A partnership between Tongariro Prison and Te Kapua Whakapipi Trust is helping to get people moving, with refurbished bikes making their way into local communities.
The initiative sees men working in prison industries restore donated bikes, giving them a second life while supporting whānau and community wellbeing. It also provides people in prison with practical skills, hands-on experience, and a meaningful way to give back.
The bike refurbishment project began in 2013, as part of the prison’s Offender Employment programme, building on its Engineering and Painting programmes. Bikes are stripped down and rebuilt using salvaged parts, with a strong focus on safety and quality.
Principal Instructor Catering & Hospitality Alan Tye says the project has grown into something special for the community.
“We’ve been able to donate bikes to a range of community groups and organisations” he says. “When we service and refurbish bikes for local schools, our paint shop even sprays them in the school’s colours.”
Alan says many bikes have come from the Police as recovered stolen property. More recently however, bikes have come from refuse stations, and staff donations from Community Corrections sites across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
“We are always looking for more bikes to refurbish” Alan adds.
For communities receiving the bikes, the benefit is clear.
Tuwharetoa Operations Manager Leanne Puohotaua, whose community has been the recipient of 25 refurbished bikes in the last year, says they are making a real difference in her rural community where transport can be a barrier.
“We’ve seen more tamariki and rangatahi getting outdoors and staying active, which is great for both physical and mental wellbeing” she says.
“Having access to a bike builds independence and confidence, reduces reliance on others, and helps young people participate in daily life.”
For the men involved, the project offers more than just technical skills. It’s a chance to contribute positively to the community while gaining hands-on experience and skills. The bike shop employs 1 - 3 men in prison at a time depending on the workload.
Alan says the men working in the bike shop are older, some with mechanical experience and others with a passion for tinkering with bikes.
“We aim to provide training and employment opportunities for as many men as possible. This sort of work is particularly good for men in prison who in their later years may not be suited to other employment pathways.
“These men deserve a shot at gaining some level of employment for their own sense of wellbeing and to give back.”