Black Friday kicks off the festive season

Auckland’s shopping destinations and malls will be busy between now and Christmas as Black Friday sales lure in bargain hunters and window shoppers alike.

Black Friday also signals the start of the festive season, with major events and after work celebrations putting extra pressure on roads, parking facilities and public transport.

Teams at the Auckland Transport Operations Centre (ATOC), a joint venture between AT and NZTA for managing the transport network in real time, are working closely with mall operators to encourage them to proactively manage their parking facilities through the busy pre-Christmas period.

“We know Auckland’s shopping hotspots will be busier than usual over the next few weeks, so our teams are working proactively with shopping centre and mall managers,” ATOC manager Claire Howard says.

“If you’re planning to drive to a shopping destination over the next few weeks you should check the latest traffic conditions before you start your journey and allow extra time.

“All of Auckland’s major shopping streets, town centres, and malls are also served by frequent bus services or train lines, so if you aren’t planning on a big shopping haul it might save you time, money and a parking headache to take a bus or train.”

Several major events are coming up in Auckland including the Farmers Santa Parade, Christmas in the Park, The Others Way festival, Rufus Du Sol Concert, Auckland FC games, MOTAT and Franklin Road Christmas Lights, the IKEA opening and lots of local community Christmas parades and carolling events.

“All of these exciting community events draw big crowds and many require road closures, so visitors and local communities should always expect more traffic, busy car parks and longer journey times,” Howard says.

“Public transport is often a faster option and means avoiding parking hassles and long queues.

“For major events, ATOC works with organisers to put on extra services that can often get you right to the door.

“We encourage you to check the AT Mobile app before you travel and see if a public transport route might be a better way to get you there.”

Paying for your ride is simple with contactless payments available on AT’s buses, trains and ferries, meaning you can pay with a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay if you don’t have an AT HOP card.

Last week’s Metallica concert saw nearly half of the attendees take public transport home, and a very busy commute home for Western Line users.

“We’d also like to encourage everyone going to Christmas parties and after work celebrations to plan how you’re going to get home safely before you go out,” Howard says.

“Whether it’s one of the many late-night bus services, a rideshare or organising someone to pick you up, make sure you’ve got a safe ride home before you head out.

“No matter how people are travelling we’re encouraging all Aucklanders to be patient and considerate when they’re going to events or popular destinations, whether they’re driving, using public transport, walking or cycling.”