Councillors thank hīkoi organisers and supporting agencies for peaceful and powerful assembly

Greater Wellington councillors say ngā mihi to public transport passengers, Metlink frontline staff, supporting agencies, Māori wardens and hīkoi organisers for their co-operation as Hīkoi mō te Tiriti travelled peacefully and efficiently through the region yesterday. 

Tuesday 19 November was the busiest day on record for Wellington’s public transport network, with an estimated 84,000 rail journeys and 80,000 bus trips.

Greater Wellington chair, Daran Ponter, helped direct people onto the train from Porirua yesterday morning, and says spirits were high.

“The energy was very positive, and people who had never visited the Wellington Region before were able to board the train easily,” Cr Ponter says. 

“I want to thank everyone who kept the network running smoothly, and passengers for their patience. I also want to thank the organisers for an extraordinary hīkoi that was mana-enhancing for everyone who took part. 

“Special thanks should also be reserved for Taranaki Whanui, The Police, Wellington City Council and others that helped keep the kaupapa for our region.”

Greater Wellington transport committee chair, Thomas Nash, says record-breaking patronage is no surprise. 

“Rail services were at full capacity yesterday afternoon as people left Parliament, with additional rail and East by West ferry services put on to meet demand,” Cr Nash says. 

“Bus drivers managed the disruption well, with buses diverted from the Golden Mile as planned. From 3pm onwards buses returned to usual routes.

“We are very pleased people from across Aotearoa could arrive here in Wellington, and travel across the motu using public transport safely, for this historic event.”

Greater Wellington Te Tiriti o Waitangi komiti chair, Hikitia Ropata, says the day was defined by kotahitanga.

“The hīkoi organisers should be congratulated for an example of a mana-enhancing, powerful, and peaceful assembly. Mana whenua, Māori wardens, Māori and tangata tiriti worked in partnership to honour and give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”