Abstract:
Transportation has considerable effects on the environment, the economy and society as a whole. In particular, the environmental, social and health impacts of car-based urban transportation have become apparent and the need for urban areas to shift towards more sustainable models of transportation is acknowledged. In Auckland, approximately two thirds of all journeys currently made by car are less than 6km, with one third of all car journeys less than two kilometres. Many of these journeys could be undertaken by bicycle. This thesis examines cycling‟s historical and contemporary position within Auckland‟s transportation system, alongside the challenges in the shift to sustainable transportation in Auckland. Data was based on semi-structured key informant interviews and comparative policy analysis. The results of this research highlight that Auckland still has a considerable way to go before the widespread implementation of sustainable transportation initiatives will take place. Governance arrangements, legislative, institutional, political and financial barriers are significantly impacting attempts to shift away from the car-dominated paradigm of the last sixty years. Firstly, there needs to be significant changes in New Zealand‟s transport governance and legislation in order for sustainable transport policies to be implemented. Secondly, the management culture within transport agencies needs to change to reflect the need to provide sustainable transport options in Auckland. Accessibility planning