Co-Lab facilitator Marie Larking, Wellington campus recreation manager David Driscole, Co-Lab facilitator and student life coordinator Mags Chalecka-Harris, Ms Shi.
Commuting between Massey University’s Wellington campus and the central city just got easier, with the launch of the Wellington campus Bike Share scheme.
Two bikes, one of which is an electric pedal assist bike, are available for staff and students to use for free, as part of a trial that runs until June next year.
The scheme is the brainchild of Massey University master’s student Sherry Shi, who was inspired by her experience in China, where cities commonly feature bike sharing schemes.
Ms Shi took her idea to Campus Co-Lab, an initiative aimed at turning ideas into reality that benefit the Wellington campus community. She says the scheme will help staff and students connect more efficiently with city based travel destinations including the Wellington City Council, meetings with industry leaders and internships, and collecting course related production material such as printing and design work.
The idea has received funding from Pukeahu ki Tua, Think Differently contestable fund to launch and ongoing operational costs and administration will be managed by Massey University’s Wellington Recreation Department.
The scheme has also received support from the University’s sustainability director Dr Allanah Ryan, who says it’s a good fit for the University’s Sustainability Strategy that is currently being produced.
The bikes are can be collected from the gym on the Wellington campus and riders are advised to phone 04 801 2545 in advance to check availability. At present, the bikes are only available for 90 minutes and must be returned between 6pm during the week, and 4pm on the weekends.
Both bikes feature a step-through design, making them suitable for those wearing skirts and baggy pants; a waterproof bag to carry materials or computers; and adjustable seats, for people between 155 and 185 centimetres. Locks and helmets are also provided.
During the trial period riders are encouraged to provide information on the amount of time and transport costs saved from the trip.
More information is available from the Massey University website.