Review of Regional Public Transport Plan 2018-28 - Hearing Committee Decisions Report - Waikato ...
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Review of Regional Public Transport Plan 2018-28
Hearing Committee Decisions Report
Adopted by Waikato Regional Council on 12 December 2018
Doc # 13114069Draft RPTP public consultation - List of submitters
-
Submitter ID Submitter name Submitter ID Submitter name
1 Hayden Woods 35 Joy (Chia-Yin) Ho
2 Harry Bradshaw 36 Max Coyle
3 Roger Drower 37 Tania Hamilton
4 Kahurangi Malcolm 38 Amber Casey
5 Jo Sanderson 39 Juliet Sunde
6 Eshan Verma 40 April Hulsdow
7 Jo Gurnell 41 Full Bloom Nursery Ltd
8 Erica Withers 42 Intercity Group
9 Lisa Foster 43 John Lawson
10 Elizabeth Eklof 44 Trevor Margolin
11 Steve Southall 45 Waitomo District Council
12 Peter Schmuck-Poschl 46 Sandra Pace
13 Angela Hsu 47 Rowena Cahill
14 Jenny Kelly 48 Justin Cahill
15 Adip Desai 49 Newstead Residence Association
16 Dipak Desai 50 Margaret Southgate
17 Richard Moyle 51 Lynne Adrienne
18 Esther Pilbrow 52 Matangi Community Committee
19 John Macron 53 Lauren Horsfall
20 Ian Bridge 54 Angela Dobby
21 Hermina van Orsouw 55 Whaingaroa Environmental Defence
22 Trevor Gardiner 56 Morrinsville Grey Power Association
23 Chris Brightwell 57 Don Frommherz
24 Kerry Clifton-Brown 58 Waikato Regional Airport Limited
25 Emma Turner 59 Taupō District Council
26 Ericka Jonker 60 South Waikato District Council
27 Simone Bartley 61 Hamilton City Council
28 Tracey Deane 62 Domnique Thurlow
29 Waikato District Council 63 Kathryn Billings
30 Dr Surya Pandey 64 Trish Budd
31 John Cunningham 65 Ian Budd
32 Tim Frank 66 Chris McKellar
33 Amelia Lategan 67 New Zealand Transport Agency
34 Waipa District Council 68 Waikato District Health Board
Doc # 13114069 Page 2Summary of submissions and Hearing Committee Recommendation
Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
1.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP the overall vision and strategic responses contained in the RPTP. The RPTP has
• Supports the proposed network concepts in part, noting that significant outlined a number of short to medium term initiatives that aimed to improve
encouragement and pressure to local authorities is needed to ensure the public transport connections between main urban centres and rural communities.
provision of local connecting bus services to the main regional routes
Waikato Regional Council will continue to work with local authorities and other
key stakeholders to ensure the local bus services are provided to meet the
community needs.
No change required to the RPTP document.
1.2 Specific comments or relief sought: 3.6 Objective 6: Affordability of Comments noted. The current national policy requires Council to achieve an
• The submitter notes that a fully funded (subsidised) bus network is the only PT services / Fares and equitable balance between user charges (e.g. fares) and subsidies when providing
sensible and logical option to encourage travel behaviour change. Taxi's and concessions for public transport services. This policy means that public transport in the
shuttle services are too expensive and cannot sustain the passenger numbers Waikato region cannot be fully subsidised.
required.
• The submitter seeks that all local bus services to be on a gold coin donation Objective 3.5 and the associated policies of the Waikato Regional Public Transport
basis, similar to the Tokoroa Urban connector service. Plan seeks to ‘Provide a fares and ticketing system that is easy to use and
affordable for passengers’, and the associated policies provide for various fare
concessions and fare products. While acknowledging these concessions do not
equate to a fully subsidised bus network, they seek to encourage travel behaviour
change, and to make public transport more accessible for users, within the current
Hayden Woods budgetary and national policy constraints.
(#1, Doc 12980748)
As part of the RPTP, Waikato Regional Council is investing in a public ride share
service, which in turn could become a more accessible and affordable public
transport solution for the community.
No change required to the RPTP document.
1.3 Specific comments or relief sought: 2.4 Regional network concept Comments noted. The RPTP outlines a phased implementation process to achieve
• Councils need to provide more local bus services to ensure that all have access greater levels of service (noting Table 2.1), with our proposed future regional
to the network of connecting services from regional townships to main city network included as Figures 1 and 2 of the Plan. Our aim is to connect the entire
centres. region with public transport, and to ensure the services are accessible and
• Particular consideration should also to be given to aging population and families affordable to everyone. Waikato Regional Council will also work with territorial
will less income to ensure public transport options are accessible and authorities to ensure appropriate local connecting services and infrastructure are
affordable. provided to help achieving this goal.
