MEDIA RELEASE

Wednesday 1 February

Auckland Transport launches new cycle event guide for summer

Auckland Transport wheels were in motion today as it launched its new Auckland Summer Cycle Event Guide to coincide with the start of Bike Wise month with a colourful display of circus unicyclists in Aotea Square.

The unicyclists entertained the lunch time crowd with tricks and spins giving the launch an appropriate fanfare feel.

The action packed cycle event guide lists cycle events and activities for the summer months. Whether riding to the shops, exploring the region’s parks, getting fit, commuting to work or spending time with the kids, the event guide offers a range of opportunities to help Aucklanders discover the fun and freedom of riding a bike.

Pick up a cycle event guide from any local bike shop, Auckland library or download from www.aucklandtransport.govt.nz/cycling.

The new regional cycle guide has events for everybody including families, beginners, less confident riders, commuters and the more experienced, happening right across Auckland. One of the key activities is the range of free practical bike training sessions. Participants can match a training session to their skill level; from beginners and those who have not been on a bike for a while, to the more advanced rider looking for pointers and instruction to navigate safely on the road or in bunches. There are four adult skill level sessions to choose from and registration is necessary.

The ever popular Go By Bike breakfast is on Wednesday 15 February at different locations across Auckland. Once again Auckland Mayor Len Brown will jump on his bike and ride to the new central breakfast venue at Wynward Quarter where a crowd of 700 cycling enthusiasts are expected to gather for the free breakfast and entertainment.

Auckland Transport Community Transport Manager Matthew Rednall says this year the cycle programme has been extended well beyond the usual Bike Wise month of February and includes more bike training sessions and family activities.

“The sessions equip riders with the necessary road safety skills, giving them more confidence and encouraging them to cycle more often.

“In summer more people are on their bikes, so extending the campaign to March ensures we are reaching not only the enthusiastic, but the occasional rider and those wanting to give cycling a go by providing more opportunities to get involved.”

ENDS

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