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Source: Auckland Regional Authority
After an absence of more than 50 years electric trams are coming back to Auckland.
The ARC has given its formal support to a heritage tram project along Auckland's waterfront.
The project's first phase will see heritage trams circuiting the 30 hectare redeveloped Wynyard Quarter linking it with the Britomart Transport Centre.
The proposal was first put forward by the Campaign for Better Transport and Auckland's Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) and will be managed by Sea+City Projects, an ARC Group subsidiary.
Phase one will focus on Wynyard Quarter with a single track loop circuiting Gateway Plaza, Jellicoe Street, Halsey Street, Gaunt Street and Beaumont Street. It is planned to be ready in time for the Rugby World Cup.
Sidings at the western end of Jellicoe Street will house the trams in buildings beside the proposed Silo Park which is being designed to attract people to the western end of Jellicoe Street.
"The return of trams to Auckland's streets will make a real point of difference for the Wynyard Quarter," says ARC chairman, Michael Lee.
"This is a modest beginning, but the longest journey starts with one small step."
Phase two will see the trams linking to the CBD and connecting with existing public transport at Britomart and on Queen Street.
The ARC has recommended Sea+City work with MOTAT on the technical aspects of tramway construction and management.
No decisions have been made on who will operate the tramway which is being designed as an attraction for the public and visitors to Auckland while providing convenient access around the whole Wynyard Quarter.
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