Wednesday, February 04, 2009
This February is Bike Wise Month and Lower Hutt citizens are being invited to experience the joys of life in the cycle lane. Events are organised across the Hutt Valley to entice people out of their cars, off their couches, and onto their bikes instead.
The annual cycling celebration has become so popular that a full month is now needed to accommodate more than 500 events held around the country. Hutt City Council spokesperson, Anna Blomquist, says Hutt City is no exception to the nationwide trend. “People in Lower Hutt are looking for ways to become more active, save money and lessen their impact on the environment, and cycling is the perfect way to do all three. Commuter bike sales are up and the increase in people cycling to work is quite noticeable.”
She says Bike Wise Month is all about lifting cycling’s profile and getting even more Kiwis to realise or re-discover how enjoyable and convenient it is.
“Bike Wise Month events have a heavy emphasis on fun, and they’re designed to suit anyone. You don’t have to be a hardened pro or own any special gear. Just dust off your bike, grab a helmet, round up the kids, and come along.
“Be warned, though, you may be surprised at the passion for pedalling you develop. It’s the most fun you can have on two wheels!”
Cycling activities organised in Hutt city during February include: Go by Bike Day – a free breakfast outside Hutt city Council on Laings Road, 18th February 7-9am, Bike the Trail the Mayoral Challenge held on Sunday the 22nd of February, and the Bike Wise Battle.
Bike Wise Month is funded by the NZ Transport Agency and the Ministry of Health. Activities are coordinated around the country by schools, councils, sporting groups and many others.
For more details about the fun and family-friendly Bike Wise events happening in Hutt City and around the country, check out www.bikewise.co.nz.