Look out for children as schools return

Schools across the city will be welcoming pupils new and old this week, and Auckland Transport (AT) is reminding motorists to be mindful of them.

Getting children to school safely is a top priority for AT and its teams want Aucklanders to be wary of the littlest learners, especially around primary schools.

AT community transport manager Zara Walker says all road users should be extra vigilant when travelling near schools, especially during very busy times around drop-off and pick-up.

“Young children can be unfamiliar with navigating our streets and footpaths, and it’s up to all of us to look out for them and to take extra care when we’re travelling near schools.

“Any time you’re driving past a school, please be mindful of the movement of all people needing to share the streets and footpaths with students walking, cycling, scootering, or navigating to school buses.

“Unfortunately, we’re still seeing some motorists ignoring our school crossings and are driving right through them.”

AT is urging all drivers to do the right thing and stop at crossings and to drive to the conditions and speed limit around schools, especially during school hours.

“Please also be mindful when parking to do so with all children in mind, your child, your neighbours’ children and any other child who may struggle to see past your vehicle, or anyone else,” Walker says.

AT’s parking teams regularly patrol known parking hot spots around schools to make sure motorists are parking appropriately.

Due to recent Government changes, infringement fees have increased recently so people should consider their surroundings before parking.

Community-led walking school buses are another way for the youngest students to get to school safely.

“AT supports about 200 walking school buses across Auckland, and we’d like to see plenty more,” Walker says.

“These safety-conscious walking groups can help as few as five or more than 50 children travel to school safely, guided by parent and community volunteers.”

For more information on how to join or volunteer to support a walking school bus in your area, email walkingschoolbus@at.govt.nz.

“We always need volunteers to make these happen, and these can be whānau, friends, au pairs, retirees or semi-retirees, dog walkers or even sports coaches,” Walker says.

“Anyone in our communities who has some spare time to lend a hand and take an active role in connecting your neighbourhood children to and from school in a safe and fun way.”