Auckland City Council
Media advisory
20 May 2009

Hikoi will cause delays to traffic

Due to the hikoi on Monday, 25 May, Auckland City Council is expecting significant disruption to traffic within the central city area, and on key city-bound roads and motorways.

The council recommends that city commuters depart for work earlier than usual or travel by train or ferry where possible. It is also recommended that people do not drive into the central city between 9.30am and 4pm unless necessary.

Groups participating in the hikoi will travel in convoy from the north, east, south and west of Auckland to pre-arranged assembly points in the city. Tamaki Drive, Symonds Street, Customs Street and Fanshawe Street should specifically be avoided throughout the morning and delays will be experienced on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, North Western Motorway and SH1.

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) has also advised that significant delays can be expected on all bus services until 4pm.
The Council is working proactively with the Police, ARTA, New Zealand Transport Agency and hikoi organisers in an effort to minimise disruption.
Each group will walk from their various assembly points and meet on the corner of Customs and Queen Streets at approximately 11am. Customs Street East (between Albert and Commerce streets) will be closed between 11am and 12.30pm, and there will be a staggered closure of Queen Street from midday as the hikoi makes its way to the Auckland Town Hall.
Hikoi organisers are expecting approximately 6000 people to take part. Participants will gradually disperse from Aotea Square from approximately 4pm.
Phone 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nzfor more information on bus, train and ferry services.

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