Chainlinks CHAINLINKS 2010 Issue 4, December 4, Issue 2010 CHAINLINKS 2010 ISSUE 4, December mAgAzINe of tHe ADvoCAteS NetworK (Nz) good way to endacar! rear good a drivers showing andalso annoy drivers way to agood cyclists photo! Showing the afantastic other this is hand,perhaps file? On single riding be cyclists these Shouldn’t ways. work both and courtesy … sharing many annoys motorists riding should …sideby pullto the left traffic impeding about talks care” with under paragraph Thefifth “shareareas. CAN’s about 5 hadthe article top 3focus Page close. so could its car stop intime as suddenlyIwoulddoubtthebrakes 2nd car ifAlso, the1st traffic. she impeding is like It wide. looks very riding woman is The 2nd overabridge. twoabreast riding me. Cyclists surprises Chainlinks tober The choice of cover photoOc- of the ‘Taking lane’ the Editor the to Letters and ourdistricts/cities to govern years three every thenpendence, whoweelect forced into andde- being ownership car rather than choices intransport, ingful are to have mean- andpeople liveable our communities more are to become responsibility, to Iwouldargue) vote. If of exercising (and right ourdemocratic remind ofthe us importance elections the 2010local Zealand throughout New inAucklandjust andWellington, but Not cycling advocates. fillip for further and Cycle Aware a is events, Streets Living faceat CAN, a familiar step. Thesuccess ofCelia Wade-Brown, Brown’s apositive as regarded is election Len for transport, sustainable paigning intheand for community those cam- elections coverage oflocal dominated TV for the Aucklandcampaign mayoralty the Transport Agency. The controlled organisations including ofcouncil- governancerole byaraft its authority. unitary in a new It assisted is and the is Auckland Council Regional authorities territorial seven Replacing Aucklandthe of birth new Council. profoundlyAuckland with changed was government in 1local On November Editorial the lane”. they’re signalling that decisionby “taking a carto passthemsafely withinthelane, judgedtherewhere isn’t they’ve room for narrow withanopassingrestriction bridge Editor: haveThe cyclists justcome across a 2 2010 Chainlinks 4,December. Mark Coburn, WellingtonMark Coburn, Christine Cheyne Christine into year.head anelection we as especially ignore, ernment cannot It amandate is that centralmodes. gov- mandate to invest inmore sustainable mayorsmany astrong andcouncils new to votersshould whohave respond given and andcan ofindependence level high a enjoys Zealand government inNew local nevertheless government priorities, current andreflect ontransport, spend arecomponent asignificant of the total services roading andpublictransport government forcontributions to local Although central government cycling. and walking ofpublictransport, glect exacerbated the ne- andeven country ofthe otherfor parts inmost roads funding available significantly reduced has ofnational roads significance seven The excessive amount ofinvestment in extraordinarily andunbalanced. narrow that settings are government policy current within modes tainable transport more tosus- is develop andtowns, cities ofmany those other andindeed lington, now for the mayors of Auckland and Wel- The challenge choices. voters’ election in afactor have been policies transport Interestingly, critical. is regions itseems creasing numbers and numbers creasing in- plummeted, pricehas purchase car but increased, has Since use 1995car tention ofthe helmet law nottested. is other.vs in- Thesuccess of the primary injuries e.ghead statistics injury down MrRushton not break numbers. does accident oncycle andthe statistics dents, the roadtolllowered onlyacci- for car that the factors haverelation between Thereis no cor- onlyaccidents. or cycle oncar-cycle bearing have nonecessary car-only about Statistics accidents in NZ. helmet wearing cycle compulsory about I think hedraws the conclusions wrong practicable. quicklyas nation as to get adesti- have need alegitimate cyclists different culture; sometimes and Weapply to uniformly NZ. dohave a andinefficienta dangerous option to footpathsthe innercity shared appeared 2003, to Osaka avisit —after However cling inJapan interesting. I findMr Rushton’s on Cy- observations inJapan Cycling portfolio group.portfolio awatu andCAN’s Central organisations and isamemberofCycle Aware Man- isbasedinPalmerstonChristine North Continues p19 Continues

Taranaki road sign by 9thFebruary Advertising: Advertising: preferred Pictures: Email content to: by Local group repor ts materialBike Month by Articles March Chainlinks [email protected] Photographer: Oswald Mungwazi, into (October 2010). Spring Frocktober Swing Cover photo: Frocks OnBikes not necessarily thoseofCAN. The views expressed inChainlinksare Contributions Claire manager: Pascoe Editor: Stephen Wood [email protected] ISSN 1174-3409(online) ISSN 1175-9364(print) Chainlinks Registered no.: Charity CC36909 www.can.org.nz [email protected] Tel 049722552 Auckland, NewZealand. PO Box 6491, Wellesley St, Network Advocates Cycling CAN: 25th February >500kb, [email protected] 9th February [email protected] Publishing 1024

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2010Chainlinks 4,December. 3 Contents

2 Editorial 2 Letters to the Editor 3 Not drenched in sweat 4 Government news 4 St James Walkway 5 Cycle touring: Back to the future 6 International news 6 Rescue 7 New Zealand roundup 8–9 CAN Do & AGM 10 ASB Cycle Friendly Awards 2010 12 Police cycle trainers upskill at CAN Bikeability workshop 12 Introducing the new merchandise coordinator 12–13 CAN news & contacts 13 Big Bike Fix Up fixes the climate, one bike at a time 13 Blind Cycling Not drenched in sweat 15 Spring celebration of cycling 15 Spoke ‘n’ word David Lillie 16 Regional groups news To pedal power purists, bikes and motors don’t mix; Taranaki Area Office 17 Join CAN but neither do car emissions and the environment. Ranger Paul Marshall 18 Life on the roads, part 2 That’s why, as part of a sustainability drive, the with their electric bike. 19 David Bryne’s Bicycle Diaries Department of Conservation’s Taranaki Area Office sought a compromise between man and machine power. They wanted to lose a vehicle out of the fleet and use a bike around town for meetings. Their electric bike or e-bike has attracted much Join CAN on facebook attention, but is there more to the e-bike than novelty? Facebook fans can now find CAN at the popular social media site. The Electric Bicycle Company retro- trial an off-the-rack e-bike around the Visit http:// for news re- fitted an existing mountain bike for DOC country. Fewer motor vehicles (or less use tinyurl.com/CANfacebk leases, a courteous cycling code, pictures, Taranaki, and the trials impressed ranger of them) mean lower costs and a lighter events, discussion and more. Paul Marshall. ‘It went great and was as carbon footprint; but it’s a balancing act quick around town as a car, if not quicker. to ensure that staff still have the transport Project Manager Patrick Morgan says it’s a I got back to the office refreshed. It’s a fun and tools needed to carry out a diverse useful way to raise CAN’s profile and reach and healthy option, as well as environ- range of work. people who may not see themselves as cycling advocates. n mentally friendly and sustainable.’ Beginning its tour in Stewart Island, the Months after its purchase, the e-bike e-bike attracted celebrity attention. has a hard core following. Staff It was barely unwrapped and as- means the e-bike must earn its keep, but members use it for trips to sembled before Stewart Island it saves fuel and needs little maintenance. meetings. It supplies exercise “as quick around Flights’ three pilots comman- Variations on the e-bike are available, and fresh air, while the pedal town as a car, if deered it for joy rides in the with different uses. DOC’s sustainability assist ensures they don’t turn main street. The island’s un- team will suggest that Consumer mag- up drenched in sweat. Paul not quicker” dulating topography tested the azine review the options to help potential hopes more staff will try it in bike’s uphill pedal assistance to users decide what suits them best. summer. the limit — sometimes leaving The e-bike trial has raised eyebrows from Three settings control how riders halfway up and burdened Invercargill to the Kauri Coast. Although much assistance the bike’s motor pro- with a powerless motor and battery. it has detractors, the convenience and vides. The battery takes 15 minutes to A northern DOC office reported similarly flexibility make it worth a try, especially charge. Automatic or full motor setting mixed results. The e-bike struggled on to reduce dependence on motor vehicles gives an hour’s running from a full hills, the gearing made it hard to ride for short trips. Wellington DOC staffers charge, depending on terrain. The e-bike without pedal assist and it was too heavy have yet to try the e-bike, but they’ll n has a range of 35–80 km and a top speed to lift up stairs. welcome any help pedalling into a gale! on the flat of 40 km/h. However, other offices found it useful Read Liz Mikkelsen’s account of her electric The move by its Taranaki office inspired for trips around town, on the flat or on bike on page 6. DOC’s national sustainability team to gentle hills. The price of around $2500

2 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 3 Government News

Bike Wise Month, February 1–28 2011

Serene Tng at NZTA Spring has arrived! Days are longer, the sun is shining, birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and the weather’s better.

