Planning a trip around New Zealand?

Thanks to TSB Bank, travellers with mobility needs have the use of free scooters in Wellington, Auckland, Hawera, Christchurch, and New Plymouth.

The scooters, available at key council locations in each area, are often equipped with cellphones with pre-programmed numbers to call for back-up if needed.

The scooters can be used for several hours by anyone with limited mobility, from wheelchair users to those who rely on crutches, walking sticks or frames - or older people who want to enjoy the sights and not worry about how far they will have to walk.

You will be shown how to operate the scooter when you collect it. Bookings are recommended.

TSB Bank is considering extending its support for community scooters to other regions.

In the meantime you can plan your trip to Auckland, Hawera, Wellington, Christchurch and New Plymouth (or make use of the service if you live in any of those locations):

Auckland Collection Areas

Auckland Botanic Gardens Michelle Newton botanicgardens@arc.govt.nz (09) 267 1457 ext 201 http://www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/
Auckland Zoo (09) 360 3805 $30 refundable bond.

Hawera Collection Areas

Hawera Disability Centre 20 Union Street, Hawera (06) 278 3342 info@taranakidic.org.nz  Call in, or book by phone or email.

Wellington Collection Areas

Freyberg Pool 139 Oriental Parade (04) 499 4444 Wellington City Council 101 Wakefield St (04) 499 4444
Fergs Kayaks, Shed 6, Queens Wharf, (04) 499 8898 or fax (04) 801 3138 or email info@wcc.govt.nz specifying which location you'd like to pick your scooter up from, and the time. Be sure to include your contact details.

Christchurch Collection Areas

Christchurch Art Gallery art.gallery@ccc.govt.nz  (03) 941 7302
Botanic Gardens Christchurch BotanicGardens@ccc.govt.nz  (03) 941 7590
You can also phone the Christchurch City Council Booking Line, (03) 941 8888, or email info@ccc.govt.nz

New Plymouth Collection Areas

Aquatic CentreTisch Avenue, New Plymouth(06) 759 6060
Pukekura Park Liardet St, New Plymouth(06) 759 6060 Mid December to February only; check availability of scooters. Enjoy six kilometres of scenic coastal walkway or the beautiful Pukekura Park using New Plymouth's free mobility scooters.
All inquiries and bookings to (06) 759 6060, fax (06) 759 6072, email enquiries@npdc.govt.nz or visitor information email info@newplymouth.govt.nz