News

Is New Zealand ready for a Top Gear style cycling show?

Scorcher — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:29:59 +1200

29 June 2009

Is New Zealand ready for a Top Gear style cycling show?

BikeNZ and RideStrong have been working furiously with a number of cycling industry partners on a new magazine-style cycling TV show. To guarantee the support of NZ OnAir, BikeNZ need all cyclists to show their support by voting on RideStrong before Monday 6th July.

BikeNZ are convinced Kiwis are ready for a regular TV show dedicated to cycling. The Cycling Show will bring the same attitude tobikes that popular motoring show Top Gear brings to cars. It is envisaged the show will cover all things cycling with a touch of humour, and a die-hard passion for the pedals.

Log onto RideStrong (www.ridestrong.org.nz) for free to make sure we show NZ On Air there is huge public support for more cycling on TV.VOTE NOW

The Cycling Show will target all levels of cycling, from our top cyclists racing overseas, to featuring a family that must travel by bike only for an entire month. If you have an idea that would be good for the show- check out the forums on RideStrong at www.ridestrong.org.nz/rs/forums

RideStrong is BikeNZ’s online community dedicated to promoting cycling and improving cycling conditions for all NZ cyclists.

ENDS

Cycle Marketing Partnerships - Right and Wrong

Scorcher — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:04:03 +1200

Right...

Brands Go Bike Crazy In NYC

http://www.psfk.com/2009/06/brands-go-bike-crazy-in-nyc.html

June 23, 2009

Marketers and PR-folk take note, free bike rides just might be the next “pop-up shop” for their universal ability to lure in the general public and it appears retailers are catching on. Topshop and Whole Foods recently gave their customers more reason to turn to the alternative mode of transportation, with two bike-centric store events held in NYC.

Over the weekend, Anglophiles everywhere took notice when Topshop rolled out their new bicycle club concept, parking a small fleet of blue beach cruisers (decked out with baskets and cupcake stickers) outside their flagship store and making them available for free daily rental to the public. In exchange for leaving a credit card and signing a liability waiver, would-be cyclists were granted access to a curated experience that included a bike, customized helmet, U-lock and map of Topshop-endorsed destinations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

Another instance of the NYC’s branded bike frenzy was a recent promotion executed by Whole Foods. The healthy-living corporation temporarily offered free pedicab rides around the city. The drivers would take customers anywhere within a ten block radius of the store, making it that much easier to justify purchasing that extra bag of groceries.

And while these recent campaigns have met with success, we need only look to past attempts at co-opting two-wheel culture, such as DKNY’s orange bike debacle from last year’s fashion week, to note the difference between thoughtful events and PR stunts. Simply picking a trend and forcing it into a brand framework in the hopes that authenticity will shine through rarely works. Instead, focus on adding value to the consumer experience in ways that reinforce pre-existing values and at the end of the day, perhaps your audience will circle on back.

Wrong...

Rounding Up the Orange Bicycles

http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/02/08/rounding-up-the-orange-bicy... By Jennifer 8. Lee

The police hauling off bicycles that they said were illegally chained to city property. (Photo: Rollingrck@flickr.com)

Over the last week or so, dozens of brightly orange bicycles have mysteriously appeared, chained to poles and trees, around the city, perplexing some New Yorkers.

Were they a fluorescent variation of the white ghost bike memorials for fallen cyclists?

Had Christo and Jean-Claude shifted their focus from Central Park “gates” to the streets of New York?

Were Critical Mass activists protesting against the police? Was that why the police got busy removing the bikes? No, the Police Department said. The orange bikes were removed because — like some ghost bikes — they were inoperable or chained to sign posts, trees or other city property. (Of course, if this city had more bicycle racks…)

Those who looked closely at the orange bikes found a DKNY logo on the frames, which raised some skepticism that this was nothing more than a commercial marketing stunt during Fashion Week.

But DKNY argues that it was trying to promote bicycling, not its fashion. In response to an inquiry from City Room, the company issued an explanation:

DKNY is working with the mayor’s office to raise awareness of cycling as a healthy and environmentally sound means of transportation around NYC. During Fashion Week (which runs the first week of February), DKNY has placed dozens of bright orange bicycles around the city to get people thinking and talking about bicycles as a healthy and fashionable way to get around the city. DKNY’s marketing team developed the orange bicycle campaign to support the mayor’s office ongoing efforts, in a way that would draw attention to this important initiative.