What better way to welcome the season St James Cycle Trail ready to ride change than to get on your bike and dis- cover new places and people? It’s time to Sarah Berry gear up for spring cycling events around the country — and for Bike Wise Month The St James Cycle Trail is the first of 2011. a series of 18 Great Rides under Nga If you’re raring for a challenge or just Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle want fun on your bike, find event regis- Trail project, which has the full trail tration dates at www.bikewise.co.nz. You ready to ride this summer. can also sign up for the Bike Wise 2011 Challenge or register your own Bike Wise Opened in November, the 64 km trail events for February 2011. rises 200 m from Lake Tennyson over www.bikewise.co.nz lets you check out Bike an alpine crossing of the St James Range Wise events, read inspiring cycle stories, and descends mountainous valleys. Its log cycling trips, set personal goals, buy highest point is Maling Pass (1308 m) Bike Wise merchandise and download between the Clarence and Waiau resources to promote cycling at work, at Valleys, while its southern end exits the school or in your community. Waiau Valley via Edwards Pass (928 m). The trail puts the ‘mountain’ into late spring for the alpine flowers. The Highlights of Bike Wise Month 2011 are: mountain biking, with beech forest and new trail will also appeal from summer • GO BY BIKE DAY – Wednesday 16 grassland valleys as well. to mid autumn with rich colours on long February Experienced riders will be able to com- evenings, superb mountain back-drops, • BIKE WISE CHALLENGE – Tuesday 1 plete the Grade 3 loop trail in a clear waters and the sight of wild to Monday 28 February Putting the horses. ‘However, anyone riding day from Hanmer Springs; while • MAYORAL CHALLENGE — any Sat- in winter must be prepared for for novices there’s a separate urday or Sunday between 1 February “mountain” into snow and ice’, he warns. seven kilometre trail to Lake and 6 March Guyon and return. The entry and exit point for mountain biking Write to [email protected] with the St James Cycle Trail is at Department of Conservation feedback or suggestions for the new the St James Homestead, 12 km Area Manager Kingsley Timpson website, or to contribute a story or from Hanmer Springs. Starting at Lake says, ‘the trail has limited facilities; resource. n riders must get back to Hanmer Springs Tennyson (37 km from Hanmer) and fin- for cafes and cell phone coverage.’ The ishing at the homestead gives a downhill township ride. also offers The St James Cycle Trail was developed cycle hire, in a partnership between Nga Haerenga, thermal The New Zealand Cycle Trail project pools and and the Department of Conservation. accommo- n dation. For more information, see Kingsley www.tourism.govt.nz/cycletrail recommends riding in New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme Manager John Dunn on the St James Cycle Trail.

2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 5 Cycle touring: Back to the Future? Simon Kennett Cycle touring has followed a rollercoaster ride since it took off in the 1890s. Its popularity has now been in a trough for over a decade, but it’s ready for a revival. Rural cycling presented itself to me as an aspirational activity when our family was driving into Tekapo. Mum and Dad in the front; Penny, Lawrence and Paul in the back seat; Jonathan and I on top of the luggage in the back of the station wagon. Being at the end of the chain of command, that was our place at age seven. It was mid-summer — stinking hot — and we were nearing the end of a long journey. Out the side window, a cycle tourist came into view. He looked foreign, probably American. He seemed so free, noble even, and so happy as he soared down the hill on his exotic touring bike. I wanted to be him! When I was fourteen I bought a touring bike, which lasted three years before it snapped in two on a 4WD track just as the first MTBs appeared here. The MTB boom made rough roads more accessible, moved the focus of recreational cycling to short, adrenalin-fuelled riding and transformed the bicycle from a vehicle to a toy. After a decade there followed a surge in the popularity of road racing and then rail-trail cruising. Now, another decade on, hundreds of thousands of cyclists have on and off-road skills. So what’s holding back the renaissance in cycle touring? The author on tour Taihape – Napier road An image problem.

Cycle touring rarely features in the media struggle to attract enough riders to gen- (NZAC) have positive, empowering at- unless a serious accident happens. New erate safety in numbers and to justify sig- titudes to safety. Accepting risk but em- Zealanders see cycle tourists only on nificant investment. It will fail to be as so- phasising safe techniques, they encourage busy highways, and they wonder if the ciable as it once was or meet its tourism club members to take part in alpine poor sod with 30 kilograms of gear will potential. Touring needs a ‘makeover’. courses. Guidebooks grade climbs so make it to the next town. The strengths and weaknesses of cycle people know what they are getting into. Despite the traffic, sports road riding is touring are mostly the same as those of When tragedy occurs, the discussion is perceived as healthy and fashionable. tramping; but tramping is part of the about how it might have been prevented. And despite the dangers of extreme New Zealand psyche. The difference is Quite rightly, organisations like FMC and tracks, mountain biking is seen as ex- motor vehicle traffic, whose speed and Living Streets Aotearoa each think quite citing and cool. Touring, however, is seen volume makes cycling increasingly less differently about safety – tramping in the as both dangerous and boring at the same pleasant and raises the perception of risk. mountains is very different from walking time. I say ‘perception’, because the actual risk in town. Nobody thinks the Milford This matters. As long as cycle touring has changed little. Cycling deaths have Track is particularly dangerous, despite seems marginal and slightly kooky, it will stayed much the same for a decade; at its lack of concrete and handrails. around 10 CAN, however, advocates for both urban per year they cycling and touring. As cycling advocates, are about the we need to be careful that we differen- same as for tiate between commuting and touring mountain when advocating for safer cycling, lest we sports. The perpetuate the myth that cycling on the difference open road is foolhardy. between cycle Cycle touring is not an everyday activity. touring and It is what recreation planners call a ‘peak tramping experience’ where greater risk can be is that the reasonably accepted by those with the ap- Federated propriate skills and experience. Once the Mountain risk is recognised, it can be mitigated or Clubs (FMC) minimised. Much has been written about and the NZ riding skills and Alpine Club Continues p6 John Randal on a back road south of Taihape. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 5 International news there and home and I’ll be in the fresh air, enjoying the wind through my hair and Denmark’s cycling keeping fit.’ Manager Nigel Welch and his staff at On embassy gains Kiwi face Yer Bike in Paraparaumu are absolutely splendid in getting my new Avanti Electra Bevan Woodward power-assisted bike right for me. I also buy good lights, a heavy lock and a basket When cycle-touring in northern that locks on and off the rear carrier so Europe earlier this year I visited Troels that I can carry my shopping inside. Anderson, the keynote speaker at the At first, it doesn’t work out. Trusting the 2005 NZ Cycling Conference. bike’s advertised 40 km range I set out on my first trip; but it does only 26 km. Back This was my third visit to Troels’ home at the shop the bike is tested, fails and in Odense, Denmark. He always provides receives a new battery. great hospitality and takes time to show Rescue! me the latest cycling developments in Now it takes me at 8-10 km/h up a steep Odense, a European Community cycling Liz Mikkelson hill (with gentle pedalling) and clocks up demonstration town. Elisabeth Mikkelsen is thrilled with her 33 km before recharging. It gets me to an electrically-assisted bike evening meeting in 10 minutes (quicker Troels is now Chairman of the newly- than a car). On the way established Cycling Embassy of Denmark, I live in the small town of Otaki back, my lights blaze as Technical data: a network of private companies, local axial flux or Beach, with no car. Our few local I ride along the coast at authorities and non-governmental or- pancake motor, 15 buses take no bikes, so a round trip to 25–30 km/h, listening to ganisations that promotes cycling and amp battery, alloy Paraparaumu means cycling 70 km. It’s the breaking waves. Bliss! communicates cycling solutions and frame, 21 gears, know-how. Its mission is to encourage hard to get to out-of-town art courses, Except when going front suspension, cycling throughout the world. meetings and films or to visit friends. downhill, using the ‘re- suspension seat- generate’ function is a post, computer. Troels has asked me to be the Embassy’s Until recently, the little travelling I did no-no — you can walk New Zealand representative. My role is was on my folding and normal bikes faster! To save the battery, simply switch to encourage organisations to use the and sometimes by bus. off the motor. And I can’t imagine, at Embassy to help them improve their cy- least for the next 10 years, that I’ll ever cling conditions. Should I buy a car? — absolutely not! What about a motorbike or scooter? use my electric bike on ‘full’, which means You can contact me at 09 425 1928 or But then I’d have to pay for registration, no pedalling at all. My idea is to be able [email protected] The Cycling WOF, insurance, fuel and maintenance. to do long trips with a gentle push to Embassy of Denmark is at www.cycling- get me home, pedalling on the ‘Econo’ n Then I think: ‘Electric bike! That’s it, no embassy.dk setting. My garage has a power point for hassles! The little extra push will get me the 12 hour battery recharge. n

