Whangārei 94-year-old on board with the car-free movement

Being car free hasn’t meant losing independence for a Whangārei grandmother.

After an injury left 94-year-old Marion Ross unable to drive, she turned to Citylink buses to keep up with her active lifestyle.

“I enjoy getting out,” Marion says. “I like walking the Loop, fine days, and being amongst people where you can have a conversation.” Marion found Citylink an easy and convenient way to get around. 

“I’ve got a very handy bus stop near me, so it’s easy for me. There’s a pedestrian crossing to get to the bus stop, and the low floors make the buses easy to use even with my walker.” 

Instead of dealing with the car-driver’s headaches of traffic congestion and finding a parking space when she wants to go out, Marion says she simply looks up the timetable and goes when there’s a bus due.  

“My husband advocated for a long time for the bus service and I’m grateful that he did,” she says. “Now I’m the user.” 

But convenience isn’t the only benefit to catching a bus. Leaving the car at home means reducing your carbon footprint, easing traffic congestion, keeping our cities quieter and our air cleaner, saving money on fuel and parking, and – perhaps – inspiring others to join the car-free movement.  

If you need even more reasons to get on board, Anita Child Citylink/Northland Regional Council spokesperson said September 22, World Car-Free Day, is a great day to make the change.     

“We’re inviting Whangārei residents to leave their cars at home and enjoy free travel all day on Citylink bus services,” she said.  

“Northland Regional Council’s Transport team, Northland Road Safety, and Whangārei District Council staff will also be out and about in the city centre with information and giveaways for people we see supporting Car Free Day.” 

Across the region, the Far North Link will be free to all passengers on the Mangonui – Kaitaia service and will have giveaways for people catching the bus. 

While a free ride is a great way to start experiencing Citylink bus travel, you can also get on board with Car Free Day by walking, cycling, or taking a scooter.  

“Choosing active or public transport supports physical wellbeing and a more sustainable future. Do it for yourself and for the planet,” says Ms Child.

Ditch the car for a day and bus it, bike it, walk it!

If you give the bus a go, you might even see Marion.  

For more information about Car Free Day and Citylink bus services, visit CityLink.