Press Release

The Second New Zealand Walking Conference is being held in Christchurch today and tomorrow.

Living Streets Aotearoa supports the “International Charter for Walking”. All delegates have been asked to sign the charter individually.

Celia Wade-Brown, President of Living Streets Aotearoa, says “We’re delighted that the first person at the conference to sign the charter is our Minister of Transport, the Hon Annette King MP, who is very supportive of walking for health and transport."

The charter’s key focus is “Creating healthy, efficient and sustainable communities where people choose to walk."

A range of national and international presenters have emphasised that walking is essential for health, friendly communities, children’s independence and reduces climate change effects too.

Ms Wade-Brown says,” Our cities and towns could be made much more attractive for walking. Locating shops, work and recreation facilities close together makes walking possible. Lower speeds, smoother footpaths and better signs help too."

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www.livingstreets.org.nz

Charter follows

International Charter for Walking

Creating healthy, efficient and sustainable communities where people choose to walk

I/We, the undersigned recognise the benefits of walking as a key indicator of healthy, efficient, socially inclusive and sustainable communities and acknowledge the universal rights of people to be able to walk safely and to enjoy high quality public spaces anywhere and at anytime. We are committed to reducing the physical, social and institutional barriers that limit walking activity. We will work with others to help create a culture where people choose to walk through our commitment to this charter and its strategic principles:

1. Increased inclusive mobility
2. Well designed and managed spaces and places for people
3. Improved integration of networks
4. Supportive land-use and spatial planning
5. Reduced road danger
6. Less crime and fear of crime
7. More supportive authorities
8. A culture of walking

Signed

Name
Position
Date

www.walk21.com

ENDS

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