Cycling: Back to the future? continues

safety gear — that is something we to see it as ‘safe with only moments of If cycle touring is to become popular should continue to promote. The devel- danger rather than dangerous with only again it needs a makeover, and now is the opment of advanced road riding skills is moments of safety’. time. Recreational cycling is on a high lacking in New Zealand. But even less The traditional view is that a touring and the NZ Cycle Trails are encouraging attention is given to reducing exposure cyclist should be prepared for every- it. Back road touring can become a ride to risk (without abandoning the road thing, which means a mountain of gear. back to the era when New Zealand was alltogether). I’ve been experimenting with ultra-light- a pedaller’s paradise. The forthcoming Huge reductions in risk can be achieved weight touring. Reducing my touring load biography of touring heroine Louise through careful route selection and to less than five kilograms increases my Sutherland will rekindle nostalgia for timing. New Zealand has over 90,000 range by 20–30% in hilly terrain. Where long-distance cycling adventures. 29’ers kilometres of public roads. Only 11,000 I might have thought 80 kilometres was a and streamlined seat bags will give kilometres of those are state highways long day, I now cover 100 with the same touring set-ups trendy appeal. Light- (and many of those are quiet much of the effort. This allows me to ride between weight ‘Stealth Touring’ and brevets will time). About a third of our roads are still towns on remote roads where I’d oth- re-brand touring as daring and exciting. gravel, because they typically don’t have erwise need camping gear and more time. Let’s accentuate the positives and advocate the traffic volumes necessary to warrant The lightweight approach works particu- for better infrastructure, especially around sealing. Not only are quiet backroads larly well if I include off-road trails in a urban areas. Then, with good planning, peaceful and often very scenic, they offer tour, as scenic trails often involve walking we’ll enjoy our touring so much that a different perspective on cycle touring and my lightest bike lacks rack mounts. when the next generation sees us out the with regards to safety. They allow us car window, they’ll wish they were us! n

6 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 7 ience, socialising, liberty, money, sustain- NZ Roundup ability and feeling and looking great. We can enjoy all these benefits by hopping on a bike during our daily lives. We need no special clothing or equipment, and we don’t have to be sporty or fit, or even to like bikes for their own sake. Bikes open up our city for us, and we look fabulous while enjoying it. Wellington Frocks On Bikes and eager volunteers recently ran a fashion show, Wheel Stylish, to showcase Wellington designers and bike suppliers. Magic Mt Roskill Cone Section happened as gorgeous local fashion and Wellington women came together on In July, Ngati Whatua o Orakei blessed create a ceremonial journey that slows beautiful bikes, with a cycle path for a and opened the last 365 metre sec- cyclists and increases safety for pedes- fashion runway. Wheel Stylish showed tion of ’s 12 kilometre trians sharing the path. New entrances ‘cycle wear’ outfits that can take you Waikaraka Cycleway. replace the former stiles, allowing unin- anywhere, day or night, work, the beach, terrupted riding and walking. movies, parties. The finest of Welling- The cycleway traverses the south- This potentially contentious project has ton’s thriving fashion industry were western Auckland isthmus, connecting been warmly received by the public and there: designers De Nada, Starfish, Voon, Onehunga and Otahuhu in the east is a tremendous benefit for cycling in KowTow, Emma Collections, and vintage boutique Hunters & Collectors. All these with New Windsor and Wesley in the Auckland. love what Frocks On Bikes is about. west. Its final section follows the flank Richard Reid of a volcanic cone, Puketapapa Mt Crowds thronged around Mamachari Cycles’ beautiful restored second-hand Roskill. Matakana Trails bikes of the type that carry millions of The peaceful Northland communities of To avoid damaging the maunga (es- commuters worldwide — cheap, easy to Point Wells, Matakana and Omaha Beach pecially as a motorway cuts across its get on and off, and with mudguards and (where John Key’s holiday home is) are northern face) and to enhance its values, space to carry stuff. R&R Sport’s new connecting themselves with Auckland City Council took a sensitive, equivalent with walking and cycling paths. holistic approach to the design. Physical, all mod cons— cultural, heritage, environmental, eco- Since moving to Point Wells I’ve the TrailGlide— nomic and political issues were unusually learned that everybody knows was in hot complex, for Puketapapa Mt Roskill is a everybody here, and people have demand too. landscape of international importance. the feeling ‘we can do this!’ The Frocks On Bikes crew took Extensive consultation with iwi, the com- We analysed maps, asked to the runway in munity and central and local government landowners about access and the intermission, helped Council avoid opposition like that hatched a plan for the Matakana weaving around met by an earlier proposal, and what has Trail. It missed out on National pillars and one been learned will help other projects. Cycleway funding and was ineli- another as the gible for an NZTA grant, but we The Auckland City Council Transport MC pointed out finalised the route and started Group (Allen Bufton, Don Munro, Stuart the fine points of work anyway using volunteer Knarston, Ina Stenzel, Marcus Pillay and each bike. They labour and donated materials. Frank Price), commissioned the project. also showcased Fundraising events and con- The landscape and cycleway design is by a sumptuous tributions from our District Richard Reid & Associates in collabo- Pashley ‘Princess Council and ratepayer groups ration with Ngati Whatua o Orakei and Sovereign’, a helped. URS Ltd. Ross Reid Ltd built the cycle- Surly Steamroller way, and Toitu Design made the carvings We plan to link the Matakana Trail with fixed-gear and a Brompton foldaway, on behalf of Ngati Whatua o Orakei. Snells Beach, Warkworth and beyond. whose 30 second fold-out was applauded! Bevan Woodward The outcome is a rich experience, fol- Frocks On Bikes has no members. Rather, lowing the curve of the volcano with we maintain a web presence and organise views over Auckland. Special features Wellington events that draw hundreds of women: fashion shows, romantic rides, shopping gets Wheel Stylish excursions, movie and cafe outings. Women need to feel comfortable and ca- Frocks On Bikes is a nationwide not-for- pable on the roads, so we also run smaller, profit group that makes it fun, stylish and targeted road-confidence, bike skills and easy for women to get on bikes. We be- bike maintenance workshops. n lieve bikes are women’s ticket to conven- Isabella Cawthorn

