Waikato Regional Transport Model

Our team developed the Waikato Regional Transportation Model (WRTM): a multi-modal strategic tool that converts input land use (for example, population, households, or employment) and the transport network (road and public transport) to forecast travel patterns for any year by mode of travel. These types of models are referred to as a three or four stage models.

The three stage WRTM forecasts vehicle trips only (with no mode choice), while the four stage WRTM forecasts person trips, including the choice of travelling by car, bus, walk and cycle. The model covers the Waikato Region and the adjoining Western Bay of Plenty, Tauranga City, and Rotorua Lake District Council. It captures the interactions between those urban areas and is updated and calibrated using government census. In between updates, we operate the transport model on behalf of Waikato Local Authority Shared Services Limited. Model outputs are used to assist developers and local authorities to forecast the impact of developments on the road network, the conditions under which existing, new or improved roads will operate under various land use scenarios, and the performance of intersections and patronage on public transport.

The WRTM is the largest model in New Zealand covering over 35,000 square kilometres. It has become the single recognized transport model for the Waikato Region and is invaluable as a strategic planning tool for forecasting changes in travel demands.