One third of all trips made by cars in New Zealand are less than 2 kilometres, and two thirds are less than 6 kilometres. These distances can easily be covered by cycle or foot, often more quickly, and definitely much more cheaply than other modes.
Walking or cycling short journeys instead of driving a car are simple ways to keep healthy and fit, save money and parking hassles. They are also easy to build into our daily routine.
You don’t have to walk or cycle every trip – make one active trip in the weekend and start with a friend, or perhaps take public transport to work and walk home once a week.
Consider walking to the supermarket or dairy for small purchases, or enroll your children in a walking school bus.
If you are going to a meeting across town, it’s often quicker to walk.
Once you get going, aim for 10,000 steps a day – using a pedometer is a fun way to measure how far you are walking.
For more tips, maps to help you plan your route, and walking guides, check out the following websites:
Cycling is a very efficient form of transport, fuelled totally by renewable energy: your own! As well as the environmental benefits, cycling's healthy and fun. Consider cycling to work or going for bike rides with family or friends in the weekend. If you cycle in the weekends, keep your fitness up by cycling into work sometimes as well if you can. For more help and ideas, check out the following websites:
