Pupils lead way on sustainable transport

Cars have taken a back seat as the preferred transport option for pupils travelling to and from Hawea Flat School.

An initiative set up in October last year with the help of the Queenstown Lakes District Council, encouraging children to use more sustainable transport options, has proved a big hit.

Each pupil has been presented with a "travel card" that is stamped with the mode of transport they have used for the day, either walking, biking or car pooling.

Once the card is completed it goes in the draw held on Friday at assembly where the pupil is rewarded for their efforts.

Principal Sue Heath said the programme was about encouraging students and their parents to use different modes of transport and the importance of exercise.

Bike skill sessions had also been organised and the whole system had proved a great success, she said.

"It's just getting them active, it's all very well wanting them to walk to school ... but from the parents' view it's got to be safe," she said.

Queenstown Lakes District Council travel demand management project leader Rae-anne Kurucz said the cards were part of a wider school travel plan to get children walking and cycling.

The council had also upgraded the road near the school and lowered the speed limit, she said.

A cycle train, where a parent rides in the front and back of a group of children, was also being organised, Ms Kurucz said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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