Public consultation has opened on the Upper Hutt City Council draft Integrated Transport Strategy 2026–2056, inviting residents, commuters, businesses and community groups to provide feedback on how the city moves now and into the future.

The draft strategy lays out a 30-year direction to respond to rising pressures on Upper Hutt’s transport network.

It focuses on managing congestion, improving safety, supporting more travel choices, and reducing transport related emissions which currently make up a significant share of the city’s carbon footprint.

As the city grows, daily travel challenges are being felt by residents and visitors. Congestion on key routes increases commute times, and demand for safer walking, cycling, and public transport options continues to rise.

Mayor Peri Zee says the draft strategy puts forward a clear direction for the future of transport in Upper Hutt and community input is key to shaping it.

“Transport affects every part of daily life, from how long your commute takes, to how safe our streets feel to get around to walk and bike” she says.

“This strategy is about setting our shared priorities. We can’t do everything at once, and public feedback will help us decide what matters most.”

The draft strategy recognises real constraints – funding limits, ageing infrastructure and the need to partner with regional and national agencies to deliver change.

“It doesn’t make decisions on specific projects, but sets the direction that future investment will follow, and strengthens our ability to seek funding for improvements over time,” says Mayor Peri.

Chief Executive Geoff Swainson highlights the importance of community input in refining the strategy.

“We are working in a constrained funding environment. We must make evidence-based decisions about where to invest and when,” Swainson says.

“Community feedback will help shape priorities that reflect everyday needs, whether that’s reducing congestion, improving safety, or expanding transport choices.”

Consultation is open from 28 April to 27 May.

Anyone who lives, works, studies or visits Upper Hutt is encouraged to have their say.

Participants can read the draft strategy online at Let’s Kōrero Upper Hutt or pick up a free copy from Upper Hutt Libraries before completing an online survey to submit their feedback.

Have your say: letskorero.upperhutt.govt.nz/draft-integrated-transport-strategy

A “thank you” to Upper Hutt City Council for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/04/26