The Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust is very pleased to announce the arrival of two replacement vehicles. Chairman of the Trust, Brian Henstock, said that the Trust is very excited to move with the times by purchasing two Honda Vezel hybrid cars. These cars are second-hand, however, they are much newer than the old cars they are replacing. They are more comfortable and are significantly more fuel efficient.

The vehicle replacement project started in early 2023 when the Trust successfully applied for funding from the Lotteries Commission and then followed up on that success with an application to the Rata Foundation earlier this year. With total funding of $40,000 plus two trade-in vehicles this enabled the Trust to form a procurement team and purchase the two hybrids.

“Our largest monthly operating cost is fuel, and the Trustees have wanted for some time to focus on moving forward in a more sustainable manner by bringing hybrid vehicles into the fleet” said Brian.

The Trust’s primary focus is to transport Marlburians to medical appointments in Blenheim and Nelson. Trust members pay a small membership lifetime fee of $20 to become a member of the Trust, The tariff for a return trip to Nelson for Blenheim or Picton residents is $60. For Picton residents who need an appointment in Wairau Hospital the fee is $30. This year alone the Trust has completed more than 450 trips. All drivers and trustees are volunteers.

To find out more about the Trust please review this website.