ARTA Media Release

30 January 2009

Popular Bike Wise Week grows to Bike Wise Month
    

Hot on the heels of the release of a  set of new regional cycling maps, the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) and local territorial authorities around the region, are working together to provide a month of fun cycling events in February to encourage  people to enjoy the summer sun and get out and about on their bikes.

Peter Clark, ARTA’s General Manager Strategy and Planning says “Since its inception in 2005 when it was just a week in length, Bike Wise has continued to grow in success.  Last year over 100,000 people around New Zealand took to their bikes to participate in the fun. As a result of its popularity, this year’s event has been extended to last a whole month

“Bike Wise Month runs on a nationwide basis and is aimed at increasing cycling among adults and children and promoting safety awareness. 

‘It’s a great active transport initiative that ARTA fully supports at a regional level.  The activities throughout the month provide the perfect opportunity for new cyclists to give it a go, and for others to be reminded how much fun it can be and what a great form of exercise“.

Some of the events that will be taking place in the Auckland region include Go by Bike Day on the 18 February and the Mayoral challenge, in which districts compete to get the most people on a cycle ride chasing the Mayor.  Workplaces can also participate in the Bike Wise Battle and have the chance to win some great prizes.

 “People should keep their eyes and ears peeled for details of events in their area, and they can also check out details on the Bike Wise website, www.bikewise.co.nz’ Mr Clark said. “ I’ll be out on my bike and look forward to seeing others do the same.”

Bike Wise month is just one of the cycling initiatives taking place in Auckland.  In October, ARTA and RoadSafe Auckland re-launched their successful ‘Hey we’re all the same on the road’ campaign to promote cycle safety and give cyclists the confidence to get out and about on the roads in the region.

Last month ARTA also launched a set of five regional cycle maps that allow cyclists of varying ages and ability to navigate their own routes. Each of the roads on the maps has been ridden by members of Cycle Action Auckland and is graded in terms of safety and whether it is a quiet or busy route. The gradient of the roads and whether they have a cycle lane is also depicted.   The maps are free of charge and copies can be ordered from MAXX online at www.maxx.co.nz or by calling (09) 366 6400. 

Bike Wise Month runs from the 1 – 28 February and more details are available from www.bikewise.co.nz.

-ends-

© Scoop Media