ACTIVATION

Lack of exercise is a risk factor for poor health. Active travel can enhance health and wellbeing but many neighbourhoods in Aotearoa New Zealand are not designed to promote it. Improvements to transport and community infrastructure could address this gap but the best combination of interventions is still unknown.

This research investigated the impact of transport and community infrastructure on peoples’ health and wellbeing. The project evaluated different ways of “retro-fitting” the design of our cities, and increasing transport choice to encourage more active modes of travel and reduce car dependence.

The project explored interventions that best fit with local opportunities and preferences across two locations, Ngā Hau Māngere and central Christchurch. The research team measured health and wellbeing-related impacts using survey and observational research.

In Ngā Hau Māngere, the project built on an earlier intervention to prioritise active travel by retro-fitting neighbourhood streets. The project investigated the impact of locally co-designed activities to increase the connectivity of walking and biking infrastructure on physical activity, social connection and safety.

In Christchurch, the project investigated changes in travel practices associated with moving to higher density central-city residential settings. Interviews and surveys explored the factors that ensure success, such as attitude and behaviour change, and regulatory and institutional requirements. The research was designed to inform ways that transport and housing design can be integrated to encourage active mobility in urban regeneration programmes.