Metlink RTI Displays

Waiting for public transport can be infuriating.  So, we love the new Metlink Real Time Information (RTI) displays.

What is RTI? RTI is up-to-the minute information on when a bus or train service is due, based on where the vehicle actually is (from GPS vehicle tracking) – rather than where it should be.

Which services will have RTI? RTI will be progressively introduced across the Wellington region. The introduction started with GO Wellington in April, the next to get RTI is Valley Flyer, then Mana Coach Services and Newlands Coach Service from October, and then Tranz Metro from early 2012.

When will I start seeing RTI displays? The rollout of display signs will be coordinated with the introduction of RTI on each bus and train operator’s services. The February Christchurch earthquake has affected production of RTI display signs. But we’re hopeful that the signs will be installed at key bus stops over a period of several months.

Where will the display signs be installed? Around 190 electronic display signs will be installed at key bus stops such as the Golden Mile, suburban centres, universities, polytechnics and hospitals. Another 60 display signs will be installed at most train stations.

Why are some departure times shown as actual times and others as number of minutes? When a bus or train is being tracked the times shown are the actual number of minutes until that vehicle arrives at the relevant stop or station, for example, ‘12min’ or ‘Due’, if the service is less than 90 seconds away. If a bus or train isn’t being tracked it’s because it hasn’t started its journey or RTI isn’t live on that operator’s services yet. A scheduled time will be shown, which is the time the bus is due to arrive according to the regular timetable, for example ‘12:35’.

What happens if there are traffic delays or service disruptions? RTI is smart. It constantly learns the effects of different conditions on different days and uses this information to ensure accurate predicted arrival times. In the case of major service disruptions, RTI can be used to provide status information or other messages to waiting passengers; enabling travel plans to be amended if necessary.

Is RTI available on the Metlink website? As RTI is introduced to operators’ services, the information will be available online for all bus stops (excluding Wairarapa and Otaki at this stage) and train stations through the Metlink website. You can view the information on the home page through ‘Live Departures’ and ‘Stop Information’. So, you can view live departure times before heading to your stop or station from your home or work. RTI is also available on the Metlink mobile site.

Will RTI be shown in journey plans? No, the majority of journey plans are for journeys in the future, where RTI does not exist. User testing also showed including RTI in journey plans was confusing.

Is RTI available on txtBUS? It will be available on txtBUS later in 2011 for all services that are equipped with GPS tracking. Some minor operator services won’t be equipped initially and for these services scheduled times will continue to be provided as they are currently.

Is RTI available on txtTRAIN? RTI is planned to be introduced on txtTRAIN during 2012.

Is RTI available on iPhone apps? Metlink does not have its own iPhone app, however you can use the mobile site – m.metlink.org.nz. Our intention is to make the RTI data feed available to third parties, subject to terms and conditions, at a later date.

What about people who can’t see the display signs? Each display sign is capable of providing an audio announcement of the information shown. In due course, arrangements will be made for blind or partially sighted people who are registered members of one of the recognised blind organisations to be able to activate audio messages using a special key fob.

What else can the RTI data be used for? RTI can provide a huge amount of data about how services perform in the real world. With the operators, we will use the information to progressively refine timetables to ensure they are as realistic as possible. It will also eventually be used in contractual agreements covering service quality and performance.

How can I keep up-to-date with the roll out? Find out when RTI goes live on operators’ services and where displays have been installed by visiting the Metlink website or by following @metlinkwgtn on Twitter.

Is there going to be a launch for RTI?  There will be a launch ceremony for invited guests only. 

How does RTI work at a terminus, does it track the preceding journey? RTI is tracking all buses and trains all the time, and will often be able to provide RTI for your trip before the bus or train has even begun the journey based on the location of the vehicle. In some circumstances (e.g. where buses or trains begin shifts at the start of a day) this may not always be possible, and in that instance a scheduled departure time is provided until the vehicle arrives at the terminus ready to start its next journey.