The fashion company added that it had also pledged money to the Department of Transportation to help with bicycling promotion.

Could the mayor’s office really have sanctioned illegally chaining bikes around the city? City Room inquired at the mayor’s office, which bumped us to Department of Transportation officials, who explained that (as far as they were aware) the bike promotion efforts with DKNY involved bike route maps, not actual bikes.

Or more formally, “We did not have an agreement with DKNY regarding the placement of bicycles,” the agency said in a statement.

The orange bikes had never come up in their discussions.

Legal or illegal, City Room was still trying to decide whether to be offended by the orange bikes as a publicity stunt, in light of the white ghost bikes, but was dissuaded by Carl Larson, an active member of the ghost bike community in Portland, Ore.

As Mr. Larson explained in a lengthy e-mail message:

As far as I’m concerned, it’s less productive to consider DKNY’s orange bikes an insensitive, greenwashing, publicity stunt than to look at them positively. DKNY is riding New York’s new bike wave while contributing to it by putting brightly colored ones on the street, proudly linking their name to them and, at the end of the day, providing every scrapper, freakbike builder, and petty thief with some great materials. If New York’s bike gangs like Black Label and CHUNK666 are worth their salt, I fully expect to see some bright orange parts on their next creations.

In its statement, DKNY added contritely, “We are very sorry if our well-intentioned ‘Explore Your City‘ program offended anyone.”

Cabinet paper: no confidence for national cycleway

Scorcher — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:26:19 +1200

Cabinet paper: no confidence for national cycleway

Kelvin Davis

Labour Tourism Spokesperson

18 June 2009 Media Statement

Cabinet paper provides no confidence that national cycleway will ever become a reality.

Papers released by Tourism Minister John Key's office and the Tourism Ministry give no confidence that the vision of a cycleway the length of New Zealand will ever be anything more than a disconnected patchwork of small tracks, says Labour tourism spokesperson Kelvin Davis.

"I am astounded at the lack of detail in John Key's cabinet paper seeking cabinet support for the $50 million Budget allocation for the national cycleway," Kelvin Davis said.

"Absolutely no rigorous --- or even token --- cost-benefit analysis has been done on this Jobs Summit project in terms of short-term or long-term economic benefits and its effectiveness in relation to job creation.

"About the only thing that has become really clear from the cabinet paper is that the national cycleway is no longer truly national, but rather a series of 'great rides'."

Kelvin Davis said the "development of new individual sections of cycle way is good news, and will help in specific regions, but Mr Key can't get away from the fact that this is a lot different to the original plan for a cycleway the length of the country.

"This has become a bitser cycleway, in fact, with a bit from here and a bit from there, and the twain is never likely to meet,"

Kelvin Davis said.

"The only great ride is the ride that New Zealand taxpayers are being taken down in paying $50 million as the price to preserve what remains of the credibility of John Key's Jobs Summit.

"The first sections of the bitser cycleway will be announced before the end of this month. It will be very interesting to discover which bits of the country feel a bit happier, and which bits are more than a bit disappointed that John Key's vision has become an extremely expensive pipedream."

CAN launches new cycling safety vest

Scorcher — Thu, 21 May 2009 13:14:54 +1200

The Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) is pleased to announce the launch of a new cycling safety vest.

"Our safety vest is bright orange, with a reflective strip to the rear. You can be sure that other road users will see you a mile away!" says CAN spokes person Stephen McKernon.

"You can also be sure to be the most stylish rider around, whether you are riding to work or on a long weekend ride. The vest has been specially designed for CAN by Ultimo Clothing. It is in the CAN orange, and features a CAN logo on the front. The car-repelling message on the back reads 'Think globally, cycle locally' ", says McKernon.

"With this vest, you can't be on the road and not be noticed! This is a sure way to be safe and stylish while also promoting CAN."

The first official trial of the vest was at the great Auckland Harbour Bridge crossing, where a number of riders tested the vest in extreme protest conditions.

"It worked like a dream", says McKernon "people were coming up to me and asking where they could get it. It's a total success."

The vest comes in XS, S, M, and L sizes and has three rear pockets. Members can purchase one for $100 and non-Members for $120 (prices include GST). The new vest can be viewed and ordered on the Shop page of CAN's website (http://can.org.nz/shop).

Cyclists and walkers conquer Auckland Harbour Bridge

Scorcher — Sun, 24 May 2009 12:36:48 +1200

Some four thousand cyclists and walkers today crossed the Auckland Harbour Bridge as part of the GetAcross campaign.

