New Zealand Police - Operation APEC

Media Release

Police have been impressed by the overall positive response from inner city businesses and residents towards tackling the traffic disruptions during APEC.

A police sergeant recently 'walked and talked' his way around the affected inner city streets on the secure route handing out information packs and was well received.

"Most people were very receptive, some even gave their staff the day off on the Monday 13th while the sergeant was standing there which made him very popular!" says Detective Superintendent Peter Marshall, Operation APEC Commander.

"The Monday will affect most people and if they do need to get to work there are plenty of options including buses, ferries and getting into work early, before 6am and leaving the city before 4pm, or working late and leaving the city after 9pm.

“Others are planning shuttle buses into the office, to hold staff training out of the central city and arranging for staff to work glide-time to avoid the worst of the traffic."

The sergeant also spoke with some Manukau City residents on the main airport route who were also receptive.

"Our aim is to be up front with people and give them plenty of time to plan ahead. And I think we've achieved that," Mr Marshall says.

Police are also working their way through hundreds of applications for vehicle passes into the secure routes.

People granted access will be posted a colour-coded sticker for their vehicle within the next couple of weeks. Those declined will also be advised by mail.

"I can't stress enough the need to reduce the traffic flow into the city to avoid grid lock," Mr Marshall says.

"I must reiterate that we are still trying to discourage people from driving into the city if possible and even motorists with a vehicle pass may be stuck in traffic for hours."

The public will receive detailed information about the road closures next week when a major publicity campaign begins.

Auckland households and businesses will receive brochures outlining the APEC road closures and restrictions which are in effect between September 11 – 13.

Radio and newspaper advertisements and billboards will supplement the brochures as well as a free phone information number, 0800-APEC.

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