A key focus of the Plan is to consider the needs of transport disadvantaged (SR3
and P2), and this is also reflected in the overall network design approach, which
aims to create a layered network that meets a diverse range of travel needs. This
also includes the targeted services set out in section 3.1.4 which are designed to
assist the needs of the transport disadvantaged.
No change required to the RPTP document.
Doc # 13114069 Page 3Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
2.1 General comments Rail and bus safety Comments noted. Waikato Regional Council wishes to acknowledge the detail you
• More detailed “monitoring update” that shows actuals of road deaths have provided in your submission and appreciates your feedback into the process
• Seeks continuous safety improvements for trains, rail and bus services to develop the RPTP.
Your request for a more detailed monitoring update that details road deaths is out
of scope of the RPTP, however we wish to note that Waikato Regional Council
currently provides regular updates and reporting to the Waikato Regional
Transport Committee on regional road safety statistics and key improvement
activities. These reports are available on Waikato Regional Council’s website.
We also acknowledge your support for continuous safety improvement for rail and
bus services. Health and safety is an integral part of our regional bus service
contracts. Your comments and concerns relating to rail safety will be forwarded
to KiwiRail for their consideration.
No change required to the RPTP document.
2.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Bus safety; monitoring and Comments noted. Our public transport services are provided by transport
• Seeks Council to ensure safer speeds for public transport services (bus and rail) enforcement operators who are required to meet the relevant health and safety practices and
• Seeks Council to identify appropriate health and safety measures for safe access guidelines as part of their contracts. This includes the provision of appropriate
to a bus service driver training to ensure bus drivers are trained to observe and adhere to speed
• Notes that there needs to be more transparent around the reporting of safety limits
related incidents for public transport
Accept. Ensuring the safety of passengers on bus vehicles and at the bus waiting
Harry Bradshaw areas is paramount to the success of our public transport operations. As such it is
(#2, Doc # recommended that the following performance measures relating to safety and
13017830) access to bus services be included in table 4.2.
Amend table 4.2 to include the following key performance measures relating to
safety and access to bus services.
KPI Baseline (% of Target
respondents that are
satisfied or very
satisfied as recorded
by the 2017 PT
customer satisfaction
survey)
User Safety and ease 95 Maintain
experience of getting on and to 2017
of bus off the bus level
safety and Personal 94
accessibility Security during
the trip
Availability of 92
bus stops
The walking 92
routes to the bus
stops
Doc # 13114069 Page 4Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
Safety and 85
quality of bus
stops
2.3 • The submitter requests the following be considered as part of the 2018-28 RPTP: Accept in part. Thank you for your submission. In relation to your request of a
o Train stops at Ngaruawahia train stop at Ngaruawahia, this is currently not being considered as part of the
o Public Transport west of Ngaruawahia/Huntly recently approved Start-up Passenger Rail proposal between Hamilton and
o Day tripper tickets ($10 in Melbourne). Could do $20 Hamilton, $45 Auckland. However a wider piece of work is being undertaken jointly by central
inclusive Auckland, $15 next day whole day if delays) and local government to plan for the growth and housing along the corridor
o Plenty of bag and bike storage between Papakura and Cambridge. Transport has been identified as a significant
o Real Time Message boards factor contributing to the growth of towns and cities in this corridor and rail plays
o The Base wifi timetable notification, (on route of train) at connecting bus a key role in this. The outcomes of this work will help determine the transport
routes and correct Bus time arrival at nodal or intersecting bus stop infrastructure that towns such as Ngaruawahia need to realise their potential.
o Emergency contact with transport centre
With respect to your other comments and requests, the Council staff have
provided the following feedback:
• Extensions of the Northern Connector service to the west of Ngaruawahia
and Huntly is not included in the current programme. Additional peak
hour vehicles will need to be procured in order to maintain the existing
timetable on the Northern Connector bus route, which will come with
significant costs. This matter will be raised with Waikato District Council to
ascertain if there is any budget for the provision of additional bus vehicles
on the Northern Connector route.
• Waikato Regional Council is planning to roll out a new electronic ticketing
system and a new zonal fare structure by early next year. The new
ticketing system will allow Council to introduce new fare products such as
daily and weekly caps for smartcard users, which will be equivalent to a
daily or weekly travel pass.
• The Plan currently does not preclude the provision of luggage space on
buses, and the new contracted vehicles for Raglan bus service do provide
additional luggage space to cater for commuters and tourists. Council will
consider the need for increased luggage space on buses, on a case by case
basis, subject to user demand and funding availability.
• Waikato Regional Council has made provision to upgrade the existing
passenger real time information system over the next few years. A free
smartphone app (Transit app) is now available on all mobile devices to
enable passengers to receive real time bus arrival information.
