Category: infrastructure

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

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!

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.

Revitalizing National Transport Policy | 2026 Election Proposal and Examples

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

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?

South Auckland to get New Bus Routes with Existing Routes to be Reinforced. Industrial Complexes not forgotten about – for once by Auckland Transport. BUT MORE BUS LANES NEEDED!

Network to be expanded under Climate Change Targeted Rate In all the fuss about Mayor Phil Goff’s Annual Plan 2022-2023 Proposal including the (not needed Targeted Rate as it should … Continue reading South Auckland to get New Bus Routes with Existing Routes to be Reinforced. Industrial Complexes not forgotten about – for once by Auckland Transport. BUT MORE BUS LANES NEEDED!

Albany Bus Interchange Gets the Human Experience Once Over – Lessons to Be Learned for existing Infrastructure

Puhinui demonstrates with new infrastructure, Albany with existing infrastructure…. Last Friday I joined my colleague Rob Mayo again in doing another Human Experience “once-over” at one of Auckland’s transit interchanges. … Continue reading Albany Bus Interchange Gets the Human Experience Once Over – Lessons to Be Learned for existing Infrastructure