Ciclovía comes to Wellington: Walk. Bike. Explore.

People are invited to play on the road this month, at Wellington's first Ciclovía.

Ciclovía, meaning open streets, is a phenomenon taking the world by storm, says event organiser Claire Pascoe.

“It's a simple concept - close a road to cars and open it to people. Free of traffic, Ciclovía allows people to experience their city in a whole new and exciting way.”

“We expect hundreds of walkers, cyclists, and people on rollerblades, push scooters and in wheelchairs to rediscover our gorgeous harbour coastline.”

Ciclovía events started in Colombia, then spread to Los Angeles, Melbourne, Waiheke Island, Nelson and elsewhere. Auckland holds their inaugural Ciclovía event this month.

On Sunday 16 February from 1– 5pm, Miramar Peninsula, from Shelly Bay to Scorching Bay, will be closed to cars but open for people. Additionally, a slow speed zone will be in place from Miramar Cutting to Shelly Bay.

“It will be an opportunity to enjoy this lovely part of the Great Harbour Way without having to worry about traffic. It's a perfect occasion for families, people of all ages and a picnic.”

“There are rock pools and historical sites to explore and there will be a treasure hunt for the kids.”

People are encouraged to leave their cars at home and walk, cycle or catch the bus to get to the event. For those on bikes, they can join the Love to Roll group bike ride, organised by Frocks on Bikes, that leaves from Freyberg beach at Oriental Parade at 12pm. Wellington Co-Op Shuttles are supporting the event by providing a free return service from the Miramar shops bus stop out to Shelly Bay for those who catch the bus, or live locally.

Ciclovía is run by Great Harbour Way, Rotary, Cycle Aware Wellington, Frocks on Bikes, Living Streets Aotearoa and Wellington City Council.

What: Miramar Peninsula Ciclovia.
When: Sunday, 16 February, 1-5pm
Where: Scorching Bay to Shelly Bay
Info: www.ciclovia.org.nz

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