Public Transport Committee Agenda

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the next meeting of the Public Transport Committee will be held in Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga, and via Zoom, on:

Thursday 22 September 2022 COMMENCING AT 9.30 am

This meeting will be livestreamed and recorded.

The Public section of this meeting will be livestreamed and recorded and uploaded to Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s website.  Further details on this can be found after the Terms of Reference within the Agenda. Bay of Plenty Regional Council - YouTube

 

Fiona McTavish

Chief Executive, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana

14 September 2022

 


Public Transport Committee

Membership

Chairperson

Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Deputy Chairperson

Cr Lyall Thurston

Members  

Cr Norm Bruning

Cr Jane Nees

Cr Stacey Rose

Cr Paula Thompson

External Members

Two Tauranga City Council representatives

 

 

One representative each:

Rotorua Lakes Council

 

Western Bay of Plenty District Council

 

Whakatāne District Council

 

All of whom are voting members.

 

One Waka Kotahi NZTA non-voting representative

 

Commissioner Stephen Selwood

Commissioner Bill Wasley (Alternate)

 

 

 

Mr Phill Thomass (Lakes Community Board)

Cr Tania Tapsell (Alternate)

 

 

 

Mayor Garry Webber

 

Mayor Judy Turner

Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles (Alternate)

 

 

 

Jessica Andrew

Michelle Te Wharau (Alternate)

Ex Officio

Chairman Doug Leeder

Quorum

Six members, consisting of more than half the number of voting members of which four must be BOPRC members

Meeting frequency

Quarterly

Purpose

Set the strategic and operational direction for approved Regional Council public transport policy and strategy, and monitor how it is implemented.

Role

·            Prepare and review the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan.

·            Implement, monitor and review operational public transport policy and plans.

·            Implement, monitor and review the Western Bay of Plenty Public Transport Implementation Plan.

·            Advocate for public transport with NZTA, territorial authorities and central government.

·            Set and monitor targets for public transport in the region.

·            Receive reporting on the performance of the Passenger Transport Activity.

·            In coordination with the work programme of the Regional Transport Committee, guide and review the public transport components of the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) and make recommendations to Regional Transport Committee for incorporation into the RLTP.

Power to Act

To make all decisions necessary to fulfil the role and scope of the committee subject to the limitations imposed.

Power to Recommend

To Council and/or any standing committee as it deems appropriate.

The Public Transport Committee reports to the Regional Council.


 

Recording of Meetings

Please note the Public section of this meeting is being recorded and streamed live on Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s website in accordance with Council's Live Streaming and Recording of Meetings Protocols which can be viewed on Council’s website. The recording will be archived and made publicly available on Council's website within two working days after the meeting on www.boprc.govt.nz for a period of three years (or as otherwise agreed to by Council).

All care is taken to maintain your privacy; however, as a visitor in the public gallery or as a participant at the meeting, your presence may be recorded. By remaining in the public gallery, it is understood your consent is given if your image is inadvertently broadcast.

Opinions expressed or statements made by individual persons during a meeting are not the opinions or statements of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Council accepts no liability for any opinions or statements made during a meeting.

 


Bay of Plenty Regional Council - Toi Moana

Governance Commitment

mō te taiao, mō ngā tāngata - our environment and our people go hand-in-hand.

 

 

We provide excellent governance when, individually and collectively, we:

·        Trust and respect each other

·        Stay strategic and focused

·        Are courageous and challenge the status quo in all we do

·        Listen to our stakeholders and value their input

·        Listen to each other to understand various perspectives

·        Act as a team who can challenge, change and add value

·        Continually evaluate what we do

 

 

TREAD LIGHTLY, THINK DEEPLY,
ACT WISELY, SPEAK KINDLY.


Public Transport Committee                                            22 September 2022

Recommendations in reports are not to be construed as Council policy until adopted by Council.

Agenda

1.      Apologies

2.      Public Forum

3.      Items not on the Agenda

4.      Order of Business

5.      Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

6.      Public Excluded Business to be Transferred into the Open

7.      Minutes

Minutes to be Confirmed

7.1      Public Transport Committee Minutes - 23 June 2022                                                 3

8.      Presentations

8.1      Assessing Public Bus Services

Presented by: Kirsty Slater and Gareth Griffiths - CCS Disability Action

9.      Reports

9.1      Chairperson's Report                               3

Decisions Required

9.2      Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32                                             3

Attachment 1 - Draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032                          3

Information Only

9.3      Highlights of the Triennium                     3

9.4      Public Transport Arotake Tuawha - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022                               3

Attachment 1 - Public Transport Arotake Tuawha - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022                                                            3

10.    Public Excluded Section

Resolution to exclude the public

Excludes the public from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting as set out below:

The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter, and the specific grounds under section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter

Grounds under Section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution

When the item can be released into the public

10.1

Bus Driver Wages

Withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information; Withholding the information is necessary to enable any local authority holding the information to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities; Withholding the information is necessary to enable any local authority holding the information to carry on, without prejudice or disadvantage, negotiations (including commercial and industrial negotiations).

48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii); 48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(h); 48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(i).

To remain in public excluded.

 

Decisions Required

10.1    Bus Driver Wages

11.    Public Excluded Business to be Transferred into the Open

12.    Readmit the Public

13.    Consideration of Items not on the Agenda


 Public Transport Committee Minutes

23 June 2022

 

Public Transport Committee

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Thursday 23 June 2022, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga

Chairperson:               Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Deputy Chairperson:  Cr Lyall Thurston

Members:                    Cr Norm Bruning – Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC), Cr Jane Nees - BOPRC, Cr Paula Thompson - BOPRC, Cr Stacey Rose - BOPRC (via Zoom), Mayor Judy Turner – Whakatāne District Council (via Zoom), Commissioner Stephen Selwood – Tauranga City Council (via Zoom), Phill Thomass – Lakes Community Board (via Zoom), Michelle Te Wharau – Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (non-voting), Chairman Leeder – BOPRC (from 9.46 am)

In Attendance:            Cr David Love, Cr Kevin Winters (via Zoom), Cr Matemoana McDonald (Via Zoom), Mat Taylor – General Manager, Corporate, Namouta Poutasi – General Manager, Strategy and Science, Presenters – as listed in the minutes, Amanda Namana – Committee Advisor

Apologies:                  Mayor Garry Webber – Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Commissioner Bill Wasley - Alternate, Tauranga City Council, Jess Andrew – Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles – Alternate, Whakatāne District Council

 

This meeting was livestreamed and the recording is available on Council’s YouTube channel: BOPRC Public Transport Committee Meeting - 23 June 2022 - YouTube

 

1.     Apologies

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Accepts the apologies from Mayor Garry Webber, Commissioner Bill Wasley, Jess Andrew and Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles tendered at the meeting.

Thurston/Bruning

CARRIED

2.     Public Forum

2.1

Deb Turner

 

Key Points:

·       Supported Tauranga having the best bus service possible and would like to make it easier for people to catch the bus

·       Bus trackers were very useful to patrons and noted that some were broken, and others were not working

·       When the Grenada Street bus stop was closed temporarily, patrons were able to use the service from Sandhurst drive, saving up to an hour travel time and a safer option for walking home for some residents

·       Queried why route 21 service from Bayfair left from two stops (2a and 2b) as this created confusion in knowing which stop to use 

·       Considered that running the bus anticlockwise from Papamoa would save time, cover a larger area and improve the service

·       Supported the concept of an orbiter bus service to reach more destinations quickly

·       Route 21 service times kept changing which often missed connecting services at Bayfair

·       Route 5 service had been leaving up to ten minutes early from Salisbury Wharf.

In Response to Questions:

·       Staff to respond to Deb directly to address concerns raised, including bus tracker fixing/replacement, route 5 service, route 21 service and bus stop issues.

 

2.2

Harry Perry and Lucas Daum – Tauranga Boys College

Presentation: The Matua Trial: Objective ID A4134039   

 

Key Points of Presentation:

·      Bus routes that had been elongated were more susceptible to congestion and traffic issues, causing delays and disgruntled patrons

·      Outlined the original large scale proposal and key points from this

·      Summarised current bus service problems for Matua residents

·      Detailed benefits of the proposal including saving time, reliability of services, safety, avoiding traffic bottlenecks in the CBD, reducing the impact of delays and increased likelihood of commuters using the public transport system

·      Demonstrated the proposed new Matua routes and scheduled changes to coincide with them

·      Using Cherrywood as a hub could connect existing routes 60, 72a and 72b with two proposed Matua orbiter services and a transfer time of five minutes

·      The proposed link route (L1) would provide connectivity for Matua residents to Tauranga Crossing, Brookfield and Cambridge Road with reduced travel time and increased reliability

·      The suggested changes provided opportunity to expand operations across the entire network by turning existing bus stops into hubs

·      Suggested using dedicated buses over a three to four month period to test and gather data.

 

Key Points – Members:

·       Commended the work and noted that a route review was underway, unfortunately previous consultation had shown some reluctance from the public for a hub system

·       Suggested submitting the concept/presentation to the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) which was due to open for public consultation on 4 July 2022.

 

In Response to Questions:

·       The plan was to use existing buses for the trial, with a future option of smaller buses for the orbiter services.

 

3.     Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

None declared.

4.     Minutes

Minutes to be Confirmed

4.1

Public Transport Committee Minutes - 17 March 2022

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Confirms the Public Transport Committee Minutes - 17 March 2022 as a true and correct record.

Thurston/Bruning

CARRIED

5.     Presentations

5.1

Accessibility - Using Bee Cards and the Bus System

Presented by: Karleigh Jones

 

Key Points

·       Considered the Transit App helpful in deciding the best route for a journey and how long it would take

·       Found Bee Cards useful in that it was no longer necessary to carry a lot of change and the card was easier to use for certain special needs

·       Outlined the following issues for consideration:

o   Sometimes the Transit App was not running on real time, therefore the bus did not arrive when expected

o   When the bus did not stop close enough to the curb to use the back door to exit, it could be hazardous for passengers, particularly those with mobility issues

o   The printed timetables could be difficult to read and understand

o   Bus stops without seats provided an additional challenge for all passengers when waiting for a bus, including those with disabilities e.g. Chapel Street bus stop

·       Bus driver awareness needed to be increased for those with hidden or less physical disabilities that were not always apparent, as they may require additional support

·       Supported free buses for people with disabilities as it assisted them in achieving their goals in education and employment.

 

6.     Reports

 

Chairperson's Report

General Manager, Strategy and Science Namouta Poutasi and Transport and Urban Planning Manager Lorraine Cheyne presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted the half price fares being extended to the end of August 2022 and the success to date in terms of increasing patronage by approximately 15%

·       Noted that the bus driver shortage continued not only across the region, but nationwide

·       A reduced number of security concerns had been observed in the first week with the increased security and change of CBD interchange location, although inclement weather was also noted.

