Peddling proves popular in South Auckland

Peddling proves popular in South Auckland

There was plenty of pedal power at the bike safety awareness day in Takanini with over 500 people turning out to pedal, push and ride their bikes in support of Go Active with PORSE.

It was the first time leading in-home childcare provider, PORSE had organized the event and programme tutor, Shonelle Henry says she was overwhelmed by the turnout.

“It was such a popular day and all the families and educators had so much fun. Getting out and about in the community is one of the best ways for children to learn and is one of the unique experiences offered by in-home childcare and we work on fostering good community relationships.”

One of the families enjoying the chance to Go Active was the Cosford family. Mum Lisa said it was not only a great reminder about how much fun you can have on two wheels, but good to see the importance of helmets and bike safety.

“My two girls are aged three and five and they had such a happy day. It was good they got to see people wearing their helmets and realising that everyone else has to wear their helmets too.“

PORSE educator Simone Schlooz loves taking her children out to the wide range of PORSE events

“One of the unique benefits of in-home childcare is being able to get out and about in the community with the children in your care. The bike day was an event for all ages and it was great to see the different ages enjoying trying all of the different bikes and getting fresh air and exercise . They’ll be motivated to carry on now.”

Local police were there to help children and parents take to their handlebars, reminding all ages about the importance of bike safety.

“Raising awareness about bike safety is important and it’s good to do it in a fun, interactive way. The children enjoyed riding their bikes together and taking part in all the activities,” said Ms Henry.

A number of local community organisations including Auckland Transport, In2it Street Games, Takanini Play Truck, Tamariki Ora , Hippy and Plunket all took part in Go Active with PORSE Takanini to raise awareness about bike safety within the community.

The Papakura and Takanini regions in South Auckland have one of the highest non-participation rates in ECE in New Zealand and the Government has set a target of having 98 percent of children participating in ECE before starting school, by 2016.

For more details about PORSE, phone 0800023456 or visit www.PORSE.co.nz

ENDS

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