Discover family-friendly pedalling in QEP

Family-friendly trails, fun downhills and minimal uphills are some of the hidden treasures to be discovered in Pedalling in the Park, a cycling event in Queen Elizabeth Park on Saturday 28 January.

“Cyclists often come to Queen Elizabeth Park thinking it is flat and ride the coastal and inland routes, which for family pedalling are quite hard. Pedalling in the Park is an opportunity to ride with locals who’ll show you some of the lesser known family-friendly routes,” says keen Kapiti cyclist Jan Nisbet, who’s leading this Greater Wellington Great Outdoors event.

Jan regularly cycles in Queen Elizabeth Park with the Paekakariki Primary School Pedallers group, some of whom will help out on Saturday.

“We’ll share our favourite cycling places in the park. There’s an easy 1km route full of fun for young children plus a 4km or 8km loop – just choose whatever you fancy. At the completion of the rides, or if you are back earlier, there will be a skills course with jumps, ramps, seesaws and other challenges."

The highlight of the school rides is usually playing in the stream at the end, so this will be included in Pedalling in the Park. “Kids enjoy getting a bit muddy and wet – so wear old clothes," says Jan.

This event is free. Moderate fitness level required. No need to book – just turn up with your bike and helmet. For more information on this and other Great Outdoors events, visit www.gw.govt.nz/events or phone 04 830 4041.

Pedalling in the park

When: Saturday 28 January, 10am-2pm

Where: Queen Elizabeth Park, Paekakariki entrance

Getting there: Take SH1 to Paekakariki, take a right onto Wellington Rd and follow to the end

Schedule:

10.30am – Short, fun ride for kids (parents welcome to join in)

11.15am – 4km and 8km rides start, skills course available for anyone not wanting to come on these rides

1pm (approx) – Return from rides

1pm-2pm – Enjoy your lunch, have a swim at the beach