“You and I come by road or rail, but economists travel on infrastructure.” – Margaret Thatcher

Transport is a top issue for Auckland. Congestion continues to impact our community, affecting productivity and our quality of life. The Coalition Government is committed to practical initiatives that will reduce congestion, improve productivity and prioritise safety.

 

Unlike the previous government, which took an overly cautious approach, eliminating all risks at the expense of productivity and making common sense decisions, we are focusing on practical solutions that work. That’s why we are revising speed zones around schools, increasing speed limits on key parts of the state highway network and investing in vital infrastructure projects.

 

The most important infrastructure project for our community is the second harbour crossing. This will be a crucial step to ensure Auckland’s transport system can meet the demands of a growing population, economy and improve the quality of our life.

 

The Auckland Harbour Bridge celebrates its 66th anniversary this year. While it has served us well, as aging infrastructure, it is increasingly struggling to meet the demands of 184,000 vehicles daily, including 12,000 freight vehicles and 35,000 bus passengers.

 

Without a second harbour crossing, we face the risk of more lane closures and major traffic disruptions on the bridge, which will have a profound impact on our economy and quality of life.

Dredging of the Waitematā Harbour is set to begin this year to assess the feasibility of a tunnel option, with a preferred crossing solution expected to be announced next year.

 

At our recent Investment Summit, we saw a strong interest in foreign investment to fully fund the second harbour crossing. This is an exciting development that reflects global confidence in this project and its potential to transform Auckland.

 

The Second Harbour Crossing will ultimately be delivered over successive governments. For this reason, it is encouraging to see cross-party support for this essential initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to solving Auckland’s transport challenges.

 

As Deputy Chair of the Transport & Infrastructure Select Committee, I am working closely with my Parliamentary colleagues on the funding, financing, and delivery of key transport infrastructure projects across New Zealand.

 

The second harbour crossing will be the biggest infrastructure project in New Zealand’s history.  We are committed to advancing this project to ensure its delivery where previous governments have failed to deliver.

 

As your MP, I’ve been advocating for improvements to Onewa Road since 2018, aiming to reduce congestion and make travel smoother for everyone. Back in 2019, I led a petition with 4,000 signatures, urging Auckland Transport (AT) to trial new solutions.

 

Thanks to the support of our community and the Kaipātiki Local Board, AT is now moving forward with one of the proposed changes: a permanent clearway on Onewa Road.

 

I encourage everyone to make a submission before the consultation closes on Sunday 6 April.

I am excited to announce that Lily Foster has been selected as the Youth MP for Northcote.

 

Lily is a Year 13 student at Birkenhead College and serves as Deputy Head Girl. She is passionate about public service and is deeply committed to representing our community.

 

Youth Parliament provides an incredible opportunity for young people to learn about the political process and have a say in the issues that matter most to them. I have no doubt that Lily will be an outstanding representative for our community, and I look forward to seeing her make a positive impact during her time in Youth Parliament.

It’s great to see the announcement that the Ocean Race will return to Auckland in 2027, bringing a boost to our local economy and showcasing our city to the world.

 

With an investment of up to $4 million from the Government’s Major Events Fund, the two-week stopover will attract over 2,500 international visitors and generate around $20 million for Auckland.

 

This exciting event will celebrate our rich sailing heritage and a prime opportunity to showcase our community on the global stage.

 

📍 Birkenhead Bowling Club, 93 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead

Join us at our Seniors Morning Tea with Dana Kirkpatrick, MP for East Coast - RSVP to dan.bidoismp@parliament.govt.nz.

 

📍 Northcote Rugby Club, Recreation Drive, Birkenhead

Join us at our Public Meeting with Police Minister Mark Mitchell - RSVP to dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz.

📍 110 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead

Stalls, Food, Music, Magician, Facepainting.

 

A month-long celebration of sustainable living and community connection in Auckland. Discover workshops, events, and activities for all ages, packed with practical ideas to reduce your impact on the environment - the full programme of events can be found - https://ecofest.org.nz

Beach Haven Fun Run

Youth MP Presentations to Local Schools

Kaipataki Project

North Shore Holi Festival

 
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I look forward to seeing you out in our community soon.
 
Regards, Dan

 Dan Bidois