Public Postcard Polls Indicate Banks and Hubbard Have Got It All Wrong

An informal postcard poll of Aucklanders shows a majority disagree with mayoral candidates John Banks' and Dick Hubbard's plans for an Eastern motorway and sale of airport shares.

The postcard distributed by Chris Fletcher asked people to "vote" on the five most important issues for Auckland out of a list of 16.

An analysis of the first 500 cards returned shows the five main issues in order were: o Introduce a fairer rating system, remove annual general charges, and provide rate relief for senior citizens o Implement a world-class public transport system o Retain ownership of public assets including water, and the Airport shares o Provide fast new electric trains and light rail o Halt the Eastern Motorway proposal

Chris Fletcher says the postcard poll is an interesting indicator of the issues Aucklanders are most concerned about.

"I wonder where Mr Banks and Mr Hubbard think the support for their proposals is coming from," said Chris Fletcher.

She says both men are downplaying the value of a light rail system, while the public is obviously very keen on the option.

"Both Mr Banks and Mr Hubbard need to release that infrastructure options need to benefit the whole of Auckland, not just favoured pockets of the city. A balance of public transport and roading projects will get the city flowing far more quickly and at a more affordable cost than throwing money at the expensive Eastern motorway and expansion of heavy rail, she says.

"We must value the opinions of the public as evidenced in this survey," she says.

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