Council Enlists In Bike Wise Business Battle

Manukau City Council has entered a team in the Bike Wise Business Battle challenge. During the week of 15 - 23 February Council staff will leave their cars at home with pedalpower replacing horsepower, as they cycle to work from various corners of the City.

Staff who find it impractical to cycle to work will participate in the battle by biking recreationally, for instance biking to their local dairy or organising a family bike trip to their local park.

Manukau City Council is one of over 100 organisations who have signed up for the Battle, which is part of National Bike Week. The annual event is organised by Streetskills, Health Sponsorship Council to promote safe cycling and encourage people out of their cars.

There are 17 different business sector categories, with trophies and prizes awarded to the organisation within each sector whose employees cycle the greatest average distance during the week. There is also an overall prize for the team that covers the greatest distance and one for the team that makes the most commuter trips by bike.

City Manager Colin Dale says, "I am really thrilled that Council staff have taken up this challenge to lift the profile of cycling and promote a more active and healthy lifestyle amongst their colleagues.

"I am sure that those who have enlisted in the Battle on Council's behalf will do us proud."

As part of the commitment Manukau City Council has to cycling as an alternative means of transport they will be releasing their Cycle and Walking Strategy shortly for public comment. It outlines plans for the future planning of cycle and pedestrian facilities in Manukau.

More information on the Bike Wise Business Battle can be obtained from www.bikewise.co.nz.