Key Points - Members:

·       Expressed concern over implications for passengers of the continued weekend service timetable

·       Measuring and being kept informed of progress on emission reduction targets was crucial

·       Considered there was an urgent need for investment from central government to subsidise public transport on a more long term basis

·       Agreed that public transport was the solution to many social, environmental and economic issues facing the region

·       There was an important piece of gap analysis work that needed to be undertaken as a region to identify and bridge the gaps between the RPTP targets and meeting the emission reduction targets of central government.

In Response to Questions:

·       The living wage changes for bus drivers were effective from 1 September 2022

·       Bus driver shortage was having a significant impact on timetabling issues – this situation was being monitored and the service was due for review in August 2022

·       Negotiations had taken place with NZ Bus to address the financial implications/level of service and a reduced rate had been agreed

·       Noted the challenges over recent years in providing comparative patronage data and would look into how best to provide the necessary information to the Committee

·       The Regional Transport Emissions Reduction Plan funded through the 2022-2023 Annual Plan would address many of the concerns raised.

 

Items for Follow Up:

·       Waka Kotahi to provide a presentation to a future meeting with facts and figures around funding and how it might be broken down, following the review of the Public Transport Operating Model

·       Clarify the entire transport emissions framework for members by summarising all bodies of work in transport emissions reduction across the region, the aim of each and broken down by sub-region.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Chairperson's Report;

2       Commends Regional Council and Tauranga City Council staff that the work that went into the temporary bus interchange in Durham Street was implemented on time.

Thompson/von Dadelszen

CARRIED

10.34 am – The meeting adjourned.

10.57 am – The meeting reconvened.

Decisions Required

6.1

Draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 for Public Consultation

Presentation: Draft RPTP for Public Consultation: Objective ID A4134048

Principal Advisor, Regional Development Bron Healey presented this item, supported by Transport and Urban Planning Manager Lorraine Cheyne and Senior Transport Planner Matt Kilpatrick.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted that the RPTP was the key statutory document for public transport planning and investment in the region, with the intent of a ten year plus strategic view of public transport and a strong focus on the first three years

·       Outlined legislative requirements, consultation and review processes, the timeline and the approval process for the RPTP

·       In addition to the four Public Transport Committee workshops held seeking input to the RPTP, there had been regular meetings and workshops held with the multi-agency project team.  This was comprised of members from Regional Council, City and District Councils of the region and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency representatives.

Key Points - Members:

·       Encouraged as many members of the public to submit to the RPTP as possible as their views and perspectives were critical

·       Suggested amending the draft RPTP before going out for consultation:

o   Frame the intention that there would be a workstream to identify and bridge the gap between the RPTP and the new national emissions reduction plan targets.

In Response to Questions:

·       He Mauri Ohooho was the Māori Economic Development Strategy for the Bay of Plenty, developed under the Bay of Connections regional economic development framework which Toi Kai Rawa were implementing

·       The draft RPTP had been developed to be consistent with the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP), the Urban Form and Transport Initiative (UFTI), the Transport Systems Plan (TSP) and their existing targets.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Ensure that the final RPTP considered:

o   Providing context around He Mauri Ohooho as an economic development strategy

o   Driver shortages as a future challenge – action to work with service providers to ensure there were sufficient drivers to deliver on agreed service levels

o   The pie graph on Page 57 of the RPTP under-represented the challenge of reducing emissions across the region - an additional graph for the specific challenges of Tauranga City was proposed

o   Check current intensification details on Te Papa Peninsula were updated and correct

o   Ensure the RPTP was also consistent with new central government targets released, after understanding what the implications for public transport were for these e.g. Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT) targets. 

o   Insert a paragraph around the affordability challenge - highlighting the required level of investment in new targets to achieve mode shift.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 for Public Consultation;

2       Approves the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032, including any amendments arising from discussion of the report, for public consultation in accordance with the requirements of the Land Transport Management Act 2003;

3       Authorises the General Manager, Strategy and Science, in consultation with the Chair where appropriate, to make any necessary minor amendments to the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 prior to its release to the public;

4       Appoints an RPTP subcommittee to undertake hearings and deliberations on the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032, for recommendation to the Public Transport Committee

5       Appoints Cr von Dadelszen as the Chair of the RPTP Subcommittee, with Mayor Turner, Cr Nees, Cr Thurston, Commissioner Selwood and Cr Thompson as the RPTP subcommittee members.

[Bruning/Rose]

[CARRIED]

 

6.2

Contract Renewal of 85 Connector Bus Service

General Manager, Strategy and Science Namouta Poutasi and Transport and Planning Manager Lorraine Cheyne presented this item.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Contract Renewal of 85 Connector Bus Service;

Thurston/Bruning

CARRIED

 

 

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee recommends that the Regional Council:

 

1       Endorses the continuation of Waihi Beach passenger transport service

(i)   as a permanent two day a week service for a further 12 months;  

2       Notes that associated funding has been included in the 2022-2023 Annual Plan.

Thurston/Bruning

CARRIED

Information Only

6.3

Western Bay of Plenty Ferries Feasibility Study

General Manager, Strategy and Science Namouta Poutasi and Team Leader – Service Planning and Project Delivery Oliver Haycock presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted that the feasibility study was currently in draft and the full report would return to the Committee once the study was finalised

·       Draft findings were that there was no short term low-risk low-cost option that could currently be delivered that was likely to be attractive to potential customers.

Key Points - Members:

·       Supported continued investigation into options to develop a business case and potentially increase service delivery once required infrastructure was in place.  Walking, cycling and parking infrastructure were key considerations to include in this

§  Tauranga City Council (TCC) Commissioners were supportive of encouraging alternative modes of transport including ferry services.  Acknowledged the challenging issue of carparking from a commuter perspective to support the service

§  There may be an opportunity to test the market with any low-risk low-cost initiatives that eventuated e.g. the existing Ōmokoroa vessel that did not require significant upgrades, trialling viability of a service transporting upcoming cruise ship passengers to the CBD

§  If there was support from Regional Council to provide a ferry service, TCC Commissioners could potentially bring forward investment from the Long Term Plan (LTP) process for wharf infrastructure requirements for a more substantive service.

In Response to Questions:

·       Work undertaken to date had identified a number of challenges in providing a viable ferry service that would be attractive to customers, including the significant cost involved

·       There was an process to follow for commercial operators to gain approval to operate.  Subsidising this would require going through a joint funding process and the relevant steps required for this

·       Further engagement with Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Priority One and Waka Kotahi staff preferably through TSP would occur before the full feasibility study came to the Committee.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·       Ensure a timeline and project plan was included in the full feasibility study, including the feasibility of running a pilot or initial service.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Western Bay of Plenty Ferries Feasibility Study;

2       Notes the draft findings of the Western Bay of Plenty Ferries Feasibility Study.

Thompson/Nees

CARRIED

 

6.4

Rotorua Network Refresh: Public Consultation - Initial Findings

Team Leader - Service Planning and Project Delivery Oliver Haycock presented this item.

Key Points:

·       A strong public response had been received but feedback had not yet been analysed.  Staff would reflect on the feedback and bring a deliverable refresh proposal back to the Committee, in collaboration with Rotorua Lakes Council and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

Key Points - Members:

·       Encouraged to see community response numbers but expressed concern over the low results from people who did not currently use the bus service.

In Response to Questions:

·       The refresh proposal was expected later in 2022, potentially in time for the 22 September Public Transport Committee meeting

·       Bus stop locations and new bus stop requirements in Rotorua CBD would be considered in conjunction with Rotorua Lakes Council, for which there would be separate engagement with local businesses around the location of these stops

·       The target number of 80 people for consultation had been based upon doubling the previous response rates on Rotorua public transport consultations (approximately 40).  194 responses had been received at the time of writing the report

·       The refreshed network (as proposed) would have cross town routes that would loop around the CBD and provide similar benefits to an Orbiter service in a more efficient way, with improved connectivity for many Rotorua residents

·       Focus groups had not been used for this consultation, although a number of community groups had been engaged with, some of which provided extensive and helpful responses.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Rotorua Network Refresh: Public Consultation - Initial Findings.

Thurston/Thomass

CARRIED

 

6.5

Public Transport Arotake Tuatoru 2021/22 - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022

Presentation: Public Transport Arotake Tuatoru Patronage Insights: Objective ID A4132996

Transport Systems Team Leader Simon Bell presented this item (via Zoom), supported by General Manager, Strategy and Science Namouta Poutasi.

Key Points of Presentation:

·       Financial Performance – including operating revenue and operating expenditure

·       Patronage summary for Quarter three and year to date

·       Regional Centres patronage trends

·       Views on patronage numbers across the region

·       Noted that the impact of the reduced timetable on patronage was not as strong as initially expected as this was offset by the half price fares implemented

·       Customer Experience – customer contact calls and complaints

·       Total mobility and The Accessibility Concession.

Key Points - Members:

·       Upcoming roadworks scheduled for Te Ngae Road were likely to affect reliability and punctuality of many Rotorua services.

In Response to Questions:

·       Clarified that the 5,400 customer contact calls received were mostly timetable related queries and customers seeking information.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·       Request for an update on the stock truck item to be reported back via email

·       The perceived overspend on The Wednesday Challenge initiative was to be checked with the Finance team and clarified to the Committee

·       Break down call received data for future reports to the type of calls received, information requested by customers and the types of complaints made.

 

Resolved

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Public Transport Arotake Tuatoru 2021/22 - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 31 March 2022.

von Dadelszen/Thompson

CARRIED

 

12.02 pm – the meeting closed.

 

 

Confirmed                                                                                          

                                                                    Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Chairperson, Public Transport Committee


 

 

 

Report To:

Public Transport Committee

Meeting Date:

22 September 2022

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor

 

 

Chairperson's Report

 

 

Executive Summary

This report highlights matters of interest that the Committee Chair considers to be relevant to the business of the Public Transport Committee.

The report includes updates on:

·          National and local context including Sustainable Public Transport Framework, NZ Bus change of ownership, responses to driver shortages, fair pay agreements, and Covid-19 response update, transport patronage, Tauranga CBD interchange, Waka Kotahi Transport Choices Package, Public Transport Services and Infrastructure Business Case, Rotorua bus network refresh, bus decarbonisation feasibility study, on-demand public transport trial, regional fares review, and management effectiveness.

 

Recommendations

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

1.        Purpose

The purpose of this report is to make Committee members aware of items of interest in relation to public transport.

2.        Matters of Potential Interest

2.1      Council Updates and National Context

2.1.1    Sustainable Public Transport Framework

On Monday, 15 August the government announced they will be changing how public transport is delivered, with the launch of the Sustainable Public Transport Framework (SPTF). This follows a review of the Public Transport Model (PTOM) and will replace the PTOM.

SPTF will allow local authorities to bring bus operations back in-house, which is how most public transport services were delivered until the early 1990s when the government required all operations to be outsourced.

