Transport systems and land use play a major role in defining our cities and towns and how they function. People interact with transport systems on a daily basis in order to meet personal and business related needs. A well-functioning transport system is one that: will deliver people reliably and affordably to their destination; is accessible; operates with acceptable travel times; and supports communities, their economic prosperity and wellbeing.

Transport systems are also a major contributor to climate change, primarily through the emissions of greenhouse gases.

In New Zealand, transport emissions make up around 17% of gross emissions(MfE, 2017)

Within our major cities this is a lot higher.  Around 40% of emission from Auckland and Wellington are from transport, reducing to 28% and 63% respectively in Dunedin and Tauranga.

The integrated nature of urban systems is complex and, as illustrated in the diagram below, a range of different factors must be considered if we are to achieve sustainable, equitable and resilient cities.