Triple Teez Launches 12-Week Bike Mechanic Pilot to Keep the Wheels Spinning in Māngere

MĀNGERE, AOTEAROA – 4 June 2025

Māngere locals are set to become qualified bike mechanics thanks to an innovative new pilot programme launched today by grassroots champions Time to Thrive, also known as Triple Teez.

BikeFIT Mechanic Green Skills is a 12-week, fully funded training initiative that will equip six participants with hands-on experience and a micro-credential in community bike maintenance. The goal? To make Māngere the cycling capital of the Pacific — one bike at a time.

The programme is powered by funding from Auckland Council’s The Southern Initiative, with additional support from Auckland Transport and the Community Climate Action team.

“It’s about more than fixing bikes,” says Teau Aiturau, or Mr Tee, founder of Triple Teez.
“This is about health, community, and the environment. Riding is cheaper, better for our hauora, and good for Papatūānuku. Best of all? It’s free — we’re removing all the barriers.”

Local Futures on Two Wheels

For local dad Parai Parai, the pilot is personal.

“I already fix bikes for my kids and other tamariki in the neighbourhood. Getting qualified would give me structure and a future. It’s rewarding to give back and help get more kids on bikes.”

Graduates of the programme will gain a community bike hub credential, the tools of their trade and go on to support the hub in repairing, upcycling and redistributing bikes across South Auckland.

More Than a Workshop — It’s a Movement

The Māngere BikeFIT Community Hub doesn’t just repair bikes — it brings people together. Each Wednesday, the team hosts Wednesday on Wheels, a community ride open to all. Bikes, helmets and hi-vis are provided for riders.

“More kids are riding now than ever before,” says Mr Tee.
“We just need to get their parents on board too!”

Collaborating for Change

Szening Ooi from The Southern Initiative highlights the power of partnership.

“We’ve co-designed this with Triple Teez to upskill locals already doing the mahi. With support from across Council and AT, this is a model of how collaborative, place-based investment can unlock real opportunities.”

ENDS

Media contact:
Jess Paul 0226509262

About Triple Teez:
Time to Thrive is a Māngere-based grassroots organisation committed to health, sustainability and whānau wellbeing through cycling.

About The Southern Initiative:
A social innovation team within Auckland Council focused on creating systems change in South and West Auckland to tackle intergenerational inequities.