TAKE TWO: Regional Rapid Rail, Inter-Regional Planning, and a National Planning Agency. Transforming and Unlocking Places (in the 2020s & 2030s)

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A revolutionary vision for intercity rail in New Zealand promises to reshape the landscape and unlock unforeseen potential in the upper North Island. The Regional Rapid Rail proposal, with its strategic goals and outlined benefits, aims to connect major centers, catalyze regional development, and bolster environmental sustainability. By leveraging existing infrastructure and prioritizing integrated land use, the plan seeks to stimulate economic growth while enhancing the liveability of towns and cities. This visionary approach transcends mere transportation, offering a transformative solution for urban connectivity and unlocking untapped opportunities.

TAKE TWO: The National Planning Agency and the NZIA. What Are They? Gearing Up the 2020s and 2030s!

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This post, originally dating back to 2017, outlines the need for a revamp in New Zealand’s planning and infrastructure agencies. The proposal involves the establishment of a National Planning Agency and a National Infrastructure Agency, aiming to streamline inter-regional planning and development. The current lack of coordination and inefficiency within existing institutions is highlighted. The suggested reform encompasses a restructured Ministry for Planning, Infrastructure and the Environment, comprising of three key agencies. These changes are intended to enhance collaboration and coordination for more effective and holistic planning and development across the country.

Urban Renewal Works. My Plan to (re)Build Strong Towns!

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An urgent call to action for Aotearoa: Make a bold move to revive our struggling towns and Metropolitan Centres. Lifting ourselves out of the recession demands real economic intervention. It’s time to kick-start a Public Works Program to spur job creation and consumer spending. Forget the ineffective slash and burn tactics—we need a solid plan for urban renewal and infrastructure investment. Let’s embrace this opportunity to transform our urban landscape, attract businesses, and propel Aotearoa into the modern era. It’s an investment in our future, not just an expense.

How would I write Transport Policy for the 2026 Elections

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This scathing critique of the National Transport Policy calls for a new regime with smarter solutions. The author proposes reversing the fuel tax hike, restoring funding to local road maintenance, and implementing congestion charging. They advocate for a shift towards universal RUCs, increased rural road safety measures, and the development of low traffic neighborhoods. The post also outlines strategic public transport projects and warns of industry displacement due to infrastructure upgrades.

Enter Singapore (or Hong Kong): Airport to Botany Rapid Transit Finally? Yes Please

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Provocative Summary:
“Enough with the delays and dithering! Let’s bring in the masters to get our transit projects off the ground and out of the public books. With Japan’s expertise in rail and potential assistance from Singapore or Hong Kong, we can finally achieve a reliable inter-city rail and a much-needed Airport to Botany Rapid Transit Stage 2. By keeping costs off the public books and creating vital transit-oriented developments, it’s time to stop dithering and ask for the help we clearly need.”

Enter Japan: Inter-City Trains Between Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga? Yes Please.

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In a bold proposal, the idea of implementing Japan Rail-style intercity services in New Zealand’s Golden Triangle gains significant traction with wide-ranging support, marking a striking shift from its initial lukewarm reception. The plan entails hourly passenger train services, reaching speeds of 160km/h, with a focus on existing narrow-gauge rail infrastructure. Moreover, a comprehensive cost breakdown reveals that the implementation cost is comparable to that of a single major highway project, prompting a provocative question: why not harness the expertise of Japan, renowned for its transit systems, to pioneer this transformative venture?