KEY POINTS:
Birds aren't known for their walking skills but Maxx the pukeko gave Browns Bay Primary School pupils a run for their money yesterday.
The Auckland Regional Transport Authority mascot is out and about promoting Feet First Walk to School Week in Auckland primary schools this week.
Set up by Land Transport New Zealand, the annual event encourages youngsters to walk or bike to school as part of its drive for regular exercise and healthy living.
Growing obesity statistics, traffic congestion and air pollution have also added to the initiative's cause.
More than 50 per cent of children are driven daily to school.
More than 140,000 pupils from 440 primary schools are expected to hit the pavement with celebrities helping spread the message.
The Prime Minister will walk to school with students of Edendale Primary School on Friday and other MPs and mayors around the country are also expected to join the fun.
Children's entertainer Suzy Cato will be walking with Browns Bay pupils today.
