Better Transport.
Sustainable Modes of Active and Resourceful Travel.
About Better Transport.
Better Transport is a Wao workstream designed to tackle the environmental impact of how we move.
Transport emissions make up 50% of our total emissions as a district and changing the way we move is one of the easiest ways we can make an impact on reducing these.
Changing the way we move means more biking, walking and collective transport options.
Meet the team.
Transforming the way we move around our communities is no small feat—it requires vision, collaboration, and a seriously dedicated crew. At Wao, we know that building better transport systems takes more than good intentions. It takes a passionate team with a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. Thankfully, we’ve got just that.
From community rides to strategic advocacy, our team brings the energy and expertise needed to push for real change. Rob Barry and Muireann Green lead the charge as our Ride for Change Bike Ambassadors—Rob with his deep outdoor knowledge and love of sharing the ride, and Muireann with her elite road cycling experience and commitment to making cycling accessible for all. Long-time urban cyclist and event management pro Babu Blatt ensures every community ride is a success, while Monique Kelly keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes, driving project development with equal parts strategy and pedal power.
Communications is key to shifting mindsets and growing momentum, and that’s where Arna Craig and Danielle McNaughton step in. Arna combines her sharp communication skills with a love of mountain biking to strategically engage the community and tell compelling stories, that get people thinking, moving and taking action. Danielle adds her social media genius to the mix, ensuring our message delivered.
Together, this diverse team is proof that better transport isn’t just a dream—it’s something we can build, one ride, one connection, and one bold step at a time. If you’re interested in joining the working group or have inquiries or proposals relating to better transport, please get in touch with Babu: kiaora@wao.co.nz
Our Vision.
A future where active transport is the norm, not the exception. We imagine zero carbon communities where tamariki and whānau move confidently and joyfully through connected neighbourhoods, where infrastructure supports freedom and independence, and where every journey contributes to a healthier, more resilient world.
Our Mission.
To empower communities to move differently—supporting safe, accessible, low-carbon transport options that connect people to place. We collaborate across sectors to shift mindsets, remove barriers, and promote walking, cycling, and wheeling as everyday choices that benefit health, climate, and community wellbeing.
Upcoming events.
Ride For Change.
Ride for Change was a three-month celebration aimed at igniting Wānaka’s love for bikes, with young people leading the way.
This campaign put our youth at the heart of a movement to create a healthier, more connected, and climate-friendly future. Through fun events, skill-building workshops, and community activations, we inspired the next generation to embrace cycling as more than just transport—it’s freedom, connection, and action.
By encouraging tamariki and rangatahi to make the most of Wānaka’s growing network of urban transport links, we’re fostering lifelong habits that benefit both people and planet.
Transport Survey.
How do you Move Around? Let's Get SMART to Reduce Emissions in the Upper Clutha.
In 2021 and 2023, Wao conducted a survey to find out how we move around the district. This survey will be repeated every two years to identify patterns and changes, discover barriers and opportunities for change, and track our impact over time. Our goal is to accelerate the transition towards a low-emissions future.
Blog.
Speakers.
Key Partners.
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Wānaka Primary School
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Te Kura O Take Kārara
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Holy Family Catholic School
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Hawea Flat Primary School
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Waka Kotahi
Keen to get involved?
Get in touch
kiaora@wao.co.nz