• Council is committed to replace the existing on-street real time displays
within Hamilton. Five new trial sites at bus stops on Grey Street, Anzac
Parade, Lynden Court, Whatawhata Road and The Base, have been
established utilising emerging E-Stop on-street messaging technology. E-
Stops are solar powered, web integrated street displays that provide real-
time bus arrival information for waiting passengers and also provides the
ability to send customised messages, such as service disruption
information. Should the trial prove to be successful, Council will consider
rolling out this new E-Stop real time information system to other major
stops within Hamilton.
Doc # 13114069 Page 5Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
• Council wishes to advise that a freephone 0800 205 305 is available 24/7
for the public to enquire or report incidents relating to public transport in
the Waikato region.
No change required to the RPTP document.
3.1 General comments: Submission process Comments noted. Thank you for your comments on the online submission form.
• The submitter raises a number of concerns regarding the online submission WRC staff will be reviewing and improving our online submission system to ensure
process, particularly the online submission form was not user-friendly or it is simple, inclusive and easy to use. We will also be investigating other new
intuitive. It is suggested that there needs to be an option (or tool) for people technology to assist people with hearing or visual impairments to enquire or
with hearing impairments to enquire or provide input to the submission provide submissions to Council.
process.
No change required to the RPTP document.
3.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Accessible public transport Comments noted. Waikato Regional Council would like to advise that passengers
• The submitter expresses concerns about an incident where his disability assist system / bus driver training accompanied by disability assist dogs are entitled to access public transport
Roger & Naomi dog was not allowed to access a public transport vehicle, services under the current legislation. We will take this as an opportunity to
Drower • The submitter is seeking clarification on Council’s policy around the access of remind our bus operators of the important role that disability assist dogs play, and
(#3, Doc 13025554) disability dog on public transport services. will ensure appropriate driver awareness training is put in place to assist people
with special needs.
We will also be making further changes to our busit! website to clearly spell out
that certified disability assist dogs will be allowed to travel on all public transport
services when accompanied by their disabled handler or someone involved with
their training.
No change required to the RPTP document.
4.1 General comments Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP / Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and the proposed network concepts outlined in the submission process the overall vision and the proposed network concepts outlined in the RPTP. We
draft RPTP also appreciate your support for a more collaborative approach for the planning
• Supports a more collaborative approach for the planning and provision of inter- and provision of inter-regional public transport services.
regional public transport services.
• Notes that the online submission form is not user friendly and difficult to WRC staff will be reviewing and improving our online submission system to
navigate or provide feedback on specific topic. ensure it is simple and easy to use.
No change required to the RPTP document.
4.2 Specific comments or relief sought: General document readability Comments noted. Thank you for your comments relating to the language used in
• The submitter notes that the document is very vague and jargon filled, and the RPTP. Wherever possible staff try and use simple English language throughout
Kahurangi Malcolm would support the document to be further simplified, i.e. removing planning the RPTP however in some instances it is necessary to use the industry recognised
(#4, Doc 13021219) jargons and use simple language to improve ease of understanding. terminology to meet the needs of specific stakeholders. We note your points and
will always endeavour to keep the language of the plan succinct and concise in
clear simple language to make the plan easy to read for the user.
No change required to the RPTP document.
4.3 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train stop at Te Kauwhata for the proposed Auckland-Hamilton train development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
service to provide for the increasing population in the township and service to Te Kauwhata
• Notes that the proposed connector bus services may not achieve the desired The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
outcome as it will increase travel times to Auckland and Hamilton. service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
Doc # 13114069 Page 6Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
built on over time.
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
In relation to your comments regarding the proposed connector services as
illustrated in Figure 1 Future Regional Network Concept. The network concept
indicates the future desired service levels (i.e. minimum service frequency) and
connections that Waikato Regional Council wish to provide for the communities,
and it can be achieved by bus, passenger rail or a combination of both.
It is considered appropriate to introduce bus service in Te Kauwhata initially to
provide public transport connections to other major urban centres (Hamilton and
Pukekohe). This service then can be enhanced by passenger rail once the decision
is being made by central and local government regarding future station options.
No change required to the RPTP document.
5.1 Specific comments or relief sought: Appendix A – A4.3 Thames unit; Accept in part. Thank you for your submission and we appreciate the points that
• Requests the expansion of Thames Connector bus service to Totara. you have raised in respect to the Thames Connector bus service. The trial of the
Thames Connector service has been extended for a year, after a successful six-
month trial concluded in May 2018.
Waikato Regional Council is planning to review the Thames Connector service
after the 12-month trial is completed, and we will be working closely with Thames
Jo Sanderson (#5, Coromandel District Council and the local community to investigate potential
Doc 13019054) public transport options for other areas within the Coromandel Peninsula.
