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RNZ News
13-05-2025
- RNZ News
Auckland Transport urged to do better in managing unplanned transport disruptions
AT's systems for managing disruptions are largely manual, complex, and have resulted in long delays in telling passengers, a report found. Photo: RNZ / Ziming Li The Deputy-Auditor General is urging Auckland Transport (AT) to do better in communicating unplanned transport disruptions to the public, and to improve its processes for managing disruptions. A report published by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has found that AT's systems for identifying and managing disruptions are largely manual, complex, and have resulted in long delays for patrons to be informed. It takes on average 22 minutes for AT to inform patrons about unplanned disruptions after an incident occurs, according to AT's data - and in one instance in 2023, a bus operator took three hours to notify AT's operations team that it had cancelled services on a route due to weather conditions. There have also been multiple instances when children have been stranded due to school bus services not arriving on time, between 2021 and 2024, the report found. The Deputy-Auditor General Andrew McConnell acknowledged that AT manages between 67 and 144 disruptions every day - including planned ones - across its high volume of services, but he stressed that the organisation had a responsibility to provide people with clear and accurate information. "Frequent disruptions can undermine public confidence in the public transport system and people's willingness to use it," McConnell said. Unplanned disruptions include bus delays, diversions due to traffic accidents, cancellations due to severe weather, breakdowns and mechanical issues. McConnell said that while AT had a mobile app accessed by 300,000 people monthly, and 970 digital displays across 15 percent of its stops, the information on these portals were not always accurate. The Deputy-Auditor General highlighted AT's problematic reliance on a largely manual system and outdated technology for managing disruptions. He said this had limited AT's capacity to communicate unplanned disruptions out-of-hours, and to identify issues in a timely manner. AT has a "disruption communication system map" which consultants have described as the most complex they have ever mapped. Informing the public about an unplanned rail disruption could involve up to 20 different people across AT, KiwiRail and Auckland One Rail. The OAG has been told that only 3 percent of the actions were automated. The OAG has also been told by AT staff that sometimes they must rely on others - including operators and members of the public - to alert them to what was happening on the network. The report said the manual processes meant that AT provided limited, or sometimes no information, about unplanned disruptions that happened outside of its business hours. McConnell has given AT a number of recommendations, including reviewing the information it holds about passengers' experience to make improvements, and be more specific on how it will learn from its reviews to better manage disruptions. He said AT was aware of what it needed to improve its communications around disruptions based on its own surveys and research. McConnell acknowledged that AT had a programme underway to address these issues. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Time Out
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Cumulus Inc
Time Out Melbourne never writes starred reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills for reviews so that readers can trust our critique. If you were to plan the perfect Melbourne night out for a first-time visitor, what would you include in the itinerary? I love this question, since it's not only a great conversation starter, but there's also something inherently romantic in the exercise. Seeing a city's virtues through another's eyes tends to make you fall in love with it anew. My ideal night starts on the Paris End of Flinders Lane in the form of your classic 'dinner and a show'. After all, you can't go wrong with a meal at Cumulus Inc, the winner of our Legend Award in 2018 and the first hugely successful Melbourne bar and 'eating house' from legendary local chef Andrew McConnell (whose hospo empire today includes the likes of Supernormal, Cutler, Marion, Gimlet and Apollo Inn – all respective Melbourne icons in their own right). And after dessert, you needn't go far for entertainment. Simply descend into the basement of Fortyfivedownstairs, also housed in Collins Place, to feed your second stomach – your stomach for life, of course – with a program of independent art, theatre and music. This is exactly the evening I'd planned a few months ago to coincide with my tickets to a performance of Hamlet presented by the Melbourne Shakespeare Company. While the latter turned out to be extraordinary, a cocktail and snack (spring garlic and ricotta conchiglioni pasta stuffed with tomato and parmesan) at Cumulus Inc before the show were far more pleasurable than I'd anticipated. Like many resident Melbournians interested in eating out, I'd dined at Cumulus Inc before and I knew it was good, but I didn't remember it being this good. Something stirred me to rebook a table immediately for a larger meal. Frankly, not much has changed since Time Out last made an official visit. That dish of tuna tartare, goat's curd, green pea and mint so fresh it sings is still on the menu, as is the much celebrated 1.2-kilogram slow-roasted lamb shoulder with almond and red pepper – perfect for two to share on a date. While these are historically the highlights, there's seductive power in a trio of buttery Abrolhos Island scallops drenched in carrot curry and lime, or a plate of robust gildas ferrying pickled pepper, olive and Freo octopus into our liquor-slackened mouths. Nearly two decades on, McConnell's cracked wheat salad with labneh, preserved lemon and barberry is still one of the most wholesome (yet intriguing) restaurant salads money can buy, and that's not even the end of our praises. The superb staff still welcome you in as enthusiastically as they did back in 2009, their knowledge of the menu and drinks list far broader and more passionate in scope than most venues these days. And like mousse from the heavens, Valrhona soft chocolate is the idyllic crowd-pleaser dessert, served with an Earl Grey-infused cream, orange caramel and flecks of pistachio. My partner and I are smitten. Perhaps people don't talk a lot about Cumulus Inc anymore because there's not a lot that's new to say. There's a new wave of all-day diners following in its footsteps and you're far more likely to find news splashed about these all over the 'gram. But isn't it natural that evolution should stall when perfection has been reached? And if the recipe at this perpetually buzzing venue has been so passionately appreciated by all for so long, then why gussy it up to compete with trends of the '20s? It'd be like a longtime lover switching their cologne and then expecting you to feel the same good feelings when you sniff their sweater.
