Masters Thesis Abstract: Luke Versteeg
Feasibility Study for Rail Transport from North of the Waimakariri River into Christchurch
Expected population growth in the Waimakariri District is predicted at 21% between 2001 and 2021, growth that is among the highest in Canterbury. A large number of people, 7416 according to the 2001 census, are driving from the Waimakariri District into Christchurch City, commuting daily for work. Congestion is already a problem in Christchurch, particularly during peak-hour traffic periods. Waimakariri District residents are directed in and out of Christchurch along two arterial routes, causing congestion at specific intersections along these routes.
Motor-vehicle congestion decreases living standards through social, environmental and economic impacts. Increasing road space to solve congestion is not sustainable. The New Zealand Transport Strategy (NZTS) states that “by 2010 New Zealand will have an affordable, integrated, safe, responsive and sustainable transport system”. The recently released draft National Rail Strategy (NRS) to 2014 stresses the importance of rail in contributing to NZTS goals. Transport literature states that rail is an integral part of an integrated and sustainable transport system. While the initial construction of rail systems can be expensive, the long-term benefits are well documented. It is the initial justification of investment in commuter train systems for Christchurch that remains difficult. Often short and medium term solutions offer cheaper investment. Public transport needs advantages over private transport in order to change travel behavior. Private transport can also push people towards using public transport. Congestion is an example of one of those push factors.
The availability of alternative modes of transport to the Waimakariri District population is needed to change travel behavior. Walking and cycling are limited options for residents due to safety and distance issues. Roads crossing the Waimakariri River are used by vehicles traveling at fast speeds and are not safe for cyclists. Being a distance of approximately 30km from Christchurch, walking is not a practical transport option. Use of the Main North Line train corridor which connects Christchurch City to Kaiapoi and Rangiora is a possible commuter transport option. Despite local and national support for rail as a transport option, little research has been conducted in the Waimakariri District on the logistics of a local rail service in the area and the possible demand from people who currently commute from Kaiapoi and Rangiora to Christchurch.