Be wise, get bike wise!

A new Waitakere cycling event that promotes “all the fun you can have on two wheels” is being held in Henderson on February 21.

The inaugural West Bike Fest, hosted by Waitakere City Council at the Corban Estate Arts Centre, will be a day for the whole family.

The event is one of dozens taking place throughout Auckland for national BikeWise month, all of which aim to encourage Kiwis to get out of their cars and on a bike, for their own health and the health of the environment.

At the West Bike Fest, people can test their cycling skills on an obstacle course, learn how to check that their bike is safe to ride and their helmet fits properly and learn tips on bike security.

Children are also encouraged to jazz up their bikes to be in to win prizes, including vouchers from the Bike Barn, in the ‘Pimp Your Ride’ competition.
Members of the New Zealand under-20 women’s cycling team are also attending – and locals will be in for a chance to test their skills against the professionals in a snail race.
The council is committed to encouraging residents and its staff to use more sustainable modes of transport as often as possible. This includes walking, cycling, taking public transport and car pooling.

The council also promotes the use of a 9.6km network of shared walk and cycle pathways across Waitakere and last year approved development of new cycleways on Triangle Road, Central Park Drive and Te Atatu Peninsula.

WHAT: West Bike Fest

WHEN: Sunday, February 21. 10.00am to 12.00pm.

WHERE: Corban Art Centre, Henderson. Entry is free.