K Rd, one of Auckland's most visited and eclectic streets is set for a makeover

The proposal includes a protected cycleway on both sides of K Rd. Photo / Supplied

Auckland Transport and Auckland Council today revealed plans for proposed changes to Karangahape Rd and are inviting feedback from the public.

The proposal includes a protected cycleway on both sides of the road. It will span the length of the road and part of Upper Queen St.

Other plans include improvements for pedestrians, peak-hour bus lanes, bus-stop relocations, changes to parking, upgraded street lighting, street furniture, cycle parking, opportunities for outdoor dining and street activities and rain gardens, trees and landscaping.

"K Rd is such a special place which many Aucklanders have a connection with," said Ralph Webster of Auckland Council.

"The plans reflect feedback we have received from local businesses, residents, property owners as well as many other people who spend time there. We also would like to know what the wider public think of the proposal."

Ponsonby Road to Pitt Street

Pitt Street to Queen Street

Queen Street to Symonds Street

Upper Queen Street

The City Rail Link will have a station on Mercury Lane, off K Rd, and a possible light rail station at the intersection with Queen St, meaning an influx of people using the road.

The council wants to "create a vibrant space in which people will want to spend time shopping, walking and socialising".

Auckland Transport's cycling, walking and road safety manager Kathryn King said K Rd was an important transport route into the city.

The proposed cycleway was a key component of the growing network of cycleways into and around the city centre.

"Many people already use K Rd to cycle into the city centre, so by providing a protected cycleway, we expect that number to grow," said King.

"The way people get around Auckland is changing with a greater number of people choosing to cycle.

"The cycleway will also be good for local businesses as our research shows that someone cycling is more likely to stop at local shops than someone driving."

The Karangahape Rd Enhancement Project is being delivered by Auckland Transport and Auckland Council with funding from various sources including a targeted rate to local businesses and the Government through the Urban Cycleways Programme.

Public feedback on the plans is open until November 20.

The project is in five sections which can viewed at www.AT.govt.nz/kroadproject or call (09) 355 3553 for more information.