Get Moving: Spaghetti Junction realised

By PHOEBE FALCONER

A new column that answers your questions on getting around Auckland


Is there a way to view what all the changes in spaghetti junction will look like when they're finished? - Riki D

There certainly is. Transit's website (there have been intermittent problems accessing this site) gives lots of information, photos, a schematic that looks like the cat got into the knitting, and all sorts of good stuff such as when the project is expected to be finished.

You can catch up on progress by downloading the newsletters and project brochure on .pdf files. There is also an information centre on the corner of Stanley St and Alten Rd in Grafton, which is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm on weekdays.

There are earthworks taking place beside the Northern Motorway adjacent to the Wellington St overbridge in Freemans Bay.

What's going on there? - Kim, Freemans Bay

It's work in preparation for new motorway links from the Northwestern Motorway and the port, which will join the Northern Motorway in this area. Material is also being stockpiled here for later use in the construction of these new links.

This is all part of Stage Two of the Central Motorway Junction project.

How do you get from the Howick/Pakuranga area to the Manukau Institute Of Technology's north campus by public transport? - Jan, Howick

Howick and Eastern run regular services from Howick/Pakuranga to the Otara Transit Centre, where you can catch a transfer bus to the campus, or walk (about 15 minutes). And the reverse to get home.

Visit rideline for ideas and times, or phone them on (09) 366-6400.

How does the bus/ferry/train plan incorporate cycling? Can bikes be transported on these vehicles? What about safe storage for cycles at bus and train stations? - Sara, Mt Eden

Good news and bad news. You cannot take a bike on a bus, unless it is one of those little foldup jobs that you can carry on. But Fullers Ferries carry cycles for free and trains will charge you $1 for your bike, if there is room. This may not be the case on some peak-hour services.

Stagecoach is looking at providing cycle lockers at the New Lynn Transport Centre. There used to be lockers at the Mt Roskill Park+Ride, but they were never used.

Auckland Regional Transport Network is responsible for rail stations. Its draft upgrade policy recommends that secure cycle storage facilities should be provided at all stations. So they're getting there.

Why do the traffic police seem so intent on fining speeding drivers? - Phill Andrews

Because they are breaking the law, Phill.


* Do you have questions about public transport, roading projects, roadworks or how to get a driver's licence?
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