CAN congratulates the GetAcross team for their success in pressuring NZTA and so facilitating access to the Bridge for the huge crowd on the 50th Anniversary of the Bridge's opening. Happy Birthday, Auckland Harbour Bridge!

The rally began with speeches held at the southern end of the Bridge from 9am. By 9:30am the crowd was restless and started to drift towards the motorway onramp at the base of Curran Street. These were blocked by barriers and a small numer of Police. Around that time a small group of racing cyclists appeared on the Bridge and rode up the left-hand lane to the huge applause of the crowd.

Photo/ Glenn Jeffries, NZ Herald

After some twenty minutes of 'negotiation' (they just said 'no') with NZTA representatives, a single walker 'forced' (walked through Police) his way onto the Bridge (you can see him in the distance in the photo above). At this point there were more media on the on-ramp that protesters.

A few minutes later, a small number of walkers and cyclists also 'forced' their way through. Police were 'powerless' (they didn't try very hard) to stop the thousands more that joined them. In any event, thousands of people simply cycled and walked unhindered onto the Bridge.

For some reason, these thousands were then directed onto the central lanes of the Bridge, effectively blocking all northbound lanes for about an hour, while the left-hand lanes (the clip-ons) were left empty. Apparently this was for safety reasons, as the clip-on lanes could easily break and everyone would fall off into the Harbour.

No suprise, NZTA are currently blaming GetAcross for breaking their promise that no-one would go onto the Bridge as part of the 50th Birthday rally. NZTA are also saying the protest crossing was a waste of time as walking and cycling facilities are some 30 years away.

We can expect more controversy as the story unfolds over the next few days. We can also expect more protests as NZTA faces up to the burgeoning walking and cycling community.

Photo/ Justin Westgate

Further updates, photos and analyses will be posted as available.

Public Address: Burn fat, not oil

http://publicaddress.net/5909#post5909

Sportzhub: Bridge Walk - "It Happened!"

http://www.sportzhub.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=...

New Zealand Herald: People power breaks barricades

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10574283

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/image.cfm?c_id=1&gal_cid=1502759&gallery_id=105770

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/video.cfm?c_id=1&gal_objectid=10574283&gallery_id=105771

Newstalk ZB:Protestors break police barriers to walk on bridge

http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/newsdetail1.asp?storyID=157711

TV One: Bridge reopened after peaceful protest

http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/bridge-reopened-after-peaceful-protest-2754980

TV3: Marchers spill onto Auckland Harbour Bridge, defying police

http://www.3news.co.nz/News/Marchers-spill-onto-Auckland-Harbour-Bridge-defying-police/tabid/209/articleID/105531/cat/87/Default.aspx

Sportzvibes video of event including coverage of the gathering under the bridge and people enjoying the walk and expressing their views

http://www.sportzvibes.com/vibes/

Time for the Transport Agency to take walking and cycling seriously

Scorcher — Mon, 25 May 2009 16:01:20 +1200

GetAcross Media Release 4:30pm, 24 May, 2009

Time for the Transport Agency to take walking and cycling seriously

After watching more than 5,000 people stream across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, GetAcross spokesperson Bevan Woodward says: "This is an incredible outcome. We are blown away by the high turn out of Aucklanders and their determination to get walking and cycling access on our Harbour Bridge.

"As organisers, we were very clear in our instructions that supporters mustn't force their way onto the Bridge, but 'people power' took over today. People of all ages and from all walks of life decided that they'd had enough of the Transport Agency's inaction and wanted to show how strongly they felt."

"I do apologise to motorists caught up in the traffic congestion. It was never our intention to cause disruption to the traffic, however the Transport Agency needs to review how it handled the situation. The Transport Agency refused our requests to meet or even discuss the event in the months leading up. We had requested two traffic lanes to provide safe access without disrupting the traffic, the same way the Auckland marathon does each year. Yet the Transport Agency decided today to close all 4 north-bound lanes."

"We hope that the Transport Agency now decides to take the Auckland Harbour Bridge walk/cycleway seriously. We have had enough of their weak excuses as to why it cannot be provided. In fact the Transport Agency's conduct has been so poor, that last week we lodged a complaint with the Auditor-General's office."

http://www.fast.gen.nz/page/walking(and)biking-on-the-bridge/auditor-general-investigation/

"Moving forward, we are prepared to work with the Transport Agency in a productive and positive manner. Today we have asked the NZTA's CEO and Chair for a meeting to discuss how we can do this."

