FREE weekend travel for under-16s on Auckland's public transport is set to start from tomorrow.
Auckland Transport has extended free bus, train and selected ferry services during weekends and public holidays for five- to 15-year-olds with a registered AT HOP card with a child concession. Children under the age of five already travel free with a paying adult at any time. Tomorrow's extension will not require an accompanying adult. However, the agency said it advises caregivers to supervise younger children. Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said he hoped the free travel would encourage future public transport users. "Making public transport free for under-16s on weekends and public holidays will encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use existing capacity," he said in a statement. "Every person on public transport is one less car on the roads, helping to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion."The move is part of a $1.1 million contribution from Auckland Council towards public transport initiatives announced earlier in the year.The initiative was one of several council looked at to increase public transport usage. An Auckland Transport spokesperson said the free weekend fares for under-16s was "the easiest to implement and, at the time, easiest to fund".The spokesperson said the agency was also looking into the commercial feasibility of everyday free public transport for under-16s. Auckland Transport officials expect patronage to increase by 989,000 due to the initiative. Councillors Chris Darby and Richard Hills backed the move. "The cost of public transport is a big barrier to young people and families getting around and connecting," Mr Darby said. Mr Hills said it was a "step forward in making public transport more affordable and accessible for families and young people". Veisinia Maka, chairperson of the council's Youth Advisory Panel, said she was "pleasantly surprised this came through".The panel, which advises council on matters important to youth, had been advocating for affordable and accessible transport options since the start of their term three years ago. Members had discussed the topic with transport executives since then. Ms Maka said she was pleased council was willing to listen to young people. Youth voices were something council had not always considered fully, she said. "I think it's a great start," she said. "Not everything can get changed." She said she was especially happy to hear about the free weekend fares after the introduction of Auckland's regional fuel tax. Ms Maka said she had heard stories of the burden families faced travelling with their children, particularly in lower socio-economic communities. A spokesperson from climate action group Generation Zero said transport agency's latest move was "a significant improvement". "Public transport is an important step in changing our impact on the environment," the group's spokesperson told. However, the spokesperson said council "should go further with greater discounts for students and community service cardholders". "Ideally weekends should have free transport for all," they said. "Cheaper public transport gives [young people] the freedom to move around as is possible in many European and American cities. By making public transit accessible and encouraging these behaviours while young, they grow up understanding and valuing this transport mode." The group campaigned earlier this year for cheaper fares to incentivise public transport use. They said council and AT's capability to implement new pricing mechanisms are limited by the NZTA's 2010 farebox recovery policy. The policy requires fares to cover half of Auckland's public transport operating costs.
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Tips on Accelerating Your Comfort Level with a New Mattress
Getting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.
If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.
Understanding the typical adjustment period can greatly improve your sleep health and ensure you get the most comfort out of your new bed.
The Personal Touch: Individual Variation in Adjustment
When it comes to adapting to a new mattress, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
The mattress adjustment period can vary significantly depending on a number of personal factors.
Age, health, and even your usual sleep position can influence how quickly you adjust.
Generally, most people take anywhere from a few days up to a month to fully adapt to their new sleeping environment.
During this time, your body is acclimating to the support and feel of the mattress, which may differ significantly from your old one.
Understanding Mattress Types and Their Impact
The type of mattress you choose also plays a crucial role in your adjustment period.
Memory foam, for instance, may require a longer adjustment period as it contours more significantly to your body compared to a traditional spring mattress.
On the other hand, hybrid mattresses—a combination of foam and springs—offer a balance of support and cushioning, which might ease the adaptation process.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
Adapting to your new mattress is not just about waiting it out; there are active steps you can take to make the process smoother:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day sets your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce the adjustment time.
Create a comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—consider factors like temperature, light, and noise.
Give it time. Even if your new mattress feels different or not quite right initially, give it a few weeks, as initial discomfort is common.
Exploring more about how to enhance your sleep environment for a comfortable sleep, you can check out Beds4U Bedding.
Recognizing the Signs of Successful Adjustment
How do you know if you're well-adjusted to your new mattress?
Look for positive changes in your sleep quality and health.
You should experience less tossing and turning, fewer awakenings through the night, and reduced morning stiffness or soreness.
Increased sleep quality and waking up feeling rested are clear indicators that your body has adapted to the new mattress.
Comfort with Confidence
Adjusting to a new mattress is a unique experience that varies from person to person.
By understanding your needs and the characteristics of different mattress types, along with employing tips to aid the transition, you can enhance your sleep quality significantly.
Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.
At Beds4U, we are committed to helping you find that perfect sleep solution.
With a wide range of high-quality mattresses and a knowledgeable team eager to assist, finding your ideal comfort is just a visit away.
Explore our latest collections and sales at Beds4U and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep tonight.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.5% Yes
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32.9% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
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