists faced until 1893.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei gifted the name ‘Te Hā o Hine’ which is derived from the whakatauki (proverb) ‘Me aro koe ki te Hā o Hine-ahu-one’ and translates to ‘pay heed to the dignity of women’. The board felt it was a fitting sentiment as did National Council of Women – Auckland Branch.

Carol Beaumont, President of the National Council of Women – Auckland Branch, says they are pleased that the name Khartoum Place is being replaced with Te Hā o Hine Place, as it is more fitting to the Suffrage Memorial.

Since opening a refreshed Khartoum Place in September 2014, the Waitematā Local Board began looking more seriously at changing the name of the lower section, an area that was being informally referred to as “Suffrage Place” due to the location next to the Suffrage Memorial and the space being used for annual Women’s Day and Suffrage Day events.

In April 2016 the local board consulted with iwi, the National Council of Women, local businesses, residents and the wider public to ascertain the level of support for a name change and a preference should they support a change. The majority of submitters supported a name change and for the options for consideration to include; Te Hā o Hine, Suffrage Place and Kate Sheppard Place.

Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Place upgrade underway

The creation of a community hub for the growing number of city centre residents got closer with the start of the work to renovate and refurbish Ellen Melville Hall.

This is one of the Board’s most significant projects that we initiated last term. Once completed, the new centre will provide a range of facilities including a new kitchen, Wi-Fi, improved amenities, café-style seating and a modern refurbishment. It will be a much needed community facility for Auckland’s growing city centre residential population.

The $10.7m project includes the upgrade of Freyberg Place (funded by the City Centre targeted rate). The upgrades to Freyberg Place and Ellen Melville Centre are expected to be completed by mid-2017.

Hakanoa Street footpaths and kerbing

Auckland Transport’s renewal of kerbing and footpaths on Hakanoa Street has been an on-going saga. In August I attended several meetings with residents to resolve the issues related to the removal of bluestone kerbing (replaced in unacceptably large areas with faux concrete kerbing) and poor workmanship including new footpaths on the northern side that led to flooding. The photo right shows residents inspecting a trial of concrete to mimic bluestone (once complete only the area between the cones will be in concrete)

In the latest update to be communicated to all residents Auckland Transport has confirmed that the areas where faux bluestone are to be constructed in concrete are being marked in white paint once each tree site has been investigated to determine the extent where real bluestone kerbs can be installed. AT has committed to re-instating as much bluestone as possible. The northern side footpath/vehicle crossing levels will be remediated to ensure road reserve stormwater is contained.

Auckland Transport’s approach to this renewal has highlighted the need to provide the local board with plans and consult with residents in advance. I am also following up on the need for a longer term tree management strategy.

Weona Westmere Walkway community planting day

The project to complete a 1.4km long coastal walkway on council reserve land and the coastal marine area in Westmere got underway last term after years of community campaigning.

It was great to take part in a community planting day to see how far the walkway has progressed around a beautiful but neglected stretch of coastline. Hopefully the walkway will be open by the end of September for everyone to enjoy.

Portfolios

Transport

I’ve worked on the transport portfolio with Christopher Dempsey over the last six years. It has been exciting to see the positive progress being made to improve transport choices in Auckland. Over the last three years the board has achieved or played a role in achieving for transport:

Start of the City Rail Link (a legacy Mayor Brown can be very proud about)
Funded a Parnell Station connection to Nicholls Lane to support opening of the station
Progress on the Harbour Bridge pathway SkyPath
Increased funding for cycleways that has led to the completion of the Te ara i whiti /Lightpath, Nelson St cycleway, Quay St cycleway, Westhaven promenade and a central programme of cycleways
Progressed the Grey Lynn Greenways route
Worked with Auckland Transport on the Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience project
Secured the upgrade of Franklin Road with undergrounding of power lines, stormwater separation, new footpaths, road surfacing, pedestrian crossing and cycle lanes
Implementation of the Freemans Bay Residential Parking Zone (now scheduled for 2 October) and parking zones in all central city suburbs
Successfully advocated for improved pedestrian safety such as walking improvements at the Grey Lynn shops and in the city centre.
Ensured Auckland Transport leveraged maintenance budgets to provide safety improvements for all road users such cycle feeder lanes and stop boxes on Ponsonby Road as part of a resurfacing project
Successfully advocated for the removal of parking minimums from the Unitary Plan
Advocated for improved local bus services as part of the New Network to be rolled out in 2017
Successfully advocated for the inclusion of a new outcome in the City Centre Masterplan: A walkable and pedestrian- friendly city centre, moving towards zero pedestrian deaths or serious injuries as a result of vehicle collisions.
Initiated a street tree planting policy and identified locations for new street trees (including three new tree pits on Williamson Ave as part of the Countdown development)
Installed three on street drinking stations

