News: May 2016

17
May

Seeking New Zealand's best bike projectsThe search is on for the best bike projects in New Zealand. The Bike to the Future Awards are a joint initiative devised by the New Zealand Transport Agency and the Cycling Action Network (CAN), the national organisation promoting everyday cycling. "We're delighted to see the quality of entries get better each year," said CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan."With strong public demand and political support for investing in cycling, that's no surprise. Cycling delivers more transport choices, better health, lower transport bills and is loads of fun.""We are thrilled to see the number of entries that are already rolling in" said NZ Transport Agency National Cycling Manager, Dougal List"The Bike to the Future Awards are a unique opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate all the pedal-pushers out there, the people and organisations working...

May 17, 2016
Patrick
16
May

Because cyclists are #harderthannailsPlease bid on our fundraiser at Trade Me. You are bidding on a piece of New Zealand history. This is collectable plaque displays some of the 500 nails scattered on the Island Bay Cycleway on 27 April 2016 by persons unknown.This auction is a fundraiser for Cycling Action Network (can.org.nz). We campaign for better and safer cycling throughout New Zealand. Don't let the haters win.These a tacks will not succeed.As reported on RNZ 

May 16, 2016
Patrick
11
May

Tena koutou katoa,My name is Hilleke Townsend and I'm here today on behalf of the Cycling Action Network.I've been called in at the last minute so please go easy on me! This is my daughter, Maia, who has promised to behave during the meeting. Also since it's an election year, she'll be available for photo opportunities during the break.But on a more serious note, having her here serves as a pretty good reminder that the decisions this council makes have long lasting ramifications. They not only affect current residents, but also future Wellingtonians. And with the draft "Low Carbon Capital" plan, climate change is a big deal in this annual plan, and we fully support this. However, I think it's really important that you keep those future Wellingtonians in mind when you make decisions on what to do and how much. We owe it to them to do our best. And that might mean that we give up a few...

May 11, 2016
Patrick
5
May

67% of submissions received by the Wellington City Council support the Hutt Road Improvements. This includes the submission from advocacy group Cycle Aware Wellington who see the design as a significant and long overdue improvement.For years now the Hutt Road has been the bane for the numerous cyclists and pedestrians alike who use this route to commute in and out of the city. It has been the scene of many accidents and close calls, which last year led to a protest ride to the Civic Centre to call on the Council to "get on with it" and create better cycling infrastructure.Hopes were raised with the proposed urgent Hutt Road improvements. Now it looks like it may be back to the drawing board as the option of a seaside cycle route is potentially on the table again. But while the alternatives sound interesting, they have already been checked and the feasibility ranged from ‘no' to ‘maybe,...

May 5, 2016
Patrick
5
May

caption: Russell from NoCar Cargo gives winter riding the thumbs upCycling through winterWinter is coming, but that's no reason to leave the bike at home. You can still enjoy the convenience, savings, health gains and fun of riding a bike, whatever the weather.Sooner or later, everyone is faced with riding in the rain. With a little knowledge and the right gear, spinning through showers can actually be an enjoyable experience.Light upShorter days mean you need to make sure your lights are charged and bright. Rain and glare from car headlights reduce motorists' vision, so ride with bright LED lights. White at the front, red at the rear. Use flash mode even during the day to help people see you. Make sure you dip your front light to avoid blinding others. Add reflective tape to your bike and helmet.Up skillWellington: Your...

May 5, 2016
Patrick