Government announces $685 million cycling and walking bridge for Auckland's Waitematā Harbour
Kia ora koutou. A new bridge costing $685 million is to be built for walkers and cyclists crossing Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.
It is hoped construction can begin mid-2022, in a plan unveiled just five days after cycling lobbyists broke through a police barrier and rode over the existing Harbour Bridge, demanding action.
Transport Minister Michael Wood said once begun, the new structure is expected to take five years to complete, and work will continue on interim use of existing harbour bridge lanes for cycling and walking.
“A stand-alone structure is the safest option that will not only provide a walking and cycling option for commuters but creates an outstanding piece of tourism infrastructure,” said Wood.
What do you all think of the announcement? Let us know in the comments and click 'read more' for Todd Niall's full report.
Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!
The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.
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89.1% Yes, it's fair
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10.3% No, it's unreasonable
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0.7% Other - I'll share below
Smoke in Mt Wellington
Smoke has been seen coming from the crater of the Auckland maunga Mt Wellington.
Images of the smoke began appearing on social media on Friday afternoon.
Around 1.45pm, Fire and Emergency (Fenz) shift manager Josh Pennefather told the NZ Herald a crew was fighting a fire of about 60 square metres in size.
”It’s spreading up hill … [but] there’s no property at risk at this stage,” Pennefather said.
Six fire trucks were in attendance working to contain a grass fire that's spreading up the maunga.
A helicopter was on its way to assist firefighting efforts, he added.
At 2pm, Pennefather shared that the fire was contained and they were working to extinguish it, including “keeping an eye on a whole bunch of hot spots“.
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