6 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 7 First Impressions of CAN CAN Fundraising appeal Graeme Lindup, CAN Chair Do (Petone 2010) foreshore, and briefly visited the Settlers’ Don’t you hate it when they pass you Museum. Later in the afternoon, drinks too close or cut you off? Don’t you wish Merrett Smith were served before the CAN AGM, which In the school gate with the big CAN was also predictably informal. there were more attractive and safe cycleways? Would you like to see more sign, follow the green balloons round Some of us brought partners to the the back; quite a few bikes in stands evening dinner, and someone else invited cycling opportunities for children? and some not, several fit people in 4 Maori boys who came by on their Since a handful of volunteers started (though none wearing Lycra) standing bikes, and decided to form the Maori Cycling Advocates’ Network in 1996, we outside eating and talking. Cycling Club! After helping the caterers, have grown into a nationwide network they later treated us to a haka. of advocacy groups. Contracting income Through the foyer, picking up name tag On Sunday morning we heard (& saw) via government enabled us to hire staff in and program, hailed by a few familiar about VeloCity in Copenhagen. There 2006 through 2010. Now these contracts faces, and help myself to bacon, eggs and was a shot of an elderly lady pushing a have been completed, CAN needs your hash brown and plunger coffee; take to bike she could no longer ride, rather than financial support to continue its presence a table with some new faces and in- be seen pushing a zimmer frame! Then in Wellington. The message from the 2010 troduce each other. A relaxed, friendly we had a hands-on session of website CAN Do is clear: to continue with this atmosphere with many small group training with 11 laptops running in the important work. For this to happen, CAN conversations happening; several faces I conference hotspot. There was then needs financial support to maintain an remember from other organisations such a lively discussion on the value of the office and staff. Most of our work is done as the Green Party. printed version of this magazine. by volunteers such as you. I’m convinced that for CAN to remain effective, we need Proceedings were opened with a bicycle After lunch there was the last of the to retain some paid staff capacity. Some bell from the Cycle Friendly Awards in reports from local activists’ groups, contracting income has been generated Wellington the previous evening, and we which were interspersed throughout the from councils, for example, cycle training were all summoned outside in the biting weekend, and people started to drift away and cycle route audits. wind for a Creative Opening — each towards home. Both days had someone asked to do something by which we could summing up the day’s sessions, with Donations of any size are welcomed, be remembered! Then it was straight into plenty of humour, and some special com- but regular contributions by automatic a technical lecture on the setting of speed mendations. payment are particularly useful as they limits, although questions became fre- enable us to plan. CAN is a registered I found the whole weekend very en- quent as implications for cycling became charity, so donations made to CAN are couraging and stimulating, made a lot of apparent. tax deductible. If your employer offers new friends, and even enjoyed writing payroll giving, you can donate to CAN Almost all presentations used PowerPoint this piece! I am determined to find more straight from your pay. Please contact your and were lively, interactive sessions. The time to do what I can for cycling in employer. CAN’s bank account details excellently catered breaks were noisy, Christchurch are: Cycling Advocates Network, Kiwibank with many connections being made. Sat- and beyond, Merrett is a member of 38-9005-0922435-01, please use Fundraising urday lunch was a ride along the fore- secure in the Spokes Canterbury Appeal as your reference and follow up shore and up the Hutt River for a picnic; knowledge I More on CAN DO: http:// with an email to [email protected]. unfortunately there weren’t enough spare am far from can.org.nz/can-do-2010 n bikes, so a few of us walked down to the alone. n Cycle on.

It was advertised as a Wairarapa stop. The person that Stephen left this Gourmet ride for the two days had had five punctures ride early to do following the CAN Do. A group contributed to the some work on wine at the evening assembled in Carterton and immedi- Chainlinks ately started as they meant to go on, by meal. The second day sampling the fare on offer at the Wild started as the first with a cafe visit, and Oats cafe. Then the ride travelled via then meandered toward Greytown, via Post CAN Do ride Gladstone, and Longbush, checking out wineries, eateries and a chocolate shop, picnic spots and a country pub along the to catch a train at Woodside back to Wel- Stephen Wood way, to Martinborough for an overnight lington. n 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 9 CAN’s 2010 AGM brings changes Changes to CAN Graeme Lindup, CAN Chair With the retirement of CAN’s long serv- applicants for the treasurer’s role and we Membership ing treasurer, Liz Mikkelsen and also welcome him onto the committee. committee member Christine Cheyne, At last year’s AGM it was suggested that there were opportunities for new CAN more detail was given in advance about Subscriptions people nominated for the Officers and members to get involved with CAN at Glen Koorey the national level. for the Committee, so this year we had a nomination form which could be sent At the recent AGM some changes were Liz and Christine have been involved to the secretary prior to the meeting. introduced to CAN’s subscriptions for with CAN over a number of years and Those nominations were posted up on members (including members of af- their contributions have been valuable in the website along with the agenda for the filiated local groups): keeping CAN as an organisation that has AGM. Stephen Wood, the current Chain- From 1st January 2011, CAN’s mem- a credible voice. Christine will continue Links editor and IT/ bership fees will increase to $20 (un- Editors note: being involved with the Central Organi- website Portfolio waged), $35 (waged), $40 (family), and We should also sations Portfolio and CAN’s submissions Group manager had $85 (supporting organisation); member mention the com- to local and central government. indicated an interest levies for local groups will also be simi- mittee members The position of treasurer had been ad- in being on the com- larly increased. mittee. Both Bill and that have been vertised earlier in the year with a detailed The recent Stephen were elected reelected — NOTE: Pay your 2011 explanation of the work involved which GST rise to did attract a number of interested people. onto the committee at Graeme Lindup, subs (including the AGM and we are 15% is one We welcome Bill Wright, a CAN member Glen Koorey, Adrian reason for lifetime fees) before since 2000, from Pleasant Point in South pleased that they both Croucher, Jane are willing to be part the increase the end of 2010 to Canterbury who was selected from the Dawson and Anne of the team, welcome (all our subs FitzSimon. avoid the increases! Stephen and Bill! n are inclusive of GST). At the same time, our basic expenses Fourteen exciting years — farewell! (printing, communications, etc) continue to rise, while some of our other signif- Liz Mikkelsen, outgoing Treasurer Editor’s note: Graeme icant funding sources (e.g. NZTA) have Some of you were not there on the What makes CAN isn’t the only one stopped. Saturday of the CAN Workshop (30/10). special is the face- involved in CAN be- You can now sign up or renew for a to-face contact and As Graeme said at my farewell, I was cause of your encour- lifetime membership of CAN — pay once generous sharing this strange woman who kept ringing agement, Liz — look and never have to pay again! of knowledge and him and encouraging him to set up experience be- where your phone The lifetime fee is 20 TIMES the equiv- a group in New Plymouth. Well look tween CAN Groups calls got me! alent current membership fee in any class where he is now! around the country (sorry; only retired members may pay at the workshops. I will miss you all. the unwaged rate). For example, a person Through my work in earlier years as normally paying a $30 annual fee may Thank you to Fiona, who elegantly pre- membership secretary, I came to know choose to pay 30x20 = $600 instead as a sented gifts that I could not refuse. All many of you around the country. one-off lifetime subscription. sustainable, all benefiting other strug- Goodbye to all of you and thanks for all gling groups — like the wine produced The purpose of the new lifetime mem- the good chats at CAN workshops, cy- by Muddy Water Ltd for Hurunui Trails. bership is to provide some administrative cling conferences or on the phone, Paul Perhaps another idea for fundraising? convenience to members and some Doherty, Don Kennedy, Phil Browne, Rob And all the waste recyclable. financial certainty to CAN. The fee has Price, Rob Davidson , Bill Blakie, Kirsty been determined by an economic analysis All the best to you all and the new com- Barr, Johan Groenewald and many many of the costs to CAN and its members, mittee. n more. taking into account inflation, investment interest rates, and expected membership durations. Lifetime members may still make further donations to CAN if de- sired. If this new lifetime fee is too much for your budget, members are reminded that they may still pay for multiple years of subscription in advance (e.g. 5–10 years) if they wish to minimise their adminis- trative hassle. Contact CAN’s secretary if you’re interested. n

