Hon Chris Carter
Minister of Housing

27 April 2007 Media Statement

Embargo/ for publication after April 27
Housing NZ to promote sustainable transport

Housing New Zealand is to trial a major programme promoting sustainable transport among its staff to reduce pollution and save energy, Housing Minister Chris Carter announced today

"Housing New Zealand is one of the largest government entities with staff all over the country. Because of the significant geographic area state housing covers, the corporation's staff travel widely," Mr Carter said.

"As part of the government's push to make the public service more sustainable, Housing New Zealand is to become one of the first government agencies to trial workplace travel plans. The trial will take place in Auckland."

A travel plan is a package of measures that aim to reduce the number of car journeys and provide people with greater transport choice, including carpooling, cycling, walking, running or public transport.

As part of the programme, about 30 staff throughout Auckland have been offered a free trial on the public transport network.

The Corporation has been working in partnership with the Auckland Regional Transport Authority to provide carpooling software, reduce single occupancy vehicle trips and promote alternate transport modes for its 15 neighbourhood units and the national office in Manukau.

Pool Bikes are being trialled at Housing New Zealand's neighbourhood units at Glen Innes, Panmure and the national office. Staff can use the bikes on tenancy visits, lunch time rides and to trial work to home rides.

Umbrellas will also be available in every neighbourhood unit and at the national office to in encourage walking for short trips.

"It is important that the government show leadership in tackling the environmental impacts from transport. This trial is a very positive start," Mr Carter said.

ENDS

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