The government stated that establishing the SPTF will result in the following key reforms:

·     Establishing new objectives for the planning, procurement, and delivery of public transport services, to be embedded in the Land Transport Management Act 2003

·     Enabling in-house delivery of public transport services (public transport authorities will be able to operate public transport services, e.g., own buses, employ bus drivers, and run services themselves)

·     Requiring services to be procured, contracted and/or delivered in such a way that ensures transparency of operating costs, service performance, the vehicles or vessels used to deliver services, aggregate employee terms and conditions, and financial performance of operators.

·     Enabling different asset ownership arrangements, including public transport authorities owning assets directly

·     Encourage greater collaboration between regional councils and territorial authorities in preparing regional public transport plans

·     Changes to the framework for exempt services (including commercial and inter-regional public transport services)

·     Including on-demand public transport services (services like ‘MyWay’ in Timaru and ‘AT Local’ in South Auckland) in the Sustainable Public Transport Framework.

The reforms will be implemented through a combination of amendments to the Land Transport Management Act 2003 and through the development of operational policy.

2.1.2    NZ Bus Change of Ownership

The NZ Bus Group, which includes NZ Bus Tauranga Limited was sold to Kinetic NZ Holdings Ltd, with the sale completion taking place on Friday, 19 August 2022.  The sale was subject to several conditions, including Overseas Investment Office approval and Commerce Commission approval, both of which were granted.

2.1.3    Responses to Driver Shortages

Like many industries in New Zealand, staff shortages are an acute problem and the absence of sufficient driver numbers is dramatically impacting on the transport sector nationally. 

As a result of driver shortages in the Western Bay of Plenty, Council continues to operate a reduced timetable. NZ Bus and Council will regularly review the situation with a view to increasing the provision of services as soon as possible. Dedicated school services continue to operate to a normal timetable.

Kinetic have already begun to work to address the driver shortages with a range of measures. This includes writing to Minister Wood regarding the current rules prohibiting employing overseas workers as the industry does not currently pay the median wage. NZ Bus are requesting an exemption to the median wage threshold for bus drivers as an interim measure until the outcome of central government initiatives to improve driver pay and conditions materialise.

Council also wrote to Hon Michael Wood asking that the criteria for long-term critical workers is urgently amended to include those workers required to deliver public transport services, either directly or by including public transport services in the list of ‘major government-approved programmes’.

2.1.4    Fair Pay Agreements

Earlier this year, the Government introduced the Fair Pay Agreements Bill which provides a framework for bargaining for fair pay agreements. The objective is to improve labour market outcomes in New Zealand by enabling employers and employees to collectively bargain industry-wide or occupation-wide minimum employment terms. The Bill is expected to pass later this year.

2.1.5    Covid-19 Response Update

The public transport industry is expected to be one of the first to be addressed under the new framework.  Discussions have already commenced within the sector in anticipation of this.

On 12 September the Government announced that the COVID-19 Protection Framework (CPF) Order will be revoked – this moves New Zealand away from the detailed traffic light settings.

This removes the current face mask wearing requirement on public transport services and inside public transport stations. To clarify, face masks (coverings) will no longer be required on any public transport services or in any public transport station/terminal. This came into effect at 11.59pm, Monday 12 September 2022.

2.1.6    Patronage Update

Bus Patronage for all services over the fourth quarter of 2021/22 was 625,961, which is down 15.4% on the same period 2020/21.

Tauranga remains on a reduced timetable due to the reduced availability of bus drivers. The year-on-year decline reflects the impact COVID-19 has had on passenger transport patronage in the Bay of Plenty, and the rest of New Zealand.

The introduction of half price fares on 1 April 2022 encouraged a brief increase to patronage for the month of April, with patronage dropping back in May and June, reflective of broader seasonal trends. The Government announced on Sunday 17 July that half prices fares would be extend to the 31 January 2023.

Data suggests following the introduction of half price fares, patronage has increased by an average of 16.44% on the average of the three weeks preceding the initiative. However, for the weeks following the April school holidays, there has been a general downward trend in patronage which reflects 2020/21 seasonality trends outlined in the graph below:

 

More detail can be found in the Public Transport Arotake Tuawha 2021/22 Performance Monitoring Report contained in the Agenda.

2.1.7    Tauranga CBD Interchange

All Regional Council funded bus routes were relocated from Willow Street to the Durham Street temporary interchange on 13 June 2022. The relocation of the Willow Street interchange makes way for the development of the new civic precinct – Te Manawataki O Te Papa and is a temporary solution while a new permanent transportation hub is developed.

Regional Council staff have worked closely with Tauranga City Council to resolve snagging issues at the temporary site, the most significant being the lack of a hub / rest area for the security staff. A premises has now been secured on Wharf Street, with security staff moving in mid-September.

Tauranga City Council have also progressed work on the permanent CBD transportation hub. TCC’s “City Centre Action and Investment Plan” (CCAIP) has identified Durham Street & Hamilton Street as the preferred long-term public transport spine through the CBD, as shown in Figure 1.

The CCAIP also proposes a pedestrianised laneway connection between Durham St and Grey St. This would substantially enhance pedestrian connectivity between the new interchange and the Eastern areas of the CBD.

TCC have recently concluded the tender process for the delivery of a Single Stage Business Case to identify a suitable location(s) for a public transport hub(s) within the City Centre, along the identified PT spine. This process will be supported by Regional Council staff. It should be noted that this business case has a very ambitious six-month timescale.

Figure 1 – “City Centre Key Moves” Plan (CCAIP)[1]

2.1.8    Waka Kotahi Transport Choices Package

The New Zealand Government has funded the Transport Choices Package from the Climate Emergency Response Fund. $350m has been allocated over two years (to mid-2024) to design and implement the package.

The scheme is looking to make a concentrated impact across specific locations to improve travel choices and reduce emissions. The focus is on infrastructure which can be delivered quickly and not the funding of services.

BOPRC staff submitted for funding through this scheme to cover two projects:

1.   Refreshing and Enhancing Public Transport in Rotorua

The proposed network refresh (further detail in section 2.1.10) requires some new infrastructure for implementation, where there is currently no clear funding pathway. In addition, there is the opportunity to deliver some infrastructure enhancements to further enhance the customer experience and encourage patronage growth. Funding has been requested for the following sub-projects, and is supported by Rotorua Lakes Council:

a)   Provision of 2 new bus stops and shelters on Amahau Street

The new stops on Amahau Street (SH30a) would enable all 4 sides of the CBD to be served by all PT routes. This has the advantage of substantially improving connectivity to all areas of the CBD from the Rotorua suburbs, enhancing access to both employment and recreational destinations. It also enhances connectivity within the CBD itself, with all routes “orbiting” the city centre. Enabling this type of movement was clearly identified through recent consultation exercises.

b)  Provision of high-quality shelters at landmark Rotorua locations

To support the success of the Rotorua Network Refresh, a significant opportunity has been identified to install high-quality shelters in prominent locations. This would both vastly enhance the passenger experience, whilst significantly enhancing the attractiveness and appeal of public transport. Locations include: Rotorua Lakefront, Toi Ohomai (Mokoia Campus), Arawa Street (Eastbound) and Rotorua Airport.

c)   Supplementary funding for Rotorua Lakes District Council’s shelter improvement programme

To support the success of the Rotorua Network Refresh, a significant opportunity has been identified to expedite Rotorua Lakes District Council’s shelter improvement programme. Lack of shelter may well impact on the appeal of the bus service to people vulnerable to weather conditions, including; disabled people, aged persons, and young families. Rotorua Lakes Council have identified 7 sites where additional funding would enable the provision of new/improved shelters to be expedited in line with the time aspirations of the Transport Choices fund.

d)  Transport Demand Management (TDM) to support the success of the refreshed network

Research indicates that the greatest uptake of sustainable transport modes is achieved where infrastructure and service improvements are delivered in conjunction with promotional incentives such as campaigns, events, and activities.

 

2.   Enhanced Customer Experience on the Tauranga Urban Network

Whilst substantial activities are already underway in Tauranga, there is an opportunity to deliver enhancements to the onboard bus environment and passenger experience. Bus user and non-user surveys have highlighted the desire for buses to have onboard visual and audio stop announcements.

This would substantially increase the travelling experience of existing customers, as well as improve the attractiveness of the service to new users who may not be familiar or confident with using public transport. This would especially assist our most vulnerable customers.

2.1.9    Public Transport Services & Infrastructure Business Case

This business case is exploring the enhancements needed to both the public transport services and supporting infrastructure enable the delivery of the “Connected Centres” programme identified by UFTI. It has a 10-year horizon and a 30-year outlook.

The project is being delivered in partnership by BOPRC, Tauranga City Council, Waka Kotahi, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Mana Whenua.

Work has now concluded on the production of a “Public Transport Reference Case”. This area of the business case has been expediated to provide consistent and accurate public transport assumptions to the various other transport projects ongoing around Tauranga and the Western Bay.

The work to produce the Reference Case considered several network structures, which were presented and scored at a stakeholder workshop. This identified the potential benefit of developing a “hybrid” network structure, utilising both “through routing” and “hub and spoke”.

The “Public Transport Reference Case” aligns with both the RLTP, the draft RPTP and has the capacity to support the emerging Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT) / Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) targets.

Customer focus has also been at the heart of the Reference Case development. Compared with other network structures, initial analysis suggests that the hybrid model:

·     Offers access to the highest proportion of employment (both current and future) without the need to transfer,

·     Has the lowest transfer requirement (and travel time) for travel between UFTI “Connected Centres”, and;

·     Has the lowest operating cost, due to the efficient use of capacity.

The hybrid network is also easily scalable to serve both growing demand and development areas and does not preclude other methods of service delivery (such as on-demand) in suburban areas. The network could also be complimented by park and ride sites, should these be progressed.

Members of the Tauranga Joint Public Transport Committee were briefed on the progress of this work on 22 August 2022.

The next stage of this project is to commence work on the single stage business case, which will continue developing the reference case and consider the infrastructure requirements in further detail. The tender process has recently concluded for this work, which is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete.

2.1.10  Rotorua Bus Network Refresh

Feedback was sought from the community during a comprehensive campaign held from 26 April to 24 May 2022. Some initial findings were reported to the Public Transport Committee on 23 June 2022. Staff have now finished reviewing all consultation submissions and have made several changes to the network refresh proposals after carefully considering the suggestions made. The latest network is shown in Figure 2. The updates proposed include:

·     Retaining buses on Vaughan Road

·     Establishing two separate loops around Ngongotahā. These looped services would alternate, providing an hourly service on each. A 30-minute frequency would be maintained on the core route between Ngongotahā, Rotorua and Tihitonga. This would both maintain the shorter journey times and increase the number of roads that are able to be serviced. This would see services retained on Western Road (as far as Pioneer Road), Mohi Crescent, Frances Street, Hood Street and School Road.

·     Extending south along Old Taupō Road as far as Springfield Road, rather than travelling along Otonga Road.

·     Retaining buses on Orion Street.

·     Looping buses around Rimuvale Street, Hinau Street, Tawavale Street and Totaravale Street.

