Overview
Big Street Bikers are on a mission to get 10,000 electric bikes on Auckland's streets by 2020. Why? They're cheaper than the bus, faster than traffic, don't pump out grotty pollution and are better for your booty.
To help reach that target the initiative has launched a Rechargery in partnership with Mercury. The Viaduct Harbour Rechargery is New Zealand's first solar-powered electric bike charging workshop and community hub. The shipping container fit-out is powered using a domestic solar package, allowing any e-biker to roll up, charge their bikes, get an express service from one of the onsite mechanics or even take a new e-bike for a free test ride around the harbour. Recharging is a koha donation to support Bike Auckland.
The charging station is another step towards Big Street Bikers goal of hacking Auckland's transport problem. The initiative also has a ride-to-own subscription plan to make e-bikes more affordable and accessible for commuters. For a deposit and monthly fee, subscribers get their brand new e-bike and free maintenance. After the agreed term you'll own the whole bike.
The Rechargery is launching this Thursday at the bottom of the Nelson Street bike path. The pilot scheme will run at least to the end of summer when it may become a permanent fixture of Auckland city.
Find the Rechargery at 18 Viaduct Harbour Ave. It's open Monday to Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-3pm (weather dependant).