Future Christchurch: Towards an Efficient Economy

Abstract

Christchurch, like most cities around the world, has evolved from a walking city, to a transit city, and currently the automobile city; The advancement of each transportation technology permitted the further expansion of cities while complying to same duration of travel time. This has consequently steered Christchurch towards urban sprawl that suffers from numerous problems such as the ever-increasing burden of traffic. A significant part of the problem is the persisting preference of private cars which undermines environmental and public health impacts. Due to Christchurch's low population density, initiatives for improving public transport was often deemed too risky. Therefore large investment funds into state highways and road widening has long been the short-term fix to resolve road congestions. This thesis explores an alternative solution for overcoming auto-dependence. It takes advantage of Christchurch's car culture, and applies emerging transport initiatives which underscore collaboration as a method of consuming. It also examined the applicability of such initiatives, its economical and social benefits, and the potential for it to act as a catalyst for the betterment of public transport. It envisions a future that questions the necessity of owning a car by providing multimodal transportation. In doing so, Christchurch can evolve towards an efficient economy.