Local body election

Thomas from Lyall Bay

I have lived in Wellington for
over 30 years, and I am an
advocate for cities for all.

I mostly get around Wellington using public transport. I see first-hand that we have some way to go before we can honestly say public transport and the city is accessible for everyone.

I am currently on the Regional Council Public Transport Advisory Group representing disabled and older persons.

For most of the time I have lived in Wellington, I have served on a number of Wellington City and Greater Wellington committees and groups advocating for access for all. My contributions have been recognised by Wellington City.

As our city and region plans for the future, it is essential we ensure progress supports the needs of everyone, including older and disabled persons. I refer to Let’s Get Wellington Moving, rapid transit, public transport, housing, infrastructure, and services to name a few. 25% of New Zealanders experience barriers to getting around and participating fully in society. This percentage increases as we age. If our cities continue to create barriers, then more of us will be excluded, marginalised and left behind.

Councils make improvements, but those improvements

often leave some of our community behind.

Improvements to our footpaths and infrastructure will get more people active - walking, cycling, moving around our city, and using public transport. These elements contribute towards an accessible environment, enabling us all to safely move around our city.

Green projects such as replacement modes of transport can reduce our carbon footprint, and if our transport system is well connected and designed, this should contribute towards reducing the use of private vehicles. These outcomes will cumulatively benefit our environment, and the people of Wellington and wider region.

As you can see, I am passionate about accessibility for all and that no one should be left behind. A vote for me is a vote for our city and region being accessible for us all.


Authorised by
Thomas Bryan,
tsbryan@outlook.co.nz
PO Box 16043 Newtown Wellington.