We’ve also provided input into a range of Regional transport policies.

There is still a lot to be done to reduce congestion and carbon emissions, and provide safe, connected, accessible transport choices in Waitematā. Next term I hope to progress: slower speeds in the city centre and on residential streets, implementation of vision zero, opening up of greenways routes (including opening up the old Parnell Rail tunnel), changes to the give way rule, roll out of improved wayfinding, acceleration of the cycleways programme and residential parking schemes, driver education regarding vulnerable road users, ending dangerous car transporter practices on Great North Road and further work to improve the walking experience in Waitemata.

Community

As portfolio holder with Deborah Yates, we cover community facilities, libraries and initiatives aimed at building community wellbeing capacity, leadership and skills. Some of what has been achieved for the community over the last three years includes:

Increased community funding to $125,000 per year for grants to community and sports groups (distributing funds through the Community Grants Committee)
Established an accommodation grant fund
Funded the Inner City Network and Inner City Neighbours Day event
In January 2015 registered the Waitematā Local Board with UNICEF as the first local board to be working toward “child friendly” accreditation.
Funded Child Friendly Cities initiatives such as Think Big – the creation of a consultation website for children
Supported a Community-led design process for the development 254 Ponsonby Road with open space
Provided funding support for Kelmarna Gardens and a community garden coordinator
Extended library hours
Continued to implement the Accessibility Plan and undertaken a review
Agreed funding and work programmes for our three community centres.
Provided additional funding to support growing participation at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
Provided support to the Waitematā Youth Collective involvement in events, activities, steering groups and projects

One of the areas of ongoing concern has been the increasing numbers of rough sleepers in the city centre. We have supported the Homelessness Action Plan initiatives currently underway but going into next term a great deal of further work is needed to make an impact.

There is also more to do to develop partnership approaches with mana whenua, improve the health of our communities such as extended smoke free areas, improve safety and increase engagement and participation especially by inner city residents.

I am sad that both of my co-portfolio holders Deborah Yates and Christopher Dempsey have decided to retire from local government. They have made a huge contribution and I have really appreciated working with them.

In the online version of my report at pippacoom.co.nz I have included photos of Deborah and Christopher in action. Photos of board members are not allowed in reports during the election period (There will of course be a photo of me and Christopher on our bikes – the most enjoyable and fun way to get around Waitematā as a board member!)

Waitematā Local Board 2013 – 2016

It has been a privilege to serve on the Waitematā Local Board for two terms as Deputy Chair. After the hard work in the first term to make the new super city structure work effectively for local decision making, I was grateful to be elected for a second time to continue the many projects underway with an ongoing commitment by the Board to strong community engagement.

There is still a lot to do to ensure Council is listening and responsive to local aspirations and that the governance framework is fit for purpose. There are parts of the organisational structure and culture that still need further refinement to properly support the role of local boards. The Auckland Transport relationship with local boards is particularly problematic and only a complete overhaul of the leadership is likely to result in any meaningful improvement.

This term has been immensely rewarding and at times lots of fun too. The Board’s annual achievements reports available on the Council website highlight just how much has happened over the term (Link to the 2015/2016 Achievement Report). We are fortunate to be supported by an outstanding, hardworking local board team.

The rewards are great for board members able to put the time into the role. I’ve appreciated the many learning opportunities and the amazing speakers that take part in the Auckland Conversations series. It has also been an opportunity to meet a wonderfully diverse range of people, to get involved with our many community groups (particularly through our community grant funding) and to take part in the many events on offer in the Waitematā area.