·     Enhancing coverage of Malfroy Road, via Amohau Street/Pukuatua Street. This improves access to Trade Central as well as to a number of high schools.

·     Finding new locations for the proposed Westbound stop on Arawa Street and Northbound stop on Amohia Street.

Figure 2 – Latest proposed network, following consultation feedback

Suggestions were made to consider ways to integrate and reflect Rotorua’s rich culture, including the use of te reo Māori to establish a stronger identity for both the bus routes and public transport in general. It was suggested to use te reo numbers 1-5 as bus route names. Further cultural connections, such as changes to bus branding could also be considered. It is proposed that this is discussed with tangata whenua, to first get support but also receive guidance as to the appropriateness and tastefulness of any cultural reflections.

Critical to the implementation of the refreshed network is the installation of two new bus stops on Amohau Street (SH30a), in the vicinity of Rotorua Central Mall. There is currently no clear funding pathway for these new stops. To this end, funding has been requested through Waka Kotahi’s Transport Choices Fund. Other pathways will be explored (such as the potential reallocation of existing Low-Cost Low Risk funding), should this application be unsuccessful. Once the infrastructure challenges have been overcome, a deliverable plan will be brought back to the Public Transport Committee for approval.

2.1.11  Bus Decarbonisation Feasibility Study

Work is now well underway on Phase 1 & 2 of the feasibility study into how the urban and school bus fleet in the Bay of Plenty will be decarbonised by 2035, in line with the recent Government mandate.  The study will include considerations around electric vs. hydrogen buses, biofuels, repurposing/recycling of the existing bus fleet, sustainable procurement of new Zero Emission Buses (ZEBs), depot design, driver training and more. The product to be created through the feasibility study is a Programme Business Case (PBC), which will set out a short list of options for consideration by a future Detailed Business Case (DBC). In this way, the bus decarbonisation work demonstrates compliance with the Waka Kotahi Business Case Approach (BCA).

Phase 1 of the work is to establish and maintain a database of available reports and news items in relation to bus decarbonisation, which can be used to inform the feasibility study.

Phase 2 of the work is to understand decarbonisation marketplace, exploring options for reducing bus emissions in the short-term and long-term. This will consider the maturity of the different solutions, supply chains, an understanding of each component from production (both energy and vehicle), through transmission, distribution, storage and then to the operation of the bus system itself.

It is anticipated that Phase 1 & 2 of the work will conclude in late 2022. Phase 3 & 4 of the project (which are yet to be procured) will then explore future operational scenarios, define potential pathways to decarbonisation and conclude with the production of the programme business case.

2.1.12  On-Demand Public Transport Trial

Staff have commissioned work to progress the feasibility of an on-demand PT Trial. This was in response to the direction provided during the Annual Plan workshops, where staff were asked to explore options for a “scaled down” trial.

It is anticipated that a detailed progress update will be provided to future a PTC meeting.

2.1.13  Regional Fares Review

It is anticipated that the review will be undertaken later this year, with findings reported to the PTC early next year.


 

 

 

Report To:

Public Transport Committee

Meeting Date:

22 September 2022

Report Writer:

Bron Healey, Principal Advisor, Regional Development

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

To seek the Committee’s endorsement of the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32 and a recommendation to the Regional Council to approve the Plan.

 

 

Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32

 

Executive Summary

This report seeks the Public Transport Committee’s endorsement of the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32 (RPTP) and a recommendation to the Regional Council to approve the Plan.

The draft RPTP was approved for public consultation by the Public Transport Committee at its 23 June 2022 meeting following a comprehensive review process. The RPTP was subsequently released for public consultation, with submissions being received between 4 – 29 July.

A total of 65 submissions were received on the draft RPTP, 21 from organisations or groups, and 44 from individuals. Twenty submitters presented their submissions to the Hearings Subcommittee at hearings conducted on the 17 and 19 August 2022. Deliberations were then held on the 31 August and 1 September. The Hearings Subcommittee subsequently requested a number of changes to the draft RPTP in response to submissions.

This report summarises the Hearing Subcommittee’s recommendations on the following key recurring themes in submissions:

·         Boldness/transformational change/step change

·         Funding/financial Information

·         Challenges/opportunities

·         Vision statement

·         Targets

·         Performance measurement

·         Consolidation of public transport functions

·         Regional services

·         Zero emission public transport

·         Passenger rail

·         Service patronage

·         On demand public transport

·         Rapid transit

·         Propulsion technologies

·         Bus stops/shelters

·         Safety and security issues

·         School services

·         Ferries

·         Event services

·         Infrastructure quality/accessibility

·         Accessible buses

·         Provision for other modes (cycling/micro mobility)

·         Exploring new innovations/technologies

·         Extension of SuperGold concession

·         Action/implementation plan

·         Bus service changes

More detailed individual responses based on these recommendations and in response to unique submission points will be sent to each submitter.

The Hearing Subcommittee made two additional recommendations to the Public Transport Committee. These are outside the scope of the RPTP but respond to points raised by submitters. The two recommendations are:

·     That the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider investigating potential co-investment opportunities in public transport infrastructure with the region’s territorial local authorities; and

·     That the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider continuing the Extension of SuperGold Concession beyond the current trial end date.

The report also provides a section-by-section summary of the recommended changes to the draft RPTP that was released for public consultation. These are shown in track changes in the attached RPTP document.

 

Recommendations

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32.

2       Approves the Regional Public Transport Plan Hearing Subcommittee’s recommendations on the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 as summarised in the report.

3       Notes the following additional recommendations from the Regional Public Transport Plan Hearing Subcommittee:

(a)  That the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider investigating potential co-investment opportunities in public transport infrastructure with the region’s territorial local authorities; and

(b)  That the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider continuing the Extension of SuperGold Concession beyond the current trial end date.

4       Endorses the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 in Attachment 1 including any amendments arising from discussion of the report.

5       Delegates to the Chief Executive the authority to make minor changes to the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 prior to its approval by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

 

That the Public Transport Committee recommends that the Regional Council:

1       Receives the report, Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032.

2       Notes that the Public Transport Committee has prepared the draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032 on the Regional Council’s behalf in accordance with the Land Transport Management Act 2003.

3       Approves the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032.

4       Considers investigating potential co-investment opportunities in public transport infrastructure with the region’s territorial local authorities.

5       Considers continuing the Extension of SuperGold Concession beyond the current trial end date.

1.        Introduction

This report seeks the Public Transport Committee’s endorsement of the Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32 (RPTP) and a recommendation to the Regional Council to approve the Plan.

As members will recall, the draft RPTP was approved for public consultation by the Public Transport Committee at its 23 June 2022 meeting following a comprehensive review process. The RPTP was subsequently released for public consultation, with submissions being received between 4 – 29 July.

A total of 65 submissions were received on the draft RPTP, 21 from organisations or groups, and 44 from individuals. The Hearings Subcommittee made the decision to accept three late submissions. Twenty submitters presented their submissions to the Hearings Subcommittee at hearings conducted on the 17 and 19 August 2022.

Deliberations were held on the 31 August and 1 September. The Hearings Subcommittee requested a number of changes to the draft RPTP in response to submissions. These are summarised in the report and shown in track changes in the attached draft RPTP document.

1.1      Legislative Framework

The Land Transport Management Act (LTMA) provides the legislative framework for the development and renewal of RPTPs. The RPTP is a statutory requirement of the LTMA and a regional council must adopt an RPTP if it intends to enter into contracts for the supply of public transport services. The LTMA requires the RPTP to be reviewed at the same time, or as soon as practicable after the public transport service components of a Regional Land Transport Plan are approved.

The statutory purpose of the RPTP in the LTMA is:

·     a means for encouraging regional councils and public transport operators to work together in developing public transport services and infrastructure,

·     an instrument for engaging with the public in the region on the design and operation of the public transport network, and

·     to provide a statement of:

the public transport services that are integral to the public transport network,

the policies and procedures that apply to those services, and

the information and infrastructure that support those services.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Vibrant Region

We lead regional transport strategy and system planning, working with others to deliver a safe and reliable public transport system.

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

Low - Positive

þ Cultural

Low - Positive

þ Social

Medium - Positive

þ Economic

Medium - Positive

 

Public transport planning and delivery has positive social and economic outcomes for our communities. Well planned and effective public transport enables people of all ages and abilities to access a wide range of social and economic activities.

 

Public transport contributes to positive environmental outcomes through reduced transport emissions when people choose to take public transport instead of private vehicle trips. These environmental outcomes are further enhanced when the public transport trip is in a zero emission vehicle.

 

Public transport also contributes to positive cultural outcomes (refer to the Implications for Māori section of this report).

 

2.        Submissions

58% of submissions were received through the Participate online consultation portal, predominantly from the public. The remainder were received by email or post.

The Participate submission form asked submitters a number of questions on key elements of the draft RPTP, recording their responses on a qualitative sliding scale. Submitters’ responses to Participate survey questions generally indicated high levels of support for elements of the RPTP strategic direction (challenges, opportunities, vision, objectives, focus areas).

Key recurring themes in all submissions received included:

·       General support for direction of the Plan and the development process

·       Recognition and a sense of urgency about climate change/need to reduce emissions

·       Recognition of links between public transport and land use/urban transformation goals and the need for integration

·       Questions about the ambitiousness of the Plan and some targets/calls for step change/transformative action

·       Seeking more detail on funding/how plans will be funded

·       Questions about the current model of providing public transport e.g. separation of functions for service and infrastructure provision

·       Support for alternative public transport modes e.g. rail, light rail, ferries

·       Strong interest in transitioning to zero emission public transport

·       Strong interest in On Demand Public Transport and other alternative delivery models

·       Recognition/support for a stronger public transport role in intra and inter-regional connectivity

·       Seeking development of a more detailed implementation plan/performance measures/monitoring framework

·       Requests for changes to bus services (routes, frequencies, operating times/days)

·       Requests for changes to bus stops/infrastructure (e.g. locations, shelters)

Consequently, a number of key topics were identified. These formed the basis for the key recommendations in the following section. The key topics are:

·       Boldness/transformational change/step change

·       Funding/financial Information

·       Challenges/opportunities

·       Vision statement

·       Targets

·       Performance measurement

·       Consolidation of public transport functions

·       Regional services

·       Zero emission public transport

·       Passenger rail

·       Service patronage

·       On demand public transport

·       Rapid transit

·       Propulsion technologies

·       Bus stops/shelters

·       Safety and security issues

·       School services

·       Ferries

·       Event services

·       Infrastructure quality/accessibility

·       Accessible buses

·       Provision for other modes (cycling/micro mobility)

·       Exploring new innovations/technologies

·       Extension of SuperGold concession

·       Action/implementation plan

·       Bus service changes

3.        Recommendations

This section summarises the Hearing Subcommittee’s recommendations on the key themes. More detailed individual responses based on these recommendations and in response to unique submission points will be sent to each submitter.