ENDS

Copy of Bevan Woodward's speech from today's Demonstration of Support follows…

GetAcross spokesman Bevan Woodward's speech given at 9am, Sunday, May 24 at the Curran St on-ramp of the Auckland Harbour Bridge:

Good morning Auckland! Thank you everyone for coming along today to show your support for walking and cycling on this, our Harbour Bridge.

50 years ago today the Bridge was first opened to the public of Auckland, but since then our Bridge has been the exclusive domain of motorised vehicles only.

Your being here today will help ensure this travesty doesn't go on for much longer. With today's strong showing of support, we are letting the decision makers know that it's not a matter of IF there should be walking and cycling access, but WHEN!

And of course the answer to that question, in this age of ever increasing traffic congestion, air pollution, CO2 emissions and obesity is NOW!!!

I'd like to take a moment to especially thank the Police who are here today. In my meetings with the Police they advised that if the Transport Agency's Wayne MacDonald - who is here today, and that's him there! - if Wayne MacDonald says 'Yes'

this morning, then the Police will provide us safe passage across the bridge.

We've suggested to the Police that we go across at 9:30am. Then at 10:30am everyone turns about and we make our way here, thereby clearing the traffic lanes by 11:30am, causing minimal disruption to traffic.

I appreciate isn't always easy for the Police when they find themselves the meat in the sandwich between ourselves and the NZ Transport Agency, so I thank the Police for their co-operative and helpful approach.

In contrast the NZ Transport Agency's performance continues to disappoint. The Agency has refused to meet with us to discuss our gathering today. They are stopping the Police from provided safe access across the Bridge today. And they spread misinformation saying it's not safe to use the clip-ons lanes, when then own board papers recommend they be used. The Transport Agency's behaviour relating to the walk/cycle way study has been so bad that on Thursday we lodged a complaint with the Auditor-General's office! Have a look at our website for details.

Thanks so much to all the volunteers who have worked to make this day something special. Many great people have given their time and skills to support this vital Auckland project.

Now after the short speeches that follow me, we're going to gather at the gate and ask the Transport Agency's Wayne MacDonald to say "yes" to the Police so that they can allow safe passage across the Bridge.

We will be insistent, but we must not and will not force our way onto the Bridge. We only go over if the Police provide safe access, which I repeat, they will provide if the Transport Agency's Wayne MacDonald gives the word. So everybody, what's the word that we want to hear?... "YES!"

Thank you!

Cycling advocates welcome national cycleway

Scorcher — Thu, 14 May 2009 19:05:33 +1200

The Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN) welcomes the Government’s decision to allocate $50 million over three years to start the New Zealand Cycleway Project.

CAN spokesperson Stephen McKernon says ‘the funding is an important start to the Project. It will contribute directly to international and domestic tourism and will provide great recreational rides for New Zealand’s 1.3 million cyclists. Local businesses will benefit immediately and directly, as the evidence from the Otago Central Rail Trail shows. Everyone wins.’

‘There are also benefits for local communities as the Cycleway will stimulate additional investment in local infrastructure, jobs and community facilities. A stronger network will also encourage people to cycle more often for other reasons, such as travelling to work, and this exercise will help improve people’s health. As an investment, it offers great value for money with a range of immediate and longer term returns, and is a great step forward during recession times.’

CAN has been helping the National Cycleway Advisory Group develop the idea of a Cycleway in more detail and assess existing and potential routes. It will be closely involved with the Project as it continues to develop.

Rail Trails and Pathways Network

Transport Agency referred to the Auditor-General

Scorcher — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:54:15 +1200

PRESS RELEASE: GETACROSS

The GetAcross campaign is lodging a complaint with the Auditor-General over the NZ Transport Agency's unprofessional and misleading conduct in regard to the Auckland Harbour Bridge walkway and cycleway study.

GetAcross spokesperson Bevan Woodward said "After meeting with Ministry of Transport officials to outline our concerns, it was suggested that we refer this matter to the Auditor-General."

