536 days ago

Are we there yet? A city stuck in traffic

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Christchurch is New Zealand’s fastest-growing main centre but has the lowest spend on public transport, an incomplete cycling network, and the worst peak-time traffic congestion.

For the second year running, data from global navigation company Tomtom shows it takes longer to travel 10km in Christchurch during rush hour than New Zealand’s other main centres, and it is getting worse.

Tomtom’s data also shows that during rush hour, Christchurch can have 50 traffic jams across the city, with over 30km of clogged roads.

Driving that 10km takes an average of 19 minutes and 10 seconds, up from 18 mins 30 secs last year. Last week’s slowest day was Wednesday at 5pm, with 24 mins.

While Aucklanders’ longer journeys and extra motorways mean slightly more time overall in rush hour traffic, they cover 10km quicker at an average of 16mins and 30secs. Wellingtonians takes 18mins 20secs.

How's your commute? Read the full story by reporter Liz McDonald here and share your thoughts in the comments below. (A subscription is required, or you can see two free articles a month).

Image
More messages from your neighbours
7 days ago

Poll: Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Pedestrian access from one of Christchurch’s favourite streets is being extended all the way to the Ōtakaro Avon River. This new 12m-wide pathway will give you a direct, easy route from the street to the river promenade ... perfect for a stroll, a coffee run, or just soaking up the riverside vibes.

We want to know: In your view, what makes a city people-friendly?
What else should our urban areas be doing to support better community connections?

Curious about the full plans? You can check them out here.

Image
Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?
  • 90.4% Yes
    90.4% Complete
  • 9.6% No
    9.6% Complete
94 votes
11 hours ago

Poll: How do you feel about outdoor murals?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🌟 Something big and colourful has arrived on Manchester Street!
A brand-new five-storey mural has just gone up — the first of many outdoor artworks set to appear around Christchurch in the lead-up to February’s climate art festival.

We want to know: How do you feel about outdoor art?

Interested in the new works that will decorate the Garden City? The Press has you covered.

Image
How do you feel about outdoor murals?
  • 85.7% All for it! They make our spaces interesting
    85.7% Complete
  • 14.3% Nah - not for me
    14.3% Complete
21 votes
4 days ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

Image
Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 73.4% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    73.4% Complete
  • 15.8% Hmm, maybe?
    15.8% Complete
  • 10.8% Yes!
    10.8% Complete
741 votes