Climate-friendly transport projects

What we're doing

We’re working towards a low-emission transport system with more ways for people to move around the city.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is covering about 90% of the cost for a suite of walking, biking and public transport upgrades that will help us reduce transport emissions and make it easier for people to move around the city.

Why we need to change gears

Until now, Hamilton Kirikiriroa has been geared towards one form of transport—cars—but this no longer works for the health of our community or our environment.

Transport in Hamilton currently makes up about 64% of the city’s total emissions. Under Council’s climate change strategy, Our Climate Future: Te Pae Tawhiti o Kirikiriroa, Hamilton aims to reduce its overall emissions by at least 30% by 2030.

Hamilton’s biking network is like an unfinished jigsaw puzzle. Unsafe sections put people off riding. The more pieces we complete, the easier it will be for more people to jump on their bikes, which is a win for everyone.

Public transport needs to be a viable option for more people. Safer crossings, wider footpaths and upgraded bus stops will help make the bus service more accessible. Where in-lane bus stops are used, it will be easier for people to physically get on and off their bus. In-lane bus stops also help keep buses on time because they don’t get stuck waiting to merge back into traffic.

Climate Emergency Response Fund

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is funding approximately 90% for the suite of projects. Their contribution is $33.2 million and Council will contribute an additional $3.8 million to bring the total package of projects to $37 million.

The Waka Kotahi funding comes from their Transport Choices programme which is part of the Government’s Climate Emergency Response Fund. Transport Choices supports councils to begin immediate work to develop safer, greener and healthier travel options.

How the projects fit into our transport strategy

The projects have been chosen because they address some unsafe and difficult areas along key routes, opening our streets for more people.

Walking, biking and public transport upgrades are a key part of the council’s strategy to make the city more accessible. Our transport strategy, Access Hamilton—Ara Kootuitui Kirikiriroa, has a strong focus on improving safety and connectivity between suburbs as well as reducing emissions and pollution.