"We have outlined four key concerns, summarised as:

Despite many prior assurances that the Bridge was being future-proofed for walking & cycling by Transport Agency, their Board relied on a last minute "rough assessment" letter (marked "private & confidential') to effectively kill the project

Misleading information has been provided by NZTA CEO Geoff Dangerfield and his staff. Transport Agency's CEO Geoff Dangerfield, who has participated in providing misleading information with regard to the Auckland Harbour Bridge's 50th Anniversary celebrations

A lack of respect for proper process and legal deadlines

Broken Promises: A number of commitments and Board level resolutions have been ignored by Transport Agency staff

"We had expected that the Transport Agency, as a Government owned crown entity, would act honestly and with integrity in its dealing. But unfortunately, this has not been the case and here we present compelling material for the Auditor-General to launch an inquiry.

Walk Auckland's Andy Smith says: "Sunday's Demonstration of Support takes on even more significance. We hope that Aucklanders will turn out on mass to show their support for walking and cycling on the Harbour Bridge and express their disgust with the Transport Agency's conduct."

A copy of GetAcross's letter outlining the case for the Auditor-General's office to initiate an inquiry is attached.

The supporting documentation is available online at http://www.fast.gen.nz/page/walking(and)biking-on-the-bridge/auditor-general-investigation/

www.getacross.org.nz

The Demonstration of Support

On Sunday, May 24, 2009 the Auckland Harbour Bridge will be 50 years old. But rather than commiserate half a century of denied access, come and show your support for walking and cycling access on the Bridge...

WHAT: A public demonstration of support with Speakers, a coffee stand, Mr Whippy and a lolly scramble for the kids!

WHEN: 9am, Sunday, May 24, 2009

WHERE: Meet at Point Erin, city side of the Bridge

BRING: A banner saying why you support walking and cycling access on the Bridge

Will we will get to cross the bridge? The Police have changed their position and now say we can't go across, however if enough supporters turn up then we think they'll allow us safe passage.

And more importantly, the more supporters that turn up then the stronger our message, and sooner the walk/cycleway will be built.

Walking and Cycling Access on the Auckland Harbour Bridge

Frequently Asked Questions re: the Walk/Cycle way

'Isn't it too expensive and how would it be funded?'

The cost is significant but the resulting economic benefits from health, decongestion, CO2 reduction and tourism are far greater.

Funding for the walkway and cycleway could come from the Auckland regional fuel tax which has allocated $54 million to TDM, walking and cycling projects.

Auckland's 10 year Regional Land Transport Strategy stipulates that 4% of the total Auckland transport budget is to be spent on TDM, walking and cycling. Yet after three years, only half of this allocation has been spent. The accumulated under-spend is estimated at $42 million (and increasing by approximately

$15 million per annum).

The media is reporting the cost at $24 to $43 million, depending upon which option is chosen. However these cost estimates include a 30% contingency and 15% funding risk. The actual cost for the project excluding allocation for contingency and funding risks, ranges between $13 million and $24.5 million.

'Is it a priority for the region?'

Yes, the walk/cycle way not only fixes most the most glaring gap in Auckland walking and cycling network, it is a corner stone project for improving walking and cycling in the Auckland region - similar to Britomart Station being the corner stone project for the revival of Auckland's once dreadful rail passenger service.

Currently Auckland has the reputation of being one of the worst cities in the world for walking (pg 28, ARTA's Sustainable Transport Plan 2006-16) and only 1% of Aucklanders regard cycling as "always safe" (ARC's Community Perceptions Report 2007).

'Do Aucklanders want it?'

Yes, in November 2007, Y&R commissioned market research to gauge the level of support amongst Aucklanders for the walkway and cycleway. Very strong support was revealed, with 76% in support, 12% against and 12% unsure. See the survey results at: www.caa.org.nz/AHB/Support/MarketResearch.pdf

'Will it affect the flow of traffic across the Bridge?'

No, the walk/cycleway will not affect the number of lanes on the bridge and any reconfiguration of lane widths will be designed to keep traffic flowing safely and with sufficient space for comfortable driving.

'Aren't the clip-ons too unstable for a walkway and cycleway?'

The clip-ons are currently undergoing a major strengthening project which includes the addition of 700 tonnes of steel at an estimated cost of $45 million. This strengthening will reduce movement making the walk/cycleway safe and comfortable;

"Through innovative thinking, further structural elements have been incorporated into the current strengthening works at relatively low cost to future proof for future walking and cycling options on the box girders [clip-ons]." May 2008 Board Transit Paper 6189 www.caa.org.nz/AHB/Comms/TransitBdPaper6189.pdf

'The Government's Policy Statement doesn't allow enough funding'

The Government Policy Statement sets a cap on its "walking and cycling facilities" activity class of $30 million per year. However Ministry of Transport advises that the walkway and cycleway could be included under the much larger activity class of "New & improved infrastructure for State highways", which has $750 million allocated per year.

