Metlink drives creativity with kids’ competition to design a bus
Metlink is calling on tamariki across Wellington region to try their hand at designing a bus wrapping as part of this year’s Brendan Foot Supersite (BFS) Round the Bays.
Metlink General Manager Scott Gallacher says, “For the first time ever, we’re hosting a Metlink activity tent for the community at the Finishers’ Festival after the race, so we wanted to do something really unique and fun for whānau. We're giving one lucky winner the chance to see their very own bus driving around the region.”
The competition will take the form of a colouring contest open to children aged 12 or younger who live in Wellington region. Kids are encouraged to use their imaginations, with extra points awarded to entries that incorporate themes of te taiao (the natural environment) and sustainability.
“We’re excited to meet many budding young artists at Round the Bays this year but we’re also opening the competition up to youngsters who can’t make it to the festival. Tamariki can drop their entries off at any Greater Wellington Regional Council office in-person or by post. We’re also happy to accept artwork by email,” adds Mr Gallacher.
To take part in the competition, tamariki can visit Metlink’s tent at the Finishers’ Festival in Kilbirnie Park on 21 February, or download the colouring-in sheet(external link) and follow the instructions for submissions.
The winner and their whānau will be invited to witness the unveiling of their specially designed bus before it hits Wellington’s streets.
Greater Wellington Councillor and Chair of the Transport Committee Roger Blakeley is looking forward to being part of the group of councillors who will choose the winning design that will go on to become a bus wrapping.
“We councillors are no strangers to making tough choices together, but I anticipate this decision will be particularly contentious as everyone fights to see their favourite artwork splashed across a bus,” says Cr Blakeley.
Mr Gallacher also reminds BFS Round the Bays participants of all ages that public transport will be free across the entire network (bus, train, and harbour ferry) on race day, in an effort to curb carbon emissions and ease traffic as thousands make their way into the city.
“Simply show your race bib to frontline staff on any of our services, and you’ll be welcomed on board free of charge,” he says.
Metlink invites all BFS Round the Bays participants to take public transport on race day, and visit the Metlink tent at the Finishers’ Festival.