New community van to put in the miles

Cooke Howlison Toyota Balclutha branch manager Glen MacPherson (left) and sales manager Daniel...
Cooke Howlison Toyota Balclutha branch manager Glen MacPherson (left) and sales manager Daniel Maze prepare the branch’s new Toyota Hub Van for community group use last week. PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON
Local community groups now have a fresh set of wheels to get themselves moving.

Cooke Howlison Toyota put the finishing shine on their new community van last week, and the team says it is excited to see bookings start to come in.

A company spokeswoman said the Balclutha van — which will be free to hire — was inspired by the success of its long-running Dunedin cousin.

"Many Dunedin organisations will be aware, and will have used, our Dunedin-based community van.

"Out on the road more than it is at the store, the van has successfully provided mobility for countless sports teams, schools and local groups over the years, so we’re incredibly proud to now be extending this community service further into our region, via our long-standing Balclutha store," she said.

The Dunedin van seated 12 people and the new Balclutha Hiace van seat would seat 10.

Both could be used free of charge, for up to five days, subject to a cleaning fee, and terms and conditions.

The vans were not available for personal use, she said.

"The intention is that they’re available to groups and organisations in our community that need to transport people or goods to games, competitions or other events," she said.

"Glen, Daniel and the wider Balclutha team are excited to welcome users of the new community van."

Local groups wanting to find out more, or hire the new van, could visit www.cooke.toyota.co.nz and complete the inquiry form, she said.