Category: Local Government

Source: Auckland Council

Fanshawe Street, once notorious as Auckland’s most congested road, has undergone a major transformation through the use of smart technology.

Auckland Transport (AT) introduced a 24-hour bus lane and smart traffic lights at the Halsey Street intersection in the city centre, along with pedestrian detection technology that helps traffic flow by cancelling crossing requests if pedestrians are not present.

These improvements allow the bus lane to carry up to 5,000 people per hour, compared to just 2,000 in adjacent general traffic lanes.

Waitematā Local Board chair Genevieve Sage says, “Fanshawe Street is a key route in the heart of our city. These advancements ensure Aucklanders can commute more efficiently, reduce reliance on vehicles, and experience a smoother journey as they navigate the city centre. We’re prioritsing solutions that make a difference now while preparing for the future.”

AT’s smart traffic lights also makes sure that lights are green where it is most needed, allowing vehicles and buses to pass through the intersection more efficiently.

“With smart adjustments, we’ve turned Fanshawe Street into a prime example of how Auckland can move more people using existing infrastructure. Now, the volume of bus passengers surpasses the cars on all lanes on Nelson Street,” said AT’s Road Network Optimisation Manager Chris Martin.

This is part of a wider programme of new technology and improvements Auckland Transport, and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are implementing to help our existing roads keep up with the tens of thousands of extra vehicles being added to the roads each year.

Source: Auckland Council

In West Auckland, Te Atatū Road has seen a 20% increase in morning traffic volumes this past year. To address this, Auckland Transport (AT) introduced T2 lanes earlier this year, designed to expedite journeys for buses and carpoolers. This change has reduced bus travel times by nearly 48%, making a notable difference for commuters on all modes of transport.

Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair Chris Carter commends AT’s proactive approach, saying, “it is fantastic to see that the Te Atatū T2 lane and improved bus services are well exceeding expected targets and are helping Westies to get around more efficiently.”

Henderson Massey Local Board transport leads Brooke Loader and Dan Collins also support these changes, noting that

“Te Atatū Road is crucial for residents in West Auckland and these innovative changes are seeing 5 million fewer car trips on our roads annually. This is the sort of progress we need to be making to meet our climate goals and to unlock West Auckland’s potential.”

Chris Martin from AT highlights the positive impact of this initiative despite initial opposition, “We’re glad the results now speak for themselves, and all modes of transport have benefitted from this initiative. AT recently improved the West and Northwest bus services, so having T2 lanes on this route really capitalises on that to get this part of the city moving faster.”

This is part of a wider programme of new technology and improvements Auckland Transport, and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are implementing to help our existing roads keep up with the tens of thousands of extra vehicles being added to the roads each year.

Source: Auckland Council

Waiheke is known for its world-class beaches, vineyards and adventure tourism but, long a haven of some of Aotearoa’s most talented artists and artisans, this little piece of paradise has plenty of budget-friendly options for visitors looking to explore the art and culture of this unique spot. 

Waiheke Community Art gallery

This gorgeous space displays the work of leading contemporary artists from across Aotearoa while showcasing the unique vision of Waiheke artists and artisans. The gallery shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted artworks, making it an ideal spot to pick up a unique treasure or keepsake for you or a friend.

Waiheke Musical Museum

History and music come alive at Aotearoa’s only interactive musical museum. This place is truly special and could only exist on Waiheke. Take a tour with dedicated volunteers as they play rare antique instruments, immersing you in the history of this one-of-a-kind collection.

Artworks Theatre

The centre of performing arts on the island, Artworks covers everything from local improv troupes, community classes and short play festivals to hosting international musical artists and festivals. There’s always something cool happening in this spot. Make sure to check out their Creative Sundays series this February.

Pride Picnic 2021. Courtesy Peter Rees Photography.

Waiheke Museum and Heritage Village

This volunteer-run museum tells the story of Waiheke’s colonial past through a unique collection of items donated over decades. The past truly comes to life when visiting one of the three relocated historical homes near the museum space, completely kitted out to transport you back to the Aotearoa of old. Buckets of charm for the whole family with plenty to keep historians happy as well.

Antiques in the Waiheke Museum and Heritage Village.

Catherine Mitchell Arts Centre

The home of community arts on Waiheke Island since 1952, this much-loved centre offers mentored pottery classes, spinning and weaving groups, life drawing and much more in a warm, friendly space. A treat for boffins and beginners alike to create art, craft, friendship and community. 

Stay up to date

Want to stay up to date with all the latest news from your area? Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest direct to your inbox each month.

Sign up for Waiheke Local Board E-news.

Source: Auckland Council

Communities are the heart and soul of Tāmaki Makaurau and Auckland Council is proud to do its bit in supporting community initiatives. That’s why Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities grants opened on 25 November 2024, with a pool of $295,000 available to support community-led projects that help build inclusive and vibrant communities.

