New bike hire scheme ready for Rugby World Cup 2011

Visitors to Auckland during Rugby World Cup 2011 will be able to hire a bike for the day to take in some of the city's landmarks and best tourist attractions.

Auckland Transport is ready to launch the new bike hire scheme on 1 September.

It will run throughout the Tournament and finish on 31 October. Adults will be able to hire a bike for $10 a day or $5 for half a day.

Based at two central locations on Auckland's waterfront, there will be a total of 100 quality adult mountain bikes for hire. Hire costs have been set to appeal to a wide range of people and Auckland Transport will offer ten free rides every day.

Mayor Len Brown says improving the transport system is a priority in making Auckland the world's most liveable city and cycling has an important role to play in that.

"My recent visits to cities like Paris and Melbourne with great cycling initiatives have made me more convinced than ever about that.

"Schemes like this can only encourage people to take up cycling as a realistic alternative means of transport. They are good value and a fun way to explore the city."

Auckland Transport Community Transport Manager Mathew Rednall says the bike scheme is one of many transport options for visitors during the tournament and will appeal to many people.

"Auckland's waterfront is a key location for many activities and entertainment related to the tournament, and a great starting point to explore the city.

"Local options include a scenic ride to Mission Bay or visiting the new Wynyard Quarter and Te Wero Bridge. Or visitors could take the bike on a ferry or train to explore other parts of Auckland," says Mr Rednall.

There will be two bike stations, one near Britomart and the other at the Eastern Viaduct. Helmets are included and users will be given a cycle map of the central area and local attractions.

The bike hire scheme will be delivered by experienced recreational operators Adventure Capital.

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