'Isn't it too steep to walk or cycle over the Auckland Harbour Bridge?'

The gradient of the bridge is 5%. Cycle experts advise that a steep gradient is one that exceeds 7% and that modern bicycles have gears designed for such gradients.

The Waitemata Harbour Crossing Study (completed in March 2008, involving transport officers from ACC, ARC, ARTA, NSCC and Transit) determined the Auckland Harbour Bridge as the recommended option for providing cycling and walking access across the harbour.

'Is it safe to bike or walk on the bridge?'

Yes, the walkway and cycleway ensures the safety of both pedestrians and cyclists by separating them from the general traffic with purpose-built barriers which include handrails and provide protection from wind and traffic emissions.

The cycle path will be attached to the west side of the bridge, and the walkway will be attached to the east side of the bridge. Cyclists will need to maintain safe speeds as they down come off the bridge, a situation very similar to the Greenhithe Bridge shared path.

'Why not wait until the next harbour crossing, or use racks on the front of buses to carry bikes?'

The Waitemata Next Harbour Crossing Study 2008 determined the next harbour crossing shall be a tunnel for vehicles, with walking and cycling access to be provided on the existing Auckland Harbour Bridge. Waiting for the harbour tunnel to is built means waiting 20 years or more for walking and cycling access across the harbour.

Putting bikes on buses to cross the bridge is not a satisfactory option, as cyclists enjoy cycling for fitness and convenience, and don't want the delays and financial cost of taking a bus. A bus can carry a maximum of 3 bicycles at time, thus it is not appropriate for the estimated demand of 500 to 1,500 cyclists/day.

Cyclists currently use ferries to cross the harbour; however the demand is now exceeding capacity at peak times, hence Fullers Ferries support walking and cycling access on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Get Across Campaign: Safety Paramount On Sunday Say Police

Scorcher — Thu, 21 May 2009 10:22:14 +1200

New Zealand Police National News Release 8:49am 21 May 2009

http://www.police.govt.nz/news/release.html?id=5115

The safety of all individuals will be the primary focus for Police during the planned protest at the Harbour Bridge by the Auckland GetAcross campaign group.

Waitemata District Road Policing Manager Superintendent John Kelly says the NZ Transport Agency has decided to disallow the public from walking or cycling across the bridge on Sunday.

"There is no cycle or walkway on the bridge. The inherent danger to everyone accessing the bridge while it remains open to traffic is clearly evident and obvious to all."

"Police will be vigilant in their observations of all road user activity at the bridge on Sunday," he said.

"Our focus will be on ensuring that traffic flows across the bridge continue as normal, and that everyone who attends Sunday's protest arrives and departs safely," said Superintendent Kelly.

Greens Join Cycleway Project

Scorcher — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:41:42 +1200

The Green Party has extended its agreement with National to include the New Zealand Cycleway Project.

"The cycleway can benefit the economy and the environment at the same time, and we strongly support this type of Green New Deal spending," said Green Party Tourism spokesperson Kevin Hague.

"We look forward to working with the Prime Minister to see a network of cycleways spread across the country."

The agreement to support the cycleway initiative has been added to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two parties.

Signed in April, the MOU committed National and the Green Party to working on policy initiatives in areas of common interest that include a home insulation programme, energy efficiency standards and the regulation of natural health products.

Green Party Co-Leader Russel Norman said more initiatives may be added: "We will keep looking for common ground where we can construct good policy with National. At the same time we'll vigorously critique the Government in the areas where we don't agree."

Mr Hague said the cycling community had helped formulate a sound plan for the Cycleway Project and the key work would be on funding and implementing the Project.

The Otago Rail Trail was a good example of the potential economic benefits of the nationwide project, Mr Hague said. Last year, nearly 80,000 people rode the trail while Ministry of Tourism figures estimate international cycle tourists spent $199 million during their stay in New Zealand.

Summary of Bike Tourism:

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/48569/tourists-bikes-big-spenders

PM welcomes Greens’ support on Cycleway

Scorcher — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:27:14 +1200

Prime Minister John Key is welcoming the Green Party’sagreement to work with National on the New Zealand Cycleway Project.

