Stress Sponge

It’s 50 years since the Auckland Harbour Bridge was opened for use.  For 50 years people have been asking for access to cross from the North Shore to Auckland City, on foot or by bike.  In 50 years, nothing has been done.

So on Sunday  I went and did my bit to show the New Zealand Government that Aucklanders strongly support walking and cycling across our Bridge.  A demonstration was organised by GetAcross, at Point Erin in Auckland.  Around 3,000 people came to show their support on Sunday morning, and despite what the media is saying it was a peaceful protest.  There was no pushing and no violence.

It was evident from the beginning that although Wayne McDonald didn’t want us to cross, that they were actually going to let us.  They had a maximum of 10 police offers blocking the Current Street on ramp, and after some people broke through the police line I didn’t see anyone arrested.  Needless to say, nobody seemed especially intent on stopping us.

For some unknown reason all north bound lanes of the bridge were closed, meaning that traffic was backed up for about 90 minutes.  I still don’t understand why they didn’t just close the 2 north bound clip-on lanes for us! I have to say that although fashion may have taken a leap back to the 80′s, the days of 70′s protests are gone.  Everyone was smiling and laughing… even the Police!

Weirdest part of the day:  Singing happy birthday to the harbour bridge.

Best part of the day:  Linking arms and skipping over the harbour bridge!!