Recommend that this service request be included in the RPTP Action Register and
to be investigated with respective territorial authorities.
No change required to the RPTP document.
6.1 General comments Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and the proposed network concepts in part, noting the overall vision and the proposed network concepts outlined in the RPTP.
Eshan Verma (#6, that a passenger rail link to future growth areas such as Te Kauwhata should be
Doc 13020741) included. No change required to the RPTP document
Doc # 13114069 Page 7Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
6.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train stop at Te Kauwhata for the proposed Auckland-Hamilton train development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
service and service to Te Kauwhata
The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
built on over time.
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
No change required to the RPTP document.
7.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and the strategic responses. the overall vision and the strategic responses contained in the RPTP.
• Support the proposed network concept in part, noting that a rail link to Te
Kauwhata is missing from the proposed network concepts. No change required to the RPTP document
7.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train stop at Te Kauwhata for the proposed Auckland-Hamilton train development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
service and service to Te Kauwhata
The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
Jo Gurnell service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
(#7, Doc 13022180) built on over time.
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
No change required to the RPTP document.
Doc # 13114069 Page 8Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
8.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and proposed network concept. the overall vision and the proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP.
No change required to the RPTP document
8.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train service to stop regularly at Te Kauwhata, noting that this development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
service is vital to meet the employment, educational and social needs of the and service to Te Kauwhata
community. The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
Erica Withers (#8,
built on over time.
Doc 13020927)
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
No change required to the RPTP document.
9.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP the overall vision and the strategic responses contained in the RPTP. Council is
• Encourages Council to use social media and other online forums to engage with actively using digital and online channels as a way to engage with our customers,
younger/wider audience on public transport matters and this include social media and mobile apps.
No change required to the RPTP document.
9.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train service to stop regularly at Te Kauwhata development; establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
A new rail station and service to
Te Kauwhata The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
Lisa foster
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
(#9, Doc 13022775)
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
built on over time.
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
Doc # 13114069 Page 9Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
No change required to the RPTP document.
10.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP the overall vision and the strategic responses contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts and objectives
No change required to the RPTP document
10.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Requests a train stop at Te Kauwhata for the proposed Auckland-Hamilton train development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata
service and service to Te Kauwhata
The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
Elizabeth Eklof
built on over time.
(#10, Doc
13020744)
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
No change required to the RPTP document
11.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for:
• Supports the overall vision, strategic responses and proposed network concepts Policy 50 • The overall vision, strategic responses and network concepts contained in
in part, noting that the RPTP makes no specific reference to how cycling can the RPTP
integrate with public transport to promote active transport modes • Greater use of transit and bus lanes
• Supports the objectives set out in the draft RPTP • Greater use of smartphone apps to provide real time passenger
• Supports greater use of transit and bus lanes to ensure bus services aren’t information
excessively delayed by low occupancy vehicles
• Supports the use of smart phone apps to provide real time passenger We note a free smartphone app (Transit app) is now available on all mobile
Steve Southall
information devices to enable passengers to receive real time bus information. In the future,
(#11, Doc
Council is looking to share our bus timetable and GPS information as open source
13021045)
data with an aim to encourage innovations and the development of third party
apps and services.
No change required to the RPTP document
11.2 General comments: Table 3.2 – infrastructure Accept. Increasing the use and uptake of public transport will require supportive
• Cycling can substantially increase the catchment of a PT network. By providing description; Policy 45 infrastructure to enable integration with other transport modes (i.e. walking and
cycle parking at key PT stops/hubs and promoting the concept, it will make it cycling). It is recommend that Policy 45 be amended to include specific reference
easier to transition from a coverage based network to a mass transit network. around the need to provide for bike parking and storage facilities at key transport
Doc # 13114069 Page 10Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
hubs/interchanges. This is consistent with RPTP Policy 6 that Council will
encourage walking and cycling assess to core public transport corridors and hubs.
Amend Policy 45 to include the following bullet points under ‘Mass Transit’ and
‘Frequent’ service layers.
“P45 Support provision of infrastructure necessary to deliver a layered network of
public transport services and future mass transit oriented network as follows:
Mass Transit
• Dedicated right-of-way or priority measures, including transit lanes and
signal pre-emption, to avoid congestion.
• High quality stops and shelters supporting limited stop services and high
quality transport hubs at major activity and employment centres.
• Supporting cycling infrastructure and facilities, such as bike
storage/parking at key transport hubs to enable integration of modes.
• High quality access to walking and cycling networks.
Frequent:
• Extensive priority measures, including transit lanes and signal pre-
emption, to ensure travel time reliability.