3.1      Key recommendations

3.1.1    Boldness/transformational change/step change

Several submitters questioned whether the RPTP was bold enough or would deliver transformational change considering the challenges facing the region/Western Bay of Plenty subregion.

Recommendation:

Accept

We recognise that the Plan must be bold and aspirational to achieve the transformational change that is needed.

Add vision statement to front of RPTP.

Add a statement of network aspirations/what the RPTP will deliver to support a more aspirational mode share target to the front of the RPTP.

Revise sections 1.2.3 (Reviewing the RPTP) and 1.3 (Developing this RPTP) to recognise:

·     The highly dynamic and constantly changing operating environment.

·     The need for public transport agencies to be flexible and nimble in response.

·     Recent Government policy decisions that have set ambitious new targets and will enable greater flexibility and responsiveness in the future delivery of public transport. Revise Appendix A (Policy Context) accordingly.

·     The Regional Council, through the Public Transport Committee, will be the champion for public transport in the region.

3.1.2    Funding/financial Information

Some submitters sought more funding or financial information in the RPTP or asked how activities would be funded.

Recommendation:

The purpose of a Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) is set out in the Land Transport Management Act. This is:

(a) a means for encouraging regional councils and public transport operators to work together in developing public transport services and infrastructure; and

(b) an instrument for engaging with the public in the region on the design and operation of the public transport network; and

(c) a statement of—

(i) the public transport services that are integral to the public transport network; and

(ii) the policies and procedures that apply to those services; and

(iii) the information and infrastructure that support those services.

The RPTP is primarily a policy document, setting the policy framework for the delivery of public transport in the region. The approach in this region (and other regions in New Zealand with Regional Public Transport Plans) is to set funding levels for public transport (both infrastructure and services) in the Long Term Plans and Annual Plans of the respective organisations with public transport functions. The Bay of Plenty Regional Council forecasts funding and sets rates for public transport operations in its Long Term Plan.

We accept that more financial information could be added to the RPTP to provide more clarity.

Add forecast public transport operational funding and $ amounts to the RPTP.

Add text noting future investment in public transport will need to be scaled up significantly to meet ambitious new mode shift and emissions reduction targets. Analysis of the gap between current funding levels and future requirements will be undertaken once we have a clearer picture of the implications of the new targets.

We also note that the regular Public Transport Arotake Tuatoru - Performance Monitoring Report which is publicly available in the Public Transport Committee agendas has the most comprehensive, detailed breakdown of financial and patronage information for public transport in the region. We will ensure this is readily accessible on the Regional Council website.

3.1.3    Challenges

Two submitters requested that the affordability challenge of providing public transport infrastructure and services, particularly in the context of meeting mode shift targets, be included in the Plan.

Recommendation:

Add additional challenge: ‘Challenge 4: Funding our network’ highlighting disparity between current funding levels and what will be required to achieve our network aspirations. Note that local authorities will not be able to fund the future levels required and a step change in central government funding will be critical to achieving the aspirational targets in this Plan. Also note the overly complex funding environment and the limited funding mechanisms at local government’s disposal.

3.1.4    Vision statement

Some submitters noted the vision statement didn’t reference accessibility (particularly for rural/non-urban parts of the region) despite this being identified as a key challenge/opportunity.

Recommendation:

There is a strong policy thread throughout the RPTP concerned with improving access/connectivity for communities outside the region’s main urban centres. This is not explicitly captured in the draft vision statement.

Recommend the vision statement be amended to read: ‘More people using convenient, accessible public transport that enhances their lives, supports urban transformation and regional connectivity, while reducing our collective impact on the environment’.

3.1.5    Targets

Many submitters sought more information on the RPTP targets or questioned whether they were sufficiently ambitious, particularly the mode shift target.

Recommendation:

Accept

Add a more aspirational mode share target to the Plan.

We note that the Government has recently released new national targets in the New Zealand Emissions Reduction Plan. A key target for transport is to reduce total kilometres travelled by the light fleet by 20 per cent by 2035 through improved urban form and providing better travel options, particularly in our largest cities. Public transport is a key mode for achieving these better travel options.

The Ministry of Transport is now working with partner agencies to develop sub-national light vehicle kilometres travelled targets for the main urban areas in New Zealand, including Tauranga and Rotorua. According to current timeframes, these are due to be released before the end of 2022.

As part of this process, we are working with urgency to better understand public transport’s expected contribution to achieving these targets, and the levels of investment required to deliver this. This includes additional work at the sub-regional level with TSP partner agencies to quantify what this means for current TSP targets.

Once these are clarified, the RPTP will need to be updated through a variation to the Plan.

3.1.6    Performance measurement

A number of submitters raised questions about measuring the performance of the RPTP.

Recommendation:

Accept

Update Part 5 of the RPTP to include reference to the development of an implementation plan for the RPTP. The RPTP monitoring framework (for the performance measures identified in 5.2) will form a key part of the implementation plan.

Update 5.3 to include mode share (including its contribution to carbon reduction), vehicle kilometres travelled (vkt), and benchmarking with other regions.

We note that an emissions reduction model is currently being developed for Tauranga/Western Bay of plenty sub-region. This will assist with quantifying the impact of different interventions on reducing emissions.

We also note that several measures are currently reported in the regular Public Transport Arotake Tuatoru - Performance Monitoring Report which is publicly available in the Public Transport Committee agendas. We will ensure this is more readily accessible on the Regional Council website.

3.1.7    Consolidation of public transport functions

A couple of submitters questioned whether the current separation of public transport functions would deliver the desired outcomes for public transport (particularly with reference to Tauranga/Western Bay of Plenty).

Recommendation:

While determining functional responsibilities for public transport is largely beyond the scope of matters that can be addressed within a Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP), the Plan does include the following key focus area for next three years:

·     Collaborative - We will work with our partners and communities to consider innovative ways of delivering public transport solutions that meet peoples’ needs.

We note that the Tauranga Public Transport Joint Committee is proving to be a successful initiative for the integration of public transport matters in Tauranga city. The Regional Council, through the Public Transport Committee, is also committed to  championing public transport throughout the region.

Furthermore, the Regional Council is certainly open to further discussions with partners around new models of public transport delivery and the RPTP provides an enabling framework for their consideration.

3.1.8    Regional services

Many submitters were interested in regional services as a means of providing better connectivity across the region.

Recommendation:

Our future plan for regional services is to prepare a more comprehensive regional services strategy to confirm the longer term regional services network. The intention is to build on the existing network by developing and implementing a regional network which provides a convenient and attractive service offering to customers.

This will recognise that ‘intra-regional travel between the centres for various purposes (e.g. commuting, work-related travel, medical and health services, leisure, tourism and shopping) is becoming increasingly significant. The location of planned development on the edges of the urban areas is likely to further increase the attractiveness of this type of travel. Low service frequencies impact on the current viability of intraregional services for these trip purposes.’

Add a regional services policy and supporting action to 4.2.2 (Service planning and design).

3.1.9    Zero emission public transport

Many submitters supported the transition to a zero emission public transport fleet, although some urged that the date be brought forward. Several submitters also suggested that smaller, electric vehicles provided a more attractive service option.

Recommendation:

Zero emission public transport - Policy 1.4 seeks to transition the region’s public transport fleet to zero-emission buses in line with Government targets.

Amend the policy to include consideration of different service options including smaller zero emission vehicles and on demand public transport.

There is also a supporting action to undertake a bus fleet decarbonisation feasibility study to understand the opportunities and constraints of increasing the size of the zero emission fleet as bus service contracts are renewed and achieving a fully emissions free public transport bus fleet by 2035.

Key considerations include: existing contractual arrangements with operators, the timing of new contracts, planning for the retirement of the current fleet, securing the adequate supply of replacement zero emission vehicles, and having the necessary charging/fuelling infrastructure place for a zero emission fleet.

3.1.10  Passenger rail

Many submitters demonstrated a particular interest in passenger rail as an alternative public transport mode.

Recommendation:

Add a new ‘Opportunity 8 – New public transport modes’ which references investigating the potential of passenger rail (both intra and inter-regional) as a new public transport mode.

Policy 1.6 (Passenger Rail) includes a commitment to work collaboratively with central government and regional partners to continue exploring the potential for viable inter-regional passenger rail and/or commuter services in the longer term.

Include additional commitments to this policy to:

i.    advocate and support rail track improvements between Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga;

ii.   support Government and advocate for the prioritisation of Government-led fast and frequent rail initiatives connecting New Zealand’s fastest growing cities of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga; and

iii.  protect existing rail corridors in the region to ensure they have the necessary capacity to enable increased use and movement in the future.

3.1.11  Service patronage

Some submitters noted services needed to be well patronised to be effective.

Recommendation:

Service optimisation – Policy 2.3 sets minimum patronage expectations for different types of services. Services which consistently fall below these thresholds will be reviewed to determine how they can better serve the needs of customers.

The Western Bay of Plenty Public Transport Services and Infrastructure Business Case is also currently modelling different options for the Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty to determine the best service operating model for the sub-region (routes, frequencies, interchange points and supporting infrastructure). Customer focus is at the heart of this business case.

3.1.12  On demand public transport

Many submitters were strongly interested in the potential of on demand public transport as a means of delivering public transport services.

Recommendation:

On demand public transport - Policy 2.6 supports trials of on demand public transport in different contexts, for example, to complement existing services, provide a service in areas where demand may not support a fixed route service, or to meet the needs of specific customers e.g. people with mobility constraints.

There is an associated action to develop and implement an on demand trial for Tauranga South. This was identified as an area where geographical constraints make it difficult to provide good public transport coverage with existing services. Consequently, a trial was agreed with partner agencies and included in the Western Bay of Plenty Transport System Plan programme.

Procurement for this trial is currently underway. The intention is that this will help establish proof of concept for wider potential application in the region. Once this trial is delivered and assessed, we will investigate further options for the application of on demand public transport, including those raised in the submissions process. 

Expand Opportunity 4 to include reference to on demand public transport as an option for intra-community travel.

Add a new ‘Opportunity 8 – New public transport modes’ which references exploring the potential of on demand public transport alongside other new modes such passenger rail and ferries.

Expand Service planning and design action to include reference to exploring the further provision of on demand public transport services beyond the current trial.

3.1.13  Rapid transit

Many submitters were interested in the delivery of different modes of rapid transit (bus, rail, light rail, trams).

Recommendation:

Rapid transit – Policy 4.6 and associated actions support a two-fold approach to rapid transit:

i) progressively deliver a network of frequent and reliable public transport services with dedicated priority on the four core UFTI Connected Centres corridors; and

ii) work collaboratively with UFTI partners and central government to future-proof and secure space on the Connected Centres corridors in preparation for a longer term transition to a rapid transit system.

We note there are associated actions in the RPTP to:

·     Undertake work to better understand what is required to future proof the western Bay of Plenty sub-region for a potential longer term transition to rapid transit.

·     Actively participate in any central government business cases investigating rapid transit in the region.

