Every time we buy something, we use freight.

It’s vital to our economy, but how do we manage trucks rumbling through town?

One of the key themes from feedback last year was easing freight pressure through Cambridge.

In Waipā, freight is a vital part of our economy - we have natural resources that supply our region for roading and construction, a rich dairy heritage and fruit orchards.

And freight isn't just big trucks, it's also the courier van delivering the parcel we ordered online. Internet shopping has changed freight dramatically, with 84 million parcels delivered in New Zealand each year.

Freight relies on arterial routes - these are roads especially built to handle heavy vehicles. Places like Carter's Flat and Queen Street have been primarily built to get heavy vehicles through town and back on the highway. But over time we’ve built houses on some of our arterial routes – such as Pope Terrace and Shakespeare Street. This causes a real tension, as these roads need to be safe and liveable for the people who call them home.

So, the challenge is this: how do we reduce that conflict when we plan future transport?

Got ideas on how we can manage freight through town? Make sure you give your feedback!