The Cromwell Lions Club has recently upgraded the Cromwell community van so it can continue as a well-used asset for the community.

The Cromwell Lions Club has provided a safe and accessible transport option for Cromwell’s community groups to use for over twelve years. More than 20 school groups and community groups regularly use the van. 

The cost to community groups? Pay for the fuel you use and give the van a good clean before returning it.

Sharon Smid runs the Cromwell Newcomers Group, and she says the group has been using the community van for over five years.

Having the van, she says, means there are fewer barriers to people participating in activities and it is a great way for people to get to know each other.

“Shared experiences are the catalyst to conversation and connection, and that is why the van is so important to us.

“As a newcomer to the area, it’s just wonderful,” says Erin Hall.

“You hop in and you’ve immediately got a group of people that you can get to know without worrying about driving.

“You feel like you’re part of something.”

Sharon agrees.

“You go to an event, people get in and it can be fairly quiet on the way there.

“On the way home, everyone’s discussing what went on and by the time we get back to Cromwell there are people laughing and exchanging contact details so they can catch up for coffee.

“That’s what it’s all about.”

The van has been upgraded to ensure safe and reliable driving.

Cromwell Lions Club president Russell Fowler says the provision of the community van is only made possible with wide cross-community support. 

“The van was initially purchased with assistance from the Central Lakes Trust, and sponsorship from Central Otago Motor Group.

“On-going costs are picked up by the motor group, Cromwell Tyres and us (the Cromwell Lions Club).”

Russell says the van is replaced approximately every five years, to ensure it is consistently safe and reliable. The new van, he says, also has a reversing camera.

Sharon voiced her thanks to the motor group and the Lions.

“The motor group makes it easy for us to use the van.

“We’re very careful with it, we really respect it and we’re very thankful we are allowed to use it.

“Whether it’s us, or schools or any of the groups in this community who use it, it means people can get out without the stress of having to drive in our winters, and without costs that many might not be able to afford.

“It’s an opportunity to get people out, get them together with others, and get them doing something, whatever that might be.”

Images Mary Hinsen