Councillor Julie Fairey, Deputy Chair of Auckland Council’s Community Committee says she encourages organisations who want to make a real difference to their community, to apply for this grant.

“We want to support a future where communities can work together and take action on the things they care about.

“These grants are for regionally significant groups, services, events and activities that will benefit residents across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

“The grants focus on increasing the ability for Aucklanders to participate fully in our city, by increasing whanau and community financial security, improving health outcomes, and growing community and intercultural connection. We want all to be able to thrive and have a sense of belonging.

“The fund will invest in activities that honour the council’s obligation to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we really encourage applications for community led-projects that will benefit Māori.”

Grants of up to $30,000 are available for projects that help support thriving communities, with applications open until Friday 31 January 2025.

In April 2024 the last funding round was awarded to 13 organisations. These included a transformative music therapy programme, a community connection programme for older Aucklanders with dementia or disability, and an agency that aims to increase inclusive volunteering opportunities.

Find out more

The full eligibility criteria and funding priorities are explained in Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities Grants Guidelines, available on the Auckland Council website.

Key dates

Applications are open from 25 November 2024 until 31 January 2025.

Funding decisions will be announced in May 2025.

Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities Strategy 2023-2024 document is available on the Auckland Council website.

Source: Auckland Council

The road to Twin Wharf, at the tip of Herald Island in Whenuapai, is now open after six months reconstruction following slips during last year’s storms. 

The seaward side of the original road caved in and the existing timber wall rolled over, leaving a narrow one-lane accessway down to the popular community wharf.

Auckland Transport (AT) engaged with the tight-knit Herald Island community early to discuss the proposed design and construction methodology for the repair. This meant the final design and complex two-phase construction was well supported.

“We essentially built a new road, shifting it three metres from its original position towards the bank and the reserve, which enabled us to repair the fault on the seaward side,” said Ian Bielawa, AT Project Engineer.

“We’ve improved the road drainage capacity with additional stormwater piping and kerb and channel. A soil nail treatment was undertaken on the seaward side which slipped, and a timber retaining wall was constructed on the other side to provide additional width and prevent any future slippage. The footpath and pedestrian fencing was reinstated and we’ll soon replace the stairwell from Pakihi Reserve, which was removed to allow for the new road positioning.”

The works resulted in considerable disruption and increased heavy traffic to and from the worksite, however this was mitigated by AT and Herald Island community groups actively communicating with the wider community and minimising visits to the wharves during the works.

Upper Harbour Local Board Chair Anna Atkinson said Auckland Transport worked collaboratively with the community and the local board, both before and during construction.  

“The plans were quite complex and there were options on the table and many parts to consider … not just the road but walking access, parking, rubbish, and replanting. 

“The local board were pleased to support and attend meetings held between Auckland Transport and members of the Herald Island Community, where the best solution was agreed upon by all.”

The community also contributed to the native planting above the timber retaining wall, by arranging supply of plants from the local nursery and Auckland Prison. The planting was undertaken as part of Fulton Hogan’s Community Outreach Programme.

“We’re very, very happy,” said Jan Diprose, Chair of the Herald Island Environmental Group.

“Herald Islanders love the wharf, they love the view of the harbour, and it’s got lots of historical significance. We’ve always wanted something to be done on this coastal bank and fate meant that happened because of the slip.”

To learn about the project, including before images, see the below video.

[embedded content]

Source: Auckland Council

Waitematā locals have a chance to help shape how Auckland Council manages nearby coastlines from the risks of coastal hazards and climate change.

The community can have their say by giving feedback on what they value about their coastline, how they use these coastal areas, what they think should be done to preserve them, and how they have noticed them changing.

“We have some of Auckland’s most important waterfront locations covered in this plan, such as the Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter,” says Waitematā Local Board chair Genevieve Sage.

“I encourage you to look at the draft strategies and take this opportunity to tell us what you think about the future of these coastal areas which are loved and used by so many.”

Shoreline Adaptation Plans (SAPs) are documents that cover the ways that Auckland Council manages its coastal land and assets including reserves, coastal defence structures and public facilities over the next 100 years.

The areas covered by the strategy for Central Auckland span from Westhaven in the west, to Mechanics Bay in the east.

There are 20 SAPs across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland being developed in partnership with mana whenua and guidance from infrastructure providers, technical experts and coastal communities. 

The Draft Adaptation Strategy Report for Auckland Central [6.98 MB] consultation is open now until 18 December 2024.