Why won’t RTI be available in Wairarapa and Otaki?  Because of the small number of services, it is possible that RTI will be extended in the future.

Will RTI be on school bus services?  No.

If I’m at a bus stop that doesn’t have a display, how can I access RTI? RTI will be available for bus stops and train stations, including those without display signs through:

▪   The Metlink website:  www.metlink.org.nz  -  you can view live departure times before heading to a stop or station from your home or work.

▪   txtBUS: text: BUS (287) or TRAIN (876).  Simply text your bus stop number to BUS (287) and it will let you know the time of the next three buses scheduled to pass your stop. E.g. 4915 to BUS (287).

▪   The Metlink information line on 0800 801 700 or 04 801 7000

▪   The Metlink mobile site: m.metlink.org.nz

 Real Time Information will help make catching public transport easier and more convenient. But as with any new system, there may be one or two teething problems. If you spot something that needs fixing or improving, please get in touch. You can call Metlink on 04 801 7000 or email Metlink on:  info@metlink.org.nz.

Much improved on the old school timetable:

www.metlink.org.nz  

Makara Beach BBQ

Yesterday we ventured out to the dramatic Makara Beach to cook up some lunch on the beach.
This beach is steep and stony immediately in front of you as you arrive at the beach.  This part of the beach lends itself to very satisfying stone throwing.  In contrast you can take the gentle walk to the left to a sheltered spot from the main beach with plenty of rock pools to explore.
We found a sheltered spot on the main beach to set up camp.  Then the kids were sent off to find driftwood for the fire.  A stone circle is set up to encase the fire but the main purpose is to heat up the rocks to allow us to cook our lunch. Whilst the photographer was distracted with taking the above shot it is believed newspaper, fire lighters and matches were deployed, and voila:
  
The next step is dependant on being a little prepared before veturing out to the beach.  We have a kit bag set up with all the cooking equipment, and just needed to stop for a few supplies on the way.


Cooking began and was quickly devoured by our wind swept group.  We also had some hungry seagulls who keenly awaited for scraps that never came.
 As a final treat we took wooden skewers, which we’d soaked in water to prevent them from catching fire, for toasting marshmallows.  This was the highlight for the kids and the grown ups were only too happy to show them how it is done.
 

Before leaving the beach we took great care to douse the fire and rocks in sea water.

Makara Beach also features in our post about Stones, Water & Cafes.

Scorch-o-Rama Cafe, Scorching Bay

The day we went out to Scorch-o-Rama Café was a stunner.  To be outdoors on a such a beautiful sunny day in the middle of winter is a tonic. 

But as we arrived when the afternoon sun was dropping down behind the hills, we were also pleased to see the café now has a permanent glassed in annex room to extend the covered seating area on the café side of the road.

Scorch-o-rama is better known for its’ seating area across the road on the beach side, where you can dine al fresco.  Which at this time of year is for the hardy.  Yes, that is snow on the Rimutakas in the background.  If you do dine al fresco, you will be rewarded by being waited on by staff wearing high visibility jackets, for crossing the road safely.

Our afternoon tea was delicious, and there was much debate over how to share the Belgium biscuit.  My flat white was perfectly formed with Havana coffee, as proudly displayed on the glass work of the new annex room. 

Normally in summer, we can spend a whole day in Scorching Bay.  The rock pools are full of life to watch, catch and release.  The beach has a gently sloping sandy entry with very little tidal waves, unless a ferry has just gone past.  There are often swimmers, divers, boaters, fishermen and sunbathers sharing this spot. 

Even in winter it is still a great spot to visit.  Rug up and explore the area, safe in the knowledge that you are never far from a hot drink or meal, or a glass of wine or beer.

The cafe and milk bar is open weekends 8am to 6pm and weekdays 8.30am to 5pm.  Open longer hours during the summer nights.

fishermen at Shelly Bay

climbing frame, Scorching Bay

www.scorchorama.co.nz

Ask the Locals are looking forward to festival season, with plenty of entertainment hitting the Capital over the coming weeks.  Stay tuned.

