Cambridge Connections is a plan for transport infrastructure that will serve the fast-growing town over the coming decades.

The project began in 2022, when the Waipā Transport Strategy was adopted. The strategy looks at how an integrated, safe and sustainable transport network can be built across the Waipā District over the next 30 years, taking into account existing infrastructure, the changing needs of its growing population, and climate change.

A priority was set to plan for growth in Cambridge, considering all components of the current network, including the river crossings, and ways to encourage and enable more use of public transport.

Vastly experienced strategic leader and infrastructure planner Katie Mayes has been appointed Executive Director of Cambridge Connections, and will take up her role on Monday, May 5.

The Council has also budgeted sufficient funding in the 2025-2034 Long Term Plan to complete an investment and infrastructure plan to inform the 2027 LTP. This will focus on responding to community aspirations and expectation, arising from the engagement work. 

Project background

An effective transport system is vital for our communities, businesses and the economy. Waipā residents move around and through the district each day for work and education, to shop, socialise and access community services, and for trips to other centres.

Daily freight movements support the strong rural economy in the delivery of goods and services.

The Waipā population is growing rapidly as more people recognise the attractive lifestyle that our towns and villages offer, with Cambridge projected to reach a population of 30,300 in 2050 – an increase of 13,000 homes.

In 2022, a Project Steering Group was tasked to look at the complex transport issues and options for Cambridge. The group included Councillors and Cambridge Community Board members, iwi partners, and representatives from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, the heavy freight industry, and regional transport planning experts. Detailed traffic modelling was undertaken, and extensive stakeholder information sessions were held over 2022-23.

Community feedback from the Ahu Ake – Waipā Community Spatial Plan consultations and stakeholder input helped inform the Council to develop a range of options, which were presented in 2024. These included a potential third bridge and enhanced walking and cycling routes, and were a step towards preparing a business case to submit to the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to seek funding.

From March to May 2024, we sought community feedback on the options, and more than 500 pieces of feedback were received.

It became clear following such significant community feedback that more time was needed to consider the options and take all views on board. In August 2024, the Council decided to reset the entire project, with community views at its centre.

In November 2024, Chief Executive Steph O’Sullivan announced the next step would be to appoint a programme lead whose first priority would be community engagement.

On April 11, Katie Mayes was announced as Executive Director for the programme. A Cambridge resident and strong strategic leader, Mayes' previous role was as National Manager System Planning and Investment for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. She will take up her position with Waipā District Council on Monday, May 5.