Auckland schools reduce emissions with the ‘Wednesday Challenge’

Sustainable Schools

15 July 2025

Auckland schools reduce emissions with the ‘Wednesday Challenge’ image

Schools across Tāmaki Makaurau are stepping up to reduce transport emissions—one Wednesday at a time, with the Wednesday Challenge, supported by Auckland Council and Auckland Transport.

The initiative encourages students to walk, scoot, bike, or take public transport to school every Wednesday, with classes competing to see who can log the most car-free trips. Since launching in September, 21 schools have taken part, with Stanhope Road Enviroschool currently in the top spot on the regional leaderboard.

How It Works

Each Wednesday, students track their sustainable travel methods, earning points for their class. The challenge reduces congestion at school gates, improves air quality, and helps students arrive energised and ready to learn. Stanhope Road School has senior students leading Walking School Buses.

Why It Matters

Transport accounts for nearly half of Auckland’s carbon emissions—and the school run contributes significantly. The Wednesday Challenge helps families build lower carbon habits while fostering independence and community connections.

Sophie Annan, Manager of Auckland Council’s Sustainable Schools team, says:

“The Wednesday Challenge is a great fit with the Council’s transport emissions reduction targets. Schools like Stanhope Road have stepped up to the challenge and show other schools what might be possible in their neighbourhood."

Student & Parent Feedback

Stanhope Road School student Imogen Hall says she catches the bus to school, “to reduce my carbon footprint, so there’s less carbon dioxide in the air”.

Her mum Suze Hall, has seen her daughter’s independence develop through participating in the challenge: “She doesn’t only take the bus on Wednesdays now. Even when she has football and cello lessons, she chooses the climate friendly option. It’s great prep for going to college next year.”

Alana Shortt says, “As a parent, it’s been really encouraging to see how much my daughter Isabelle has embraced the Challenge. She’s more excited about getting up early, and being more organised in the mornings all because she wants to take part and earn house colour points.”

Bikes, Prizes & Planet-Saving Vibes at Stanhope School

They’re earning points, winning prizes, and taking real climate action—one ride at a time.
Watch how this community is stepping up for a better future. Watch now →