Green bikes go again
Porirua people will have more opportunity to get their hands on affordable and safe bikes now Trash Palace and the NZ Green Bike Trust have joined forces.
Trash Palace, Porirua City Council’s resource recovery and recycling centre, has made an unused building available to Green Bikes so they can set up a permanent workshop and join the recycling village.
This means all bikes dropped off to the recycling centre will now be checked over by a Green Bike mechanic before being sold with a full warrant of fitness.
Trash Palace manager Marion Tongariro said previously bikes only had their tyres pumped up and were sold ‘‘as is’’.
‘‘Obviously that created some waste and was not the most efficient or effective way of recycling bikes.
‘‘Green Bikes are coming on board so we can streamline the process and provide the community with affordable, roadsafe bikes.’’
The Green Bike Trust previously operated out of a boat shed in Titahi Bay, so is looking forward to having new premises.
Mechanic Mike Penhey said specially designed artwork on the new building would make it visible to people going to the landfill or visiting Trash Palace.
The new workshop was also close to the Te Ara a Rangituhi mountain bike park in the western hills.
The project will be celebrated at a launch on December 3 from 10am to 2pm where the building will be opened by Porirua mayor Mike Tana.
People can bring their own bikes along to the launch for free puncture repairs or a safety check.
The Green Bike Trust aimed to provide sustainable and affordable transport, particularly for those who may otherwise not be able to afford a bike.
This has included refugees and others in need.