Scottish Sun
28-04-2025
- Scottish Sun
Brits warned that very popular travel item is banned in hold luggage on flights from UK
It could even get you banned from boarding your flight PACK IT IN Brits warned that very popular travel item is banned in hold luggage on flights from UK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HOLIDAYMAKERS are warned to triple check their suitcases before heading to the airport because of a strict ban on a certain item. A number of onboard plane fires have led to new rules being introduced when it comes to travelling with power banks. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Portable chargers have been banned in hold luggage since 2016 Credit: Getty 3 Some passengers have even been refused boarding for having power banks in their checked luggage Credit: Alamy The current rules which have been in place since 2016 ban portable chargers being carried in checked luggage. This is because of fears of them setting on fire, with it unable to be contained if it happens in the hold. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) warns: "Poorly manufactured, faulty and misused lithium batteries and those which have not been protected against short circuit can experience something called 'thermal runaway'. "This results in them getting so hot that they can catch fire, explode and ignite other nearby batteries. "If that were to happen on the flight deck it could significantly disrupt the operation of the aircraft and cause serious injury to flight crew." Andrew McConnell, a spokesperson for the UK Civil Aviation Authority, told The Sun: "Lithium batteries power everything from vapes and mobile phones to cameras and power banks. "If they become faulty or damaged, they can cause an intense fire that is difficult to extinguish – both in the cabin or hold of an aircraft. 'Correct handling reduces risk. Lithium batteries should be carried in your carry-on baggage. "Power banks and spare batteries should also be in a cabin bag and should be completely turned off and not in standby mode.' Anyone who tries to check in a suitcase with a power bank faces being removed from the flight along with the luggage. TSA Bans Power Banks in Checked Luggage: Key Changes for Travelers in 2025 Back in 2022, a woman was stopped from boarding because airport staff suspected she had a power bank in her suitcase. Despite this not being the case, she was forced to catch a later flight after being stopped from getting on her initial flight. Also that year, journalist Pandora was refused boarding after mistakenly checking in a "smart" suitcase which had a built in power bank. Currently, UK airlines still allow power banks in hand luggage and overhead lockers. But a number of plane fires have led to a crack down on power banks in carry on luggage by some airlines. Back in January, an Air Busan plane caught on fire due to a malfunctioning power bank, which led to the plane being decommissioned due to the extent of the damage. What do the new power bank rules mean for travellers? The Sun's Head of Travel Lisa Minot weighs in. AS staying connected becomes ever-more important, a ban on the handy gadget that can keep our devices topped up could be seen as a pain. But the catastrophic consequences of a fire on a plane are an obvious reason to make rules stricter. After countless incidents - and with so many counterfeit and faulty goods out there - it makes sense they are cracking down. But airlines do need to understand the need for us to be able to top up our devices in the air. With plans afoot to get rid of physical boarding passes in the coming years, making sure we're able to use our devices will become ever more essential. Adapting plane interiors to include USB ports will alleviate the need to top up on the go. And more needs to be done to highlight the new rules - and the dangers these devices can pose. This led to a full ban of power banks being taken in hand luggage, the first of its kind in the world. Other airlines have followed suit with slightly less restrictive guidelines, but still banning the use of power banks in the cabin, as well as banning them in overhead lockers. This includes Eva Air, Thai Airways and Air Asia as well as Tigerair and Starlux. Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines - who operate flights from the UK - have also introduced the strict power bank ban. It comes days after the US Transportation Security Administration updated its guidelines on checked luggage restrictions in regard to power banks. They must only be in hand luggage, not checked luggage. But some rules have been eased - 11 new items are allowed in hand luggage in the US including certain medications and food.
