International design, engineering and advisory company Aurecon has appointed Erica Walker as its transport planning leader for Tauranga.
The role aims to strengthen Aurecon’s capabilities within the region as it’s poised to enter a high-growth phase.
Walker has returned to New Zealand after 16 years of experience in the transport industry in London. Her recent stints include chief of staff at Transport for London as well as transport manager and principal policy officer at the Greater London Authority.
Working in those roles helped Walker gain a wide range of experience that is valuable to both national and local development in Tauranga such as transport planning and policy, cycleway and public realm design, and complex stakeholder management.
The role will see her working alongside many major clients including Tauranga City Council, Waka Kotahi and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
Walker says she’s “thrilled” to join the Aurecon team and sees it as an “opportunity to work on some of the most exciting and transformative transport projects in the Bay of Plenty region, including those that will support the transformation of the Te Papa peninsula”.
“As a Kiwi myself, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities for local communities when it comes to planning for future transport needs.
“I’m passionate about using people-centric design to improve quality of life and access to opportunities, by providing people with more sustainable and smarter travel choices,” she says.
“I’m very much looking forward to helping shape the future transport systems in Tauranga, as the region is set to embrace a significant increase in population over the coming decades.
“One of my immediate focuses is to combine my technical knowledge with local insights, building on the region’s existing plans to help deliver a truly integrated, efficient, reliable and enduring transport system.
“This is crucial for Tauranga’s future, not only to support the city and wider region to thrive as it grows, but also to improve the wider city environment. Our streets are where people meet, play, shop and connect, so it’s important to remember this.
“I’ve seen first-hand the real benefits of a world-class transport system. And I want to help Tauranga deliver the work that’s needed to grow public transport options, improve safety and create better environments for walking and cycling. Transport is vital to the success of our city. The investment planned over the next 30 years will leave a lasting legacy, and I want to be part of that,” she says.
Aurecon’s Tauranga office leader Jodie Hurley says Walker brings extensive public sector experience that will be a great asset to the team and local clients.
“Erica has a broad skillset in addition to her transport planning expertise. She has proven skills in complex stakeholder management and policy making, having spent many years working with local communities, businesses, and government officials across all levels.”
