Update 21 December 2023
On Wednesday 20 December 2023 Council were advised by the Minister of Transport that no further Central Government Transport Choices funding is available, meaning the Dargaville Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project will not be able to be constructed as planned next year.
While this is obviously disappointing for the members of the community who showed their support and engagement with the project through the consultation process, Council may need to consider options for the future of the project.
Jason Marris
Chief Executive
We are making it easier and safer for people to cycle and walk between Dargaville’s residential area and town centre with the Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project.
The Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project is funded by the Transport Choices package, which is part of the Waka Kotahi Climate Emergency Response Fund (CERF) programme.
We are focusing on the areas including, Charlotte Street south to Victoria Street, Hokianga Road east to Awakino Road, and Awakino Road east to Onslow Street.
Engagement with the community
From 05 July-04 August, we asked the Dargaville community to provide feedback on two proposed design options. Feedback was gathered through community surveys, drop-in sessions and from engagement with schools, local community groups, and businesses.
We engaged directly with schools, hapū, local community groups, businesses and residents living within the proposed design footprint. Engagement included an interactive workshop with Dargaville Primary School, and school specific surveys of Dargaville High School, Dargaville Intermediate School, St Josephs and Selwyn Park Primary School students.
Two drop-in sessions were held in the Kaipara Community Centre on 25 and 27 of July so the wider community could ask questions and provide their feedback in person to the project team.
Feedback received
We received a total of 320 submissions. Of those received 68% (219) were in general support of the improvements project and 31% (98) opposed both options (1% provided no comments on either option). Of those submissions in support, 46% supported option one, 45% supported option two, 7% supported a hybrid option, 1% supported both options and 1% supported both options with some changes. Download the consultation summary, including feedback received.
Based on this feedback, we developed a final proposed design that meet the requirements of the Transport Choices Programme and are based on technical assessments.
The feedback and new proposed option was shared with Elected Members at the September Council Briefing. You can watch the presentation from 3:11:02.
Proposed design options
- View the interactive map showing option one and option two proposed designs.
- Download the printable version of option one proposed design.
- Download a printable version of option two proposed design.
If you have any questions or feedback about this project, please email haveyoursay@kaipara.govt.nz and include “Kaipara Cycle Network Connections” in the subject line.
Next steps
Kaipara District Council elected members decided to progress the Kaipara Cycle Network Connections project on Wednesday 27 September. Detailed design and project safety audits have been submitted to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, so they can confirm the eligibility of the project and approve release of the funding.
Latest news
- One step closer to improved connectivity - 29 September 2023
- Feedback on proposed connectivity improvements for Dargaville - 20 September 2023
- Have your say on better connectivity for Dargaville - 19 July 2023
- Waka Kotahi funds to support walking and cycling in Dargaville - 05 December 2022
About the Transport Choices Programme
The Transport Choices Programme aims to provide people with more transport options and create healthier, safer environment for communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. The Government is investing $348 million into the programme, which is part of the Climate Emergency Response Fund programme.
The funding will help Councils progress make small, quick and visible changes to our streets and the way people use them by helping them embrace cycling or walking as a means of transport. This transport system is sustainable for the next generation.