·     Investigate funding and planning mechanisms with the potential to support a longer term transition to a rapid transit system.

3.1.14  Propulsion technologies

Some submitters suggested new/different zero emissions propulsion technologies for public transport.

Recommendation:

RPTP actions for mode shift and carbon reduction include the following:

* Undertake a bus fleet decarbonisation feasibility study to understand the opportunities and constraints of increasing the size of the zero emission fleet.

The scope of this study will include the relative opportunities and constraints of future zero emission propulsion technologies for the public transport bus fleet. Hydrogen and battery electric are two potential options. The intent is for the study to establish a future pathway for transitioning to a zero emission fleet.

3.1.15  Bus stops/shelters

Many submitters raised issues with bus stops (quality, location, lack of shelter, access).

Recommendation:

Refer

Policies in the draft RPTP seek to deliver a to deliver a safe, reliable, punctual and high quality customer experience, and encourage investment in infrastructure (including bus stops) to support this.

Infrastructure quality – Policy 3.4 encourages investment in public transport infrastructure that gives effect to national best practice public transport design guidance.

Your concerns with xxx have been noted and referred to [the relevant authority] (as the public transport infrastructure provider) for a response.

Tauranga City [additional note re: shelters]: We note that investment is programmed in the Tauranga City Council Long Term Plan to accelerate bus shelter provision across the city.

We also recommend that the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider investigating potential co-investment opportunities in public transport infrastructure with the region’s territorial local authorities (city and district councils).

3.1.16  Safety and security issues

Some submitters raised concerns about safety at bus stops/interchanges.

Recommendation:

We recognise that safety and security is fundamental to providing an excellent customer experience. We are committed to working proactively to ensure the safety and security of users.

Amend Policy 5.2 (Safety and personal security) to read: ‘Work collaboratively with bus operators and partner organisations to ensure the safety and security of customers’.

Add the following to ‘Actions – Customer experience and information’: ‘Work with operators and partner organisations to proactively identify and resolve public transport safety and security issues’.

We also note the following ‘Customer experience and information’ actions which will support improved safety and security at bus stops and interchanges:

* Provide security at key locations on the public transport network where increased risk to safety and personal security has been identified.

* Implement New Zealand Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design guidelines at public transport infrastructure and in locations where people access public transport.

3.1.17  School services

One submitter (Whakatane District Council) did not support the school services policy on the basis that they should be provided outside the Tauranga urban area.

Recommendation:

We note that the provision of dedicated school services in Tauranga is a special case and came about as a consequence of a policy decision by the Ministry of education. Our expectation is that the Ministry of Education continues to provide dedicated school services in parts of the region outside the Tauranga urban area and this is reflected in the policy.

We accept that shifting more school trips to public transport has many benefits including emissions reduction, safety and reducing congestion at school drop-off/collection times.

We note that the School Free Fares Trial has recently been expanded to Whakatane enabling fare free travel on public transport for school children during school hours. The Regional Council is certainly willing to work further with Whakatane District Council to identify ways our public transport services can better serve school based travel needs in the district.

3.1.18  Ferries

Many submitters were interested in the provision of a ferry service in the Western Bay of Plenty. Some raised questions about its viability.

Recommendation:

We note that the RPTP includes a policy (2.9) and action to undertake a high level business case for a commuter ferry service in the Western Bay of Plenty. This is likely to build on the initial analysis undertaken in the Western Bay of Plenty Ferries Feasibility Study.  Many of the points raised are likely to form part of the assessment of relative costs and benefits. The Regional Council will continue working collaboratively with partner agencies to explore the feasibility of implementing a service.

Add a new ‘Opportunity 8 – New public transport modes’ which references investigating the potential of ferries as a new public transport mode.

3.1.19  Event services

A couple of submissions made suggestions about services to special events.

Recommendation:

We recognise that public transport increases accessibility to events and can mitigate the impacts of congestion caused by the movement of attendees. Services to special events can also provide wider opportunities for marketing the public transport system and exposing non-users to the benefits of using public transport.

Add a new Policy 2.11 (Special events) setting out when the Regional Council will consider providing public transport support for special events.

Add a new action to ‘Service planning and design’ to develop a set of more comprehensive criteria for when the Regional Council will provide support for public transport to special events.

3.1.20  Infrastructure quality/accessibility

Some submitters highlighted the importance or raised general concerns about the quality of infrastructure that enabled access to public transport e.g. footpaths, bus stops.

Recommendation:

There are a number of policies in the RPTP that are designed to ensure consistency in the delivery of an accessible journey:

Policy 5.1 (Accessible journey) notes that: ‘the accessible journey covers all the steps needed for a person to get from their home to their destination and return. All steps in the accessible journey are interlinked and are of equal importance. If one link is inadequate, the whole journey may be impossible. Consequently, it focuses on providing infrastructure and information that:

i. enables easy and safe access to public transport;

ii. is simple to understand and use; and

iii. meets best practice quality and safety standards for stops, shelters, footpaths, crossings, vehicles and other elements of the accessible journey.

Policy 3.4 (Infrastructure quality) encourages investment in public transport infrastructure that gives effect to national best practice public transport design guidance.

We recommend that the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider investigating potential co-investment opportunities in public transport infrastructure with the region’s territorial local authorities (city and district councils).

3.1.21  Accessible buses

Some submitters noted the importance of accessible buses.

Recommendation:

Policy 3.8 commits the Regional Council to ensuring that all contracted buses on urban services meet the relevant national best practice vehicle quality standards. This includes standards for vehicle accessibility.

3.1.22  Provision for other modes (cycling/micro mobility)

Some submitters asked for provision for other modes in the RPTP (e.g. cycling/micro mobility).

Recommendation:

Policy 4.2 (Modal Integration) supports integration of public transport and other modes (including xxx) through the provision of appropriate facilities and infrastructure. Setting more specific objectives for xxx lies outside the scope of a Regional Public Transport Plan which is primarily concerned with public transport provision (while recognising the important relationships that exist between public transport, land use and other modes).

3.1.23  Exploring new innovations/technologies

Some submissions raised questions about innovation or made suggestions about new technologies that could be used.

Recommendation:

Policy 3.5 (Innovation and technology) supports proactively working with partner organisations to improve our collective capacity to evaluate, and where appropriate, adopt new innovations and technological improvements as they emerge.

The Regional Council will continue to work through established regional sector groups to identify, assess, trial and adopt viable new public transport technologies and innovations.

3.1.24  Extension of SuperGold concession

A couple of submitters sought continuation of the current concession beyond the specified trial end date.

Recommendation:

The RPTP is primarily a policy document, setting the policy framework for the delivery of public transport in the region. The Regional Council ultimately sets funding levels for public transport services in its Long Term Plan and Annual Plan processes.

We recommend that the Public Transport Committee makes a recommendation to the Regional Council to consider continuing the Extension of SuperGold Concession beyond the current trial end date on the basis that it is consistent with Policy 7.1 (Fare Principles) in the Regional Public Transport Plan.

3.1.25  Action/implementation plan

Several submitters raised questions about the lack of a detailed implementation plan for the RPTP, setting out timeframes and costs of delivery.

Recommendation:

Accept

Following confirmation of the policy framework in the RPTP, we are proposing to develop a more detailed implementation plan for the policies and actions within the Plan. This will establish costs and timeframes for delivery, while taking into account available resources.

The Regional Council, through the Public Transport Committee, will continue to be the champion for public transport in the region, and we look forward to continuing the collaborative approach with partner agencies when developing this plan.

Amend Part 5: to clarify intent to develop a more detailed implementation plan for the RPTP.

3.1.26  Bus service changes

Many submitters suggested or requested changes to specific bus services (routes, frequencies, operating times/days).

Recommendation:

The submission has been noted and referred to the BOPRC public transport network planning team for consideration in the next service review [add context specific information on next scheduled service review e.g. Tauranga Bus Network Refresh (Stage 2) – Tauranga Western].

For Tauranga/Western Bay of Plenty also note:

The Western Bay of Plenty Public Transport Services and Infrastructure Business Case is currently modelling different options for the Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty to determine the best service operating model for the sub-region (routes, frequencies, interchange points and supporting infrastructure). Customer focus is at the heart of this business case.

4.        Recommended changes to the Plan

The recommended changes to the RPTP in response to submissions are shown in track changes in the attached Plan. These are summarised below.

Inside cover

·     Revised vision statement moved to front of document.

·     Accompanied by a new statement of network aspirations and what the Plan will deliver: Connecting the Bay! More Access, Less Carbon.

Glossary

·     Definition of ‘mode shift’ added.

Foreword

·     Updated to note dynamic operating environment; the need for flexibility/agility; additional comment on Tauranga city congestion, mode shift and emissions; and to reflect the final Plan.

1.2.3 Reviewing the RPTP

·     Revised to note:

The highly dynamic and constantly changing operating environment.

The need for public transport agencies to be flexible and nimble in response.

Implications of  the New Zealand Emissions Reduction Plan.

Implications of the Sustainable Public Transport Framework.

·     Wording updated to reflect final Plan.

1.3 Developing this RPTP

·     Updated with summary of public consultation.

·     Statement added that the Regional Council will champion public transport in the region.

2.1.1 Relationship between plans

·     Figure 2 revised to clarify He Mauri Ohooho is the region’s Maori Economic Development Strategy; include reference to the New Zealand Emissions Reduction Plan.

2.1.3 Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-2031

·     Footnote added noting RLTP emissions reduction target is subject to review following release of New Zealand Emissions Reduction Plan.

2.2 Funding

·     Updated with forecast public transport funding and $ amounts.

·     Statement added noting gap between current funding levels and future investment that is likely to be required. Linked to new Challenge 4: Funding our network.

2.3.1 Regional context for challenges and opportunities

·     Updated with patronage figures to end of June 2022.

2.3.3 Challenge 2 – Meeting the access needs of smaller urban centres and...

·     Added ‘reliable’ to the description.

2.3.4 Challenge 3 - Climate change and reducing emissions

·     Added pie charts of Tauranga city and Rotorua district greenhouse gas emissions.

·     Added footnote noting the sources of transport emissions that are included in calculations and that emissions from international shipping are excluded.

2.3.4 Challenge 4 – Funding our network

·     Added new challenge recognising that local authorities will not be able to fund the public transport services and infrastructure required to achieve ambitious new targets by themselves; a step change in central government funding will be required.

·     Note revised to state that local authorities are working with urgency to better understand the implications of new targets in the national Emissions Reduction Plan; and that a variation to the RPTP will be required once this work is completed.

     2.3.6 Opportunity 1 – Transforming our urban public transport networks...

·     Modified reference to read ‘main urban public transport networks’.

2.3.8 Opportunity 3 - Delivering interventions to create a competitive...

·     Modified reference to read ‘main urban centres’.

·     Added reference to road pricing as a potential future intervention.

2.3.9 Opportunity 4 - Exploring new public transport delivery models...

·     Expanded to include reference to intra-community travel in urban areas.

