What’s the most quirky way of getting to work that is carbon-friendly?

Craigs Investment Partners’ 2024 Wednesday Challenge has begun and general manager Hayley Nelson has been involved since the beginning.

Wednesday, February 21, Hayley took the three-kilometre journey from home to work via paddle board.

“We [Craigs Investment Partners] see it as a great way to get our approximately 260 Tauranga-based staff involved in this sustainable community initiative, to help reduce congestion on our roads and make a positive impact environmentally.

Hayley says getting others involved is important.

“Seeing individuals find ways to get active on their way to and from work, getting to know each other better with carpooling and encouraging one another in whatever mode they choose to take.

“The challenge links nicely with our sustainability goals, specifically in reducing our environmental footprint by encouraging low or carbon-friendly methods of travel.

“Which is why we have invited all 19 of our offices across New Zealand to participate.

“It’s been great today seeing the photos floating around of people cycling, bussing and walking their way to work.

Hayley says her paddle-boarding trip to work was amazing.

“The tide had just turned so it helped me along, the water was flat, the sun was still rising, my husband helped me get ready and I had colleagues carry my board up to the office for me.

“The wind is due to pick up this afternoon so it may take me a bit longer to get home, however, that’s part of the challenge.

Hayley says she chose to travel by paddle board because “Tauranga Moana is a great place to enjoy this leisure activity to enjoy in the harbour.”

“Last year I paddled into the CBD and took photos of our new head office construction site at 2 Devonport Road at a weekend.

“I shared that with a colleague who suggested I paddle to work one day.

“So, when the Wednesday Challenge reminders came along, I thought now was the time.

“Thankfully, that same colleague came down to help me with my board this morning.

Hayley says her next idea for the challenge is rollerblading and she is open to other suggestions.

“I usually e-scooter to work, so next week I plan to run to work, I have colleagues on standby to help me out with car-pooling, and then I will work through cycling, walking, and any other suggestions.

“The paddle today actually took the same length of time to get in as it does to run in, just under half an hour.

When asked what she would say to encourage Tauranga locals to join, she says “Absolutely get involved in any way you can.

“A colleague today inspired me by sharing how they plan to do the school drop off, leave their car by school, and then car-pool with a friend to the CBD on a Wednesday.

“It can be a bit tricky, logistics-wise, however, it’s worth that good feeling of knowing you overcame the challenge and did it.

“Personally, I like to have a bit of fun and encourage others to do the same and this is all for a great cause.”