Association issues election calls

The AA has published its general-election calls, highlighting 12 actions it wants the next government to take to make road transport better, safer and cleaner.

Mike Noon, general manager of motoring affairs, describes the calls as realistic and achievable.

They include a clear roadmap for safer and greener cars, boosting the benefits of buying electric vehicles (EVs) and dealing with end-of-life tyres.

“They’re actions that we need the government to prioritise and lead now, regardless of which political parties are in power after the election.”

The AA’s advocacy is based on regular surveys of its membership, which has been growing strongly in recent years and includes more than one million drivers who are personal AA members. Nearly 700,000 business fleet vehicles are also signed up for AA roadside assistance.

“With our large membership, we naturally receive diverse views when we send out our surveys,” says Noon, pictured. “AA members aren’t just drivers. Approximately 10 per cent of them regularly use public transport and 13 per cent consider themselves cyclists. 

“Our calls on government reflect areas of strong common ground among our members. Given the size of our membership, we also think it’s also a good reflection of what many Kiwis want.

“We are facing serious challenges with the global pandemic, but we can’t lose focus on other major issues that will affect our future environment and economy.

“Meaningful action on our transport calls will result in fewer deaths and injuries on the roads, less environmental harm from transport, less time wasted in congestion and more enjoyable travel. All this helps us maintain the lifestyle and choices Kiwis want.”

The AA says there are 12 ways the next government can make transport better. These are:

1 – Revive essential road maintenance.
2 – More testing and catching of drunk and drugged drivers.
3 – Lift the standard of regional highways.
4 – Target cellphone use behind the wheel.
5 – Give drivers more safe places to pass.
6 – More help for young people to become safe and licensed drivers.
7 – Get the rapid-transit process back on-track.
8 – Boost the benefits of buying an EV.
9 – No escaping interlocks for high-risk drink drivers.
10 – Turn the waste of old tyres around.
11 – Quickly develop speed camera signage.
12 – A clear road-map for safer, greener vehicles.    

Visit www.aa.co.nz/electioncalls  for more details on each of the AA’s election calls.