Scooters And One Wheels

Launch of a mobility scooter rental program for the Victoria Esplanade in Palmy

Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith and Mobility Scooter Initiator Brian Jeffares at the launch of the free program on Monday. Photo / Judith Lacy

Mobility scooter users now have a choice between a comet or a sweet one to smell the roses.

Brian Jeffares’ dream that people could rent mobility scooters to explore the Victoria Esplanade and riverside attractions has come true in time for summer.

At the launch of the free service in the Esplanade Rose Gardens on Monday, Mayor Grant Smith thanked Jeffares for his determination to get the project off the ground. “You get things done, well done.”

The retired Awapuni resident had gone to see him and submitted an application for the council’s 10-year plan.

Smith said the service would be a great addition to the city and complement the mobility scooter available for rent from i-Site.

Jeffares said the trip began in New Plymouth, where he could rent a scooter to explore the coastal path, and was inspired to push for something similar in Palmy when He Ara Kotahi opened. “It took a while to get on the right track.”

He thanked council official Aaron Phillips for being the glue in the whole thing.

A scooter is a long term loan from Enable New Zealand and its EASIE Living Store and Demonstration Center. Enable sold the second at a discounted price and was paid for by the Olive Tree Trust.

Enable New Zealand General Manager Michelle Riwai thanked Jeffares for his commitment to the project.

“It’s someone from the community who has a brilliant idea that gets these things going.”

Enable is a national organization that supports people with disabilities in living everyday life in the community.

The Heartway Cutie and Invacare Comet rollers are hosted by the Lido Aquatic Center, which handles bookings and maintenance. To book a roller ring 357 2684.

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