Project Implementation Plan

Cambridge Connections Project Implementation Plan

An indepth look at the Cambridge Connections plan to December 2026

Cambridge Connections Overview

A simple guide to Cambridge Connections

A user guide to Cambridge Connections, it's purpose and how you can get involved.

Engagement with Cambridge mana whenua

Ngaati Koroki Kahukura and Ngaati Hauaa High Level Engagement

This report was prepared in 2023 during the previous Cambridge Connections phase.

Mana Whenua involvement in the Cambridge Connections is integral to a working partnership that recognises diverse issues and circumstances that need to be considered to evolve the transport system so that it is fit for purpose and population now and into the future.

Ngaati Koroki Kahukura, and Ngaati Hauaa are Mana Whenua in Cambridge. Their cultural values directly relate to whakapapa, their ancestral lands, waters and taonga in their rohe.

The purpose of this engagement document is to provide high level input to the business case to ensure any real or perceived issues, impacts and interests of mana whenua are articulated, acknowledged and understood by Waipā District Council.

Additional matters identified by mana whenua as part of Cambridge Connections reset - 2025

In addition to the report above, mana whenua identified the following key issues, as part of the project reset:

1. Social and partnership opportunities relating to infrastructure, eg. the upcoming vote on Māori wards, the creation of the waters CCO, acknowledging the centrality of the Kingitanga and Tumuakitanga, RMA partnership to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti, recognising Treaty settlements and tikanga, Te Ture Whaimana.
2. Futureproofing the growth of Cambridge and surrounds so appropriate infrastructure can support that growth.
3. Making sure the plan addresses multi-modal transport, bus stops, humps and bumps on roads as safety platforms for walkers, and access throughout Cambridge.
4. Cultural design, noting the wording in the report should perhaps refer to mana whenua design principles, and its importance in reinforcing identify and whakapapa.
5. Wayfinding, as connection to place.
6. Climate resilience and adaptation, including energy and telecoms that are normally built along roads.
7. Recognising that transport is one of the biggest polluters of our waterways, so a holistic approach is important.
8. Cultural monitoring along the river, including stormwater, erosion and rubbish in the awa.
9. Marae connection.

Stage 1: Draft strategic case and key findings from public feedback

Strategic Planning and Policy Committee Public Agenda - 3 December 2025

This agenda includes:

• Draft problem statements - to be approved by Elected Members
• Draft strategic case - to be received by Elected Members
• Cambridge Connections Key Themes from Public Engagement Stage 1: Visioning and Transport Challenges
• Overview of Cambridge Connections Stage 1: Statistics - 12 November 2025

Defining Problems and Benefits

Business case for defining problems and benefits - 12 October 2025

In order to seek funding for transport, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Waka Kotahi requires us to define the greatest problems we face and the solutions that will most benefit to our community.

Elected Member Workshop - 14 November 2025

View the slides presented at the workshop, including:

• Cambridge Connections purpose
• Key Stages
• Decision-making framework
• Community engagement
• Indicative steps to a new bridge
• Case study: Peacocke Bridge in Hamilton
• Draft Strategic Case
• Draft problem statements

Steps to a bridge

What needs to happen to in order to plan for a new bridge, once Cambridge Connections is complete in December 2026.

Documents that support engagement planning

Engagement Project Plan - August 2025

In 2025, Cambridge Connections was reset to put engagement with the community at the heart of the project. This plan outlines how Council will inform, consult and involve community voices.

Waipā District Council Transport Strategy 2022-2052

A long-term transport strategy for Cambridge and Waipā district that will help shape and provide for our growing vibrant communities.

Everyday Guide to the Land Designation Process

This useful guide sets out the process for designating land under the Resources Management Act – including how you can make a submission if you are affected by the proposed designation. It also explains what happens once a designation is in place.

Guide to landowners: What to expect when your land is acquired under the Public Works Act 1981

This is a useful guide for those interested in the process of land acquisition. However, it’s important to note that the Cambridge Connections Transport Plan will not designate an area of land for acquisition, it will simply identify a general area where a bridge and surrounding roads could be constructed. After that, it will be a lengthy legislative process, which means any land acquisition is likely to be several years after funding becomes available.

What could transport look like in the future and what could that mean for Cambridge?

This document prepared by NZ Transport Agency shows how technology may shape the future of transport in Cambridge.