Paihikara hei piki Te Ora - Bikes to Promote Health and Wellbeing has positively impacted many lives and is still going strong after five years.
Whanganui Senior Constable Jason Page, a Youth Aid officer for two years and before that a dog handler, launched the programme in 2020 and has evolved it to a now-embedded way of working with children and young people that he is involved with through his role.
As part of a Youth Services team with a strong culture of engagement and prevention, Jason introduced the concept of using refurbished bikes to teach children and young people not only how to ride, but also how to maintain their bikes.
The initiative includes supervised group rides to local bike parks, offering children and young people the opportunity to improve their skills and explore their surroundings.
As the programme has grown, it has evolved to include more ambitious expeditions such as to the Old Coach Road.
“Riding part of the Mountains to Sea - Ngā Ara Tūhono has been a fitting way for some young people to connect to their awa and maunga,” says Jason.
Sergeant Craig Yorston, OC Whanganui Youth Aid, says that at its core, the programme relies on mentorship and building positive relationships.
“These simple yet effective approaches have contributed to a notable reduction in criminal activity and victimisation among the participants, while also fostering conversations that equip and enable ‘hope’ to improve life outcomes for the young people involved,” says Craig.
Jason has received strong support from colleagues who have also embraced the initiative. Many participate in the rides, further strengthening the community connection and making a positive impact on the lives of those who have previously come to police attention.
“Parents of youth that we engage with are initially surprised that we offer this initiative," says Jason.
"Along with their tamariki, they begin to see policing in a different light and the positive relationships we are building.
“The bicycles have been a really powerful tool, bringing another dynamic that help us at the front end of early intervention.
“There have been many lives positively impacted by this initiative and I couldn’t have done any of it without all the support from my team, my wider colleagues, the community, and local groups and businesses who have stepped up and offered their support and services.
“We are always on the lookout for bicycles and parts so if you have any that you would like to donate, please reach out.”