29/11/05
Interislander helps Variety - the Children’s Charity get bikes to deserving South Island children
Jane Turner from Interislander, watches on as one Wellington child receives their bike
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200 South Island children will be riding to the beach this summer on brand new bikes - thanks to Variety–the Children’s
Charity and Interislander.
Interislander transported two trucks filled with bikes across Cook Strait this afternoon that will be presented to 200
South Island kids nominated for being positive role models within their communities.
Variety spokesman Steve O’Connor says this is a great way to reward school children all over the country who work hard
and provide an example to others.
“It’s great to be able to give something back to kids, especially those in smaller regional areas who often get missed
out. We’re thrilled that Interislander is helping us out as we wouldn’t have been able to get the bikes across Cook
Strait without them.”
Interislander General Manager Passenger Service and Delivery, Martin Weekes agrees and says that Interislander is happy
to help transport the bikes across Cook Strait.
“This is a great cause and we’re really pleased to be able to help deserving South Island children become more mobile.”
The 200 bikes are among 800 that Variety are donating to school children in 25 areas across New Zealand. 60 school
children in Wellington were presented with their bikes earlier today.
Notes to the editor
About Interislander: Interislander is New Zealand’s leading Cook Strait ferry operator, carrying more than 1 million
passengers every year. Owned by Toll Shipping, Interislander has been servicing Kiwi’s for over 40 years and
transporting passengers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In 2004, Interislander crossed Cook Strait 5,586 times,
carrying 56,000 trucks and 230,000 passenger vehicles.
60% of Interislander’s passengers are Kiwi’s and 40% are from overseas and specialises in providing a uniquely ‘kiwi’
experience for international and domestic travelers alike.
About Variety – the Children’s Charity Variety has been helping to raise money for New Zealand children for almost 15
years. The organisation is made up of dedicated people who are committed to enriching the lives of sick, needy and
disadvantaged children around the country. Every year the group is the driving force behind numerous fundraising events
designed to help support these children.
ENDS