The cycleway has been added to the Memorandum ofUnderstanding (MOU) that outlines the policy initiatives both partieshave agreed to collaborate on.

“When we first signed the MOU with the Green Party inApril, I said there would be other important policy areas where we had commonground, and the cycleway certainly fits the criteria.”

The MOU now covers four common areas; home insulation,energy efficiency, the regulation of natural health products, and the cycleway.

John Key, as Minister of Tourism, will now work togetherwith the Green Party’s spokesperson on Tourism, Sport and Recreation, andCycling and Active Transport, Kevin Hague, on the development of the cyclewayproject.

“While the Greens and National will always have policydifferences, it is increasingly clear that in an MMP environment this shouldnever stand in the way of working together when we share the same policyobjectives.

“I look forward to the valuable input the Greens willhave into this project.”

CAN Core

National Cycleway - media reports

Patrick — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 11:13:28 +1300

Listen to Rod Oram's interview on the National Cycleway (MP3 attached below). The item was on National Radio on 3rd March 2009.

His points:

it need to be a network, not just an end-to-end route;
CAN working on Freeway Zero;
needs more than $50 million;
benefits would be huge for locals and tourists;
could include Auckland Harbour Bridge.

How the cycleway became the PM's pet project, Sunday Star Times, 2 March 2009

Bruce Sheppard on Stuff: Let's get this cycle way right, 4 March 2009

Axel Wilke on Newstalk ZB, 2 March 2009

Brian Rudman: Don't recycle culture into construction, 4 March, NZ Herald

Garth George: On yer bike - not bloody likely, 5 March, NZ Herald

Discussion on Vorb

Cycleway 'being taken seriously', Key says, NZ Herald 10 March 2009

Barbara Cuthbert: Key could be on the right track with cycleway, NZ Herald 10 March 2009

Concrete plan- John Key says the cycleway will be paved, NZ Herald 11 March 2009

Scenery priority on zig-zag bike track- discussions on where the route should go, NZ Herald 14 March 2009

Is the cycleway a winner? - Stuff, 21 March 2009

National cycleway could cost $300m, says engineer- Radio NZ, 23 March 2009

Why Key's national bike track could be paved with gold - NZ Herald, 23 March 2009

New Zealand's No.16 must do - Close-up, TVNZ, 27 March 2009; a very positive overview of the economic success of the Otago Rail Trail, followed by an interview with Graham Wall, the originator of John Key's national cycleway idea

PM promises $50m in Budget for cycleway - NZ Herald, 14 May 2009

Tamati's Tiki Tour in Auckland 14 May

KirstenS — Mon, 11 May 2009 10:15:17 +1200

Update: Frocks on Bikes gather on the 14th

“Do you have a novel way of travelling around your town? Are you a
keen cyclist, walker, roller-blader, train-commuter, or even kayaker?

Breakfast's roving weather presenter Tamati Coffey is heading on a
“Transport Tiki Tour” of New Zealand.

His aim: to find the Top "One Less Car on the Road' Town. We want to
see how local kiwis are doing their bit for the environment and keeping
cars off the road.

On Thursday, 14 May 2009, Breakfast’s Tamati will be filming the show
at Britomart Square, Auckland, from 6.30am. Come down, meet Tamati and
showcase your preferred mode of eco-friendly transport!

There will be great spot prizes on the day for locals who come down and
showcase their preferred mode of eco-transport, and get on TV!”
Kind regards,

Catherine Keville
Programme Partnerships
D. 64 9 916 7277
F. 64 9 916 7513
M. 64 21 495 785
catherine.keville@tvnz.co.nz [2]

[2] mailto:catherine.keville@tvnz.co.nz

Getacross Campaign Public Demonstration Sunday 24 May

KirstenS — Mon, 11 May 2009 10:53:06 +1200

Getacross Campaign

http://www.getacross.org.nz/

http://www.fast.gen.nz/page/walking(and)biking-on-the-bridge/

Background in previous CAN article

http://can.org.nz/article/transport-agency-says-%E2%80%98kill-it%E2%80%99-getacross-says-%E2%80%98trial-it%E2%80%99

CAN Core

350.org: Because the world needs to know

Patrick — Fri, 08 May 2009 15:26:27 +1200

350 is the most important number in the world. This number is the safe line for our global climate and a start line for a global movement. Join 350.org to take action in your community, engage our world's leaders, and build an international movement to solve the climate crisis.

