Children in the outer islands are getting a balance on two wheels thanks to a regional project set up by a former Bank South Pacific (BSP) director.

The regional project was established by Geoff Robb, former Director for BSP Financial Group

Ltd, who is now based in Australia.

BSP Cook Islands Country Head David Street said the objective is to provide bicycles for children, generally in outlying areas and islands, to enable them to ride rather than walk to school.

Thus far, Robb has organised the collection and refurbishment of 520 bikes from his local community and delivered them to various pacific jurisdictions.

“We are very thankful for his time and effort in supporting the children of the Pacific,” Street said.

Street said the first 41 have already been delivered to Palmerston, Pukapuka and Nassau. 

The next 57 will be going on the next available shipment in July, they will be sent to Penrhyn, Rakahanga and Manihiki.

On Palmerston, Lucky School received nine bicycles, Nassau received 12 and Pukapuka received 20.

Omaka School on Penrhyn is schedule to receive 21 bicycles, Tetautua School, also on Penryhn is set to receive seven, Rakahanga School, 12, Tauhunu School on Manihiki, eight and Tukao School, also on Manihiki, nine.

Street thanked the Ministry of Education for their support.

“We sincerely hope the bikes are warmly received, and trust they will benefit the schools and their local community.”