There is still much to do. I hope to be part of a progressive Local Board next term that will continue to deliver for everyone who lives, works, plays and visits Waitematā.

Workshops and meetings

From 31 July until 6 September 2016 I attended:

Local Board Members briefing on greenways identity on 1 August
Hakanoa road works meeting with local residents on 1 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 2 August
Independent Hearings Panel recommendations: Briefing session for local board members
Meeting to discuss renaming of Khartoum Place with Ngati Whatua Orakei, National Council for Woman and representatives of the Waitematā Local Board.
Community Portfolio additional meeting – Grey Lynn Community Centre funding increase
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 9 August at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
Meeting to discuss a proposal for an Inner City Community Garden on Griffith Building Site (temporary site as a result of the CRL works on the corner of Albert Street and Wellesley Street)
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 11 August
Attended the Unitary Plan debate at the Governing Body meetings on 11 and 12 August
Meeting with GLBA and Auckland Transport to discuss parking impacts of Richmond Road cyclelane project
Workshop on 15 August on opportunities for Community-led development support and development with Ākina and Inspiring Communities (at the invitation of Denise Bijoux )
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 16 August
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 17 August
Franklin Road Improvement Project Community Liaison Group Meeting on 17 August
Hakanoa St Trial Mimic Kerb Inspection on 22 August (see details above)
CRL update for Waitemata and Albert Eden Boards Chairs and portfolio holders on 22 August
Meeting to discuss Greenways branding on 23 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 23 August
Communications update on 23 August
Meeting on 23 August of the community portfolio and inner city residents to discuss action on homelessness and use of the Civic Administration building as a night shelter
Meeting to discuss the Board’s feedback on the Maori Language Policy and implementation plan
Community portfolio meeting on 24 August
Inner City Network meeting and lunch hosted by Splice on 25 August. Presentation: social impact of intensification of housing
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 29 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 30 August
Waitemata Local Board Extraordinary Meeting for Renaming of Khartoum Place on 30 August
Meeting with Hakanoa residents at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 31 August to discuss kerb and channel work
Meeting on 31 August of the Elected Member Political Advisory Group to discuss induction planned for new term
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 6 September
Newmarket Laneways meeting: feedback from Public Consultation and approval of Final Concept Design
Ponsonby Business Association committee meeting on 8 September

Events and functions

From 31 July until 9 September I attended:

Opening the Club House – West End Lawn Tennis Club on Sunday 31 July (photo right)
Backbenchers Auckland edition at the Britomart Social Club on 3 August
First Thursdays on K’rd on 4 August
Wynyard Quarter 5^th birthday on 6 August
Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks at Storage King on 10 August
Blessing for the start of works at the Ellen Mellville Centre and Freyberg Square
OperaNesia on O’Connell Street on 11 August
Opening of the new Grey Lynn Fire Station on Williamson Ave on 12 August
Volunteer planting day on the Weona Walkway, Westmere
Franklin Road Community BBQ hosted by Auckland Transport for the start of works on 14 August
Venus in Fur at the Herald Theatre at the invitation of the Auckland Theatre Company
Dedication and official opening of the Bishop Selwyn Chapel on 21 August (photo right)
K’rd presents catwalk show at NZ Fashion Week at the invitation of the K’rd Business Association on 23 August
St Columba’s fundraising Potter’s market on 29 August
Campaign for Better Transport’s Rail to the Airport public meeting in Onehunga on 30 August
Bike Breakfast at Scarecrow on 1 September
Random Act of Kindness Day hosted by Splice
Rod Oram’s book launch at AUT: Three Cities – Seeking Hope in the Anthropocene
Living Wage Assembly at St Matthews for Mayor candidates and Waitematā & Gulf Ward Candidates
Q Theatre 5th Birthday celebration at the invitation of Q Theatre on 2 September
Merchant Navy remembrance service at the Maritime Museum on 3 September
Fukuoka Day at the Town Hall on 3 September
LATE at the Museum from #Slackivism to Activism panel discussion on 5 September
Boys will be Boys at Q Theatre on 9 September at the invitation of Silo Theatre

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

Monthly Board report July 2016

This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 1 June to 10 July 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.

