City posties get new wheels
Bright red electric buggies have landed in Hamilton.
The new postie vehicles are similar to mobility vehicles but are a little larger and have better manoeuvreability.
The vehicles can carry up to 200kg of parcels and mail but are still small and nimble enough to be used on the footpath.
Driver training is underway this week so it won’t be long before residents see the four- wheeled vehicles in action, area service delivery manager Moana Pukeiti said in a statement.
‘‘These vehicles are an investment in NZ Post’s future as we change the way we deliver to meet the growing demand for parcel deliveries.
‘‘They’re also helping us find new ways to reduce our carbon emissions of every parcel we deliver.’’
Pukeiti said previous trials have shown the vehicles are safe to use on the footpath.
Drivers have to give way to all other footpath users and will receive safety training, she said.
NZ Post has been working closely with Hamilton City Council in preparation for the rollout.
As well as working on the safety aspect, council and NZ Post have been working the disabled and visually impaired community, pedestrian and biking communities and local advocacy groups to ensure the needs of those who use the city’s footpaths are met.