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Pedestrian planning and design guide

The Pedestrian planning and design guide published in 2009, was New Zealand's first comprehensive official guide to planning and design for walking.

It has now been superseded by the draft Pedestrian Network Guidance (PNG):
Pedestrian Network Guidance website

Some sections of the PNG are still in development and will be released later this year. If you cannot currently find the information you are seeking in the draft PNG then contact the PNG team for assistance (png@nzta.govt.nz).

The principles of pedestrian network planning 

section cover photographs - parents with pram; people in wheelchairs; pedestrian crossing.

Pedestrians are a diverse group of people with varied needs and abilities. By meeting the needs of the less able, a quality walking environment is provided for all.

Walkable communities have qualities that have a marked effect on the amount of walking people enjoy.

A variety of approaches and opportunities exist to better provide for walking. Each is discussed so that users of the guide can identify the approach that may work for them in the local context.

Choosing the best facilities that will help pedestrians to cross roads is important for their safety and convenience. This part provides a framework for considering all users and factors to help choose the best crossing option.

3 Pedestrian characteristics, preferences and activity

(PDF [PDF, 1.6 MB])

  • Pedestrians – diverse characteristics and needs
  • The who, where and why of walking trips
  • Why people don’t walk more
  • Pedestrian safety profile
  • Pedestrians on wheels

4 Community walkability

(PDF [PDF, 1.8 MB])

  • Making communities walkable
  • Urban form
  • Feeling secure

5 Approaches to providing for pedestrians

(PDF [PDF, 1.1 MB])

Adopt the best approach for each place

  • Who gets considered first? – road user hierarchy
  • Getting it right on private land too
  • Consider solutions in this order
  • Concepts that provide for pedestrians
    • Living streets
    • Pedestrian precincts
    • Shared zones
    • Sharing the main street

6 Pedestrian network components

(PDF [PDF, 4.8 MB])

Choosing the best options

  • Reduce and calm traffic
  • Better paths, ramps, steps, driveways, kerb crossings
  • Select the best crossing facility
  • Select the best crossing provision for schools
  • Select the best combination of components

Updated: 17 Nov 2009