Citys Bike Wise Month events click into gear

Get the family on their bikes and pedal down to one of Hamilton’s February Bike Wise Month events to be in with a chance win a brand new bicycle.

Hamilton City Council is giving away six new bicycles – three for children and three for adults – as part of three community events during a month aimed at encouraging New Zealanders to enjoy the fun, freedom and health benefits of cycling.

The three community-focussed Bike Wise Month events in Hamilton will be spread across the city, and include free cycle safety checks, food, face painting and music, says Council’s Sustainable Travel Facilitator Kevin Hogg.

On 12 February, from midday, the Crawshaw/Nawton Bike Wise Day will be held at Dominion Park. On 19 February, from 10.30am, it’s the Mayoral Cycle Challenge, with Mayor Julie Hardaker leading cyclists on a ride through the city from Garden Place.

“This is a great fun event, and good for you as well,” Ms Hardaker says. “The Council is promoting sustainable transport and this is a good way for everyone to get the bike out and join in. And I promise this year I won’t go so fast in the Mayoral Challenge; I thought it was a race.”

The last of the community Bike Wise Month events will be held at Steele Park in Hamilton East at midday on February 26, and also includes the opportunity to test balance and riding skills on a unicycle.

Mr Hogg says: “We’re encouraging families to come to our Bike Wise Month events. The activities we have lined up will appeal to parents and children, and the safety checks are a great chance to ensure your bikes are roadworthy.”

In addition, Roger Geller the Cycle Co-ordinator for Portland, Oregon, will speak at the City Council building reception lounge at midday on 17 February. Portland leads the way in cycling infrastructure, and has been described as 10 years ahead of other American cities in catering for cyclists. Seven per cent of Portland commuters use bicycles, and the city has 510km of cycle tracks.

Mr Hogg says: “Roger will share his cycling knowledge, and also discuss how Portland’s investment in cycling infrastructure has eased traffic congestion and reduced the need for substantial road project spending.”

More information on Bike Wise Month can be found at www.bikewise.co.nz