Local body election
I have lived in Wellington for
over 30 years, and I am an
advocate for cities for all.
I mostly get around Wellington using public transport. I see first-hand that we have some way to go before we can honestly say public transport and the city is accessible for everyone.
I am currently on the Regional Council Public Transport Advisory Group representing disabled and older persons.
For most of the time I have lived in Wellington, I have served on a number of Wellington City and Greater Wellington committees and groups advocating for access for all. My contributions have been recognised by Wellington City.
As our city and region plans for the future, it is essential we ensure progress supports the needs of everyone, including older and disabled persons. I refer to Let’s Get Wellington Moving, rapid transit, public transport, housing, infrastructure, and services to name a few. 25% of New Zealanders experience barriers to getting around and participating fully in society. This percentage increases as we age. If our cities continue to create barriers, then more of us will be excluded, marginalised and left behind.
Councils make improvements, but those improvements
often leave some of our community behind.
Improvements to our footpaths and infrastructure will get more people active - walking, cycling, moving around our city, and using public transport. These elements contribute towards an accessible environment, enabling us all to safely move around our city.
Green projects such as replacement modes of transport can reduce our carbon footprint, and if our transport system is well connected and designed, this should contribute towards reducing the use of private vehicles. These outcomes will cumulatively benefit our environment, and the people of Wellington and wider region.
As you can see, I am passionate about accessibility for all and that no one should be left behind. A vote for me is a vote for our city and region being accessible for us all.
Authorised by
Thomas Bryan,
tsbryan@outlook.co.nz
PO Box 16043 Newtown Wellington.
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% Yes
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33.7% No
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2.3% Other - I'll share below
Become an SPCA Foster Hero!
Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.
Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!
Sign up today and save a life!
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.