I was also acting chair for the week of 27 June when I attended the Local Chair’s Forum and the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting.

HIGHLIGHTS

City Rail Link Ground breaking

On Thursday 2 June Mayor Len Brown, Auckland Transport chairman Dr Lester Levy, Prime Minister John Key and Minister of Transport Simon Bridges officially marked the start of the construction for the City Rail Link. It was an explosive ground breaking event with special cupcakes and a fantastic flash mob dance sequence involving many of the CRL workers. More importantly it was an opportunity to acknowledge Mayor Len’s role (and the many people who supported him such as Cr Mike Lee) in pushing ahead with this vital transport project that has been 93 years in the making.

Support for Auckland Transport to develop a Street Tree Planting Policy

My notice of motion requesting Auckland Transport to develop a street tree planting policy was unanimously passed by the Waitematā Local Board at our June business meeting.

MOVED by Deputy Chairperson PJ Coom, seconded by Member CP Dempsey

That the Waitematā Local Board:

i) notes the benefits of urban street trees and the Auckland Plan, City Centre Master Plan and Waitematā Local Board Plan 2014 commitment to plant street trees;

ii) requests Auckland Transport in association with Auckland Council Parks develop:

a) A street tree planting policy; and

b) A strategy to meet the City Centre Masterplan street tree target of a 25% increase by 2021;

iii) requests Auckland Transport allocate budget (capex and opex) for funding new street trees as part of streetscape projects and footpath renewals;

iv) requests that this Notice of Motion is circulated to all Local Boards, the Parks, Recreation and Sports Committee, Auckland Development Committee, Auckland Transport Board and Chief Executive and Auckland Council Policy and Bylaws team

Hakanoa Street footpaths and kerbing

I’ve been following up on the concerns residents have raised about the kerb and channelling work currently underway by Auckland Transport’s contractors that involves removing the blue stone kerbing.

Auckland Transport has responded that:

the kerbs are being removed in places due to the disruptions of the tree roots, the tree roots are then unable to be cover over (as per the arborists direction) therefore AT is unable to replace like for like and has to put in concrete and pointing of which is coloured, this does give a piece meal effect/look but as we are not able to replace with any kerb type i.e. (blue stone ) our hands are tied

The only way to replace blue stone kerbing over tree roots is by putting in a bigger lintel over the roots, unfortunately the arborists has said we are not allow to do so in some places where the kerb is not replaced and there appears to be no trees, this is because there is 3 applications from residents for vehicle crossings

Due to the nature of the tree roots AT accepts that we will have on going issues with this street and will return regularly to try to fix

However the road appears to have been widened thereby pushing the kerb closer to the tree roots. There appears to be a mismatch of concrete and blue stone in big sections between trees not just around the trunk of the tree (as in the photo above). Large areas of blue stone kerbing stones appear to have disappeared without justification when similar streets have retained the traditional kerbing as part of an upgrade (eg Selbourne Street). The works have also resulted in damage to house frontages. I will continue to work on this with the residents until we receive a satisfactory response from Auckland Transport.

A further issue I am following up is the continuation of the kerbing work despite plans for on road greenway works at the exit of Hakanoa Reserve (photo above) and planned pedestrian/cycleway improvements at the intersection with Richmond Road.

Auckland Transport has not explained the duplication of works and the additional costs.

Renaming lower Khartoum Place

Consultation on 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’ ended on 25 May.

From the 137 submissions there was strong support for the name change. Details of the feedback and a decision making report are on the Board’s agenda this month. It is looking positive that we will be a position to change the name in time for Suffrage Day in September.

The future of St Columba Church & parish

I have been following events at St Columba in Grey Lynn and attended two community hui held during June to discuss the future of the parish.

Following financial difficulties last year the Anglican Diocese commissioned a report to consider the options available to the parish. The report concluded with three redevelopment options that all involved demolishing the church and facilities on the site including the hall, community garden and labyrinth. This led a campaign to save St Columba involving the wider community.

On 1 July the following statement was issued by the the Anglican Bishops of Auckland and the Vicar of St Columba Grey Lynn.

Conversations are underway to assist the Parish of St Columba Grey Lynn to address some significant challenges that have developed over a long period of time.

