Haere mai to our new Communications Manager, Sue Cardwell. Previously at Paralympics New Zealand, Sue brings a wealth of experience in marketing, PR and communications – as well as a passion for making transport more sustainable.
Kia ora, I’m Sue Cardwell, and I’m joining the Bike Auckland team to help make my city more climate-friendly, vibrant and connected. I’ll be Bike Auckland’s Communications Manager.
After a varied career in marketing, communications, research, and experience design for a number of large organisations, it was time to follow my passion for making the world more equitable and sustainable. I shifted into advocacy work in 2021 for Paralympics New Zealand, where I helped achieve equitable media coverage for New Zealand’s Paralympians and Para athletes.
A pressing need to work in climate action
Over recent years, I have felt a pressing need to take action to address the climate crisis. During that time, my family and I made changes to our lifestyle to reduce our footprint. This included finding a new home next to the fabulous Northwestern cycleway so we can bike for transport. (I love my Reid push bike. My wife is kind enough to slow down on the hills for me on her e-bike!)
But changing our own impact wasn’t enough. I wanted to use my professional skills to change attitudes and behaviours in favour of climate action.
Bike Auckland provided me with the perfect opportunity to dedicate myself to this area. One of the most important changes we as individuals can make is in our daily transport habits. I strongly believe that enabling cycling not only benefits individuals but also our unique and irreplaceable planet.
I dream of a lovable, sustainable, and people-friendly Tāmaki Makaurau for my daughter as she grows up. It’s time, Aucklanders. We need to change our behaviours today so that all the kids like Sophie can enjoy the opportunities that we have enjoyed.
To those thinking about travelling by bike, there’s tonnes of help available to make it easy. Check out Getting Started on Bike Auckland’s website. I look forward to seeing you on the cycleways!
