Workplaces in Invercargill are embracing a fresh way of supporting staff well-being and sustainability, by choosing e-bikes over car keys. 

A fleet of community e-bikes is back in circulation thanks to a rebooted initiative from Invercargill City Council (ICC), supported by Healthy Families Invercargill at Active Southland. 

Originally purchased in 2022 through ICC’s Innovating Streets Programme, the e-bikes are now encouraging more people to choose active transport in the CBD. But beneath the surface, this scheme is helping create the conditions for wider systems change. 

Designed as a “try before you buy” model, the initiative gives workplaces and community groups a chance to experience e-bikes in everyday life, without the pressure of a big financial commitment.  

It’s a practical way to support physical activity, climate-friendly travel, and workplace culture all at once. 

Healthy Families Invercargill Innovator Laura Dowling says it’s exciting to see the E-bike Loan Scheme taking off with local businesses. 

So far, there have been at least seven inquiries about the e-bikes, with groups exploring how the bikes might fit into their daily movements, whether for meetings, errands or just a breath of fresh air. 

A local e-bike provider has also reached out about a potential purchasing scheme for businesses interested in establishing e-bike fleets, Laura says. 

“We’ve seen places reach out keen to get a chance to be involved, it shows that people just need the opportunity and support to try something new.” 

And it's not just something being encouraged out in the community, it’s being role-modelled within Healthy Families Invercargill too, she says. 

“We’ve got access to our own two fleet e-bikes here at Active Southland, which we actively encourage our Healthy Families and wider team to use.” 

“If we’re going to support others to give e-bikes a go, it’s important that we’re doing it ourselves too.” 

Earlier this year, Coin South reached out curious about the ICC e-bikes availability, and from there the wheels were set in motion. 

ICC brought the bike out of storage, gave them a service, and supported the relaunch with signage, instruction booklets, and the booking system. 

Southland Business Chamber also put their hands up to try out the e-bikes. 

In a recent ICC press release, Chamber Membership and Stakeholder Engagement Manager Adam Reinsfield shared that a 15-minute drive to a meeting was reduced to a 5-minute e-bike ride, a simple switch with benefits. 

ICC Road Safety and Network Manager Grant Fisher also said the scheme is part of a bigger vision to reduce car dependency and introduce more active transport options in the city. 

The initiative is open to any organisation or business interested; all it takes is a safe spot to store the bikes and a willingness to try something new. 

Article added: Monday 18 August 2025