The Irish Sun
28-04-2025
- The Irish Sun
Brits warned that very popular travel item is banned in hold luggage on flights from UK
HOLIDAYMAKERS are warned to triple check their suitcases before heading to the airport because of a strict ban on a certain item. A number of onboard plane fires have led to new rules being introduced when it comes to travelling with power banks. Advertisement 3 Portable chargers have been banned in hold luggage since 2016 Credit: Getty 3 Some passengers have even been refused boarding for having power banks in their checked luggage Credit: Alamy The current rules which have been in place since 2016 ban This is because of fears of them setting on fire, with it unable to be contained if it happens in the hold. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) warns: "Poorly manufactured, faulty and misused lithium batteries and those which have not been protected against short circuit can experience something called 'thermal runaway'. "This results in them getting so hot that they can catch fire, explode and ignite other nearby batteries. Advertisement Read more on power banks "If that were to happen on the flight deck it could significantly disrupt the operation of the aircraft and cause serious injury to flight crew." Andrew McConnell, a spokesperson for the UK Civil Aviation Authority, told The Sun: "Lithium batteries power everything from vapes and mobile phones to cameras and power banks. "If they become faulty or damaged, they can cause an intense fire that is difficult to extinguish – both in the cabin or hold of an aircraft. 'Correct handling reduces risk. Lithium batteries should be carried in your carry-on baggage. Advertisement Most read in News Travel "Power banks and spare batteries should also be in a cabin bag and should be completely turned off and not in standby mode.' Anyone who tries to check in a suitcase with a TSA Bans Power Banks in Checked Luggage: Key Changes for Travelers in 2025 Back in 2022, Despite this not being the case, she was forced to catch a later flight after being stopped from getting on her initial flight. Advertisement Also that year, Currently, UK airlines still allow power banks in hand luggage and overhead lockers. But a number of plane fires have led to a crack down on power banks in carry on luggage by some airlines. Back in January, a Advertisement What do the new power bank rules mean for travellers? The Sun's Head of Travel Lisa Minot weighs in. AS staying connected becomes ever-more important, a ban on the handy gadget that can keep our devices topped up could be seen as a pain. But the catastrophic consequences of a fire on a plane are an obvious reason to make rules stricter. After countless incidents - and with so many counterfeit and faulty goods out there - it makes sense they are cracking down. But airlines do need to understand the need for us to be able to top up our devices in the air. With plans afoot to get rid of physical boarding passes in the coming years, making sure we're able to use our devices will become ever more essential. Adapting plane interiors to include USB ports will alleviate the need to top up on the go. And more needs to be done to highlight the new rules - and the dangers these devices can pose. This led to a Other airlines have followed suit with slightly less restrictive guidelines, but still banning the use of power banks in the cabin, as well as banning them in overhead lockers. This includes Eva Air, Thai Airways and Air Asia as well as Tigerair and Starlux. Advertisement It comes days after the US They must only be in hand luggage, not checked luggage. But some rules have been eased - 3 Any power bank or charger must be in hand luggage Credit: Alamy Advertisement
Business Insider
24-04-2025
- Business Insider
I saw so much of Australia in just 8 days. This itinerary was my secret weapon for maximizing my short trip.
