Dunedin City Summer Cycle Survey 2009

Results from the 2009 Summer Cycle Survey carried out by the Centre for Recreation Research are available for download here:

http://www.crr.otago.ac.nz/pubs.aspx

The conclusions are as follows:

This research provides information about use trends and perspectives towards Dunedin’s cycleway system. 109 respondents, both users and non-users of the cycleway system, returned the questionnaire. The information gathered included cycleway use frequency, barriers to use, safety concerns, motivations, and general thoughts on cycleway improvements. First, for the purpose of this research, a definition was developed to clarify the term ‘cycleway’ in order to provide a context of understanding for the respondents.

Then, profiles indicated that the majority of respondents were over the age of 35, with most of the cyclists being between the age 35 and 44; whereas non-cyclists were mainly over 65 years of age and retired. The vast majority of the respondents identified themselves as ‘New Zealanders’. Although responses were received from across 11 Dunedin postcodes, it is noteworthy to mention that the majority of response was from the 9010 postcode, the northern suburbs of Dunedin. Several constraints and barriers were noted by respondents who had not cycled within the past three months. The main barrier, not having a bicycle, is one in which the individual may self-control. External barriers, such as poor road safety, heavy traffic flows, or inconsiderate drivers, may be minimised with proper management and transportation planning.

Several key themes emerged from both the quantitative and qualitative responses. First, the concept that off- road cycleways are safer than on-road cycleways was more often agreed upon by both cyclists and non- cyclists than not. Many respondents commented on the need for more off-street cycling opportunities. In addition, many respondents, both cyclists and non-cyclists, highlighted the need for safer cycling areas for families with small children. Some non-cyclists indicated that they would cycle more if safer cycle opportunities existed.