2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 9 Schools and children are the winners at ASB Cycle Friendly Awards 2010

Dirk De Lu, Awards Coordinator, Cycling Advocates Network Getting more children biking regularly is the goal of New Zealand’s top cycling projects this year. We are delighted to reward projects that are getting children on their bikes, said Awards Coordinator Dirk De Lu. Schools and “Having fun on a bike should be part of every Kiwi child’s life. These projects empower our children are the children to stay in shape, gain confidence, winners build independence, and best of all, to enjoy the freedom of cycling.” We all win when more people bike, said Mr De Lu. “Skilled cyclists make safer drivers, reduce traffic congestion, and lower our health and roading bills.” Other winners focus on promoting stylish dress and comfortable, upright bikes. Greater Wellington Regional Council Chair Fran Wilde presented the ASB Cycle Friendly Awards at Wellington Town Hall on 29 October. The awards are organised by the Cycling Advocates Network (CAN). Winners by Category category: Avanti Best Cycle Facility Project For transport infra- structure projects which promote cycling and a cycle-friendly envi- ronment. Examples are new cycleways, parking facilities, or roading projects. winner: Bikes in Schools, St Mary’s School, Hastings contact: Elizabeth Crowley, Principal, tel 06-876-6421, stmaryshastings. school.nz or Paul McArdle, tel 027-747-9192. Bikes in Schools is a unique project that provides all pupils at primary schools regular access to a bike, helmet and specially de- signed bike tracks within the school grounds. The aim is to en- courage pupils to become active and healthy, develop bike skills, and build self esteem and confidence. Category: Canterbury District Health Board Best Cycling Pro- motion Project For education or encouragement efforts which promote cycling and a cycle-friendly environment. Examples include publicity campaigns, school education programmes, or pro- motional cycling events. Winner: Auckland Cycle Style — an evening of fabulous bikes and fashion Order your specially- Frocks on Bikes, Auckland chapter designed safety vest contact: Pippa Coom, tel 021- 926-618, frocksonbikes.wordpress.com. in CAN colours Over 450 people braved a mid-winter evening to attend a unique show of stylish bikes and fashion at Auck- Stand out land’s Viaduct Harbour. Guests were in the midst of the worst weather, treated to valet bike parking, wine and gourmet canapés, invited to try busiest traffic, dullest motorists out Copenhagen-style and everyday and gaudiest bunch of road cyclists. bikes, and were treated to a Cycle Style fashion show. Category: NZ Transport Agency $90 (members) Cycle Friendly Commitment by a $110 Business For companies that have + gst encouraged and supported cycling by S M L staff, customers and clients. Examples include cyclist parking and changing facilities, employee support and in- centive programmes, and company ‘pool’ bikes. Nominations cover both general businesses and those directly involved in the bicycle industry. Winner: Mamachari Bicycles, Wellington contact: Jason Penny, tel 021- 065-0801, mamachari.co.nz. Mamacharis are second-hand, upright bicycles from Japan. Mamachari Bicycles’ mission is to re-normalise everyday cycling in New Zealand by refurbishing and selling stylish bikes to people looking for a comfortable ride. Mamachari bicycles are a chic way of getting about your daily life — suit, skirt, heels and all. Category: ViaStrada Cycle Friendly Commitment by a We all win Car-repelling message Public Organisation For public or government organisations on the back that encourage and support cycling. Examples include cyclist when more Lightweight, wind proof, parking / changing facilities, employee support and incentive people bike mesh-back, programmes. High-visibility Winner: Belmont School cycle to school programme Belmont Intermediate Rear reflective stripe School, North Shore, Auckland contact: Principal, Justin Sommerville, tel Full length YKK zip for rapid 021-903-994 belmontint.school.nz. The Auckland Region is known for its high on-road deployment levels of traffic congestion, concentrated around the school day. 20% of traffic is estimated to be school-related. Belmont Intermediate has bucked the trend Three rear pockets for tidy by actively promoting cycling to school by its students. It is a role model for storage of comestibles and the region in consistently achieving exceptionally high numbers of cyclists. paraphernalia (third arm not included). Category: Greater Wellington Regional Council Cycling Champion of the Year For contributions made by individual New Zealanders for the promotion Made in NZ to NZ sizing. of cycling. Winners: Paul McArdle and Meg Frater, Bike On NZ, Hastings tel 027- bikeon.co.nz 747-9192, Paul McArdle and Meg Frater have applied their energy towards a simple goal: more people biking, more often. Projects such as Transform yourself Bikes in Schools, Police on Bikes, T-BO (teenagers bike on) into a living advertisement and Bike On Flaxmere have made head- for the advantages and pleasures lines, raised funds, been endorsed by the Prime Minister, and most importantly, got of everyday cycling. more people biking. New projects were launched today in Maraenui and Flaxmere, bringing the number of school kids cycling regularly to 1,000 as a direct result of Bikes in Schools. can.org.nz/shop All finalists are atcan.org.nz/awards2010 n [email protected] Police cycle trainers upskill at CAN Bikeability Summary of committee/ workshop portfolio activity Patrick Morgan Planning & Development: Portfolio group review teleconference and The NZ Police, New development of supporting docu- Zealand’s biggest cycle ments; Accounting audit report to training organisation, is June 2010 confirmed; Overseen NZTA updating its delivery of contract on Safer cycling; Budgeting cycle training to the new NZ for staff funding to end of 2010; Re- viewed CAN’s insurances and office Cycle Training Guidelines. leases; Review options for Cycling I ran a one-day workshop on Conference funds; Communica- Grades One and Two of the tions strategy; Preparing motions and Guidelines for Wellington Cycle Aware Wellington instructor Marilyn Northcotte with finding nominations for AGM Police Education Officers in Wellington Police. Event Organisation: 2010 Cycle September. Friendly Awards; 2010 CAN Do and One said, ‘The workshop confirmed we Using CAN's Bikeability programme, we AGM preparation. Preliminary work are on track with what we are doing. We demonstrated lessons and then Police had on next NZ Cycling Conference. were always told 7% explanation, 17% the opportunity to lead some sessions. demonstration and 77% participation for Model Bikeability follows a 'teach, demonstrate, Local Group Support: youth learning.’ Walk/Cycle Community guidance; practise' model. Thanks to Susan Hutchinson-Daniel of Lower speed limits information; Police said afterwards that they felt more Greater Wellington Regional Council for Bus-bike workshops in Auckland and confident using the Guidelines in their setting this up. n Christchurch; Police cycle training school programmes. course in Lower Hutt; Group funding for attendance at CAN Do

