“You and I come by road or rail, but economists travel on infrastructure.” –
Margaret Thatcher
Dear John,
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.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Onewa Road Improvements – Have Your Say!
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
[link removed] the consultation
closes on Sunday 6 April.
Youth MP for Northcote Announcement - Congratulations to Lily Foster!
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.
Ocean Race Returns to Auckland
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.
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UPCOMING EVENTS - GET INVOLVED!
Seniors Morning Tea – Friday 2 May 10am
📍 Birkenhead Bowling Club, 93 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead
Join us at our Seniors Morning Tea with Dana Kirkpatrick, MP for East Coast -
RSVP to
[email protected] [email protected].
Crime Public Meeting - Monday 9 June 6pm
📍 Northcote Rugby Club, Recreation Drive, Birkenhead
Join us at our Public Meeting with Police Minister Mark Mitchell - RSVP to
[email protected] [email protected].
Highbury House Easter Market – Saturday 12 April 9am – 12pm
📍 110 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead
Stalls, Food, Music, Magician, Facepainting.
Eco Fest – 22 March – 22 April 2025
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 - [link removed] [link removed]
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DAN IN THE COMMUNITY
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
MP for Northcote
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New Zealand
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