• High quality stops and shelters and high quality transport hubs at major
activity and employment centres.
• Supporting cycling infrastructure and facilities, such as bike
storage/parking at key transport hubs to enable integration of modes.
• High quality access to walking and cycling networks.”
11.3 Specific comments or relief sought: Bikes on buses; Accept in part. Bike racks are currently available on a number of regional services,
• Council to ensure there are more buses fitted with bike racks. This will including Cambridge, Northern Connector (Hamilton to Huntly),
significantly increase the potential destinations available to cyclists, and also Morrisville/Paeroa, Raglan and Taupo Connector.
ties in well the increasing cycle trail network developing in Waikato.
Waikato Regional Council will ensure the provision of cycle racks on regional
services, and services between Hamilton and neighbouring towns. Whilst bike
racks are not provided on services that operate within Hamilton, however council
will investigate alternative ways to accommodate cycling in association with use of
public transport (e.g. bike parking and storage facilities at key transport hubs or
stops).
Amend 3.7.4 Vehicle Quality Standards to add a new policy as follows:
New Policy XX: Waikato Regional Council will ensure the provision of cycle racks on
buses servicing regional services, and on services between Hamilton and
neighbouring towns. Bike racks will not be provided on services that operate within
Hamilton, however Council will investigate alternative ways to accommodate
cycling in association with use of public transport in the city.
Doc # 13114069 Page 11Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
12.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP. Regional network the overall vision, strategic responses and network concepts contained in the
• Supports the proposed network concepts and the underpinning objectives. improvements for Thames and RPTP.
• Notes that people living in Thames or other towns on the Coromandel have other towns on Coromandel
limited access to public transport Peninsula Accept in part. Last year, Waikato Regional Council and Thames Coromandel
District Council introduced a public bus service (Thames Connector) within
Thames township. After a successful six-month trial ended in May 2018, this
service has been extended for another year.
Peter Schmuck-
Poschl
Waikato Regional Council is planning to review the Thames Connector service
(#12, Doc
after the 12-month trial is completed, and we will be working closely with Thames
13022778)
Coromandel District Council and the local community to investigate potential
public transport options for other areas within the Coromandel Peninsula.
Recommend that this service request be included in the RPTP Action Register and
to be investigated with respective territorial authorities.
No change required to the RPTP document
13.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP. the overall vision, strategic responses and network concepts contained in the
• Supports the proposed network concepts. RPTP.
• Supports an integrated fare system and online top-up of smart card
• Notes free WiFi on buses is necessary in swaying public perception that time Comments noted. Free WiFi services are currently provided on the Raglan,
spent on public transport can be more productive, compared to driving. Northern Connector, Morrinsville/Paeroa, Te Awamutu and Cambridge bus
services. The provision of WiFi on buses in Hamilton is also being implemented as
part of the new bus contracts this year. The provision of WiFi on other parts of
the network is currently being investigated by Council.
No change required to the RPTP document
13.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.1 – standard service Comments noted. The standard service levels set out in table 3.1 for each service
• The submitter notes that the hours of operation for mass transit and frequent levels layer is intended to be a guide. Factors such as demand, community demographics
Angela Hsu services on weekends will only be provided up to 9pm, which may not be and funding availability may require variation to these standard service levels
(#13, Doc sufficient. from time to time. This is also reflected in the footnotes under table 3.1, where
13021067) Council may adjust or extend minimum service frequency or hours of operation to
meet specific community needs.
Council may also consider the provision of targeted services, such as demand
responsive/public ride-share services, to cater for users who need to access public
transport during late evenings or weekends.
No change required to the RPTP document
13.3 Specific comments or relief sought: Policy 45; Bike facilities at key Accepted. It is recommend that Policy 45 be amended to include specific
• Bike storage at key stops are required, particularly at stops where service stops; Bikes on buses reference around the need to provide for cycling facilities, such as parking and
frequencies are lower or where stops are less populated. storage, at key transport hubs/interchanges. This is consistent with RPTP Policy 6
• Council should consider the provision of bike racks on buses, and luggage space that Council will encourage walking and cycling assess to core public transport
for regional services. corridors and hubs.
Doc # 13114069 Page 12Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
Amend Policy 45 to include the following bullet points under ‘Mass Transit’ and
‘Frequent’ service layers.
“P45 Support provision of infrastructure necessary to deliver a layered network of
public transport services and future mass transit oriented network as follows:
Mass Transit
• Dedicated right-of-way or priority measures, including transit lanes and
signal pre-emption, to avoid congestion.
• High quality stops and shelters supporting limited stop services and high
quality transport hubs at major activity and employment centres.
• Supporting cycling infrastructure and facilities, such as bike
storage/parking at key transport hubs to enable integration of modes.
