2566 days ago

Hobsonville Point ferry

Amy Baker Reporter from North Harbour News

Albany ward councillor John Watson thinks ferries have been treated very much as the poor cousin in comparison to bus and train services.

Watson is urging people to submit on the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP), currently out for public consultation until Friday December 14.

The plan sets out changes to Auckland's public transport system.

Councillor Watson is particularly interested in what is planned for future ferry services.

"The North Shore and Albany Wards have more ferry services than any other part of Auckland. Ferries go to Devonport, Gulf Harbour, Birkenhead, Hobsonville, West Harbour, Stanley Bay and Bayswater.

Part of that is just down to the patronage numbers (over the last ten years, overall public transport patronage has grown from 55 million boardings (43.7m bus; 6.8m train; 4.4m ferry) to around 92m total (66m bus, 20m train, 6m ferry). Over the last three years, annual public transport boardings have increased by around 13 million, or 17%).

"The big numbers are in bus and train but I have absolutely no doubt that ferry numbers would increase even more sharply if there were more sailings put on.

"There's been a lot of interest this year in Gulf Harbour, Hobsonville, Westpark and Beachhaven in increasing the number of trips in the day and weekend services but progress here has not been as fast as it should be.

"While the priorities identified are encouraging I'm very wary of the disclaimer 'subject to funding availability' and the loose timeline," Watson said.

"I would urge people to request the sort of frequency in service they want and to ask for certainty of funding as should be the priority for a major seaside city like Auckland. There needs to be more urgency in delivery."

Visit at.govt.nz... to make a submission.

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Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️‍💥❔

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What has a head but no brain?

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

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26 days ago

Some Choice News!

Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff

Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.

Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.

Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?

Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!

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Boxing Day Alert! Grab a Mattress That Feels Out of This World

Beds4U - Henderson

Ever wondered what it’s like to sleep on a mattress designed by NASA? Tempur started in space, and now it’s here to give you next-level comfort right at home!

Imagine a mattress that cradles every curve, reduces pressure, blocks your partner’s tossing and turning, and lasts for years. Side sleeper, back sleeper, or somewhere in between - there’s a Tempur just for you.

Even better? Perfect timing! Our Boxing Day Sale is happening now! It’s the perfect chance to grab your dream mattress and upgrade your sleep before the year ends.

Find your nearest Beds4U store: beds4u.co.nz...
Browse all Boxing Day deals: beds4u.co.nz...

Want to learn more about Tempur mattresses before you buy? Check out our guide here: beds4u.co.nz...

Neighbours, your dream bed is waiting - don’t let another sleepless night pass!

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