The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) and Bike NZ say it has never been more urgent for government and business to invest in cycling.

As petrol crosses the $2 mark more people are looking for alternatives to driving.

CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan says the New Zealand Cycle Trails is an excellent start, but local councils and central government need to shift up a gear to soften the impacts of high fuel prices.

“We urge councils to meet the demand for safe and convenient cycling by developing cycling plans, and investing in cycleways, traffic reduction, bike parking, cyclist training, and driver education.”

Mr Morgan says business can play a part too.

“Some workplaces provide secure bike parking, fleet bikes, and changing facilities for staff. These are great ways to encouraging people to bike, and to lower travel bills. Every person on a bike means one less car. More biking is good for business.”

CAN and Bike NZ are working on programmes aimed at getting more people riding, more often.

• Cycle skills training to ensure everyone has the opportunity to undertake training that would include understanding the road rules and what responsible riding means
• A national “share the road” campaign for drivers and cyclists – to teach drivers how to drive near cyclists and cyclists how to ride near cars.
• Workshops for truck and bus drivers, where drivers and cyclists swap seats to learn about driving and cycling issues.
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“We need continuous cycleways through our cities, and wide shoulders on key rural roads,” says Mr Morgan.

Cycling costs 7 cents a kilometre compared to about 60 cents for a car. Cycling provides exercise that helps keeps people fit, healthy and happy, so reducing costs to the health system. Cycling also decreases pollution and congestion, both of which cost New Zealand over a billion dollars each per year.

Mr Morgan says rising fuel prices are driving people out of their cars - and they are rediscovering the convenience and fun of cycling.

"New Zealanders love cycling. Bikes outsell cars, and there are 1.3 million people already riding for recreation, fitness and pleasure.

“Many would like to use their bikes to get to work, school or the shops, but are deterred by traffic or perceptions of safety."

"With high fuel prices here to stay we need to ensure cycling is a viable choice.”

ENDS

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