Media Releases | Cycling Action Network NZ

Cyclists Welcome Shift in Transport Policy

The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) welcomes the New Zealand Transport Strategy and is pleased to see the emphasis on integrating the different transport modes.

"Cycling has been left off the map for too long," said CAN chairperson Jane Dawson. "It is great to finally see an official document which recognises that motor vehicles are not the only users of roading space."

"It is also pleasing to see a recognition that promoting cycling can improve safety for everyone and improve the health of the nation, and that cycle tourism has a role in regional development."

Helmet Law Concerns Are Legitimate, Say Cyclists

The Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) today denounced reported criticism of
anti-helmet-law campaigners, urging their opponents to "play the ball and
not the person".

It was reported yesterday that safety campaigners and transport officials
had described as the "the lunatic fringe" a new group, Cycle HELTH (Helmet
Law Truth and Honesty), campaigning for a repeal of the mandatory bicycle
helmet law.

Cyclists upset at axing of 'Give Way' rule changes

Cyclists are upset that proposed changes to New Zealand's unique 'Give Way' rules have been dropped by the Government.

The Government has made decisions on the incoming 'Road User Rule'. Controversially, the proposed changes to New Zealand's unique 'Give Way' rules have been excluded.

Jane Dawson, spokesperson for the Cycling Advocates Network (CAN), said that CAN was disappointed about the Governments' decision.

Rising petrol price not all bad news

With the price of oil hitting record highs cycling is becoming even more attractive as a way to get around.

National cycling organisation Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) says that as driving becomes more expensive, New Zealanders of all ages are rediscovering their love for the humble push-bike.

"The days of cheap oil are over. As the price goes up cycling becomes more and more attractive." said CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan.

Cyclists welcome transport changes

Cyclists welcomed today's announcement of an expanded role for the Ministry of Transport and creation of a new transport programme delivery agency, but called for greater openness and consultation at the Ministry, and for a much stronger focus on cycling.

CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards 2003 Winners Announced

The winners of the inaugural CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards have been announced. Four special trophies were presented on Friday 10 October at a dinner held at the NZ Cycling Conference being held in the Bruce Mason Centre, North Shore City.

Cyclists Welcome Release of Draft Strategy

The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) is welcoming the draft National Walking and Cycling Strategy 'Getting There', and wants New Zealanders to get in behind it.
"This is about giving people more choice about how they travel. For many journeys, the bicycle is an ideal way to get around, and we hope that the Strategy will create the conditions that enable people to use their bikes more", said CAN Chairperson Jane Dawson.

CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards 2003 Finalists Announced

Finalists in the inaugural CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards have just been announced. The twelve projects include cycle racks for patrons at Sierra cafe in Takapuna, Christchurch City Council's Colombo St cycle lanes, National Bike Wise Week 2003, and a model cycling strategy developed by Environment Canterbury.

Cycle-Friendly Awards launched

New Zealand's first awards for achievement in promoting cycling have been launched. National cycling organisation the Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) today announced the creation of the CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards. The awards aim to recognise individuals or organisations who have helped to create a bicycle-friendly environment at a national or local level. CAN is calling for nominations for awards in four categories: -best cycle facility project -best cycling promotion -cycle-friendly commitment by a business -cycle-friendly commitment by a public organisation

Cyclists back Green Light campaign

National organisation the Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) welcomed today's launch of the Green Light campaign in support of the Land Transport Management Bill.
CAN has joined forces with other organisations to ensure that the Bill is passed.

"The Green Light campaign is about having a transport system that takes account of the needs of all users," said CAN chairperson, Jane Dawson.

"CAN supports the Government's moves to integrate transport planning with environmental, health, economic, social, safety and other concerns," said Ms Dawson.