Promotion/Campaigns/Media: Introducing our new merchandise coordinator “Stop at Red” Road Safety Trust Adrian Croucher funding proposal; Prepared material for NZTA “Cyclists and Heavy Ve- CAN secretary Adrian Croucher talks BL: Treaty of Waitangi law mostly. hicles” brochure; Media releases on to Bryce Lyall, CAN’s new merchandise AC: — and you commute by bike- a pretty Give-Way Rule changes, 10/10/10 coordinator, to find out what makes impressive commute isn’t it? How far? events, Bike-light Rule changes, ASB him tick. BL: I don’t know really — about 20 km I Cycle Friendly Awards, Daylight think. It takes about 50–60 minutes. savings and bike lights AC: Rain or shine? And on a fixed gear Website/IT: Customer management bike? package (CiviCRM) installed on CAN’s website; Website page tidy-ups BL: Absolutely, I don’t use a car. That was incl. portfolio groups. a pretty conscious decision when I got back to NZ. CAN Policy Development: Final- AC: How is biking in London different ising speed limit policies from here? Meetings/Representation: Pres- BL: The commuting scene there is entation to visiting government amazing — you can be in a group of 50 delegation from Chongming County, riders waiting at a traffic light in summer. China; Regular meetings with NZTA AC: So, Bryce, you’re from the mainland They can get over 1000 people on a (Safer Journeys Project) and Ministry originally? Critical Mass ride, and there’s a big fixie of Transport (policy issues); Con- BL: Yeah, I’m from Blenheim, but then crowd — lots going on. tacts with BikeNZ staff and Board went to Uni in Christchurch — I studied AC: Did you notice much change in the members; Letter of support to Eu- law and political science. After which bike scene here when you got back? ropean Cycling Federation re putting Jess and I went to London, and I worked cycling on the agenda of the Interna- in a bike shop in Camden for about a year BL: The fixie thing has taken off here too, tional Transport Forum; Letters to and a half. I’d done road racing through there are more cycle lanes than there used various road user groups re imple- my teens, some downhill mountainbiking to be- there’s a long way to go though. I menting lower speed limits. n in Canada, a bit of BMX — I like to try wanted to help out, came across CAN on different stuff. the web- then this merchandise role came up and I thought I’d give that a go. n AC: And now you’re back here in Auckland, working as a lawyer —

12 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 13 Big Bike Fix Up fixes the climate, one bike at a time Contact CAN Patrick Morgan Volunteer mechanics from Cycle Aware :: Chair, Graeme Lindup Cycle Aware Wellington volunteers Dion and [email protected] Wellington and Mamachari Bicycles marked Willemijn fix a classic Raleigh 4-speed for another the climate change global working party on :: Deputy Chair, Glen Koorey, 50 years of reliable service. [email protected] 10/10/10 by fixing bikes — for free. “Our mission is to inspire climate action in :: Secretary, Adrian Croucher, Nine volunteers fixed about 30 bikes in a six- [email protected] hour session at Wellington’s Waitangi Park. communities across New Zealand.” :: Treasurer, Bill Wright, Some just required tyre-pumping and a “Our focus is on the number 350 — as in [email protected] brake alignment, while more advanced fixes parts per million CO2. If we can’t get below included a bottom bracket repack and reas- that, scientists say, the damage we’re already staff sembly of a 4-speed Sturmey-Archer hub. seeing from global warming will continue

:: Project Manager, Spokesperson for 350 Aotearoa, Sam Rye, and accelerate.” Patrick Morgan, [email protected] says 350 is part of an international cam- Bike fix-up events were also held in Wellington: paign to unite the world around solutions to Auckland, New Plymouth, Christchurch and 04 385 4967 | 027 563 4733 climate change. Dunedin. n

:: Project Officer, South Island Fiona Whero, [email protected], Christchurch: An enthusiastic vision-impaired 03 366 2645 | 027 449 1845 Blind Cycling stoker departs on an exploration of Portland, Oregon :: CAN Administrator, Alex Revell, [email protected] with their sighted counterparts. Wellington: 04 385 4967 Tandem cycling provides exercise for the partially sighted without some CAN roles the obstacles that running presents :: Membership secretary, them with. Cycling has no limits- [email protected] Adrian Croucher, it’s a low-risk, enjoyable aerobic :: Media contacts, workout, as intense as the rider [email protected], Anne FitzSimon, wishes. Glen Koorey, [email protected] Tramping is generally not pos- :: Portfolio Coordinator , currently vacant sible for the visually impaired, but tandem touring offers a similar :: Communications coordinator, Stephen Wood, [email protected] Tom Halliburton strenuous activity that combines teamwork, adventure and physical challenge. :: Email & DNS Server Admin, Tandems offer interesting opportunities Thomas Schwarz, [email protected] to people who are blind or visually The Foundation of the Blind has run several :: e.CAN newsletter editor, tandem tours of the Otago Central Rail impaired. Adrian Croucher, [email protected] Trail, and has organised touring weekends :: Chainlinks editor, In unfamiliar streets, kerbs, steps, sandwich in the lower North Island for each of the last Stephen Wood [email protected] boards, planter boxes and power poles are three years. These involve about ten ma- :: Chainlinks contributions manager, hazards for blind people walking. Tandem chines, covering up to 40 km each day. Some Claire Pascoe, [email protected] cycling provides them with someone to deal participants find them challenging, but some :: Mailouts co-ordinator, with most potential hazards. It often seems get hooked and take on events like the round Ritsuko Ogawa, [email protected] easier to ride a tandem than to guide a blind Mt Taranaki ride. :: Merchandise co-ordinator person in an unfamiliar place. Public transport is problematic for the par- Bryce Lyall [email protected] Many ‘blind’ people use no cane or guide tially sighted, and more so with a tandem; More dog because they aren’t totally blind but but this is an issue of accommodating the For the full list of CAN roles go to: are visually impaired. This impairment may needs of the dis- abled. For a partially can.org.nz/can-roles take the form of tunnel, peripheral-only or For more information sighted person, a For full contact details go to: clouded vision, and may vary with lighting contact Jane Mehaffey can.org.nz/contact tandem has some of conditions. On a tandem bike none of this (jane.mehaffey@paradise. matters. Visually impaired riders who are the functions that a net.nz) or Richard West content to be stokers are on equal terms wheel chair has for others. n ([email protected]).

12 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 13 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 15 Spoke 'n' Word Tanya Batt

A storytelling adventure on two wheels Imagine a world of stories about cy- cling, travelling on two wheels! Jonathan Kennett and others, Tanya has plotted a route down the west coast of Performance storyteller and children’s the North Island and through the Wair- Spring Celebration of author Tanya Batt has married her loves arapa. She’ll treat children to storytelling of cycling and storytelling to create workshops using her kamishibai theatre Cycling a pedal-powered adventure from her at schools along the way. Waiheke Island home to Wellington. The idea crystallized as Tanya pedalled Mark Bracey While working in Japan, Tanya re- around Europe and the UK last year. She searched kamishibai, a form of story- says, ‘I come from a family of recreational A blog post from ‘Cycling Auckland’ telling once popular there. A kamishibai cyclists. From a young age, we all had Aucklanders once again took the op- storyteller has a miniature collapsible bikes for getting to school and for play. I’d portunity to celebrate their growing stage fixed to his bicycle, and sells sweets love to see more children experience the and snacks to the audience. To illus- cycle culture. This “Frocks on Bikes: joy and freedom of cycling.” trate his stories he withdraws a series Spring Celebration of Cycling” event of picture boards one by one has grown in size and success since its from the stage. inception last year. Tanya has replicated a kam- It feels nice to be a part of a cultural ishibai theatre. She plans to revolution at the grassroots level. I look use it to share cycling stories forward to watching this event grow and and encourage children to develop in the years to come. And it was tell their own, which she’ll about more than just “Frocks” of course. compile into a book about There were plenty of dapper blokes on cycling history, recreation bikes on display too. and safety. Her project aims to encourage cycling among The riders that paraded along Ponsonby children. It will also raise Road looked fabulous and even the Spring awareness of and funds for showers didn’t dampen spirits. The Waiheke’s Once upon an Tumeke Cycle Space team and Bruce from island Charitable Trust, which develops Tanya hopes that the people in the com- Adventure Cycles were kept busy doing human potential through storytelling and munities she passes through will feel in- free maintenance checks. story making. spired to jump on their bikes and join her. There was also a great turnout of politi- The project starts in February to coincide To join Tanya or support the project, visit n cians and they all returned from the ride with Bike Wise Month. With help from www.fundraiseonline. (thanks Julian for providing the Next- bikes) with smiles on their faces. With all the political will towards cycling on show, I am anticipating that Cycle Action will soon be moving into a new era; managing and implementing all of the new cycling projects on offer. I am picking it to be another busy year ahead. But for me, the real highlight and what keeps me coming back for more was the displays of warmth and generosity by the people involved. There were the familiar faces plus many new ones too. The cycling renaissance is being fuelled by a wide range of different people and organisations working cooperatively to- gether. And it is becoming more obvious that the bikes are the ancillary tools of the revolution. It’s about bringing people and communities together. Bikes just happen to be the common ingredient. n