• High quality access to walking and cycling networks.
Frequent:
• Extensive priority measures, including transit lanes and signal pre-
emption, to ensure travel time reliability.
• High quality stops and shelters and high quality transport hubs at major
activity and employment centres.
• Supporting cycling infrastructure and facilities, such as bike
storage/parking at key transport hubs to enable integration of modes.
• High quality access to walking and cycling networks.”
Comment noted. The Plan currently does not preclude the provision of luggage
space on buses, and the new contracted vehicles for Raglan bus service do provide
additional luggage spaces to cater for commuters and tourists. Council will
consider the provision of increased luggage space on buses on a case by case
basis, subject to community consultation and funding availability.
Accept. Bike racks are currently available on a number of regional services,
including Cambridge, Northern Connector (Hamilton to Huntly),
Morrisville/Paeroa, Raglan and Taupo Connector.
Waikato Regional Council will ensure the provision of cycle racks on regional
services, and services between Hamilton and neighbouring towns. Whilst bike
racks are not provided on services that operate within Hamilton, however council
will investigate alternative ways to accommodate cycling in association with use of
public transport (e.g. bike parking and storage facilities at key transport hubs or
stops).
Amend 3.7.4 Vehicle Quality Standards to add a new policy as follows:
New Policy XX: Waikato Regional Council will ensure the provision of cycle racks on
buses servicing regional services, and on services between Hamilton and
neighbouring towns. Bike racks will not be provided on services that operate within
Hamilton, however Council will investigate alternative ways to accommodate
cycling in association with use of public transport in the city.
Doc # 13114069 Page 13Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
13.4 Specific comments or relief sought: 3.4.1 Marketing and promotion; Comments noted. A free smartphone app (Transit app) is now available for
• Reliable and accurate real time passenger information is essential. Mobile apps 3.4.3 Communication passengers travelling on the Waikato network to receive real time bus arrival
need to be easy to use and customizable, and allow the ability for passengers to information. Council will investigate the opportunity to improve the Transit app,
give feedback on travel experience or request additional routes including the ability to receive feedback and interact with customers via the app.
• Provision of routes overlaid onto actual road maps would be high quality public
info, rather than only providing maps of service routes Accept. Council is developing a new stylised network map and the bus routes will
be overlaid on top of the actual roading layout for ease of reference.
No change required to the RPTP document
14.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your support for the overall vision and strategic
• Supports in part the overall vision and strategic responses, noting specific general readability responses.
comments regarding Te Kauwhata.
• Notes the document is very vague and jargon filled, and would support the Comments noted. We note your comments relating to the language used in the
document to be further simplified, i.e. removing planning jargons and use RPTP. Wherever possible staff try and use simple English language throughout the
simple language to improve ease of understanding RPTP however in some instances it is necessary to use the industry recognised
• Notes more consultation with communities, as well as current public transport terminology to meet the needs of specific stakeholders. We note your points and
users in order to get real statistics. Surveys in person and by phone are likely to will always endeavour to keep the language as succinct and concise in clear simple
provide the best results. language to make the plan easy to read for the user.
Comments noted. Council undertake a public transport user satisfaction survey
every year. We also run targeted consultation with the community and key
stakeholders as part of our ongoing network reviews to improve our service
performance.
Jenny Kelly No change required to the RPTP document
(#14, Doc 14.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
13021355) • A fast rail service between Hamilton and Auckland that stops in Te Kauwhata development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
• Consideration should also be given to a future rail connection to the Auckland and service to Te Kauwhata;
Airport (via Puhinui), which could have significant benefits for trade and future passenger rail The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
tourism in Waikato connections to Auckland Airport service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
built on over time.
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
Doc # 13114069 Page 14Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
We also note that table 3.4 of the RPTP outlines Council’s long term aspiration for
passenger rail, which includes the expansion of passenger rail services to Auckland
CBD, Auckland Airport and other areas within the Waikato region. To achieve this,
it will require significant investment from central and local government. Waikato
Regional Council will continue to work with relevant partners and to advocate for
central government to ensure appropriate funding is allocated to support the
achievement of this vision.
No change required to the RPTP document.
15.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports in part the overall vision and strategic responses the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports in part the proposed network concepts.
No change required to the RPTP document.
Adip Desai 15.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Minor changes to bus routes in Accept. We appreciate your interest for the public transport services in Hamilton.
(#15, Doc • Would like see more bus services provided near my property (Ashwick Terrace, Hamilton We recently introduced a Rototuna circular route linking Flagstaff, Borman Road,
13022906) Huntington) Rototuna Shopping Centre, and Chartwell. This new daily bus route has a number
stops along Borman Road and Barrington Drive which are close to your property.
