A proposed joint event called the NZ Walking and Cycling Conference is intended to be held in late February or early March 2012. Those who have been involved in past NZ walking and cycling conferences will know that this joint concept (and accompanying debate) has come up regularly over the years.
On the one hand, it provides a great opportunity to attract a larger number of delegates and speakers, while creating a wider audience and leverage for "active transport". It also enables both of the respective walking and cycling sectors to address issues within a broader context of transport and mobility planning, creating opportunities to tackle shared barriers and opportunities.
However, the committee members readily acknowledge that cycling and walking should not be lumped together for convenience's sake. Among the downsides of doing so is that issues unique to each sector could get lost or downplayed in a joint conference. The focus will be on getting the programme content and structure right to alleviate this.
A venue for this conference is currently being finalised. A call for presentations will then be put out for submissions. We look forward to your involvement in this exciting initiative!
If you have any feedback or questions about this proposal, please forward comments to Glen Koorey (conference@can.org.nz).