Many travel guides suggest spending two or three weeks in Australia, but I only had eight days. To make the most of my trip, I planned ahead and made sure to make time for my must-visit spots. I got to have downtime and see highlights throughout Sydney, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast. As an American, I've spent decades dreaming of visiting Australia. This past November, I finally booked my trip. While planning my eight-day vacation, I carefully crafted an itinerary so I could maximize every moment but still have some time to breathe. I know it'd be impossible to see all the vast continent had to offer in one short trip. After all, many online travel guides suggest visitors dedicate at least two or three weeks to seeing Australia. However, I tried to fit a variety of activities and places into my schedule, including stops in half of Australia's six states: Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales. With my strategic itinerary, I feel I proved even just eight days in Australia is well worth the trip. Day 1: I arrived in Melbourne and got some steps in. My Qantas Airlines flight arrived in Melbourne at 9:30 a.m. Immediately, I headed to my hotel so I could check in and take a much-needed shower after my long journey. I chose a hotel in the heart of the city, which was key to optimizing my busy itinerary. Next, I had booked a 1 p.m. cruise along the meandering Yarra River with a picnic lunch to get a lay of the land. This was the perfect way to see the city and enjoy how its landscape morphed from a skyline of highrise buildings to green parks along the way. After, I walked a few blocks to the National Gallery of Victoria, Australia's oldest art museum. I explored various exhibits, including powerful collections from First Nations artists. On the walk back, I checked out some colorful street art on Hosier Lane's beloved and Instagrammable bluestone laneway. Day 2: I saw some highlights in Victoria and had dinner in Melbourne. The next morning, I took a roughly 20-minute tram ride from my hotel to the Queen Victoria Market, where I had a flat white and croissant while perusing all the food stalls. Next, I took a 45-minute ride to Brighton Beach (I booked a driver through my hotel), and I was able to put my feet in the sand for a bit. I was mesmerized by the vivid hues of the many beach huts lining the shore. I continued on to Victoria's stunning Mornington Peninsula and Point Leo Estate, where I spent the afternoon sipping pinot gris and pinot noir over a lunch of fresh seafood. Walking around the 330-acre sculpture park on this picture-perfect day was also a real treat. Once I got back to Melbourne, I had dinner at the iconic Supernormal on Flinders Lane. I was blown away by the complex flavors in chef Andrew McConnell's Asian-inspired cuisine — the hype is real. Day 3: I flew to the Gold Coast and dove right in. A two-hour flight from Melbourne to the Gold Coast Airport transported me to Queensland, which has some of the most beautiful coastlines I've ever seen. After checking into the beachfront Langham Gold Coast and enjoying an adorable Paddington Bear-themed afternoon tea in its Palm Court lobby bar, I strolled up and down the pristine golden sand between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise. I spent some time watching some fearless surfers tackle the waves. Then, it was time for a massage with acupressure ear seeding at the Chuan Spa, known for its Eastern wellness philosophy. In the evening, I dined on hotel room service while watching a lightning storm over the ocean from my balcony. Day 4: I interacted with wildlife and had more tasty bites in Queensland. This was the day I was most excited about: Queensland is one of few places in Australia where people are allowed to hold koalas — and this was my chance! I made my way to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where I peered at silly capybara and dingo, fed curious kangaroos by hand, and let a very musky-smelling male koala snuggle into my arms. Afterward, I went to Rick Shores restaurant to dine on its legendary Moreton Bay bug rolls (a type of lobster roll) while watching families frolic on the nearby beach. Dinner was at T'ang Court, where I had the best Cantonese food I've had outside of Hong Kong. Day 5: Once I got to Sydney, I gave myself some downtime. After a lazy morning at the pool and on the beach, I took a 90-minute flight from Brisbane to Sydney. Upon checking into my hotel in the late afternoon, I decided to just eat and go to bed early to save my energy for the busy days ahead. This was my only real rest day. Day 6: I ventured just outside Sydney to enjoy some nature in New South Wales. For day six, I had booked a full-day group tour through Oz Trails of the Blue Mountains (about 90 minutes from Sydney). This UNESCO World Heritage site is known as "the Grand Canyon of Australia" and has gorges, sandstone cliffs, and a eucalypt forest. Our many fabulous tour stops included the Sydney Zoo (where I fed wallabies), Govetts Leap Lookout, Cahills Lookout, and Katoomba Falls. The highlight of the day was the few hours spent at Scenic World, where we rode a cable car on the Scenic Cableway. I got epic views of the Jamison Valley and the enormous Three Sisters rock formations. My group also went through the rainforest via the Scenic Walkway and took the gravity-defying Scenic Railway (its 52-degree incline makes this the steepest passenger railway in the world). Day 7: It was time to see more of Sydney itself. It was finally time to see Sydney itself, so I took the 15-minute walk from my hotel to the city center. Then, I took a 90-minute guided walking tour to learn about the historic neighborhood of The Rocks, then continued my own exploration of Barangaroo and Circular Quay. I popped into shops and boutiques, visited the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, and happened upon the weekend open-air market filled with artisan crafts and street food. This is where I purchased all of my souvenirs. Day 8: I enjoyed more of Sydney and checked out Bondi Beach. Of course, my visit wouldn't be complete without a stop at the iconic Sydney Opera House. I went on a morning tour with a guide who detailed the history and architecture of the building. I was so inspired that I impulsively bought a ticket to "Oscar," a ballet about Oscar Wilde, for that evening. Later, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a show in such a gorgeous venue. In the afternoon, I made my way to the famous Bondi Beach, a crescent of white sand dotted with sunbathers and surfers all living their best lives — Australia at its finest. For me, eight days in Australia was perfect. As I boarded my flight home the next morning, I couldn't believe how much I had packed into just eight days. I certainly experienced enough on this whirlwind adventure to fall in love with Australia's charm, beauty, and warmth — and it left me eager to return and explore even more someday.