Those challenges are related to finance and the ongoing costs of providing ministry in the community. They include the maintenance of buildings.

The Bishops and the diocesan leadership are working closely with the Vicar and the people of the Parish to seek a long-term solution.

The Diocese continues to have a commitment to the community of Grey Lynn. That commitment is being indicated in conversations that included a visit to the parish last weekend. The Diocese and the Parish are grateful for the support of the wider community.

Further conversations are anticipated with no decisions made at this point.

The Bishops and the Vicar will be able to comment further once there is a decision to announce

Waitematā Local Board Community Grants

The final Grants Committee was held on June to consider applications to the fourth and final round of the grants fund for 15/16. A total of $38,613.00 was available to distribute. The committee approved grants totally $29,791.00 to a range of community groups and organisations.

Waipapa stream planting

Annual planting day along the banks of the Waipapa Stream in Parnell was attended by Councillor Mike Lee, representatives from the Waitemata Local Board, Parnell Heritage, Parnell Community Committee, and local neighbours. It is great to see the many years of volunteer labour to re-habilitate the stream is paying off.

Mary Stewart, Senior Biosecurity Advisor, who has been coordinating the planting,is looking to work with Parnell Heritage and the Parnell Community Committee to engage with the surrounding residents to encourage best environmental practices nearby. The stream has greatly improved but practices continue that threaten the area (such as growing plants that are weeds in the apartments that are dropping into the stream and naturalising, dumping of garden waste, plant tags, pots, trimmings, old plants, dumping of rubbish and liquids (killing off plants) using driveway cleaners that kill trees).

Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Experience

In the July Our Auckland Waitematā Local Board members feature in a story regarding the Board funded project to create a safe and consistent pedestrian experience along Ponsonsby Road between Franklin Road and Williamson Ave (the project was consulted on in November 2015). As mentioned in the article the work was meant to have started in June.

Unfortunately Auckland Transport missed the construction deadline for the works on Lincoln and Collingwood Streets in the last financial year and now has a budget shortfall. We are working through the budget details with Auckland Transport and the consultation process to get the feedback on intersection furniture layouts, materials, and street furniture.

It is now expected that the construction will start late August/early September 2016.

Berm planting guidelines

The mystery of Auckland Transport’s berm planting guidelines continues. I’ve given regular updates in my report regarding progress on guidelines that were promised by Easter.

A resident was recently advised the following after she complained about the destruction of her berm garden.

In Central, we mow all berms if they exceed or are approaching a height of 200mm. Our mowing operators work in tandem, with the bulk of the berm mown with a ride-on mower, and then followed up shortly afterwards with weed-eaters to remove encroaching grasses from the edge of footpaths and the kerbside, and around trees and poles which the ride-on mowers cannot reach. Given the large number of berms to be mown across the city this actually provides better value for ratepayers than the stop-start method of one operator undertaking both activities.

Auckland Transport offered to put her on a no mow register which defeated the point as she had only grown a berm garden after being told she was responsible for it as she wasn’t physically able to mow the verge herself. The resident is now happy for AT to mow her berm again.

Quay Street Cycleway

On Friday 8 July the Minister of Transport, Hon Simon Bridges and Auckland Mayor Len Brown officially opened the Quay St protected cycleway on Auckland’s busiest cycle route.

At the time of writing my report the cycleway was still closed but attracting large numbers on a sunny weekend. With the Quay Street Cycleway another gap is connected in the central city cycle network.

Auckland Conversations : The future of housing in Auckland

Panel discussion hosted by Bernard Hickey.

With Auckland growing at a rate of 896 people a week how can everyone be guaranteed a home, either to buy or rent? Auckland clearly needs new housing options so the economic benefits of growth can be shared by all as we establish our place among the world’s most successful cities.

An excellent discussion about the current Auckland Housing crisis and what is needed to fix it. One big take away pushed by Bernard Hickey is that young people need to vote in the Local Government Election in September.

