Christine Fletcher: Transforming into a modern international city

The first train returning to Queen St represents the beginning of the reconnection of Auckland with its waterfront and the rejuvenation of the Britomart precinct.

It marks a conscious effort to defy forces that allowed a very special part of downtown Auckland to become squalid and derelict.

The return of rail, with the Britomart station, is the beginning of a coherent and deliberate plan to allow Aucklanders to experience office life alongside apartment dwelling, theatres, restaurants, shopping and vibrant inner-city living.

We have finally and pro-actively taken the first step in becoming a modern international city.

The flexibility allowed for in the design of the Britomart terminal means future technology changes can be accommodated and that investment in public transport is likely to become much more attractive, symbolising a fresh cycle of confidence and optimism in our city's future.

Rail is not the entire solution for our congested city, but it does represent an opportunity to eliminate unnecessary car trips. Britomart will provide commuters with greater flexibility, linking rail, bus and ferry services.

Britomart epitomises style with functionality. Aucklanders will feel rightly proud of this public space.

Britomart is the legacy of the previous council, one which had no majority and therefore had to work constructively together. The redevelopment represents the best of urban design and planning.

The challenge now is to get back on track the plans overturned by the present council for light rail linking the central corridor, marking the return of the streetcar tram system for the inner-city, connecting people in a safe and attractive way.

Supporting light rail should not derail critical Auckland roading projects. Rather, it demonstrates a growing comprehension that roads alone will not sustain us.

Successful cities in economic, social and environmental terms have good strategic planning and strong partnerships between city government, community and commerce. This partnership is essential because urban areas require high levels of infrastructure investment.

The attention being paid by central Government to rail and Tranz Rail is commendable. However, it is only the beginning of a long journey to implement Auckland's strategic plan, "First City of the Pacific", and regional growth strategy.

The downtown is only a small part of Auckland, but it represents the public face of the city where people work, shop and play in public spaces that should not only be functional but beautiful.

With Britomart, we've got it right.

Over time we will look back with affection on the return of improved rail services as marking the beginning of a new chapter of positive growth, away from chaotic and soul-less road congestion, to one of better people connections.

Rail will contribute to the character of this city and to our sense of space and place as New Zealanders.

* Christine Fletcher is a Former Auckland City Mayor.