"We would like to express our deepest sympathy and support for the families of the three cyclists who were struck by cars this weekend, two of them fatally,” says Cycling Advocates´ Network (CAN) spokesperson Stephen McKernon. “Cyclists nationwide will be shocked to learn of these deaths.” “Two of these cyclists were struck from behind in Taupo, during the week of a local campaign to educate motorists about sharing the road safely with cyclists. Another was struck from behind in Matamata,” says Mr. McKernon.

Cyclists have welcomed some aspects of the Government's Road Safety Policy Statement released today but called for stronger action to make New Zealand's roads safer.

Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) chairperson Robert Ibell said "We're pleased to see a strong focus on education, including changes to driver training, and a continued emphasis on speed reduction.