How to have your say 

Shoreline Adaptation Plans 

Freepost number 232621 

Private Bag 92300 

Victoria Street West 

Auckland 1142

Tuesday 26 November 
 
Presentation and Q&A session: Wynyard Quarter 

6:30 – 8pm, The Flagship, 55 Madden Street

For more information on Shoreline Adaptation Plans, check out the council’s website.  

Stay up to date

Sign up for the Waitematā Local Board E-news and get local news direct to your inbox each month.

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Emergency Management, council staff and emergency responders will be battening down the hatches this week and jumping into action but it’s all in the name of training and testing response systems.

This is one of the regular training exercises AEM conducts every year to ensure staff are up to speed with what’s required during a real emergency response affecting parts,  or all, of Tāmaki Makaurau.

Exercise Ngā Āwhā runs across two days – Monday afternoon and then for the full day Tuesday, 25 and 26 November.

Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management emphasises that the exercise is for training purposes only and does not require action from Aucklanders.

“I’d like to reassure the public that this week’s exercise is just that – a training exercise.

“If you hear chatter about an emergency response from others or on social media, rest assured that it is a training exercise only.

“As always, if a real emergency event occurs which requires us to activate an emergency response, Aucklanders will be notified through our alerting channels.”

Mr Maggs goes on to outline the importance of the training exercise.

“It’s vitally important that the council continually works to improve how we respond to emergency situations and regular training is a key part of this.

“The training scenario revolves around a severe weather event – a situation similar to what Tāmaki Makaurau experienced in early 2023, and could experience in the future.

“It will test procedures developed since the Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle and facilitate continuous improvements to readiness and response planning for a major cyclone and flooding event within the region.

“I’d like to thank everyone who’s participating in this training, including council staff and partner agencies.”

Earlier this year the Auditor-General’s report: Improving Aucklanders’ emergency preparedness, was tabled in Parliament. It found Auckland Council has made large steps towards enhancing emergency preparedness and response capabilities, since the extreme weather events of early .

“We can never be too prepared for an emergency event and this week’s training exercise is another important step in continuing to enhance the council’s ability to respond to an emergency event in the region,” Mr Maggs says.

Please visit aucklandemergenymanagement.govt.nz for information about getting ready for an emergency in the Auckland region.

Source: Auckland Council

The ‘Let’s Protect Our Environment’ consultation is open now until 8 December 2024 and Auckland Council is inviting Aucklanders to have their say.

As part of the consultation, we are seeking your feedback on what the right balance is for biodiversity protection and recreation at Lake Tomarata. This includes the possibility of expanding how we manage existing, introduced and invasive species to more of the region’s lakes.

Cr Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee encourages those who know Lake Tomarata the best to have their say.

“It’s really important that we hear from the local community – the ones that access Lake Tomarata and know it best. This will help ensure we have wide ranging views and feedback from community to assist our decision-making.”

Protecting our freshwater lakes

Our lakes, streams and wetlands face many challenges, such as habitat loss, pollution from excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, sediment build up, and changes in water levels and flow patterns. On top of these, invaders like koi carp and hornwort weed are also a big problem in our waterways.

“Like invasive marine species, introduced freshwater species are often very difficult to control once they arrive, so preventing further spread is very important. Whether we are going for a swim, kayaking a lake, or shooting ducks, we all have a part to play in preventing the spread of freshwater species that can contaminate our gear and the next location we visit,” says Dr Imogen Bassett, Auckland Council Head of Natural Environment Specialist Services.

What do we currently do?

Auckland Council collaborates with other agencies nationally to promote awareness of ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ – the three key actions everyone can take when out and about in freshwater. We have rules preventing the further spread of existing introduced freshwater species.

We also control existing introduced species at two of the region’s highest ecological value lakes, Tomarata and Rototoa, to protect and restore native species such as kākahi freshwater mussels.

A new threat

A new freshwater invader is now knocking on our door. Freshwater gold clam was discovered in the Waikato River in 2023. These clams can spread quickly, with each clam able to have up to 70,000 juveniles each year.

Their microscopic young are tough invaders which can easily attach to and travel on wetsuits, kayaks and other gear unless the gear is completely dried out and treated. Because wake boats cannot be completely dried, they are an especially high-risk item when moving from gold clam infested areas.

We know from overseas examples that gold clam is a significant threat to our native ecosystems, and that they can clog up infrastructure such as hydrodams, irrigation systems and outboard motors.

If they invade Lake Tomarata, they may make swimming less appealing, with periodic mass die-offs of clams affecting water quality. Because they arrived so recently, we do not currently have any rules relating to freshwater gold clam.

What we want to know from you

We are seeking your input on whether we should ban motorised boats from Tomarata, to manage this high-risk pathway to a priority lake that we are already managing for other pressures. As well as protecting the lake from freshwater gold clam, there would be wider benefits to Tomarata from removing motorised boats.

