Traffic plan on track for final test

MEDIA RELEASE
8 July 2005

Traffic plan on track for final test

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The best way for rugby fans to reach Eden Park for Saturday’s final test between the All Blacks and the Lions is to hop on a train, bus or free shuttle.

“We’re encouraging more than 40,000 ticket holders heading to the game to plan ahead, get there by public transport, and arrive no later than 6pm,” says Auckland City Council’s traffic and roading services delivery manager, Chris Gasson.

“We’ve been reassured by bus and train operators that extra services being put on for the game will run smoothly. However, this is a milestone sporting event that you don’t want to miss, so fans should set off early to make sure they’re seated well before the 7.10pm kick-off.”

“Public transport is by far the best choice, as ticket holders will be able to get close to Eden Park more easily than private cars and taxis,” says Mr Gasson.

The gates will open at 4pm for pre-match entertainment, providing a good opportunity to beat the crowds and evening traffic congestion.

As part of traffic management for the event, advance warning signs and experienced staff will be in place to assist motorists.

Drivers should be aware that delays are expected and the streets immediately around Eden Park will be open to authorised vehicles only.

Sandringham Road (between New North and St Lukes roads) may be closed at times between 2pm and 11pm for safety reasons. This will allow for better management of pedestrians and traffic near the Kingsland rail station and people coming from corporate hospitality functions at Gribblehirst Park.

The closures will apply to all traffic except emergency, authorised, business and residents’ vehicles.

If you don’t have a ticket, then head to the Viaduct Harbour to enjoy a Footy, Fun and Fireworks free family event starting at 5.30pm. Once there, you can watch all the drama of the test live on a big screen, celebrate with other rugby fans from around the globe, and enjoy a dazzling fireworks display after the final whistle. To add to the excitement, one lucky group of people will win tickets to the game and be whisked off immediately to Eden Park! The CBD’s alcohol ban will be in force.

Ends

Note to editors: the attached map shows the restricted traffic area around Eden Park and the streets affected.

Traffic tips for the big game:
- catch a bus to Eden Park, or take a train to Kingsland station – extra services will be operating, go to www.maxx.co.nz for timetables or phone (09) 366 6400
- once you’re in the local area, catch a free shuttle bus to and from Eden Park – these will run in a circuit via Sandringham, Balmoral, Mt Eden and New North roads. The shuttle buses will run every 10 minutes before the game from 5pm to 6.30pm, and every 15 minutes after the game until 10pm. Bus stops will be marked ‘Eden Park shuttle bus stops here’
- book well in advance if you plan to take a taxi
- car pool with friends
- avoid driving on all major roads near Eden Park, including Sandringham, Dominion and Balmoral roads
- park well away from Eden Park and walk.

For more information about traffic plans, call Auckland City’s Lions hotline on (09) 379 1350 or visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/lions.

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