Media Releases

Give way rule change is good news for cycleways

Changes to the give way rules were welcomed by cyclists today.

Cycling Advocates Network spokesperson Patrick Morgan said cyclists have for many years advocated for a change of the rules, so that right turners give way to opposing left turners.

"This change will be beneficial for all road users, as it makes the decision making process easier when turning."

"In addition, we see the give way rule change as a necessary pre-cursor for a review of the right of way when travelling along a road corridor."

Early morning cyclists need to make sure they are well lit in the dim mornings following daylight saving, say cycling advocates.

"The start of daylight saving on Sunday means more cyclists about, but some may be caught out by morning twilight," said CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan.

"Lights, reflectors and high-visibility riding gear make you easier to see," said Mr Morgan.

With popular events such as the Taupo Cycle Challenge just two months away, many riders will be making the most of lighter evenings to pile on the miles.

Cycling advocates are calling for a ceasefire in the latest skirmish between some drivers and cyclists.

A public dispute has been sparked by news of an Auckland cyclist who uses video cameras and lasers to track aggressive drivers.

TVNZ story here.

Cycling is a great way to get around, and an activity enjoyed by more than a million New Zealanders says Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) spokesperson, Patrick Morgan.

Cycling advocates are calling for a ceasefire in the latest skirmish between some drivers and cyclists.

Two Dunedin men say they were attacked while riding near Outram on Saturday.

Cycling is a great way to get around, and an activity enjoyed by more than a million New Zealanders says Cycling Advocates’ Network (CAN) spokesperson, Patrick Morgan.

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."

Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) says reverse-in parking is better for people in cars and pedestrians as well as cyclists.

CAN spokesperson, Anne FitzSimon, applauds New Zealand Transport Agency support for reverse-in parking.

"Reverse-in parking improves the driver's view when pulling out of parking spaces."

"It's safer for passengers as they face the footpath when getting out of a car. It's also easier to access a car boot from the footpath rather than standing in the road."

"And it greatly reduces conflict with cyclists."

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."

The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) fully supports tougher enforcement of speed limits - but wants this tough stance permanently.  

CAN spokesperson, Anne FitzSimon, says "If it makes sense for Queens Birthday, it makes sense all the time."

National road policing manager Superintendent Paula Rose said during Queens Birthday weekend police will reduce their 10 per cent tolerance for driving over the speed limit to 5 per cent.

Ms FitzSimon says "The case for lower speeds is compelling."

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) says cyclists, like all road users, need to pay full attention while on the road.

A woman cyclist killed yesterday after being struck by a train near Tauranga is believed to have been listening to an iPod-style music player.