“It's good for the community to see real people like them on the bike”: Exploring e-bike support in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Background

Equity-focused e-bike support programmes are likely to have an important role in growing the mode share of cycling. In Aotearoa New Zealand, equitable approaches to cycling need to include approaches that are led by and for Māori. Previous work promoting cycling in Indigenous Māori communities has identified the need for culturally relevant, inclusive programmes which focus on cycling as an activity that benefits families and communities as well as individuals. This research explores the holistic health effects of a long-term Indigenous e-bike programme.

Methodology

HIKO is an e-bike programme providing long-term e-bike loans and wrap-around cycling support in a suburban community in Aotearoa New Zealand, through a Māori health and social service provider. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 26 HIKO participants over the first 12 months of the programme. Data were analysed thematically, using an Indigenous Māori framework of holistic health and wellbeing (Te Pae Māhutonga).

Results

Participants used their e-bikes for recreational and transport cycling. Prior to the programme participants did not cycle regularly, if at all, and largely described e-biking as an unfamiliar activity. Using the domains of Te Pae Māhutonga, we explore four themes: the necessity of trusted leaders, strong relationships and community input; e-biking as supporting cultural and environmental connections; e-biking as supporting healthy lifestyles; and e-biking as enabling greater social participation and family connectedness.

Conclusions

Appropriately designed e-bike support programmes have an important role in broadening equitable access to cycling. This study underscores the importance of considering the needs of families in designing cycling programmes, infrastructure and policies. It also highlights the role of health improvement as a motivating factor for taking up e-biking.