Electric boost for Halberg

Kia New Zealand has reaffirmed its commitment to the Halberg Foundation by presenting it with a fleet of Niro electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its ongoing partnership.

The 10 new cars will be used by staff around the country to further the work of the foundation, which supports physically disabled young Kiwis to participate in sport and recreation.

“We are incredibly proud to have such a longstanding partnership with Halberg, an organisation which does so much good for people in the community,” says Todd McDonald, managing director of Kia NZ.

“Our support started in 2009 and is entering its 13th year, which is Kia’s longest continuous partnership in New Zealand. We are humbled to know our involvement helps with the work of the foundation, in turn helping people with disabilities to share in the love of sport.”

The transition from traditional internal-combustion engined cars to a fleet of Niro EVs is symbolic of the shift towards zero-emissions motoring.

“Sport is one of the healthiest pastimes people can participate in, so supplying a fleet of EVs with zero tailpipe emissions is complementary to these endeavours,” adds McDonald.

“It also aligns with our own vision as a company, an initiative called Plan S. A component of the plan is an increasing electrification of the fleet and a move to vehicles that deliver a more sustainable future.  

“This new Halberg Foundation fleet is evidence of Plan S in action and it’s exciting to be able to include our brand partners as part of this journey.”

Anne-Maree Broom, interim chief executive of the Halberg Foundation, says: “We are grateful for Kia’s ongoing support as keeping our team mobile is pivotal to the success of the organisation and what we’re able to achieve through connecting with communities.

“Being able to travel in EVs is incredibly important to ensure we’re supporting a sustainable environment. This complements our sustainable health outcomes through being active.”