Find new inspiration with the right bike

"My physique has improved. I have more energy to play with my kids. I save $200 a month on petrol. "

What inspired you to live lightly and use your car less?

My inspiration came from my friend Ricardo, who was cycling everywhere in Auckland. I’d tried this in the past, but had given up because I didn’t have the right bike and it felt like I was over exerting myself. This time, I asked Ricardo to help me find a bike that would make cycling easy. I ended up choosing a recumbent bike (one that puts you in a reclining position). It looked beautiful and was really comfortable. So I started experimenting with cycling to work. This was around the same time my family moved to Te Atatu South, close to the cycle way. Finally all the stars had aligned. I found that I could function without my car.

Tell us some of the best things about going by bike?

Saving time! Where I would normally spend an hour and a half sitting in motorway traffic and then trying to find a park, on my bike I was able to get to work in 45 minutes. Since then, I’ve added an electric bike to my fleet and there are days when I can reach work in under half an hour. I’ve also noticed that my physique has improved. I have more energy to play with my kids. I save $200 a month on petrol. And I hope I am able to inspire others to lead a healthier, more eco-friendly lifestyle.

What advice would you give to others?

Once your life is organised around your intention to do the right thing, doing the right thing becomes easier. Once you take the first step, you find a new strength, a new inspiration. A new lifestyle that is way better than sitting in traffic every day.