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The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) announced today that it is officially sponsoring the Nextbike scheme as part of its provision of greater transport choice for Aucklanders.

Nextbike is an innovative system that allows customers to register their phone number and credit card to hire bicycles and to pick them up and drop them off at various locations around the city. Riders call from their registered phone and enter the code on the back of the bike to get the current lock code the bike and helmet to get them on their way. Similar systems can be found in cities in Germany and Austria encouraging locals to choose cycling as an option to get to work, school and to leisure activities.

ARTA’s General Manager, Strategy and Planning, Peter Clark said “Cycling is a great form of exercise and it helps to reduce emissions and congestion. This initiative gives Aucklanders the opportunity to give it a go without having to make the initial investment in all the necessary equipment.

“It provides a great alternative for relatively short journeys, for example if you usually catch the train into Britomart and then jump on a bus or walk to work, you may prefer to cycle the last leg of your journey instead.”

Nextbike Director, Julian Hulls said “Nextbike was introduced into Auckland February 2008 and our bikes are back on the road as of this week for the spring season. It’s great that ARTA is aligned with us in our quest to make sustainable transport a viable option for Aucklanders.”

“This sponsorship is ARTA’s latest venture in promoting cycling and cycle safety in Auckland.” Mr Clark said.

ARTA introduced a set of five regional cycle maps last year, to help riders of all ages navigate their own routes around the region. The maps have been hugely successful to date, with over 40’000 maps distributed. Each of the roads on the maps has been ridden by members of CAA and is graded in terms of safety and whether it is a quiet or busy route so potential cyclists can plan routes that suit their level of confidence and ability.

Aucklanders who are planning to hop on the ‘Nextbike’ they see, should visit http://http://www.nextbike.co.nz for full details on how to register to use the scheme. For information on cycling and to view or order the regional cycling maps please visit http://www.maxx.co.nz

ARTA is Auckland’s central transport agency and is responsible for the integrated planning, funding and implementation of transport (with the exception of State Highways and national rail) throughout the Auckland region.

For more information please visit the Auckland Regional Transport Authority website: http://www.arta.co.nz

ENDS

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