Over 150 poeple participated in Walk2work Day on march 10th in Nelson. See press release below:
“Hey you, not all the other readers, we’re talking to you! Walk into town on Wednesday and help us make Nelson/Tasman, a safe, cleaner, cheaper, healthier place to live.”
Local Walk2Work day organisers are urging everyone to lace up their shoes and stride into town this Wednesday, March 10, as part of the national event.
Although organisers expect thousands to participate simultaneously around NZ, Nelson City Council’s transport and road safety coordinator Margaret Parfitt urged the community to recognise that this is for everyone.
The Nelson Marlborough District Health Board is supporting the NCC to provide a free breakfast to all walkers at the 1903 site from 7.00am-9am.
In Richmond Ambrosia Café and the Richmond Mall are providing breakfast in the Queen Street Courtyard at the same time.
“Don’t look at this and think it’s happening around you,” Mrs Parfitt said.
“It’s happening for you – don’t be a party pooper.
“Just give it a try. Just once. It might just change your life.”
Mrs Parfitt said the simple act of walking to work had the power to positively influence your whole day.
“It’s amazing what a difference a short walk can make to your outlook on life.
“We live one of most beautiful places in the world. You can stroll in safety on tracks along the water front or river beds – what better way to start your day.
“If you don’t live within walking distance of the city centre you can get off the bus a few stops earlier or park your car further away.
“Think of the money you’ll save on parking fees – and the extra exercise means you won’t have to drive to gym to get on a treadmill.”
Richmond Walk2Work day organiser Judene Edgar said walking could improve our whole community.
“Society has moved away from our roots – we were made to walk. We need to recognise that walking is a valid form of transport,” she said.
“It’s fun, it’s free and it’s easy.
“Most people would be surprised to find that just by leaving a little bit earlier, they could reduce a lot of trips they make in the car.
“With more people walking, the less traffic there is, the safer the streets become and the cleaner our air remains.”
NMDHB Nutrition and Physical Activity programme director Helen Steenbergen said walking, as part of a balanced lifestyle, could help people enjoy a long a healthy life.
She said Walk2Work Day was about highlighting that anyone can add walking to their daily lives.
“Walking to walk is a peaceful and energising way to start your day.
“By leaving home 20 minutes earlier, you can arrive at work feeing fresh and energised and ready to go. There’s no traffic, no cost, no worries.
“And by adding the active transport as part of your workday, that’s less of your free time you need to spend exercising.”
There are also rewards for bosses who encourage and support workers to use the feet.
“Research shows us that fit employees are more productive and happier employees,” Mrs Steenbergen said.
“So not only does the boss have to worry about less parking, he’ll have a more efficient, more enjoyable workplace.
“It’s a win, win situation.”
See news story at http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/3423548/Brekky-reward-for-keen-w...