Movin'March - it's time to let the kids out!

MEDIA RELEASE FROM GREATER WELLINGTON REGIONAL COUNCIL

18 March 2010

Walking, cycling, scooting, or skating – however kids do it, it’s a cause for celebration during Movin’March week, running from Monday 22 to Friday 26 March.

Susan Hutchinson-Daniel, Greater Wellington’s sustainable transport projects coordinator, says schools around the region, from Kapiti to Wairarapa, are holding events to celebrate kids who make their own way to and from school. The parents and caregivers who enable their children to do this also deserve a big thumbs up. Events include fancy feet (footwear with flair) days walk to school days, pedestrian crossing training, wheels day, and cycling celebrations.

“Children learn, and have fun when they walk, scoot or cycle to school. They see so much more, learn valuable road safety skills, and grow in independence and confidence. Movin’March is about giving a high five to families who travel to school this way, and inviting others to give it a go.

“Sometimes walking or cycling the entire distance to school isn’t practical. But that doesn’t mean that kids need to miss out. Research has shown that kids who walk even a few hundred metres still arrive at school happier and more alert. Dropping kids off a couple blocks from school is a great option to ensure that they still get out on their feet before school. Also, being more active has been shown to help kids’ academic performance too!”

Melissa Moon, winner of numerous mountain running events and most recently the world stair racing champion, and Tamati Ellison, Hurricanes and All Blacks player are giving Movin’March their full support. Melissa will be a special guest at the official Movin’March launch at Cardinal McKeefry School, in Wilton, on Tuesday 23 March.

Both Melissa and Tamati have special memories of walking to school.

Tamati says he loved walking to school. “I gained some vital life skills – independence and taking care of myself. And I will always be grateful to my parents for letting me do that. And I’m stoked that my nephews and nieces are able to walk to school too. It’s cool.”

Melissa says her strong legs and determination were developed by walking to school up and down Wellington hills. “And of course I had some great times with my friends.”

ENDS