No change required to the RPTP document.
16.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined the draft RPTP. the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts in part.
No change required to the RPTP document
16.2 Specific comments or relief sought:: Service level improvements in Comments noted. Council is committed to grow public transport in Hamilton, and
• Would like to see new growth areas in Hamilton being well serviced by public Hamilton will continue to extend our network to the new growth areas. Policy 18 also allows
transport. Council to introduce demand response services in new and emerging growth
Dipak Desai areas, where the traditional bus service may not be suitable/viable.
(#16, Doc
13023008) No change required to the RPTP document
16.3 Specific comments or relief sought: Policy 62 (SuperGold card Accept in part. Your submission request for the SuperGold Card Concession to be
• The submitter seeks that free travel for 60+ and SuperGold Card concessions be concession) extended for trips outside of the 9.00am to 3.00pm timeline is acknowledged. This
extended to include peak hour travels. request has been identified by the RPTP Hearings Committee as a key RPTP
implementation action, and will be investigated by Waikato Regional Council in
conjunction with its strategic partners.
No change required to the RPTP document
17.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined the draft RPTP. the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
Richard Moyle • Supports the proposed network concepts.
(#17, Doc No change required to the RPTP document
13024021)
17.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Regional network Accept in part. Thank you for your submission and we appreciate the points that
Richard Moyle cont. • The submitter raises an issue regarding the daily bus service along the Thames improvements - Thames you have raised in respect to the public transport network improvement in the
(#17, Doc 13024021) Coast is limited to one bus each way in the morning, leaving insufficient time Thames and Coromandel areas.
for residents to travel to Thames for shopping or other purposes. The
Doc # 13114069 Page 15Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
reintroduction of an afternoon bus service from Thames to Coromandel, Waikato Regional Council is intending to review the Thames Connector service
perhaps subsidised by Council in off-peak months, would remove the problem after the 12-month trial is completed, and we will be working closely with Thames
and also result in less private traffic on the Thames Coast road. Coromandel District Council (TCDC) and local community to investigate potential
public transport options for other areas within the Coromandel Peninsula.
Recommend that this service request be included in the RPTP Action Register for
further discussion with TCDC.
18.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined the draft RPTP. the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts.
No change required to the RPTP document
18.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• Supports a regular bus service being provided for Te Kauwhata, however it is development; a rail service to establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
noted that a regular passenger rail service connecting to Auckland and Te Kauwhata;
Hamilton is also of importance to improve community wellbeing The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
Esther Pilbrow
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
(#18, Doc
built on over time.
13024413)
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan.
No change required to the RPTP document.
19.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined the draft RPTP. the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts in part.
No change required to the RPTP document
19.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• The submitter requests the establishment of a new train station at Te development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
John Marcon Kauwhata, and a commuter service that connects with Auckland and Hamilton. and service to Te Kauwhata
(#19, Doc The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
13024454) service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
built on over time.
Doc # 13114069 Page 16Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
station), and this funding will be considered as part of Council’s next Long Term
Plan
No change required to the RPTP document.
20.1 General comments: Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and strategic responses outlined in the draft RPTP. the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts.
No change required to the RPTP document
Ian Bridge 20.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Policy 62 (SuperGold card Your submission request for the SuperGold Card Concession to be extended for trips
(#20, Doc • That Gold Card service hours be extended to provide for trips outside of the concession) outside of the 9.00am to 3.00pm timeline is acknowledged. Waikato Regional
13030911) 9.00am to 3.00pm timeline. Hamilton City is registered internationally as an Council staff are currently investigating the potential implications of extending the
‘Age-Friendly’ City, and use of the Gold Card would simplify many trips, for Super Gold card hours within the Waikato. It is expected that findings will be
example to hospital appointments, and would reduce reliance on private reported back to Waikato Regional Council for consideration in 2019.
vehicles.
No change required to the RPTP document
21.1 General comments Chapter 2 of the draft RPTP; Comments noted. Thank you for your submission, and we note your support for
• Supports the overall vision and Strategic Responses Objective 3 the overall vision and proposed network concepts contained in the RPTP
• Supports the proposed network concepts
• Supports Objective 3 and the related policies noting that a service to Hamilton Accept. Waikato Regional Council is currently undertaking a network review of
Airport is needed in order to make travelling into our region by air more public transport services in Waipa District. As part of this review, Council is
appealing working with Waipa District Council and Hamilton Airport to investigate
opportunity for realigning the Te Awamutu service to connect with the Airport
and Hamilton.