2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 15 followed by a bus trip, lunch. The talk between the two groups was loud, non- stop and very productive. Both groups loved the encounter and said their at- titudes changed immediately after their interactions. All Auckland cyclists rejoice in the new overbridge for cyclists over the treacherously dangerous Onehunga Harbour Road, and can now safely access the lovely old heritage bridge over the Manukau Harbour. A game showcases different I am thrilled to have been appointed to transport option at the ETA launch the Bike NZ Board. This is a four year role with a new Board, a new consti- tution and a new strategic plan which has a strong focus on advocacy and getting more NZers riding bikes more often. The concept of everyday cycling and the through which Cycle Action Auckland need to encourage the use of bikes for Regional groups has been introduced to fantastic new col- transport is now seen as an important laborators in our work. It has great blogs part of the BikeNZ role and I look CECycles Free Bike with pics of all the latest cycling events forward to helping to bring our strong and good news. Look now at www.cyclin- advocacy arm into this mix. gauckland.co.nz Maintenance Workshop Happy summer pedalling ETA — Easy Transport Auckland was 10/10/10 launched before the Supercity election Secretary Cycle Action Auckland, [email protected] Steve Muir to focus the candidates on solutions to Auckland’s transport problems. Our chal- Hosted by Te Whare Roimata & the lenge now is to educate the new coun- Linwood Community Art Centre cillors so that they also see the integral A group of enthusiastic volunteers, role cycling plays in the total transport including several Spokes Canterbury system. We will know we have succeeded members, ran its fourth free bike main- when every time they talk about travel tenance workshop from 1–4pm on they mention going by bike as a good Sunday 10/10/10 at the Linwood Com- transport option, AND proclaim that munity Art Centre (cnr Stanmore Rd Public Bikes are an integral component of and Worcester St, Christchurch) as part the public transport system! of the 1010global.org day of action on Pedal into Summer has been a very climate change. popular series of Sunday rides for be- A wide variety of people came along to ginners along our safe cycle routes. We have their bikes fixed, get tips on fixing plan to repeat these rides in February for A game showcases different transport their own bikes or to receive a free re- Bikewise month. option at the ETA launch stored bike. Five Nepali students all re- A team of 5 of us made presentations ceived a free bike, a grandmother who is to the staff of Hastings District Council looking after her grandchildren got a bike on everyday cycling projects that help North Taranaki bike fix up so she can keep up with the kids, a family change the culture from cars to bikes. Nathaniel Benefield returned a previously loaned bike and got Hastings, along with New Plymouth, a bigger one for growing children. Brakes has been chosen as a Model Community There were flat tyres and rusty chains and were adjusted, cables replaced, punctures town. The outcome desired from the cables as far as the eye could see along fixed, bottom brackets regreased, chains NZTA investment of $4million plus New Plymouth’s coastal walkway. oiled, bike trailers tried out, and drinks over 2 years is to create an environment The Big Bike Fix-up was a popular, and biscuits enjoyed. On the day 15 bikes that will make walking and cycling easy and free, promotion for the hundreds were given away and 28 repaired. The transport choices in Hastings. grand total over the four workshops so Our CAA engineers have been far is 81 repairs and 32 bikes given away. very thorough and vigilant in studying plans, attending work- Cycling in Auckland shops and p roviding input into cycling provision along the Wa- Barb Insull terview section of SH20 and the The title of this report just happens to planned AMETI route. be the name of the now well-established 10 cyclists buddied 10 NZBus website everyone is talking about and drivers for a one hour bike ride

2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 17 of people young and old whose bikes Mitchell Cycles and Cycle Inn — were were in need of some loving care and kept hard at it getting the bikes in top Join online attention. The New Plymouth District shape for summer. Bike owners with Council dipped into its share of the more complex problems were given $25 or clip this form funds from the Walking Cycling Model vouchers towards the cost of repairs at Communities to offer the basic repairs a bike shop. Mr Benefield said similar to bike owners for four hours at the events were being held in Wellington, Join online at windwand, the council’s sustainable Auckland and Christchurch as part of www.can.org.nz/join transport co-ordinator Nathaniel a national campaign organised by the OR post this form to us with your Benefield said on site. The fix-it troop - Cycling Advocates Network. The North cheque: volunteers from bike shops, O2 Project, Taranaki Cycle Advocates group pitched Name

Contact the local group nearest you Address

Bike! Whangarei Kapiti Cycling Paul Doherty 09 436 0033 Lynn Sleath [email protected] [email protected] www.kapiticycling.org.nz Phone Cycle Action Auckland Email [email protected] Mana Cycle Group Mark Bracey, Chair 09 624 4319 http://can.org.nz/mana www.caa.org.nz Cycle Aware Wellington Please send the e.CAN Cycle Action Waiheke Alastair Smith 04 972 2552 email news monthly. Tom Ransom 09 372 3215 www.caw.org.nz [email protected] [email protected] Please send me information about ‘cycle safe’ insurance. Hamilton Cycle Action Waikato Hutt Cycle Action Rob Davidson 07 856 5217 Stu Edwards 021 074 6640 [email protected] [email protected] Occupation: Cycle Action Whakatane Nelson Tasman Bicycle Nelson Bays How did you find out about CAN? Pip Wonacott Anne FitzSimon 03 539 052 , 021 1123-890 [email protected] [email protected] http://can.org.nz/nelson Rotorua Cycle Action Mark Dyer [email protected] Bicycle Lanes in Paradise Golden Bay We respect your privacy and will Victoria Davis 03 525 9298 not give your details to anyone not Bike Taupo [email protected] affiliated with CAN. [email protected] www.biketaupo.org.nz BikeWalk Marlborough Paul Millen [email protected] Cycle Action Tauranga Phil Browne 07 544 3123 [email protected] Bike West Coast (SI) Annual membership fees Fiona Whero 03 366 2645 | 027 449 1845 Cycle Aware Hawkes Bay [email protected] • Unwaged $20 Bernie Kelly 06 356 3588 http://can.org.nz/westcoast • Waged $35 [email protected] Christchurch Spokes Canterbury • Family $40

New Plymouth Keith Turner 03 355 8908 • Supporting organisations $85 North Taranaki Cycling Advocates [email protected] Graeme Lindup 06 757 2062 www.spokes.org.nz north-taranaki-cycling-advocates@hotmail. Membership fee $ ...... com www.ntca.org.nz South Canterbury Squeaky Wheel Donation $ ...... Ron Paulin 03 688 6408 Whanganui Bicycle User Group [email protected] Total $ ...... Hadi Gurton http://can.org.nz/southcanterbury [email protected] Make cheque payable to CAN Palmerston North & Manawatu Spokes Dunedin Cycle Aware Manawatu Adrienne Mulqueen 03 478 0315 CAN Julie Dalziel 06 357 6962 [email protected] Freepost 147092 can.org.nz/manawatu http://can.org.nz/dunedin PO BOX 6491 [email protected] Wellesley St, Auckland