Capital E - Boxes

Capital E National Theatre for Children

My children (8yrs & 5yrs) went to Capital E yesterday to see the hilarious puppet show – Boxes

They both thoroughly enjoyed the show, and laughed all the way through it.

8 year old said:

“It was really funny, and there were lots of boxes too.  There were two puppets, they were enemies.  The boy (Elton) liked stripes and the girl (Bernie) liked spots, and they fought over designing the place.  They fought and made a box wall and then they were smacking each other with pillows (laughs).  They ripped their blankets in half, and they decided to be friends and to share the design.”

Elton moves into a house with all his belongings only to find that his tea turns into coffee, his flowers disappear and someone has been sleeping in his bed — when suddenly he comes face to face with the mysterious Bernie. A witty tale of friendship unfolds as Bernie & Elton discover it’s much easier to enjoy a cup of tea together than fight over whose table setting is best. A sweet story packed with humour, tricks and clever puppetry perfect for the whole family.

“Something for everyone…humour, clowning, slapstick, surprises, a sweet story, lively music and intriguing technical ingenuity” The Waikato Times

When: Sat 16 2pm, Mon 18– Sat 30 July 11am & 1pm (not Sundays)

Duration: 55 mins

Venue: Capital E McKenzie Theatre

Price: $12 per person. $44 for a group of four. $10 per person for groups of 10 or more. Under two free.

Booking: You can now book online - click here or call us 04 913 3740

Boxes of Fun - Age 2+

After seeing the amazing uses Bernie & Elton have for their boxes, why not have a go yourself. Make a mini theatre with finger puppets? A gift box for someone special or a memory box to keep all your magical memories? The choice is yours!

When: Mon 18 – Sat 30 July (except Sundays)

Time: 10.30am – 2.30pm

Duration: As long as you like

Venue: Capital E Playground

Price: $2 per craft

No need to book for craft session.

 Enjoy the sunshine out there, and stay tuned for more reviews from Ask The Locals.

The Lanes, Ten Pin Bowling

Indoor activities are just the thing on rainy days in the holidays.


We went to The Lanes ten pin bowling alley today.  Everyone can play at their own level, play for as long or as short as you like and get something to eat or drink. There are even bumpers to help keep the ball out of the gutter for those in need, and launch ramps for the younger kids.


On a rainy day it is wise to phone to book in, especially if you have a big group.  We arrived without booking and managed to get one game in between group bookings.  The bowling is cheaper if you bowl before 5pm.


You can book The Loft, a smaller area up stairs with a few private lanes, if you are planning a private party.  Bowling is $15 per person in The Loft.



The kids were allowed to keep their sneakers on for 
bowling, saving the trouble of trying to find shoes to fit them.  Adults need to take advantage of the supplied bowling shows but don't panic, they're generally in good condition and are not the normal bright colour so the fashion conscious can join in.


There's a well stocked bar for both fun kids drinks and adults.  Food is available from both the bar and main hire counter and is tasty, with good sized portions and was delivered quickly to the bowling lane.  The menu is suited to the venue with a variety of snack, fries, wedges, etc and larger meals such as burgers and pizza.

Parking is available at the open air Carepark car park next to The Lanes and behind the Reading Cinema complex on Wakefield Street.  In this car park for the weekend it will only cost you $8.00 to park for 12 hours.  Or park on the street in the weekend for free for 2 hours.



234 – 238 Wakefield Street, Wellington
Phone: (04) 801 7036


See the website for more details www.thelanes.co.nz


Enjoy whatever you do these holidays.  
Stay tuned for more ideas from Ask The Locals.


N.B. In the interest of being open and transparent, the Editor received a free flat white during the taking of these photographs.

NZ Film Festival

The promised rain has come and there is still one more week of school holidays to go.  Have you exhausted your repertoire of indoor school holiday activities?