The full discussion can be viewed on you tube

Workshops and meetings

From 1 June until 10 July 2016 I attended:

Public Open Day hosted by Auckland Transport on the Ponsonby Residential Parking Zone at the Ponsonby Community Centre 1 June
Wellesley St/Learning Quarter Interim Business Case Workshop #1 on 3 June
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 7 June
Auckland Transport hui on the Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Experience on 8 June
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 9 June
Attended the last session of the Little Grocer Environment Court hearing on 9 June
Kai a te rangatira – Elected Members breakfast sessions with Dr Ella Henry on 13 June
Central Community Recycling Facility Meeting on 14 June with Albert- Eden and Puketapapa Local Boards re Next Phase of design and provision of service
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 14 June at the board office on 14 June
Engagement Framework meeting with the Board’s engagement adviser
Auckland Development Committee joint workshop with Local Board members on 15 June
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 15 June
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 16 June
Community portfolio visit to the Plunket rooms in Parnell
St Columba church community hui on 19 June
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 21 June
Community portfolio meeting on 22 June
Waitemata Local Board Community Grants committee meeting on 22 June
Meeting on 23 June to discuss the Achievements Report
Inner City Network meeting and presentation on the work of the CAB on 23 June
Catch up with Michael Richardson, GM K’rd business association on 24 June
Spray free community meeting hosted by Deborah Yates at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 26 June
Community meeting with Assistant Bishop Jim White on 26 June to discuss the future of St Columba Church
Local Board Chairs Forum meeting on 27 June
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 27 June
Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting on 29 June
Ports Community Reference Group on 29 June
Local Board Briefing – Community Centre Levels of Service Review (Central Local Boards) on 30 June
Newton and Eden-Terrace Plan –Hui on 30 June
Changing Minds Community Housing Forum on 1 July at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 5 July
Franklin Road Improvement Project community liaison meeting hosting by Auckland Transport on 5 July

Events and functions

From 1 June until 10 July 2016 I attended:

The Refugee Experience – Storytelling through visual displays at AUT 1 June (photo right)
Countdown Supermarket Williamson Ave opening on 2 June
Bike Breakfast at Scarecrow on 2 June
City Rail Link ground-breaking on 2 June
Spray Free community meeting on 2 June
Auckland Transport’s cycling open day at La Cigale market on 4 June
Waitemata Youth Collective Clothes swap a the Central Library (photo of Alex Johnston at the Clothes Swap)
Queen’s Birthday celebrations at the Cloud on 4 June
Waipapa Stream planting day on 11 June
Auckland Theatre Company’s That Bloody Woman at Sky City Threatre (at the invitation of ATC) on 11 June
Auckland Transport’s Bike Market at the Cloud on 12 June
Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks at the Malt Public House on 14 June
Newmarket Business Awards dinner at the Auckland War memorial museum on 17 July (at the invitation of NBA)
Otago Law Alumni breakfast at the Northern Club on 21 June
Feijoa Festival hosted by Splice at Chuffed Café on 22 June (Photo right: Guild of the Feijoa’s, Mik Smellie )
Auckland Conversations on 23 June The Future of Housing in Auckland
NZ Maritime Museum – Twin Exhibition Opening on 24 June
General Collective Market at Ponsonby Central on 25 June
The Minnie Street Community Day on 25 June
Cycle Action Network webinar presenter How to influence decision makers (together with Trevor Mallard and David Lee, Wellington City Councillor)
The Seven Stars of Matariki exhibition curated by Selwyn Vercoe at Studio One Toi Tu (photo right)
Auckland Speaks: Multi media performance event at Adult Education Inc
World Press Photo exhibition opening at Smith & Caughey on 1 July
Plastic Free July, Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away group at Farro Fresh
Pecha Kucha: Special edition Auckland on the move at the Hopetoun Alpha on 5 July
Auckland Conversations 6 July
Attendance at the 2 Walk and Cycle Conference 6 – 8 July at the Rendevous Hotel (funded from the Local Board’s professional development budget). I will be reporting back on the conference in my August report
Vision Zero workshop presenter at the 2 Walk and Cycle Conference (together with Caroline Perry, Brake NZ, Patrick Morgan, Cycle Action Network and Abby Granbery, MR Cagney)
Opening of the Quay Street Cycleway by the Minister Simon Bridges on 8 July
Grey Lynn Park Greenways opening on Saturday 9 July
Te Wananga o Aotearoa Kapa Haka Super 12s at the Cloud
30th anniversary of Homosexual Law Reform at the Auckland Town Hall

