World Car Free week celebrated in Bay

How do you travel each day? Could you do it without jumping in the car?

World Car Free Day is happening next week and Bay of Plenty Regional Council is asking people to look at how they travel, and where possible use alternatives such as cycling, walking and public transport.

For more information about Car Free Day visit the Baybus website www.baybus.co.nz >>

Held on 22 September each year, World Car Free Day is recognised in more than 40 countries and 1000 cities. People are encouraged to take up the challenge and get around without their car for the day.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Public Transport Subcommittee Chairman Doug Owens said that this year the Regional Council is hoping people take the opportunity to think of alternative ways to get where they need to.

"We want people to think about the whole week, and see whether they can change how they travel more than once during the week 17 to 23 September," Mr Owens said.

"Whether you look at using our Bay Hopper or City Ride buses for a day, or make the most of the warmer spring mornings and walk or cycle, we encourage you to give it a go."

Mr Owens said for those unable to leave the car at home, the recently released website www.letscarpool.govt.nz was one way people could still get involved in the week - by sharing their trip to work with others.

"By carpooling you can not only save on petrol costs, but it's also a great way to meet new people," he said.

To find out more about the week, and also how you can be rewarded for getting involved, visit www.baybus.co.nz or www.boprc.govt.nz or phone 0800 4 BAYBUS (0800 4 229 28).