2.3.13 Opportunity 8 – New public transport modes

·     Added a new opportunity on investigating the potential for new public transport modes including: passenger rail (both intra and inter-regional), ferries and on demand public transport.

2.4.3 Rotorua

·     Updated to note current service will soon be replaced by a new network.

2.5.1 Bee Card

·     Reference to strategy for integrated national system added.

2.5.3 Summary of recent developments

·     Table updated to note Regional Tertiary/Commuter Services Trial has been extended to December 2023.

3.1 Vision

·     Vision statement revised to include reference to ‘convenient, accessible public transport and ‘regional connectivity’.

3.2 Objectives

·     Note revised to state that local authorities are working with urgency to better understand the implications of new targets in the national Emissions Reduction Plan; and that a variation to the RPTP will be required once this work is completed.

·     References added footnotes to clarify source of information for targets where baselines have been noted.

3.2.1 Objective 1: Mode shift and carbon reduction

·     Target replaced with aspirational target to ‘plan and deliver a network to achieve 20% public transport mode share in the region’s main urban areas by 2032’.

3.2.2 Objective 2: Service planning and design

·     ‘Easy to use’ replaced by ‘convenient’.

·     The word ‘all’ added to objective statement to increase the emphasis on inclusive and equality of access to public transport for all.

3.2.2 Objective 3: Service and infrastructure delivery

·     ‘High quality’ replaced by ‘convenient’.

3.3 Focus areas

·     Customer centred – ‘competitive’ replaced  by ‘convenient’

·     Accessibility – reference to ‘exploring new modes and delivery models’ added.

4.1.1 Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty

·     Summary – references to bus decarbonisation feasibility study and exploring new modes and delivery models added (rail, ferries, on demand public transport).

·     New Figure 15 added showing relationship between western Bay of Plenty strategic transport planning documents.

·     Figure 16 (Map) updated with latest proposed intensification on Te Papa peninsula.

4.1.2 Rotorua

·     Summary updated to provide consistent reference to exploring new modes and delivery models.

·     Updated with patronage figures to end of June 2022.

·     Section updated with reference to final recommended network for Rotorua.

4.1.3 Eastern Bay of Plenty

·     Updated Eastern Bay of Plenty summary to clarify distinction between shorter and  longer term strategy.

·     Updated with patronage figures to end of June 2022.

4.1.4 Regional services

·     Replaced reference to ‘grant’ with ‘funding contribution’.

·     Added reference to intra-regional travel for medical and health services.

·     Replaced ‘fast’ with ‘convenient’.

Policy 1.3  Travel demand management

·     Amended to refer to programmes rather than strategies, and development in partnership with territorial authorities.

Policy 1.4 Zero emission public transport

·     Added reference to different service options including smaller zero emission vehicles and on demand public transport.

Policy 1.6 Passenger rail

·     Included additional policy provisions to be consistent Waikato region policy and to protect existing rail corridors.

Policy 1.7 Transport pricing

·     Replaced ‘advocate for’ with ‘support’.

Actions – mode shift and carbon reduction

·     Additional action to ‘work with urgency to better understand what is required to achieve new national vehicle kilometres travelled targets and to plan for 20% public transport mode share by 2032.’

4.2.2 Service planning and design

·     Objective 2 – replaced ‘easy to use’ with ‘convenient’.

Policy 2.1  Service planning principles

·     New policy principle to support sustainable service provision and retention of a stable and sustainable workforce.

Policy 2.5  Community services

·     Policy wording revised to provide further definition of intent.

Policy 2.8  School services

·     Textbox updated to clarify that Ministry of Education provides services to those parts of the region outside the Tauranga urban area.

Policy 2.10 Regional services

·     New policy added to design and implement a regional services network that provides a convenient and attractive service to customers.

Policy 2.11 Special events

·     New policy added setting out when the Regional Council will consider providing public transport support for special events.

Actions – Service planning and design

·     Expand existing action to explore the further provision of on demand public transport service beyond the current trial for Tauranga South.

·     New actions to:

prepare and implement a regional bus services strategy; and

develop criteria for when the Regional Council will support for public transport to special events.

4.2.3 Service and infrastructure delivery

·     Objective 3 – replace ‘high quality’ with ‘convenient’.

Actions – Service and infrastructure delivery

·     Two actions added:

Undertake a technical review of contract units to ensure they provide an optimal mix of unit sizes and operators in the region to deliver high quality services.

Work with operators to ensure that there are sufficient drivers to deliver contracted levels of service.

Policy 4.4  Infrastructure timing

·     Policy expanded to cover protecting public transport corridors and ensuring sufficient width and space is provided.

Actions – Public transport and land use integration

·     Added action to:

Review the provision of public transport services and infrastructure against areas in the region identified for medium and high density residential living under the Resource Management Act – Enabling Housing Supply Amendment Act by August 2023.

Policy 5.2  Safety and personal security

·     Policy revised to focus on ensuring the safety and security of customers.

Actions – Customer experience and information

·     New action to work with operators and partner organisations to proactively identify and resolve public transport safety and security issues.

Part 5: Implementation, monitoring and review

·     Part 5 updated to include reference to the development of an implementation plan for the policies and actions in the RPTP, which will establish costs and timeframes for delivery, while taking into account available resources.

5.3 Performance measures

·     Updated to include mode share (including its contribution to carbon reduction), vehicle kilometres travelled (vkt), and benchmarking with other regions.

Appendix A: Policy Context

·     Updated to provide the latest information on the Sustainable Public Transport Framework (replacing the Public Transport Operating Model).

·     Updated to include reference to the following central government documents:

Hīkina te Kohupara – Kia mauri ora ai te iwi Transport Emissions: Pathways to Net Zero by 2050

Ināia tonu nei: a low emissions future for Aotearoa

Toitū Te Taiao - Our Sustainability Action Plan

5.        Considerations

5.1      Risks and Mitigations

The following table shows potential risks and mitigations that have been identified and actively managed during the review process.

Risk

Mitigations

Confusion about the role of the RPTP review project and how it relates to all the other ‘public transport initiatives’.

·     Identify and describe key dependencies.

·     Early communication with key stakeholders on scope of RPTP review, relationship with other initiatives.

Some sectors of the community unhappy with the policies in the RPTP as the review progresses and concludes.

·     Early engagement with community on RPTP review.

·     Clear communication on the benefits of implementing the policies.

Unable to achieve key stakeholder buy-in.

·     Early communication with key stakeholders on scope of RPTP review, relationship with other initiatives.

·     Establish and maintain a multi-agency project team.

Project team unable to complete work due to other commitments / conflicting demands on their time.

·     Champion project as a priority in the Regional Council work programme.

·     Active project management approach to maintain momentum.

Policy positions required in key areas and topics to inform other work ahead of RPTP timing.

·     Adopt an adaptive, flexible approach to developing the policy positions.

·     Focus on ‘doing the thinking’ to support multiple public transport-related projects and programmes.

Rapid and fundamental shift in assumptions underpinning the Plan - economic trends, travel behaviour, transport costs and revenues, technological change, catastrophic event (e.g. pandemic, natural disaster).

·     Horizon scanning.

·     Continue to develop an understanding of the local level impacts of COVID-19 on public transport.

Services identified as being integral to the public transport network are not operated as planned due to external factors e.g. driver shortages, major road works, traffic congestion and a lack of public transport priority, thus undermining public confidence in the system.

 

·     Continue to work with operators and partner agencies on an integrated approach to the provision of public transport services and infrastructure.

·     Joint development and implementation of management plans for parts of the public transport network subject to significant disruption.

 

5.2      Climate Change

Public transport contributes to reduced GHG emissions because many people in one vehicle produce less emissions than the same number of people in several cars. GHG emissions are reduced further when the public transport trip is in a zero emission vehicle.

The Government has announced its plans to decarbonise the public transport bus fleet. The Government’s commitment is to:

·     require only zero-emission public transport buses to be purchased by 2025; and

·     target the decarbonisation of the public transport bus fleet by 2035.

The Regional Council is undertaking a bus fleet decarbonisation feasibility study to understand the opportunities and constraints of increasing the size of the zero-emission fleet as bus service contracts are renewed and achieving a fully emissions free public transport bus fleet by 2035.

The recommended RPTP features a significant focus on climate change and emissions reduction.

5.3      Implications for Māori

Public transport has positive effects for Māori through improved accessibility and choice of transport options. This enables Māori to have better access to essential services and opportunities, including employment, education and health care both within major urban centres and between smaller settlements and larger centres.

The project team includes Māori  Policy expertise, and engaging with Māori has been an important part of the consultation process. The recommended RPTP features policies and actions that support partnerships with Māori and the potential for co-designing solutions that better meet their access needs.

5.4      Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

To obtain input or feedback from affected communities about our analysis, alternatives, and /or proposed decisions.

Public consultation took place between 4 – 29 July 2022. The consultation process was consistent with s82 of the Local Government Act, and consultation requirements under the Land Transport Management Act 2003 (LTMA).

5.5      Financial Implications

If the recommendation is adopted by Council, will it result in:

-   Unbudgeted work during the current financial year?

-   Unbudgeted work for any of the years remaining in the current Long Term Plan?

If the answer is ‘no’ to both questions please select the dropdown option 1 and complete appropriately.

If the answer is ‘yes’ to either question please select “Budget Implications” in the building block below and liaise with your Management Accountant in order to complete the Financial Impact table.

There are no material unbudgeted financial implications and this fits within the allocated budget.

Development or review of the RPTP must take into account the public transport funding likely to be available in the region and this has shaped the strategic direction in the Plan, including the challenge of funding our network.

6.        Next Steps

Next Steps: What next? What resources are needed? Further analysis? Timeframes ahead. Any consultation planned. Remind Council of the process ahead. Next update to Council?

Conclusion: Short concluding remarks. Referring back to recommendations. No new content.

6.1      Adoption

Adoption of the RPTP is a two-step process:

·     This report seeks the Public Transport Committee’s endorsement of the RPTP as recommended by the RPTP Hearings Subcommittee, and a recommendation to the Regional Council to the adopt the RPTP.

·     The Regional Council will then make a decision on adopting the final RPTP at its meeting on 29 September.

Attachments

Attachment 1 - Draft Bay of Plenty Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-2032   


Public Transport Committee                                22 September 2022

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Report To:

Public Transport Committee

Meeting Date:

22 September 2022

Report Writer:

Oliver Haycock, Team Leader - Service Planning and Project Deliver

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

To provide PTC members with a summary of highlights of the work conducted in the Triennium.

 

 

Highlights of the Triennium

 

Executive Summary

As we reach the end of the 2019- 2022 Triennium, it is useful to reflect back and identify some key highlights achieved by the Passenger Transport Committee during this period.

The highlights contained in this paper are not an exhaustive list of achievements.

 

Recommendations

That the Public Transport Committee:

1           Receives the report, Highlights of the Triennium.

 

1.        Introduction

As the 2019-2022 Triennium draws to a close, it is useful to reflect on some of the key highlights of the past three years.