Visit http://www.350.org to join the movement.

Schoolboy poised for historic walk to school attempt

Scorcher — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:32:56 +1200

Eight-year-old Nigel Williams from Maidenhead will tomorrow step into his family’s history books when for the first time he will attempt to walk alone along the three hundred-metre route from his home to school.

His mother, Jennifer said that although she was apprehensive, she supported her son in what she described as ‘the journey of a lifetime’. ‘Of course, as a family we are aware of the dangers of the challenge Nigel faces, but we are fully behind him in this adventure,’ she said. Looking anxiously at the sky, she added that with the weather forecast predicting patchy rain and a stiff breeze for the next day, she still hoped that the attempt wouldn’t have to be abandoned at the last minute.

‘We are a three car family and decided we had to make a difference for the environment’s sake, and Nigel came up with the walk to school idea. I don’t think as parents we are behaving irresponsibly. We want to show that the spirit of adventure isn’t dead in England’s green and pleasant land.’

Nigel will have the back up of his father following in his Land Rover in case of emergencies and he will be equipped with a mobile phone, Sat Nav, a self-erecting tent and a rucksack packed with iron rations of crisps, fizzy drinks and Mars bars. The headmaster of Cuthbert’s Academy said the whole school would be turning out to cheer Nigel on over the last few metres. But Mrs Williams said she knew Nigel would be faced with several formidable obstacles along the route,

‘That poodle at number 47 will bark and jump up at the gate as he passes and there’s quite a nasty incline for a couple of metres just before he arrives at the crossing with the lollipop lady. I only hope his new trainers hold out.’

Another potential danger was the McDonald’s at the corner of Acacia Avenue, only fifty metres from the school. ‘I hope he isn’t tempted to seek shelter there, with his ultimate goal almost in sight. I confess I dread the moment when he steps out of that door and walks off down the drive. Yesterday when we did a trial run round the garden, I burst into tears when he waved and said, ‘OK, Mum, I am just going outside and I may be some time’.

From satirical UK website Newsbiscuit (see http://newsbiscuit.com/2009/04/20/schoolboy-poised-for-historic-walk-to-school-attempt/)

It's submission time

Illona — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 14:42:17 +1200

Go to your council website and make a submission on the long term community plan. Tell them to support cycling and cycling infrastructure.

Cycle Aware Wellington

Guide to Starting a New Group

Alex admin — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:54:30 +1300

New Group Starter Booklet - A 21 page guide outlining the steps you need to take to start a new group in your area

Draft Consititution - A basic constitution to provide the buiding blocks for your new constitution.

Funding Information - A useful guide to potential avenues of funding

Getting Started Visual - A flow chart showing the steps

Cyclists angered by funding cuts

Scorcher — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:39:17 +1300

PRESS RELEASE:FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cyclists angered by funding cuts

Cyclists are angered by the Government's slashing of walking and cycling funding to pay for more state highways.

Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) spokes person Stephen McKernon says, "about a third of New Zealanders cycle on our roads and cycling is one of the ten most popular recreational activities nationwide. The 2006 Census shows 9% of people walk and cycle to work, and the Household Travel Survey 2008 shows 17% of trips are made by walking and cycling."

"Yet cycling and walking in combination have received less than 1% of Land Transport Programme funding, and even this has now been halved."

"The Government says the funding cut has been made to match the ways people currently travel. This is clearly incorrect and a cynical attack on alternative modes of travel at a time when they are desperately needed."

"Media attention for the Government's proposed national cycleway should not divert attention from the fact it is slashing funding for cycling to spend more on state highways."

"Driving our way out of the recession and beyond is just not a sensible solution. A more balanced approach to transport is needed."

"We call on the Government to meet its commitments to 'Getting There - on Foot, by Cycle', the national walking and cycling strategy."

"Cycling is popular, healthy, cheap, safe, responsible and eco-friendly. It is ideal for the huge volume of short trips people make, such as to work and shops. It grows suburban businesses by increasing local shopping and helps communities by strengthening local networks. It also attracts tourists and builds related business revenues. Demand for better cycling facilities is growing in New Zealand, as well as in many other countries, as a result of these benefits," says McKernon.

ENDS

National Cycleway - CAN interview Newstalk ZB

Anne F — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 14:24:11 +1300

Listen here to CAN Co-Chair Axel Wilke's live interview on the National Cycleway. The item was on NewsTalk ZB (Wellington) on 2nd March 09.