Living Streets Aotearoa National Walking Organisation

Living Streets Aotearoa supports the New Zealand Transport Agency’s announcement of Napier Hastings and New Plymouth as the two target Model Communities. The injection of $7.5 million into funding walking and cycling facilities in these communities will significantly enhance walking as a transport mode creating healthy communities.

“This is a fantastic outcome for all Napier/Hastings and New Plymouth walkers. Walking is the first mode of travel we all learn and the last one we want to give up.” says Peter Kortegast Living Streets Aotearoa President. “ It is an existing opportunity for Napier/Hastings and New Plymouth. Becoming a walking and cycling city will boost tourism in both regions and is well timed to leverage off the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2011.”

“I know all those involved in the unsuccessful Taupo and Nelson bids will be disappointed , but a strongly urge them to carry on with their aspirations of creating a vibrant liveable communities where walking and cycling is part of everyday life.”

Living Streets supports the government’s Model Communities approach, with large scale investment in new walking infrastructure in a focused area certain to produce outstanding community benefits.

Peter Kortegast says “ We need to get over the view that walking is a poor form of travel. Walking is good for your health, great for the environment and connects you with your local community. We have an entire generation of children who have been deprived of the fun of walking to School.”

ENDS

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