Martinborough Access Reference Group
We want your help to shape access, safety and movement in Martinborough
South Wairarapa District Council has established the Martinborough Access Reference Group (MARG) and is now seeking expressions of interest from Martinborough ward residents who want to contribute to the future of local roading, access and town movement.
MARG will provide advice on issues such as safety, accessibility, visitor impacts, heavy vehicle movement and the function of Martinborough’s town centre. The group’s work will support Council’s Long‑Term Plan (LTP) and wider transport and access planning.
Why we’re establishing this group
Martinborough is facing growing pressure on its transport network as population, freight activity and tourism numbers increase. Challenges include:
- heavy vehicle movements through and around residential areas
- pedestrian and cycling safety within the town centre
- the function of the Square and surrounding streets
- access to vineyards and key destinations
- balancing safety, accessibility, economic activity and town character
These are complex, interconnected issues that will benefit from local insight alongside technical advice. The Group will give the community a meaningful way to bring local knowledge, lived experience and fresh perspectives into Council’s thinking.
If this format proves successful, we’ll look to establish reference groups for our other wards to support their local issues.
What the group will do
As a member of the Martinborough Access Reference Group, you will:
- explore access and roading issues within and around Martinborough
- consider options and tradeoffs
- provide informed advice and recommendations to Council
Areas the group may consider include:
- pedestrian safety and connectivity
- cycling and walking infrastructure, including shared spaces
- revitalising the Square in line with the Square Management Plan
- cycle connections within and around the township, including vineyards
- alternatives to the current heavy truck bypass
- the role and alignment of State Highway 53
- implications for traffic, safety and the local economy
- signage, speed management and intersection improvements
While the group is advisory only, it will provide evidence based recommendations that Council (and other road controlling authorities where applicable), can consider through its annual and long term planning processes.
Who we are looking for
We’re seeking passionate people with a mix of experience and perspectives, including:
- urban design
- roading and bridges
- the local economy (retail, wine, tourism, events)
- industries requiring heavy transport and transport routes
- traffic, pedestrian and cyclist behaviour and safety
- accessibility and inclusive design
- community, environmental or planning perspectives
- any other knowledge considered relevant
All members must be a resident within the Martinborough ward.
Membership is voluntary, and not paid.
A representative from the Martinborough Community Board will also be part of the group.
How the group will operate
- MARG will be community‑driven and facilitated by SWDC.
- Membership will be between 6-8 people, with flexibility depending on the Expressions of Interest.
- Council staff (and Waka Kotahi where relevant) will provide technical and administrative support.
- Meetings will take place regularly between March and August 2026.
- A final report will be provided to Council by August 2026, contributing to the next Long‑Term Plan.
The group will be focused on a singular set of issues. It will be time-limited, operate under clear terms of reference and conclude once it reports back. Any costs will be modest and transparent.
How to apply
Expressions of interest are now open, and close on 9 March 2026 (note, this has been extended from the original close date of 2 March).
👉 Email your application or questions to marg@swdc.govt.nz
Applicants do not need to provide a CV or cover letter. Expressions of interest should outline:
- Your name and contact details
- Confirmation you reside in the Martinborough ward
- Why you are interested in joining the MARG (max 200 words)
- What experience, knowledge or perspectives would you bring to the group
What happens next?
Members will be appointed by Martinborough Ward Councilor’s and the South Wairarapa Mayor through a selection process that seeks a balanced mix of experience and perspectives.
We will contact everyone who applied and tell them the outcome of this process.