A simple, cheap way to tackle tricky intersection
In a cost-of-living crisis, has Waka Kotahi (not) considered simply installing a few well-placed speedbumps at strategic points along the final leg of Pine Hill Rd approaching the Great King St intersection.
As a frequent driver myself, and like the next person no big fan of such road additions, most folk would readily admit they do achieve their one all-important purpose: slowing approaching traffic to a virtual standstill whilst being encountered/interacted with; and thus reminding such drivers (in no uncertain terms) of their need to slow down as they enter our fair city.
If this plan was adopted, not only would there surely be an immense saving upon proposed costs, as well as arguably a not inconsiderable lessening of inconvenience to all road users impacted while the work is undertaken, a significant nature corridor would be preserved intact alongside adjoining longstanding and well-established historic bridges and stonework (including alongside Willowbank and the Leith Stream with its wonderful murals).
In addition there would be no adverse impact upon the stunning approach in to Dunedin.
And that’s not all: there would simultaneously be no loss of safety (relative to NZTA’s own proposal); indeed, in all likelihood, acknowledging how very effective such speedhumps/bumps have already proven, the all-important safety of pedestrians, cyclists and other road users would not be compromised: it would, if anything, be greatly enhanced. A win-win situation all round for one and all.
[Abridged — length. Editor.]
Taking the train
Dr D. Connors (ODT 1.12.25) raises interesting points re the up and coming Christchurch-Dunedin-Invercargill Mainlander rail service.
Having travelled on the 1970s British MkII rolling stock, both in UK and New Zealand, I found they are good for long distance, with a comfortable riding quality in both cases. Kudos to Mainland Rail for taking on this venture.
His sentiments re fares being kind to all passengers, including those going from A to B, I agree.
Passenger rail operation is however costly, but generally subsidised by governments in most countries, to offer an affordable, convenient and comfortable way to travel for both locals and visitors alike.
This was certainly once the case with New Zealand government railways of old.
Today, it is apt to be considered as I type this (December 1) to consider on this day, 55 years ago, the inaugural Southerner service made its debut. Armchair like, reclining first class seats, a full length buffet that truly was a restaurant on wheels, filling meals cooked on board and eaten at the long buffet car’s long counter.
It’s hard to believe in today’s climate that we ever had such a prestigious train, with the fare being little more than the NZR Road Services coach running the same route.
Long since has any subsidy been shot into the arm of our remaining long-distance trains to make them affordable.
Alas, the current government, which ramped up the tourist arrival levy to $100 per arrival, has little or no interest in rail transport. We do seem to have little to show for this fee that is extorted from each arriving person.
Yet, you can cross the Ditch and travel over 960km between Melbourne and Sydney on the state government-subsidised XPT rail service for just $A99 ($NZ113), as I did recently.
Rail services aren’t there to make a profit, but to link communities together, as well as cater to visiting travellers.
[Abridged — length. Editor.]
User pays for cyclists to ease load on taxpayers
I read in today’s ODT (29.11.25) of the success of the ongoing development of bike trails in Central Otago, and expected increase in cyclists that is envisaged.
We had a presentation to our car club from staff personnel, detailing development, maintenance, costs etc. They stated that since completion of the Clyde trail approx 15.000 cyclists have completed this trail. Great news, but at no charge? I suggested surely a bar code or similar system to charge at least $5 per bike would be practical; 15,000 x $5 = $75.000.
There is virtually no company with outdoor pursuits in Otago that has a free entry. At the cost of a coffee I believe this charge would not be an issue, and would also cover maintenance costs and future developed trails, notwithstanding the increase in local spending, already stated in ODT article.
I would have thought the government, being billons in debt, would surely ensure this venture is capitalised on rather than the costs passed on to the tax payers?
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