- By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter funded by New Zealand on Air
Bike Auckland has called on Auckland Transport (AT) to continue investing in cycling infrastructure across the region, despite vocal opposition and public skepticism.
At the AT board meeting on December 18, Bike Auckland chair Karen Hormann urged the board to push forward with cycling infrastructure projects despite public opposition.
Hormann acknowledged the challenges associated with implementing change but emphasised the importance of long-term progress.
“Change is hard. The consultation process doesn’t always articulate the future in a way everyone can understand,” said Hormann.
“The behaviour change required to support projects doesn’t always happen immediately.
“Lack of connectivity can limit the uptake, but we can’t use these things as reasons not to move forward.
“You have more support than some headlines make you think – when people see tangible results, when the vision finally becomes reality, doubts dissipate,” Hormann said.
“Managing public opinion can indeed feel like an uphill battle.
“There will always be rhetoric, media spin, and self-appointed experts casting doubt.”
AT board chair Richard Leggat said that as someone who cycles regularly, he was pleased to see the number of cyclists growing in the city.
