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A new programme to get people out of their cars was endorsed by the Environment and Climate Change Committee on March 10.
The Regional Streets for People Programme is a $3 million fund to support seven new projects outside of the city centre to reduce emissions through encouraging a shift towards walking, cycling or micro mobility.
The projects range from e-bike training to creating safer crossing points.
Issues with the programme were raised when it was discovered the only way for mana whenua to engage was through a local board.
The report detailed that the programme would encourage “active Māori participation,” and acknowledged Council’s committed partnership with mana whenua, but it was clear this was not the case.
Independent Māori Statutory Board member Karen Wilson asked about how mana whenua were able to engage and have their views reflected?
“It should be obvious what the participation is. If it’s not, don’t include it,” Wilson said.
“I’m appalled that there was no consideration of mana whenua.”
Wilson also expressed concerns that the report detailed Otara or Mangere projects as measures of successful Māori outcomes.
Auckland Transport’s regional streets for people manager Allyn Sims apologised for the oversight.
“As you have rightly pointed out, this is not working in partnership. If it’s not too late we should assure mana whenua have a way to apply to the fund,” Sims said.
Committee chair Richard Hills also apologised.
“I should have, as chair, picked up that it should have been a wider application process,” Hills said.
Chair Cr Pippa Coom said Auckland streets were hostile places that were not suitable for kids to walk and cycle safely.
Coom referred to Levi James, 19, who was struck and killed by a truck in Auckland earlier this month.
“Vulnerable people are dying on our streets,” she said.
Cr Sharon Stewart was the only committee member who voted against the endorsement.
