Clean Green New Zealand? Transit-Oriented Development as an Urban Development Strategy in Aotearoa?

Abstract

The past fifty years has seen urban design and planning largely prioritise private vehicle use, resulting in among other things, an increase in vehicle ownership worldwide. This trend has resulted in the underutilisation of public transport, with a requisite decrease in the provision of these services in many urban areas. New Zealand has been no exception and is now heavily dependent on private vehicles as a result of this trend and the subsequent sprawling of urban activities. The emergence of peak oil and climate change means current trends are no longer sustainable. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) presents an alternative option for urban development. TOD principles reduce car dependency through the integration of urban development with mass transit provision, through a commitment to the development of transit hubs. In theory, TOD will reduce car dependency and increase the quality of life of those living in urban areas, through a reduction in emissions and the more efficient use of transit resources. However, in practice TOD represents a significant change in current planning and development philosophies. This thesis considers Wellington as a New Zealand case study, and examines current planning practices both in the city and wider New Zealand context.

Methods used to collect data followed a qualitative approach, with primary data being gained through key informant interviews. Secondary data was acquired through the examination of existing literature and planning documents. The information gained from the subsequent results is used to critically assess the applicability of TOD to the New Zealand context. Key barriers and opportunities for the integration of TOD into New Zealand cities are highlighted and the implications of these on current planning practice are discussed. By attempting to understand key elements of TOD within the international context, key learnings for New Zealand have been revealed. The results point towards significant changes needing to take place within the current planning framework if TOD is to become a reality within the New Zealand. As such, recommendations which emerge from this research will be useful to planners and decision makers investigating sustainable transport options such as TOD.