A week of living like a Melbournian and there’s much to like about life across the Ditch. Here are 5 things NZ could learn from Australia’s coolest city, writes Anna Sarjeant Free public transport Aside from politics (and politicians) and the current cost of living, nothing generates a bigger collective sigh than the topic of public transport. Especially in New Zealand, notably in Auckland where it’s up for daily discussion, none of it favourable.
Unless, that is, you live in Melbourne. The city where trams are spoken about as if they are an electric deity. When I arrive in the city, it takes all of three minutes for my Uber driver to mention the free tram service.
A proud fact that’s shared countless times over the coming week. And for good reason. It’s hard not to like the world’s largest tram network, with 1700 stops catering more than five million Melbournians and 10m annual visitors, all the while running a clean, efficient service.
That cleanliness relates to both the trams’ inner and outer workings; the seats are plush, graffiti is rare, and the energy used is 100 per cent renewable thanks to Victoria’s solar farms. There is a catch but it’s a small one. The Free Tram Zone covers only the city centre, but it’s a large area that includes several major attractions, including Queen Victoria Market and Federation Square.
Visitors should jump on the iconic burgundy and gold City Circle Trams that trundle to many of the city’s popular tourist sites, com.