No change required to the RPTP document
21.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Regional network Accept. Matamata-Piako District Council has made additional allowance in its
• The submitter raises a number of points regarding the provision of regional improvements Te Aroha and 2018-28 Long Term Plan for future public transport improvement in the District
services, highlighting the lack of choice available to residents (i.e. those living in Morrinsville and on services into Hamilton. Further work is currently underway to investigate
Hermina van Orsouw Morrinsville, Te Aroha and Paeroa). The submitter seeks that services to the viability of establishing improved public transport connections between Te
(#21 Doc 13035630) regional towns be provided now, and that an interim measure should be put in Aroha, Morrinsville and Hamilton. Services between Matamata and Hamilton are
place immediately also jointly under consideration with WRC and Matamata-Piako District Council.
The results of the investigation are due to be presented to Matamata-Piako
District Council, and a decision will be made in early 2019.
No change required to the RPTP document
21.3 Specific comments or relief sought: 3.5.3 Ticketing system and fare Accept. Waikato Regional Council will be rolling out a new electronic ticketing
• Requests that public transport be made more affordable than the equivalent products system and a new zonal fare structure in early 2019. The new ticketing system will
private vehicle trip, with provision for weekly or monthly fares for all to make allow Council to introduce new fare products such as daily and weekly caps for
public transport appealing to those who need to travel each day smartcard users, which will be equivalent to a daily or weekly travel pass.
No change required to the RPTP document
Doc # 13114069 Page 17Summary of submission
Submission Reference to RPTP section or key Hearing Committee recommendation
Submitter number # Submission points theme
21.4 Specific comments or relief sought: 3.1.4.2 Public ride-share; Living Comments noted. At face value it could appear that running smaller buses during
• Requests the introduction of smaller buses to reduce operating costs and wages for bus drivers off-peak hours can lead to cost saving. However, in reality the costs would be
provide for more flexible timetabling. With lower operating costs, more services higher as many of our services require large vehicles at peak times to cater for the
can be run and drivers can be paid a living wage. demand. This would effectively require two bus fleets (a smaller one and a larger
one) to be procured, maintained and operated. It would also mean that at any
one time, one fleet would be completely unused (or parked). It should be also
noted that the running costs of a larger bus are not significantly higher than that
of a smaller bus.
Council is currently investigating the viability of running public rideshare service in
areas or periods of low passenger demand. The public rideshare service will be on
demand and flexible routing services that operate with small/medium size
vehicles to facilitate ride sharing between pick-up and drop-off locations according
to passenger needs.
No change required to the RPTP document
22.1 General comments All Comments noted. Acknowledging your request for ‘time’ to be added as a
Trevor Gardiner (#22 • Supports Objective 2, noting that where a train track runs through a town (e.g. consideration in addition to money and affordability with regard to Objectives 5
Doc 13036892) Te Kauwhata) that a train service should be provided over bus. and 6, while we support that time is an important factor, it is not proposed to
• Supports Objective 3, noting that where infrastructure is already in place it amend either objective to incorporate this specifically. The RPTP sets a strategic
should be capitalised on. direction to move to a mass transit network over time, part of the aim of mass
• Supports Objectives 5 and 6, requesting that ‘time’ be added in addition to transit being to improve travel times for users, as well as increased frequency of
considerations of money/affordability. service to reduce waiting times. So while the value of time (through reduced
journey times) is not specifically mentioned in Objectives 5 and 6, the value of
reduced journey times is explicit in the Plan in terms of outcomes sought from the
future network.
No change required to the RPTP document
22.2 Specific comments or relief sought: Table 3.2 Passenger rail phased Comments noted. We appreciate the points that you have raised regarding the
• The submitter raises a number of points regarding the approach to regional development; a new rail station establishment of a train station and passenger rail connections for Te Kauwhata.
services and Te Kauwhata. Currently a rail line runs through Te Kauwhata and service to Te Kauwhata
adjacent to the centre of the township. This infrastructure should be capitalised The central government has recently confirmed its support for a passenger rail
on, and given a rail service is proposed to run from Hamilton to Auckland, the service connecting Auckland and Hamilton, and it is recognised that it will take
train should stop in Te Kauwhata. This will also help achieve objectives of the time to develop a new service and that a staged approach to delivery is
Plan by reducing the need for commuters to head to Huntly or Pukekohe to recommended. To support this it was determined that an initial passenger rail
access the train service. service would be a start-up service between Hamilton and Auckland which can be
• The submitter has talked to many locals and the impression is that the use of built on over time.
connector buses may not achieve the desired outcome as it will increase travel
times to Auckland and Hamilton, when compared to a direct train service. At this stage investment in infrastructure to establish a train station at Te
Kauwhata is not included in the start-up phase, however it will be a key
consideration for future investment to enhance the service.
It is expected that any upgrade of the existing station will require funding support
from the relevant local authorities (e.g. Waikato District Council for Te Kauwhata
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