Ask Phoebe: CCTV cameras mounted on lights can help to keep traffic flowing

Images from the CCTV cameras are sent back to the Traffic Operations Centres.

Q: I have noticed recently at traffic lights on Tiverton Rd, Wolverton Rd and New Windsor Rd, through to Clark St in New Lynn, little white brackets beneath the traffic lights. Are they for holding red light cameras at some future date? Paul Fitzpatrick, West Auckland.

No, says Auckland Transport, they are not red light cameras. They are traffic management CCTV cameras. The pictures are transmitted back to the Traffic Operations Centres and allow operations staff to monitor congestion so they can make adjustments to traffic signal timings.

Q: One frequently sees the term "light rail" in reference to Auckland's transport issues, but what does it actually mean? Could it be "passenger only" with no freight? Does it also mean that the railway line is of a lower standard than normal railway lines? Frank Coulter, Pauanui Beach.

According to the Road User Rule 2004, a light rail vehicle is a rail vehicle that is designed to run along a road among other road vehicles and users. It includes trams but does not include a rail vehicle approaching (or on) a level crossing or a rail vehicle while it is on a railway line that is not on a road.

Typically, it is an urban form of public transport using the same rolling stock as a tramway, but operating primarily along exclusive rights of way and having vehicles capable of operating as a single train or as multiple units coupled together.

Q: I am perplexed by two signs in Okahu Bay. The signs state that the land is owned by the Ngati Whatua tribe and co-managed with the Auckland Council, and that to make a booking one must phone the council. I have phoned the council, but no one can tell me what it is one must make a booking for? Can you tell me? Sue Huljich, Orakei.

I contacted Ngati Whatua at Orakei Marae and a spokeswoman informed me that bookings for the use of Okahu Bay need only be made for very large crowds, or events taking up lots of room. This might include a major family gathering, filming, marathons, and events of similar nature.

Bookings can be made by phoning Auckland Council's events team, and they will consult with Ngati Whatua.

If you just want a family day out (mum, dad and the kids) or a picnic, there is no need to book.
Q: I often take residents of a rest home/hospital out to the lookout at the airport to watch the planes arriving and departing. Could the relevant authority mark a disability carpark, preferably on the right hand end, elevated, as there isn't one there at present?

The folk I take are unable to vacate the van, and I thought legally there should be one there? Callum Masters, Auckland.

While I understand your concern at a lack of disability parking here, I do not see the need for one. I have frequently been to the lookout, mostly as a way of entertaining grandchildren for free, and there has never been a shortage of parking here. However, the airport authority may care to consider this.