Sequels not your thing?

www.nzff.co.nz

The NZ Film Festival has already begun in Auckland and begins in Wellington on Friday 29th July.  see the website for full listings:
www.nzff.co.nz


Our pick for films for children is:

Animation for Kids 2011

This programme brings together a collection of funny, engaging, wonderfully intriguing films carefully selected to entertain our youngest audience.

Animation for Kids 2011

The Great Bear

Little Sophie has been kidnapped by a giant bear – and he’s much better company than her cranky older brother. This cutely eco-aware CGI expedition into the deep dark woods should entertain anyone old enough to read the subtitles.

The Great Bear

A Cat in Paris

Belgium, France, 2010, 65min

Dino the cat has two lives – during the day he’s best friend to Zoé, but at night, Dino plays stealthy companion to cat burglar Nico.

There are plenty of films for all ages.  Also this is a great opportunity to try some cinemas you may not have been to before, including:

* Roxy Cinema, Miramar 

5 Park Rd, Miramar, Ph (04) 388 5555

Peter Jackson has been involved with restoring this old cinema to its current glory

- beware of the parking wardens outside the cinemas who will ticket you anytime of day or night.


* The Film Archive

cnr Taranaki and Ghuznee Sts, Ph (04) 384 7647

The Film Archive has newly refurbished seats


* Soundings Theatre, Te Papa

Enter Te Papa, Level 2, top of stairs and sharp right, Ph (04) 381 7298


* City Gallery

Civic Square, 101 Wakefield St, Ph (04) 801 3021

Please note, access through Harris Street entrance during the Festival.

Enjoy whatever film you see these holidays, and stay tuned for more rainy day activities at Ask The Locals.

Chocolate Dayz Cafe, Days Bay

Enjoy a meal inside or out, or takeaway to enjoy the most of the beach at Days Bay.

The Cafe is expertly run by owners/Chef, and offers mouth watering counter food and made to order food from the menu.

They are open 8am to 5pm on weekends, 7.30am to 4pm weekdays.

www.chocolatedayzcafe.co.nz

Days Bay has plenty on offer for the stones, sand and water quotient.  The Ferry can take you there from Queens Wharf, Wellington waterfront across to Days Bay, stopping at Matiu Somes Island.

Williams Park is opposite the Days Bay Wharf, which offers a flat green area perfect for frisbees, an ice cream parlour and a pond with ducks and swans.

Cafe artwork

Eggs & Bacon

Chocolate Dayz Cafe

Days Bay Wharf

Duck pond behind Ice Cream Parlour, Williams Park

Lady Norwood Rose Garden

Fellowship rose

The Lady Norwood Rose Garden is at the top of the Botanical Gardens through the Centennial Entrance, opposite the Chinese Embassy, Glenmore Road, Thorndon.  

strawberries & cream rose

The beautifully tendered rose garden is a delight to visit any time of year.  Even in the middle of winter, it is still a tranquil setting for all.  

Water Fountain, Peace Flame Garden in background
As well as the magnetic pond in the middle of the rose garden, there is also the Peace Pond with its ducks to feed, waterfall and protected seating. 

Lily pads, Lily House

 If it all gets too cold and blustery, venture into the cosy warmth of the Begonia House to sit and watch the lily pads and fishes feeding.

Kate Sheppard roses with Picnic Cafe in background

Picnic Cafe, Lady Norwood Rose Garden
Our favourites from the cafe are the fruit & marshmallow kebab sticks, the savoury scones and panini's.
Time your run to the cafe whilst there are no tour buses parked in the vicinity, or you could have a long wait for your order.
The cafe is open daily from 8.30am to 4pm.
www.picniccafe.co.nz

follow the pink pathway flowers

Tui singing happily

Lily Pads

The Dell behind the Begonia House and Picnic Cafe is a great spot if you take your own picnic.

Stones, Water & Cafes

How to keep everyone happy over the school holidays?

