Motorways proposal shunned as public transport user figures revealed
August 19, 2013
New figures reveal public transport is a high priority for Aucklanders leading New Zealand’s Green Party to shun the National Government’s plan to spend billions on Auckland motorways.
New Zealand’s Ministry of Transport figures show an increase in public transport use as petrol prices continue to rise, and a substantial decline in congestion.
An Auckland Council Transport Committee report says congestion across the city’s transport network has been decreasing since 2009, and the biggest decline in traffic congestion has been in the morning peak.
The figures confirm public transport boardings per person in Auckland have increased 27 per cent since 2006 and Aucklanders are also driving 5 per cent less per person.
Green Party transport spokesperson Julie Anne Genter, pictured, says the National Government’s billion dollar motorways should not be the priority.
Genter is critical of New Zealand’s national government saying there needs an explanation why, in her view, billions of taxpayer dollars on low-value motorways are being wasted when congestion is easing because of investment in public transport.
“New Zealanders deserve to know that we’re getting the best value out of our transport tax dollars.
“We can build a congestion-free, low-carbon transport network by prioritising projects like the City Rail Link, extending rail to the North Shore, and improving bus networks,” says Genter.
“Aucklanders want good alternatives to driving, especially as petrol prices rise.
“Experience shows us that when the alternatives are there Aucklanders will use them, and that means a more cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and less congested transport system for all New Zealanders.”