Aucklanders invited to share their views on first Light Rail line
1 July 2021
Aucklanders can find out more and share their views on the new Auckland Light Rail project, with a range of engagement events taking place in communities in July and August.
The project covers the first light rail line between the City Centre and Māngere, connecting major employment hubs in the city and the airport at each end. This is needed so people can move more freely as the city grows.
Auckland Light Rail Group Board Chair Leigh Auton says hearing from communities is key to understanding the needs of different neighbourhoods along the way.
“Whether it’s residents in Mt Roskill and Māngere or business owners in Onehunga and the central city, our engagement events will give people a chance to take part and learn more about what the project means for them.”
Mr Auton says the project is no longer just a transport solution, but a foundation for new homes, shops, community facilities and public spaces. It will open up new planned housing areas in Mt Roskill, Onehunga and Māngere.
Transport Minister Michael Wood says it is important for conversations to start now as the project will be shaping the city for the next 50 years and beyond.
“We’re really encouraging Aucklanders to see what this could look like and transform the way we work, travel, study and play in our local areas. Light rail is an essential part of Auckland’s future and we’re keen to get them involved.”
The Auckland Light Rail Group, previously named the Establishment Unit, is made up of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, Auckland Transport, Auckland Council, the Ministry of Transport and Kāinga Ora. The team reports to a board with representatives of key agencies, Local Boards and Mana Whenua.
The project team is tasked with developing a business case and making recommendations. This will help to enable the Government to make a decision later this year about the route, mode and delivery entity for the project.
At this stage several modes are being looked at – including modern trams on city streets and light metro. Light metro runs on tracks which are separated from other vehicles. Both can be above or below the ground or a combination of these along the route. The broad route runs from the city centre to Auckland Airport.
Work already completed by the project team shows light rail will come every five minutes and will bring at least 220,000 people closer to their jobs, study and pastimes. The line is the backbone of the network and will eventually connect with other light rail lines to the North and North West.
The first engagement event will be held on Saturday 17 July at the Mangere Market. People can come along on the day or share their views online, with feedback open until Tuesday 31 August.
For more information about community events and locations, visit www.lightrail.co.nz or call the freephone number 0800 567 867.
