Remember when Auckland's roads felt like a dream? Back in the early days of the COVID-19 lockdowns, the streets of Tāmaki Makaurau were a sight to behold. With traffic levels at an all-time low, driving through the city became a surreal experience. Gone were the usual bumper-to-bumper rush hour jams and the constant struggle to navigate Auckland’s infamous congestion.
During the lockdown, essential workers and those making necessary trips enjoyed wide-open roads that made commutes faster and far less stressful. The city’s motorways, often clogged with traffic, transformed into smooth, free-flowing ribbons of asphalt. Driving from one end of the city to the other became a breeze, a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic gridlock that often made even short trips frustrating.
The temporary relief from traffic brought a rare sense of peace to Auckland's roads, and for many, it served as a reminder of what a less congested, more efficient transport system could feel like. It was a glimpse into a future where smarter transport solutions could ease the strain on the city's infrastructure.
While the city has since returned to its usual bustle, those who experienced the quiet roads of 2020 will always remember that fleeting period when Auckland’s roads were at their best.