“Vessels moving at speed on the lake are causing the shoreline to break up, churning up lakebed sediments, disturbing bird nesting and contaminating the lake water with fuel. Motorised craft also pose safety challenges, limiting the use of the lake for passive recreation such as swimming and kayaking,” says Dr Bassett.

“However, we know that motorised boating at Lake Tomarata is also a valued recreational experience for the local community and beyond.”

We are also seeking your feedback on whether we should also control freshwater pests at more of the region’s 72 natural lakes.

Have your say

Get involved and let us know how we can work together and protect Auckland’s environment – the ‘Let’s Protect Our Environment’ consultation is open from now to 8 December 2024.

To have your say, you can:

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council invites mobile food vendors to consider a unique opportunity this summer to deliver high-quality food services at Muriwai Regional Park.

The council is now seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from mobile food providers who can enhance visitor experiences at one of Auckland’s most popular outdoor locations, celebrated for its breathtaking coastline, iconic gannet colony, and diverse recreation activities.

Regional Park Manager Scott De Silva says the council is looking for vendors who can offer a premium range of food and beverage options to cater for diverse tastes and dietary requirements, while maintaining environmentally-friendly practices.

“Opportunities like this don’t come around often. A select number of food vendors will have the chance to delight thousands of visitors, especially during peak periods, weekends, and holidays at Muriwai Regional Park,” says Mr De Silva.

“Whether you’re a food entrepreneur, culinary innovator, mobile vendor, street food enthusiast, or an ice cream and coffee provider, this summer presents a fantastic opportunity to showcase your offerings at Muriwai Regional Park. Come and help us to create a vibrant summer atmosphere and delight park visitors with your culinary creations.”

Up to five vendors will be able to trade throughout the busiest holiday period from 16 December 2024 to 28 February, with the option for a review to consider potential future opportunities.

Key information

• Applications must be submitted by 4pm on Wednesday, 4 December 2024

• An information pack and application form are available by email to: visitorexperienceparksservices@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

• Include the subject line: EOI Summer Mobile Traders 2024/25 trial – Muriwai Regional Park

Source: Auckland Council

Next year promises to be a pivotal one for environmental restoration around Okoromai Bay and O Mahurangi (Penlink), where ambitious ecological projects led by Auckland Council will transform these landscapes into thriving habitats.

The work begins in February with the restoration of the Waterfall Gully stream terminus at Okoromai Bay in Shakespear Regional Park; an undertaking to reconnect the wetland with the bay and bring a long-lost ecological link back to life.

Chair of the Parks Committee Ken Turner says this restoration work is just one part of a larger effort to offset ecological losses caused by infrastructure developments.

“Any development has an impact on the natural environment and the scale of this impact means we need to strike a balance by revegetating or protecting land elsewhere and these two projects aim to do that,” Mr Turner says.

Currently, the Waterfall Gully stream is culverted under the amenity lawn area, its flow constrained along the path of a World War II anti-tank ditch. Flood events still expose its hidden route in the grass depressions, hinting at the stream’s original course.

The upcoming restoration project, commencing on 10 February, will ‘daylight’ the waterway, restoring it to its former natural path and reinstating more normal tidal flow. This will improve the ecological health of the area, creating a more vibrant wetland habitat.

Fulton Hogan Land Development, in partnership with specialist consultants Woods and RMA Ecology, will spearhead the stream’s restoration, working onsite with Hicks Construction.

In addition to the stream restoration, the project will feature the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the revitalised stream, improving accessibility for visitors while protecting the restored habitat.

Extensive landscape planting will line the stream’s edges, helping to stabilise and naturalise the area. This process, scheduled to be completed by mid-May, will also involve some minor alterations to the amenity lawn area, including reconfigured car parking and minor adjustments to dog access. Some exotic trees will be removed, though the beloved pōhutukawa will remain, alongside new plantings.

The second project running simultaneously with Okoromai Bay, is the O Mahurangi offset, which involves a massive revegetation effort in winter 2025, covering approximately 38 hectares.

Auckland Council’s Manager Regional Parks Scott De Silva says large areas of pasture will be retired to make way for new forest and wetland habitats, creating vital connections for wildlife across the open sanctuary.

“The reduction in pastureland will result in a decrease in grazing sheep, with the flock size dropping from 416 ewes to around 300.

“The reduction in pasture will allow for habitat gains, with native birds like the bellbird, tūī, kererū, and kiwi benefitting from the new forest corridors, while wetlands will support species like native fish and the endangered banded rail,” De Silva adds.

Both projects reflect a broader vision for ecological offsets, where the loss of native habitat due to development is mitigated by creating or enhancing habitats elsewhere. These initiatives promise not only to restore natural systems but also to create a sustainable and biodiverse future for Okoromai Bay and Shakespear Open Sanctuary.