$3m for safer travel

The Far North has been granted nearly $3 million to improve cycling options and bus services in the district. Three projects to build bus stops and shelters at key locations, as well as markings and signs at other stops along the Far North Link and Mid North Link bus routes operated by NRC, will receive $1.6m. In Kerikeri, $955,000 will pay for cycle lanes and traffic calming measures to provide safe travel options for the almost-2000 students who go to school in Hone Heke Rd. Funding of $390,000 for a third project, “neighbourhood greenways”, allowing safe cycling in quiet Kerikeri streets, has yet to be confirmed. Te Kahika (Mayor) Moko Tepania was “stoked” to see Waka Kotahi funding alternative transport options and helping the district reduce its transport emissions. “Provincial communities often feel left out when it comes to the funding of projects like this, so this is an excellent outcome.” The funding comes out of a $350m Transport Choices package included in the Government’s Climate Emergency Response Fund.