News that Local Board-funded Ecomatters bike hubs in New Lynn and Henderson have won a National Transport Award at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s On the Go Awards has been met with delight by community leaders.
The awards acknowledge the dedication and contribution of projects that support a healthier, cleaner and safer transport system, with the hubs receiving the ‘Shifting the Dial’ award at the event.
Despite the challenges of COVID-19 related lockdowns, the two west-based bike hubs along with the Glen Innes hub received almost 9000 visitors last year, fixing and restoring nearly 3000 bikes.
Whau Local Board Chair, Kay Thomas says the award was well-deserved.
“I’m really proud that the hubs, which began here in Whau back in 2017, have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community,” said Ms Thomas.
“Even before COVID hit and more people began seriously looking into cycling the New Lynn hub was really popular,” she said.
“It’s a fantastic service that plays a huge role in our community and we are delighted that they have won this award. It is well deserved in our opinion and I’m proud to say that we have supported them from the beginning.”
Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair, Chris Carter said the bike hubs were a fantastic initiative.
“The bike hubs are a fantastic initiative and with the board committed to improving transport options in the area, is well utilised.The Bike Hub in Henderson,” he said.
“The Henderson bike hub always has a lot of activity around it and as word has spread about its location and services it has become both more popular and integral to the community.
“The team are friendly and ever so helpful so it’s no wonder that so many people make use of it, and that it, along with the other two hubs, have won this award. Many congratulations and may the good work continue for a long time to come.”