Auckland Transport media release
1 September 2014
Survey makes a start on future public transport for Warkworth
Over 300 submissions were received in a survey on future public transport options for Warkworth, with clear support
shown for a proposed Warkworth to Silverdale and the City connection.
Both local and long-distance destinations were explored in the survey, and early results show that the overall highest
priority to submitters was access to Auckland city centre, with a close second of Warkworth town centre, followed by the
Hibiscus Coast.
“Warkworth is growing fast,” said one resident at a public information event, “and more people are going to be commuting
to Auckland. This kind of service will be really needed by people here going forward.”
“In a few years it’s likely we won’t be driving anymore,” said another couple who filled out the survey after speaking
with AT representatives, “so future public transport options are very relevant to us.”
All feedback received is now being analysed in detail, and a full consultation summary is expected to be available at
the end of the year.
“Getting an idea of what kind of journeys people would make on public transport if we could provide it, and how much
they would use it, was the purpose of this survey,” says Anthony Cross, Public Transport Network Manager. “We’re pleased
with the level of response, and also the degree of thought and detail that people have given us.
“The team will now draw some conclusions, and any new services we propose will be consulted on with the community before
being launched on a trial basis.
“Implementation is likely to be 2016, to give us time to carry out a competitive tendering process and make any
infrastructure changes such as new bus stops.”
The current Kowhai Connection service which runs between Warkworth and Matakana via Snells Beach is still being trialled
in order to understand its long term sustainability, and will be reviewed at the end of this year. Any changes to the
Kowhai Connection as a result of the survey could be made earlier, in 2015.
The engagement survey closed 18 August 2014. More information on the New Network for Warkworth is available at www.AT.govt.nz/NewNetwork.
ENDS