STONES, WATER & CAFES


The school holidays are upon us.
Enthusiasm and energies are high, and the weather is conducive to being outside.
So, where to go and what to do to keep everyone happy?  ASK THE LOCALS.

Wellington boasts stunning and accessible coastlines with enough going for them to keep everyone happy.

Our favourites of such spots any time of year are:

Maranui Cafe, Lyall Bay

The menu is consistently fresh and delicious.

Which is why there is often a queue out the door and down the stairs.  Never fear, the queue moves quickly, but will be busiest around lunchtime.
They are open from 7am to 5pm, so get there early to avoid disappointment.
www.maranuicafe.co.nz

The Maranui Surf Life Saving Club patrols the beach along Lyall Parade, Lyall Bay.  This is very popular with surfers, swimmers, walkers and all those drawn to sand, stones, water and great coffee.

Chocolate Dayz Cafe, Days Bay

Enjoy a meal inside or out, or takeaway to enjoy the most of the beach at Days Bay.
The Cafe is expertly run by owners/Chef, and offers mouth watering counter food and made to order food from the menu.
They are open 8am to 5pm on weekends, 7.30am to 4pm weekdays.
www.chocolatedayzcafe.co.nz

Days Bay has plenty on offer for the stones, sand and water quotient.  The Ferry can take you there from Queens Wharf, Wellington waterfront across to Days Bay, stopping at Matiu Somes Island.
Williams Park is opposite the Days Bay Wharf, which offers a flat green area perfect for frisbees, an ice cream parlour and a pond with ducks and swans.

Makara Beach

Has it all.  With steep stony beach with crashing waves, perfect for throwing stones into.  Or you can take the walk around to the left of the beach to the rock pools for an explore and climb and rest bite from the wind.
Then when everyone is tired and hungry, venture into the Cafe Makara, Makara Road.
Our favourites there are milkshakes, ice cream cones (with hand scooped ice cream), and toasted sandwiches.
Be warned the road from either Karori or Johnsonville to Makara is narrow and windy at times.  Take it slow, there are often cyclists cycling that loop.  See how many pukeko birds you can spot.  We were delighted to see a pukeko flying last time.

Lady Norwood Rose Garden

At the top of the Botanical Gardens with free parking access up the lane opposite the Chinese Embassy, Glenmore Road, Thorndon.  The beautifully tendered rose garden is a delight to visit any time of year.  Even in the middle of winter, it is still a tranquil setting for all.  As well as the magnetic pond in the middle of the rose garden, there is also the Peace Pond with its ducks to feed, waterfall and protected seating.  If it all gets too cold and blustery, venture into the cosy warmth of the Begonia House to sit and watch the lily pads and fishes feeding.

The Dell behind the Begonia House and Picnic Cafe is a great spot if you take your own picnic.

Picnic Cafe, Lady Norwood Rose Garden

Our favourites from the cafe are the fruit & marshmallow kebab sticks, the savoury scones and panini's.
Time your run to the cafe whilst there are no tour buses parked in the vicinity, or you could have a long wait for your order.
The cafe is open daily from 8.30am to 4pm.
www.picniccafe.co.nz

Scorching Bay, Karaka Bay Road

The drive either from Seatoun or around Shelly Bay, Miramar Peninsula is very picturesque and another drive to be taken slowly to enjoy the scenery.  The Scorching Bay Domain has great facilities with a play area, grassed picnic area, toilets, showers and changing rooms, gentle sandy beach and rock pools.

Scorch-O-Rama Cafe

Enjoy the indoor seating or the tables across the road from the cafe. Don't worry, the waiters wear high visibility vests whilst bringing your order across the road.
All the food and coffee is good and they are licensed, so you can enjoy wine or beer by the glass.
The cafe and milk bar is open weekends 8am to 6pm and weekdays 8.30am to 5pm.  Open longer hours during the summer nights.
www.scorchorama.co.nz

Enjoy the outdoors, where ever you go, and stay tuned for more things to do in Wellington.