This Triennium has spanned a challenging period in time, with the COVID-19 pandemic present in New Zealand since early 2020. Although this shifted focus onto service continuity, a lot of progress and improvement has still been made across the region.

1.1      Legislative Framework

Regional Council is responsible for funding public transport services under Part 5 of the Land Transport Management Act 2003 (LTMA).

The overall purpose of the LTMA is to contribute to an effective, efficient and safe land transport system in the public interest.  Section 115 of the LTMA includes a set of principles that are intended to guide the actions of regional councils in undertaking their public transport functions.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Vibrant Region

We lead regional transport strategy and system planning, working with others to deliver a safe and reliable public transport system.

 

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

High - Positive

þ Cultural

High - Positive

þ Social

High - Positive

þ Economic

High - Positive

2.        Key Highlights

The following are some highlights over the Triennium which is not an exhaustive list, and no particular order.

Key Highlight

Comments

2022-32 Bay of Plenty Regional Passenger Transport Plan (RPTP)

The 2022-32 RPTP “Connecting the Bay” followed an extensive review process involving 4 workshops commencing in October 2021. This was followed by a series of Committee meetings and intermediate decisions.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Passenger Transport Plan 2022 (RPTP) was notified for submissions on 4 July 2022. A total of 65 submissions were received and 20 people or organisations presented at Hearings held in August 2022.

The draft plan was put up for approval by the PTC on 22 June 2022.

Tauranga Bus Network Refresh - Connecting Tauranga City with the Mount, Pāpāmoa and Te Puke

In November 2021, a refresh was undertaken on services in the East of Tauranga. The most notable change was the introduction of Route 2, which provided a direct service throughout the day between Pāpāmoa and Tauranga CBD. This removed the need for passengers to transfer between services at Bayfair, making journeys quicker and more convenient.

Introduction of BeeCard and RITS rollout

July 2020 signalled the introduction of the Regional Integrated Ticketing Solution (RITS) and Bee cards for all urban services and some of the regional services.  This delivered a card-based tag-on and tag-off system that allowed paperless ticketing, online top-ups, regional interoperability within other participating regions, and rich data for reporting.

Contract Renewal of 85 Connector Bus Service

A Waihi Beach trial passenger transport service commenced in October 2015. The service operates two days a week, completing four loops around the circuit linking Waihī, Waihī Beach and Katikati.

By providing more frequent and direct links between Katikati, Waihī Beach and Waihī, Council is enabling residents in these communities to stay connected with each other and is particularly beneficial for people who do not have access to a private car.  The service is important in providing towns outside of urban areas with access to essential community goods and services.

In June 2022, the PTC endorsed the continuation of the route as a permanent two day a week service for a further 12 months.

Introduction of Accessibility Concession and +1 for caregivers

The launch of the Accessibility Concession (AC) in July 2021, was made available to people who were permanently unable to drive.

Eligible people gained access to free transport on Bay of Plenty Regional Council bus services using Bee cards.  At launch Council also provided an option for AC holders who could not travel independently free transport for +1 caregiver.

Tertiary Commuter services

Five tertiary/commuter services commenced in February 2020 to provide access to tertiary institutes for students in other regional centres and townships. 

The five services provide access to Toi Ohomai and University of Waikato for students travelling from Whakatāne, Katikati and Rotorua to Tauranga; and Murupara and Tauranga to Rotorua.

Both Toi Ohomai and the University of Waikato co-fund this arrangement, along with Waka Kotahi.

 

Considerations

2.1      Risks and Mitigations

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and for information only. There are no risks associated with the matters contained within this report.

2.2      Climate Change

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider climate change impacts.

2.3      Implications for Māori

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there are no significant implications for Māori associated with this paper.

2.4      Community Engagement

 

Engagement with the community is not required as the recommended proposal / decision relates to internal Council matters only.

 

2.5      Financial Implications

There are no material unbudgeted financial implications and this fits within the allocated budget.

3.        Next Steps

As this triennium draws to a close, staff are looking forward to continuing to support the Public Transport Committee when the new council is formed.

 

  


 

 

 

Report To:

Public Transport Committee

Meeting Date:

22 September 2022

Report Writer:

Chris Brewer, Interim Transport Operations Manager

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

To provide an overview of performance monitoring for Public Transport in the Bay of Plenty for year ending 30 June 2022.

 

 

Public Transport Arotake Tuawha - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022

 

Executive Summary

This report provides an overview of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s performance monitoring for Public Transport as set out in the Bay of Plenty Public Transport Plan for the 2021/22 financial year.

Attached as Appendix 1 to this report, is our monitoring report Public Transport Arotake Tuawha 2021/22 – 1 July to 30 June 2022.  Public Transport Arotake brings together information and data for Public Transport across the region and includes the following sections:

·          Executive Summary – includes high level patronage overview over the reporting period along with financial and non-financial performance information.

·          Public Transport updates – including updates on bus services, and an overview of patronage, reliability, and customer experience.

·          Customer experience updates.

·          Technology – including an overview of the Regional Integrated Ticketing System and the Bee Card.

·          Total Mobility updates; and

·          Finance - detailed financial information for key areas within the Transportation Group of Activities budget.

 

 

Recommendations

That the Public Transport Committee:

1       Receives the report, Public Transport Arotake Tuawha - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022.

 

 

1.        Introduction

This report provides an overview of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s performance monitoring for Public Transport as set out in the Bay of Plenty Public Transport Plan for the 2021/22 financial year.

Attached as Appendix 1 to this report, is our monitoring report Public Transport Arotake Tuawha 2021/22 – 1 July to 30 June 2022. Public Transport Arotake brings together information and data for Public Transport across the region.

1.1      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Vibrant Region

We lead regional transport strategy and system planning, working with others to deliver a safe and reliable public transport system.

1.1.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

Low - Positive

þ Cultural

Low - Positive

þ Social

Medium - Positive

þ Economic

Medium - Positive

 

 

2.        Public Transport Arotake Tuawha

2.1      Patronage Highlights

Bus patronage for all services over the period of this report (Q4 2021/22) was 625,961, which is down 9.5% on the same period 2020/21 and down 15.4% for the full year on 2020/21. Tauranga remains on a reduced timetable due to the reduced availability of bus drivers. The year-on-year decline reflects the impact COVID-19 has had on passenger transport patronage in the Bay of Plenty, and the rest of New Zealand. The introduction of half prices fares on 1 April 2022 encouraged a brief increase to patronage for the month of April, with week-on-week patronage dropping back in May and June.

 

The Tauranga network (Urban and School) patronage for the reporting period decreased 12.4% on the same period last year and is 15.6% down on Full year 2020/21. Passenger patronage on the urban network was 311,091 a decrease of 19.4% on the same period last year and down 21.7% on the full year 2020/21.

Patronage for the Tauranga school network remained strong in the fourth quarter of 2021/22, with 203,550 trips making it the highest quarter since the inception of the Bayhopper School Bus network. This is an increase in patronage of 1% on the same period last year and down just 1.3% on the full year 2020/21.

The Rotorua service patronage for the reporting period was 3.3% higher than the same period 2020/21 and down 18.1% on the full year 2020/21. Patronage in the months of May and June were up slightly on the same months last year (10.0% and 6.1% respectively), following 10 months of year-on-year decline. This is likely to be the result of the introduction of 50% fares in early April.

Council has embarked on a significant project to refresh the urban bus network in Rotorua. Public consultation was undertaken on the proposed changes via a comprehensive campaign held from 26 April to 24 May 2022 across multiple channels, and 199 responses were received.

Staff have now finished reviewing the feedback in detail and have made several changes to the proposed network to reflect the comments and suggestions received. Work is now focussing on the feasibility of delivering new bus stops to enable the planned network, as well as validation of the draft timetables by the bus operator.

Quarter 4 patronage in the Eastern Bay of Plenty was up 17.1% on the same period last year and up 2.1% on the full year 2020/21.

The regional school fare free trial is showing:

·     Take up of the school fare free trial in Rotorua is showing strong growth with an increase in patronage of 58.1% compared to same quarter last year.

·     Whakatāne–Ōhope patronage is also showing growth with an increase of 15.6% compared to same quarter last year.

Total tertiary services boardings for the 4th quarter were 2293, down 9.7% on the same period last year.

Average monthly patronage has increased this quarter for all tertiary/commuter services. Route 104 (Murupara-Rotorua) has the largest average monthly increase from 26 to 127 passengers, which is double last year’s patronage. All other routes patronage is down on the same quarter last year.

2.2      Total Mobility

The 75% subsidy has resulted in an increase in use of TM since its introduction in April.

The Total Mobility team are working with TM transport providers in the Eastern Bay to help resolve driver and vehicle availability issues.

2.3      Budget Update

The key budget highlights for the period ended 30 June 2022 are as follows:

·    Operating revenue at the end of Quarter 4 2021/22 is $3.05 million lower than budget, primarily related to fare revenue in Tauranga and Rotorua. Key drivers of this variance are the impacts of COVID-19 and the running of reduced timetables in Tauranga. Half price fares implemented by the Crown contributes to increased subsidy revenue, matched to a decrease in fare revenue.

·    Operating expenditure at the end of Quarter 4 2021/22 is $5.1 million lower than budget, primarily due to the Western Bay of Plenty Transport Systems Plan deferral ($2.2 million) and Rotorua optimisation ‘A Balanced Network’ ($1.6 million) which was not approved by Waka Kotahi. Software expenditure operations and maintenance, and employee expenses are underspent.

·    At the end of Quarter 4 capital revenue is $0.5 million lower than budget and capital expenditure is $1.2 million lower than budget. A key driver of the variance is Rotorua’s optimisation ‘A balanced approach’ which was not approved by Waka Kotahi.

3.        Considerations

3.1      Climate Change

 

4.        Mitigation

Adaptation

Reduce GHG emissions

Produce GHG emissions

Sequester carbon

Anticipate climate change impacts

Respond to climate change impacts

 

The matters in this report relate to Focus Area 3 (the services we provide as a Regional Council) in the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Climate Change Action Plan and Goal 10 – reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the region.

4.1      Implications for Māori

There are no specific implications for Māori as a result of this report.  Implications resulting from projects or items considered in this report will be addressed within those projects or processes.

4.2      Community Engagement

Adobe Systems

INFORM

Whakamōhio

To provide affected communities with balanced and objective information to assist them in understanding the problems, alternatives and/or solutions.

4.3      Financial Implications

There are no material unbudgeted financial implications and this fits within the allocated budget.

5.        Next Steps

As this report is for information only, no further steps are required.

Attachments

Attachment 1 - Public Transport Arotake Tuawha - Performance Monitoring Report 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022  

 

 

 


Public Transport Committee                                22 September 2022

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[1] Source: Te Rapunga Ora ki Te Papa - City Centre Action and Investment Plan 2022 – 2032, Tauranga City Council, Accessed 29 August 2022