Nga Ara Pai - Community Driver Mentor Programme
619 views · Published 16 July 2014 · 2:06 · Indexed 21 September 2026
Channel: gisborneherald · 2014 · Entertainment
Mentor programme to remove barriers for budding drivers. The NZ Transport Agency and Gisborne District Council are welcoming a new mentor programme to help young drivers seeking their restricted licence. The programme, which is being funded by the NZ Transport Agency, was launched in Gisborne. http://www.gisborneherald.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/gisborneherald https://www.youtube.com/gisborneherald Transport Agency group manager access and use Celia Patrick says Nga Ara Pai, the Community Driver Mentor Programme address issues of disadvantage for learner drivers in the 16--24 age group seeking to get their restricted licences, such as access to suitable vehicles, mentors and driving practice. "Overseas research suggests that learner drivers should practise driving as much as possible before they start to drive alone. They should also practise driving in a wide range of driving conditions and situations. "But getting this practice can be easier said than done, and some learner drivers need support to get this time and experience under their belt." Ms Patrick says there are a number of young drivers in the Gisborne region who have less than ideal access to driving practice, such as those living in rural areas, without access to a licenced vehicle, or without an appropriate experienced driver to supervise them during practice. The programme will help to remove those barriers, she said. She says the programme is a pilot, and if successful, it could be extended to other regions. Gisborne District Council road safety coordinator Lenora McDonald has coordinated the launch of the programme in the Gisborne. "It is good to see our whole community come together on such an important initiative. A number of mentors have already put their hands up and the Ministry of Social Development staff have been discussing the programme with their clients." Filmed and Edited by Ben Cowper SUBSCRIBE! http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=gisborneherald
