New Zealand's cycling organisations are joining forces to make cycling safer.
The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) and BikeNZ are working with the New Zealand Transport Agency on three new projects over the next 18 months, aimed at creating a safer environment for cycling.
The projects include training for cycling skills instructors; running workshops putting cyclists alongside truck and bus drivers; and developing a nationwide "share the road" campaign for all road users.
Cycling advocates react to the light sentence for a man who killed Manawatu woman Patricia Fraser.
Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) manager Patrick Morgan says he is outraged and saddened.
"The light sentence in this case sends a message that killing another road user has few consequences. That is appalling."
"This is not a story about cycling - it's about accountability."
"Why does the life of Patricia Fraser mean so little?"
"Our messages to all roads users are simple:
First. follow the rules.
Bluff to Cape Reinga by Bike
Wellington endurance athlete Thomas Lindup aims to write his name in the record books with a solo bike ride the length of New Zealand.
On 2nd of March, he will start what will be the first unsupported record attempt for the length of New Zealand by bike, a distance of 2,170 km.
Past records have been set with support from teams of helpers, campervans, and a helicopter over Cook Strait. The supported record is 4 days 16 hours and 40 minutes, set by Fielding postie Colin Anderson in 2007.
Invest in cycling as fuel prices rise, say cyclists.
The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) and Bike NZ say it has never been more urgent for government and business to invest in cycling.
As petrol crosses the $2.20 mark more people are looking for alternatives to driving.
Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) and BikeNZ are saddened to hear of the latest cyclist deaths, but are pleased they are to be referred to the coroner.
Spokesperson, Anne FitzSimon said this inquest will examine whether there were any patterns and possible law changes needed.
"CAN and BikeNZ are keen to help the coroner in any way with our expertise."
"CAN and BikeNZ are concerned with the loss of basic cycle skills which are often lacking in young New Zealanders."
Cycling Skills Training and ‘Share the Road' are both CAN and BikeNZ's top priority for 2011.
To all road users - The case for cycling and safer roads for all:
Over the last two weeks there has been a great deal of attention given to cycling. As leaders in the cycling community; BikeNZ and the Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) feel this open letter is warranted, as we want more New Zealanders to enjoy the pleasure and benefits of cycling without fearing for their lives. We don't consider cycling a dangerous activity and believe some of the recent commentary has been ill-founded and irresponsible.
Cyclists welcome Chief Coroner's decision to investigate crashes
The Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) and BikeNZ welcome the Chief Coroner's decision to investigate recent cycling crashes.
Spokesman Patrick Morgan said the inquest will examine whether there were any patterns and possible law changes needed.
"CAN and BikeNZ are keen to help the coroner in any way with our expertise."
He said CAN and BikeNZ are committed to raising the standard of cycling.
"Road safety is no accident."
Retest drivers every 10 years, say cycling advocates.
CAN spokesman Patrick Morgan says it's blindingly obvious that we aren't doing enough to make our roads safe.
"It's time we all took more responsibilty for road safety."
His comments follow news of a fatal crash on Tamaki Drive today.
"While there's no silver bullet that will eliminate all crashes, we need to take a fresh look at licensing and testing the competence of drivers."
The Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) has called for urgent action following the deaths of three cyclists this weekend.
CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan says news of the deaths has highlighted the need for New Zealand's roads to be made safer for people cycling and those wanting to take it up.
"There are Government strategies and programmes to promote cycling and cycle safety, but we haven't seen enough changes on the street yet."
"Urgent action is needed. This will require a lot more resources and leadership to make changes."
Getting more children biking regularly is the goal of New Zealand's top cycling projects this year.
Schools and children are the winners at ASB Cycle Friendly Awards