Our speaker on Monday evening, 29 June 2026 was Jeff Marchant, along with Ron Beernink.
Jeff established a charitable trust in late 2022 as a tribute to his late wife Olivia who passed in that year.
"Riding with Olivia" is the Lower Hutt chapter of a Danish Charity "Cycling Without Age" {CWA} which was established in 2012 and has since spread to over 50 countries. including here in New Zealand. The Lower Hutt chapter has been operating since 2023 and is now based on the Petone foreshore and has 3 Trio-bikes at their disposal.
Club members viewed a short video presentation that outlined the background to CWA, its aims and mission. We heard that through using cycling, in this case tri-shaws, passengers could experience the outdoors, new relationships, and an improved quality of life - sentiments that Jeff and Ron said they get in feedback from their passengers here in Lower Hutt. Passengers come from many walks of life in our community, but the focus is really on those that are disadvantaged or unable to access the outdoors, particularly the disabled and elderly. The bikes can take up to two passengers and have a pilot who provides the effort to enable the outdoors to be experienced at a relaxed pace. Rides last for approximately two hours and take place in the Petone area, mainly along the Petone Esplanade or, more latterly, the new Te Ara Tupua pathway (Petone to Ngauranga cycle/walk way).
Jeff told us that since the opening of Te Ara Tupua in May 2026 interest in their rides has "blossomed" and bookings for rides are increasing. For more information Jeff can be contacted at either Info@ridingwitholivia.nz or FB.com/RidingWithOlivia
A great presentation showing the positive difference one person can make in the lives of those with limited capacity to enjoy the outdoor environment. Many thanks Jeff and Ron.