Catch the train on Car-Free Day

Thousands of people will be taking to the streets in cities around the globe on Tuesday, 22 September to celebrate the annual World Car-Free Day.

In line with its sustainability vision and principles, the DCC are supporting the day, both in-house with a competition for staff, and city-wide by chartering a commuter train from Taieri Gorge Railway for the Waitati/Dunedin route.

The DCC are keen to encourage people to use alternatives to the private car, such as walking, cycling and using public transport, because this can bring many environmental benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions that arise from burning fossil fuels, improving air quality locally, reducing noise levels, improving safety for other road users, and resulting in a more pleasant city environment for everyone, as well as health benefits for the individual.

The train is primarily aimed at commuters, although it is open to anyone. It will depart from Waitati at 7.15am, calling at Michies Crossing, Osbourne, Purakaunui, Mihiwaka, Sawyers Bay, and Maia on the way, and arriving in Dunedin at 8.15am.

The return trip departs from Dunedin Railway Station at 5.45pm. Tickets are $5 per person each way and can be booked from the Taieri Gorge Railway booking office on 477 4449.

Purakaunui/Waitati-based public transport advocacy group 'Get the Train' will assist DCC and TGR in promoting the train service in the rural area.