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