Roll on Wellington Awards 2015 reward the best of cycling

Community spirit and the promise of big things to come were the two main themes in this year’s Roll on Wellington Awards, presented today.

Cycle Aware Wellington spokesperson James Burgess says the awards showcase the best and brightest of cycling in Wellington.

“A lot’s been happening in cycling over the last year, and this was reflected in the wide range of nominations. While the council’s been hard at work creating a vision for the city’s future, people from the community have been busy with all sorts of inspiring projects.

“Together, these things all signal real change for Wellington. More people on bikes, more often, will make our city a better place to live, work and get around. Thanks to the efforts of tonight’s award winners, Wellington wins the best prize of all.”

Most bike-friendly shop or café: Bicycle Junction

Many people were impressed with the Bicycle Junction team’s focus on everyday cycling and their community service, such as assembling bikes for Holy Cross School, helping at Big Bike Fix Ups and organising the Tweed Ride. Runner up is Floyd’s Cafe in Island Bay.

Most improved: Wellington City Council

WCC earned their win with the Cycling Framework, progress on Island Bay, and investment in the Bikes in Schools programme.

It's been a while coming, but the Island Bay Cycleway is a step up for council, and the Framework (with budget to back it up) promises a leap forward for cycling over the next few years. Watch out Christchurch, Nelson and Hastings — Wellington is on the way for a top spot in a more cycle-friendly New Zealand!

Most bike-friendly workplace: Aurecon

Engineering consultancy Aurecon has the right infrastructure at the Spark building AND some great supporting activities. Secure bike parking and showers are becoming increasingly common. Now some workplaces are going the extra mile by offering skills training and other support to staff who bike. Runner up is the Majestic Centre for a major upgrade in their bike facilities.

Favourite transport operator: Go Wellington

Go Wellington win again this year, for their patient bus drivers who wait until it's safe to pass riders.

Wellington bike personality of the year: Regan Dooley and the Island Bay Cycle Way team

Regan and co win for the level-headed Island Bay Cycle Way website and Facebook page. They did a great job of debunking some myths and supplying the community with facts. While the debate got heated, Regan and co stayed cool and took a calm, rational, evidence-based approach.

There were 13 worthy nominees in this category, which is an indication of just how awesome the Wellington cycling community is. The runners up are Dan Mikkelsen from Bicycle Junction for his great work supporting everyday cycling, and Amanda Santos for leading accessible beginner mountain bike rides.

Best anything you like bike: Miramar Ciclovia

Ciclovia has been an awesome addition to the local bike events scene, encouraging families and riders of all ages and types to give cycling a go. This category was also a close race. Honourable mention goes to the remarkable 2015 Go By Bike Day event, attracting more than a thousand riders. Also worth a mention is Frocks on Bikes for continuing to change the way people view those who ride bikes to get from A to B.

ENDS

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