Our next kōrero in the series will focus on the inadequacies of Aotearoa New Zealand's transport systems, which fail to provide equitable access for people with disabilities. The absence of essential solutions—such as ramps, lifts, audio-visual aids on buses and trains, and accessible taxis—renders public transport inaccessible to many.
Accessibility varies greatly across regions. While urban areas may offer more options, rural regions often lack basic services, leaving some populations stranded. High transport costs further exacerbate the problem for low-income individuals, forcing them to rely on inadequate or inaccessible alternatives, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and exclusion. Although there are policies aimed at improving transport accessibility, implementation is slow, and enforcement is weak, resulting in minimal real-world progress.
Accessible and inclusive transport is crucial for building a more equitable society in Aotearoa New Zealand. When everyone can access transport, it levels the playing field, enabling all citizens to fully participate in economic and social life.
Join us in this crucial kōrero as we explore how we can make transport more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Download the Webinar Transcript
Date: Wednesday, 9 October 2024
Time: 9am to 12pm
Where: via Zoom
Speakers: Jonathan Mosen MNZM, Host of the Living Blindfully podcast; Juliet Shoultz, PE, Transporation Systems Engineer and Accessibility Specialist at the US Access Board; Julie Anne Genter MP, Transport Spokesperson for the New Zealand Green Party; Warren Quirke, Small Passengers Service Association Director; Teresa Burnett, General Manager at Transport Safety, Accessibility Lead at Auckland Transport; David Boyd, Customer Experience Manager Accessibility Action Plan Lead at Metlink; Rob Giller, Advocacy and Business Development Manager at Bus and Coach Association New Zealand; Andrew McGill, Group Manager Transport Network, Planning and Policy at Auckland Transport; Adam Lawrence, Lead Advisor Public Transport at Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency; Billie Moore, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Airports Association; Ed Collett, Senior Aircraft Programme Manager at Air New Zealand; Adam Muirson, Ario Scooters General Manager; Tim Andrews, Founder of Canary Organisation; Mandy Sa, Waikato Regional Customer and Crew Manager, Te Huia Northern Explorer, Great Journeys; Simon Kingham, Professor at University of Canterbury; Shanthi Ameratunga, Honorary Professor and Reseacher at Transport Research Centre; Bridget Doran, Researcher and Civil and Transport Engineer
Registration: Via Zoom
Attending: Anyone who wants to improve access and inclusion for all of Aotearoa New Zealand's population.
Programme: Word Doc, PDF, Large Print, Easy Read, NZSL, Audio, Braille
Contact: Kimberly Graham via [email protected]
Te Manatū Waka Ministry of Transport Statement: Word Doc, Large Print, Easy Read Part 1, Easy Read Part 2