2010 Chainlinks 4, December. 17 Supporting Organisations Abley Transportation Consultants Adventure Media Group Adventure South Ltd Auckland Cycle Touring Association Bike Taupo Canterbury District Health Board Christchurch City Council in with the volunteers. “The whole Central Otago District Council idea is to make sure the bikes are Cycling painter from Squeaky Wheel Crank It Cycles street legal and safe and get eve- Max de Lacey is self employed painter in South Can- Cycle Touring Company Ltd ryone out cycling,” Mr Benefield terbury who drives to where he has a contract to do said. Free bike bells were handed painting work and drops off his painting gear, ladders Cycle Tour Operators NZ out along with advice on how to and paint etc, then he bikes to work to paint each day Dunedin City Council keep left and watch your speed on until he has finished the job. n the walkway. Matt King, of Cycle Ecoassist Sustainable Solutions Inn, was delighted with the turn- Engineering Outcomes out. “ It’s busy but good.” David Environment Canterbury West, of New Plymouth, was impressed with the initiative and Francis & Cambridge intends to return to using his bike Ground Effect to travel to work. “So many bikes Hamilton City Council are hanging up in garages and not being used.” It is likely another KIWIJERSEY.COM event will be held as a result of Lincoln University the obvious community need, Mr Living Streets Aotearoa Benefield said. Marlborough District Council Sustainable Transport Co-ordinator, New Plymouth District Council Massey University MWH NZ Ltd Natural High Nelson City Council Life on the roads: continued from last issue Janet Miller is a research student in New Plymouth District Council the School of Geog- In the last issue of Chainlinks, we printed the misjudge cyclists’ OCEAN raphy, Environment first part of “Life on the Roads” by Janet Miller. speed and may not Pacific Cycle Tours and Earth Sciences Here is the 2nd and final part. understand cyclists’ at Victoria University Palmerston North City Council intentions soon Pedaltours Driver Psychology enough to avoid them. Rotorua District Council High speed contributes to both the likelihood Traffic psychology researchers recognise and the severity of road accidents, probably Rotorua MTB Club the importance of driver behaviour as a because a speeding driver perceives less, has Tasman District Council factor in crashes. Cyclists feature in only a less time to react and takes longer to stop. For few of their studies, mostly from University of Canterbury a cyclist struck at 32 km/h the chance of Scandinavian countries. These For a cyclist struck at survival is 95%, if struck at 48 km/h it is ViaStrada describe motorists either failing 32 km/h the chance of 55% and at 70 km/h it is virtually zero Waimakariri District Council to look towards the cyclist or (http://tinyurl.com/MoTcrashfact). doing so without noticing the survival is 95% Wellington City Council cyclist. Some researchers suggest Traffic psychologists say driving can that motorists may not expect to see cyclists be affected by motivational factors other and are not in the habit of looking for them. than safety. Aggressive driving, an issue for Others say drivers tend to concentrate on all road users, is particularly relevant to cy- vehicles that are a potential danger to them- clists because of their vulnerability. Drivers selves. with poor attitudes to cyclists are more likely to get frustrated with them and drive ag- Mental workload is thought to contribute to gressively in response. Some drivers seem the high probability of cyclist-motor vehicle particularly irritated by having their progress collisions at intersections. Drivers who are impeded. Research from the UK suggests overloaded with information may fail to that some motorists consider cyclists are not notice other road users or to react safely, may “proper” road users. Continues next page

18 2010 Chainlinks 4, December. Letters to the Editor, Cycling in Japan, continued

concentrating ownership on younger drivers Very interesting article on cycling in Japan Hamburg. Bike hire from Dresden cost 9 to an extent inconceivable 30 years ago. from Nigel Rushton in the last issue of Euros a day per bike for excellent bikes (no Urban traffic speeds are faster — there is less Chainlinks. Could we have another article deposit), plus a pair of Ortlieb panniers. No respect for the speed limits, especially among describing his trip as I am sure more NZ problem with bed and breakfast or hostel younger drivers, and alcohol is available to cyclists would like to visit Japan. I would like accommodation all along the route. The more cheaply with a lower drinking age. to know how expensive it is for instance, and Cycle Way was as smooth as a billiard table, and wide. On the Sunday we left Dresden I I agree that to a certain extent NZ helmet some indication as to where one can stay was very impressed by the thousands (!) of laws deal with the symptoms, rather than the without paying a fortune and the best time of locals who were out on their bikes, but no ag- causes. However it is incorrect to say that the the year to visit? gressive speeding like in NZ. Just a constant State declines to defend citizens’ rights etc. What a positive contrast to this backward stream of cyclists enjoying a relaxed ride Cars are not the only cause of cycle injury. country in terms of the support for cycling! with their family, but on the Monday the Also — until the NZ roading environment is Mind you it’s the same old story. I have just only cyclists were those actually riding long considerably more cycle-friendly, there is a returned from a visit to Europe and make the distance. need for safety equipment such as helmets. following, albeit anecdotal observations. Medical treatment for head injury is publicly Germany has fantastic facilities for cyclists, In France we met by chance at least five funded and the State has a right to enforce long distance cycle routes in many places groups of cycle tourists from overseas, and helmet use. After 45 years of cycle com- and is very cycling friendly. Berlin has made one incident really stuck in my mind as a muting — I would wear a helmet regardless huge strides in cycling facilities and they are contrast to this country. We were in a bus of traffic. everywhere. This is despite the fact that it is on the open road which came up behind a cyclist. The driver slowed right down from I would like to see CAN continue its ex- a big old city with much heavier traffic than 90 cellent efforts towards an optimum cycling in New Zealand. What they have done in a km/h to the cyclists’ speed and waited until environment and sideline this helmet debate short time makes the NZ’s government and the road was absolutely clear before over- until this is achieved. local authority efforts look pathetic in terms taking, leaving much more than a 1.5 metre of improving commuting cycling in cities. gap! Sadly I can’t believe that would ever Simon Miller, CAN member, Lower Hutt We spent three days cycling on the Elbe happen here with our aggressive macho ap- Cycle Way in eastern Germany, which proach to driving. n runs down the Elbe River from Prague to A. G. Talbot, St Albans, Christchurch

in a Lifetime) ‘you may Adrian is CAN Book review: David Byrne’s ask yourself’. Do animals secretary, based Life on the roads continues practice denial? How did in Auckland Possible solutions ‘Bicycle Diaries’ Lenin get time to write Adrian Croucher all those books? Towards the end he de- scribes his everyday riding around New York What can we do about unsafe driver ‘Riding a bike ... is like navigating the behaviour? and involvement in cycling advocacy and collective neural pathways of some vast avant-garde bike parking design. Driver education is the obvious global mind’, says David Byrne in the in- remedy for lack of awareness. If you’re after a book that’s just about cy- troduction to Bicycle Diaries. Research supports raising cycling cling, this probably isn’t it. Like many of us, participation rates to increase the Byrne is best known as ex-frontman and Byrne isn’t just ‘a cyclist’, but he’s a guy who number of drivers who look for and songwriter for the band Talking Heads. He’s rides a bike and finds it a practical, liberating understand cyclists. used a bike to get around his home town of and exhilarating way to explore the pathways New York City since the early 1980s, and of the world and of the ‘vast global mind’. This Intentionally unsafe or aggressive often takes a folding one on performing makes his book a rich and intriguing ride. n driving needs a targeted approach to tours and travels around the identify those likely to engage in it. world. This book is mostly im- Interventions based on psychological pressions and musings from his research may help to change atti- explorations, on and off the bike, tudes and norms. Drivers can change of various cities in the USA as their own behaviour, sometimes with well as Berlin, Istanbul, Buenos little prompting. For example, drivers Aires, Manila, Sydney and gave a UK researcher a wider berth London. when he wore a female wig when cycling! His curiosity is omnivorous, and his discussion ranges through Given the health, economic and history, urban design, music, cy- environmental benefits of cycling, cling, art and the odd characters the case for funding to improve the he encounters. Byrne peppers safety of these vulnerable road users his text with intriguing questions is strong. n which (to quote his song Once

18 2010 Chainlinks 4, December.