A street tree planting policy for Auckland

Notice of Motion: Auckland Transport Street Tree Planting Policy

A notice of motion is a useful tool available to elected representatives to get action on an issue when the organisation fails to respond by other means. As lead of the transport porfolio for the Waitemata Local Board I have a particular interest in what goes on in the road corridor managed by Auckland Transport. I want our streets to be safe, vibrant, well connected and beautifully designed for everyone to enjoy. I’ve come to appreciate how much trees benefit our urban environment and can enhance every transport-led project (not to mention act to reduce GHG emissions).

However what I have come up against time and time again is the lack of a standard practice or policy to ensure Auckland Transport plants street trees. Many oppportunities are being missed to add trees to the city streetscape. Individual project managers are doing their best but the budget arrangements between AT and Auckland Council parks are a block to trees being incorporated into street designs and renewal projects. I’ve set out these issues and examples below by way of background to my Notice of Motion.

At the Waitemata Local Board meeting last night (14 June 2016) my recommendations were unanimously passed (seconded by Member Dempsey). We all recognise the huge value of street trees and would like to help Auckland Transport progress a tree planting policy for Auckland.

Recommendation

a) That the Notice of Motion be received.

b) That the Waitematā Local Board:

i) notes the benefits of urban street trees and the Auckland Plan, City Centre Master Plan and Waitematā Local Board Plan 2014 commitment to plant street trees;

ii) requests Auckland Transport in association with Auckland Council Parks develop:

A street tree planting policy; and
A strategy to meet the City Centre Masterplan street tree target of a 25% increase by 2021;

iii) requests Auckland Transport allocate budget (capex and opex) for funding new street trees as part of streetscape projects and footpath renewals;

iii) requests that this Notice of Motion is circulated to all Local Boards, the Parks, Recreation and Sports Committee, Auckland Development Committee, Auckland Transport Board and Chief Executive and Auckland Council Policy and Bylaws team

Background

Auckland Council, with the support of the Waitematā Local Board, has made a clear commitment to plant street trees in the urban environment.

Directive 8.2 of the Auckland Plan is to protect, enhance and increase Auckland’s green infrastructure networks. Auckland Council is committed to increasing the number of trees on reserves and streets. Council has committed to valuing natural heritage and ‘greening’ Auckland’s expanding network of open public spaces which provides for a more attractive city, while reducing GHG emissions and improving community resilience to the effects of climate change and resource scarcity and by supporting local food production.

As outlined in the Waitematā Local Board Plan, the board supports “increasing the number of native plants and trees in our parks and streets to help restore biodiversity” (Local Board Plan 2014, page 32).

In the Becoming a Local Carbon Community Action Plan (August 2015) we have committed to an Action Area of Enhancing the Urban Forest and Biodiversity.

As part of the Urban Forest Mapping Project Report for Waitematā we committed $2500 to draw up a tree inventory and to collect data in order to analyse the urban forest layer in the local board area. This work will assist us in assessing the need and timing for the replacement of trees.

In February 2016 the City Centre Masterplan targets were reviewed and revised targets approved by the Auckland Development Committee. The Local Board supports Outcome 8: An exceptional natural environment and leading environmental performer and the revised target of increasing streets trees in the city centre by 25% by 2021.

Street trees provide a range of benefits in the urban environment including:[1]

Improve pedestrian safety by slowing traffic
Good for business by increasing foot traffic in town centres
Reduce crime
Improve the health and wellbeing of neighbourhoods by increasing the attractiveness and security of walking
Reduce the need for drainage infrastructure
Provide shade
Provide oxygen and sequester carbon

In the photo left Pohutukawa trees on Great North Road saved from road widening with the support of the Waitematā Local Board for future generations to enjoy.

Auckland Transport is responsible for planting trees in the road corridor on behalf of Auckland Council. The responsibility for the ongoing care and maintenance of streets sits with Auckland Council Parks.

