17 February 2009

New Zealand gearing up to ‘go by bike’ tomorrow

Thousands of Kiwis will be getting around on two wheels tomorrow (18 February) as part of New Zealand’s annual Go by Bike Day.

A focal point of Bike Wise Month, Go by Bike Day is aimed at encouraging more people to try riding a bike to work, school, the shops or wherever they are going, instead of taking a car.

Free Go by Bike Day breakfasts will be on offer tomorrow for cyclists in more than 50 centres throughout New Zealand. The events are organised by councils, sporting groups and keen cyclists. Breakfasts are provided by sponsors and most events include other activities ranging from music performances to face-painting and free bike checks. Anyone turning up on a bike can enjoy the free food and fun.

NZ Transport Agency Media Manager Andy Knackstedt says Go By Bike Day is about recognising the joys of cycling and encouraging more people to give it a go.

“It’s a celebration of cycling, and we really want people to come along to a free breakfast and have a bit of fun. Hopefully it gets people thinking that more of their trips can be done on two wheels.”

Organisers expect this year’s events to be even more popular than in the past as more people are seeing cycling as a healthy, enjoyable and inexpensive way to get around.
For more details about Go by Bike Day and other fun, family-friendly Bike Wise Month events happening around the country, see www.bikewise.co.nz.

Bike Wise Month is an annual promotion funded by the NZ Transport Agency and the Ministry of Health, aimed at helping New Zealanders become more active and less dependent on motorised transport.

ENDS

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