Hastings and New Plymouth will benefit from a $7.28 million Model Communities project aimed at getting more people cycling and walking.

Cycling groups welcomed the news.

"Everyone wins when there's more people walking and biking," said Cycling Advocates' Network spokesperson Anne FitzSimon.

"There will be less traffic congestion, less pollution, people will be healthier, and businesses will benefit from more cycling tourism."

The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) congratulates the NZ Police for their successful campaign on lower speeds.

CAN spokesperson, Anne FitzSimon, says, "Well done New Zealand, our best road safety record for a holiday weekend in one hundred years!"

"CAN urges the Police to extend its successful campaign on lower speeds permanently."

ASB Cycle Friendly Awards 2010

The search for New Zealand's best bike lane, most effective promotion, and most cycle-friendly employer is on.

The Cycling Advocates' Network is inviting entries for the ASB Cycle Friendly Awards 2010. 

Awards Coordinator, Dirk De Lu, says he expects some tough competition.  He welcomes ASB into the cycle friendly fold, as the new Awards sponsor. 

The Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) welcomes an increase in the driving age to 16, but says the government also needs to invest in professional cycle training to improve road safety.

CAN spokesperson Anne FitzSimon says one of the best ways to raise driving standards is to make cycle training widely available.

“Trained cyclists make better drivers.”

She says that raising the driving age means more young people will be cycling.

“We all win when cyclists receive proper training.”