Despite the clear benefits of street trees and the Auckland Council commitment to increase street trees, Auckland Transport doesn’t have a policy to ensure street trees are planted in the urban environment. Auckland Transport also doesn’t have a strategy to meet the City Centre Masterplan street tree target. The responsibility to consider the addition of street trees is left with individual project managers on a case-by-case basis.

Auckland Transport has confirmed that street trees will only be included in a project if a specific budget is identified for the planting and for the ongoing water/maintenance cost. If there is no budget for ongoing maintenance (for at least 1 year) Auckland Council Parks will not agree to take on the responsibility for new trees.

Auckland Council Parks have provided the following response:[2]

Parks advocate for the inclusion of new tree assets in the road corridor where private development impacts on public open space and where AT is delivering renewals and streetscape upgrades. However, Parks only plays an advisory role (ie we are asked to comment on designs) in the majority of instances. If council is to deliver positive outcomes at all opportunity Auckland Transport and the consenting arm of council need to incorporate conditions around additional tree planting and which for the following reasons may be difficult to do or will require additional funding:

New tree planting in the road corridor or within public open space is not a requirement of private development and there are no rules requiring resource consent applicants to plant anything unless they are seeking approval to remove existing vegetation or regulatory consider there are adverse visual effects from the development that need mitigating
Footpath renewal budgets do not come with additional budget to plant new trees.
Tree planter boxes, or in ground planters, can only be funded by new projects through CAPEX and Community Facilities only accept them from a maintenance perspective when there are funds put aside for their ongoing maintenance. The same would apply to private development projects in the road corridor / public open space.

Parks will of course continue to advocate, with the relevant stakeholders and partners, for the urban forest and support tree planting wherever it is practical (ie accounting for in ground services, footpath widths, AT design requirements etc), but local board involvement may help provide a more focused approach across the relevant departments / organisations either by escalation or a board workshop to which key officers / managers from Parks (Community Services and Facilities), AT and regulatory are invited.

Currently, the only two funding sources that have been identified to cover the additional consequential opex costs associated with a new street trees (or planters) are either that it is Auckland Transport provided or, if the project was initiated by the Local Board, Locally Driven Initiative (LDI) funded.

The Local Board should not have to fund maintenance costs for new street trees that are associated with non-Board projects. As an Auckland-wide commitment, new street trees should be funded as an asset from a governing body controlled budget.

The following examples illustrate the various situations in which Auckland Transport is failing to take up opportunities to plant street trees.

Graham Street footpath renewal

Footpath maintenance and footpath renewals

The footpaths on Graham Street were recently renewed on a like-for-like basis following completion of a new development. The Local Board was not informed in advance and no consideration was given to the inclusion of street trees.

Streetscape upgrades or footpath works associated with private developments

Works associated with the new Countdown development on Williamson Ave included street trees and the closing of Rose Road to create a pedestrian plaza. Unfortunately, only the street trees on the southern side of Williamson Ave alongside the supermarket were included in the resource consent conditions. With the agreement of Auckland Transport, Countdown contractor re-configured Rose Road with an expanded footpath but no steps were taken to include trees (photo right).

Since this issue was raised by the Local Board, Auckland Transport agreed in March 2016 to include three new tree pits. These tree pits will now have to be retrospectively installed into the footpath at Auckland Transport’s expense.

New streetscape upgrades

When Auckland Transport undertook the upgrade of the Scotland Street/College Hill intersection as a safety project, the Local Board requested that the project include a street tree or appropriate greening.

Auckland Transport supported a planter and had funds to pay for it but Auckland Council Parks did not support it because of the lack of funding for the ongoing maintenance.

Auckland Council Parks supported a street tree but Auckland Transport was not willing to include a tree pit in the design because of underground utilities.

Since the photo left was taken two car parks have been reinstated but the Board is still waiting for a resolution with regards to the inclusion of some kind of greening.

[1] Burden, D., Walkable Comunities, Inc., Glatting Jackson. (2006) Urban Street Trees: 22 Benefits, Specific Applications. https://www.michigan.gov/documents/dnr/22_benefits_208084_7.pdf

[2] Email from David Barker | Environment and Programmes, Parks, Community Services.

Related reading

Transport benefits of street trees

In Praise of City Trees – Patrick Reynolds

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

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.