Wheels of Change: Examining Incentive-Based Academic and Professional Staff e-Bicycle Initiatives

As of today, commuting habits in Auckland remain predominantly centred around automobile transportation. However, recognizing the adverse impact of vehicle traffic on the environment and urban road congestion, numerous cities and organizations worldwide have devised initiatives aimed at promoting alternative modes of commuting.

This research focuses on exploring the advantages of commuting by bicycle and devising a strategy for implementing a Commuting by Bike initiative within the Faculty of Creative Arts and Industries (CAI) at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.

The initiative proposed in this paper, titled “Wheels of Change”, involves subsidizing (E-)Bikes for staff, offering a data-driven approach to developing a transportation program that prioritizes sustainability. The process commenced by researching existing case studies from various cities and organizations to ascertain the most effective design for an initiative tailored to Auckland’s landscape and lifestyle. Central to this research was the collection and analysis of data, including a survey administered to CAI faculty staff members to gather feedback on initial concepts and their commuting preferences. The response from staff was highly encouraging, providing ample data for analysis.

Given the significant engagement with the survey and the widespread support among staff for a university-led bicycle commute initiative, there is a solid foundation for the realization of the affordable (E-)Bikes for Staff program.