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It is all happening in — join us at the CAN Do the conference and on the road! chainlinks 2009 issue 3, october 2009 october 3, issue 2009 chainlinks ISSUE 3, October 2009 magazine of the cycling advocates network (nz) The Power of the Bunch ofthe The Power the profile of cycling. the profile of promotions toand run raise missions, to make sub- agencies, totalk their local we’re groups to empowering off: paying year.last CAN’s are efforts networking compared with particularly groups, cal theis huge amonglo- amount ofactivity notable feature ofthis year’s (p12) report donearound thework country. being A the great to see heartening itwas port, whencompilingSo, CAN’s Annual Re- results. —burnout breaks occasional don’t the—andtake spread load Ifwe for the ofcycling. betterment tasks their onvarious turns taking to work together,many people much. doonlyso can We need staff, they fantastic with blessed is CAN Although unteer effort. way, it’s because largely avol- the same works Cycling advocacy behind. whileothers draft leading turns take ates ofthe bunch, the where power riders work appreci- for them. Any roadcyclist the that teams themselves acknowledge the riders andArmstrongs, Schlecks onthe Contadors, focus and whilepeople The again; Tour de past Francerolled has Editorial ride starting onSH3, starting ride countryside countryside a loopthrough sometypical Taranaki Plymouth onSH3to then Inglewood, 2 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3,October 2 erett RoadNP—70 NP Inglewood Pukerangiora Hill, viaEv- NP Inglewood SH3aBlock—40 Alan Chapman RidesTaranakiRoad Bike Plymouth. to us New with print andbring wecan apdf available as and GraemeLindup’s be will MTBrides Chapman’s Alan Both below, roadrides, Conference DOinNewPlymouth andCAN inNovember. Two have localriders for described we usrides candobefore, the orafter during Conference Bell Block. rejoining SH3to return to Plymouth New via you outto fromtakes thecoast, Inglewood Egmont.and theroad SH3a upto North Out e Out ASt

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Taranaki road sign and interesting issue, so bear with us! with and interesting bear so issue, awonderful be Butitwill deadlines. andtherefore strange with two bursts, in prepared theso next being is issue conference Do, cycling andthe CAN workers are goingtoChainlinks the 12Chainlinks December Local group content : District Council.District Plymouth, ©2009NewPlymouth Cover New photo: HelmArt, not necessarily thoseofCAN. The views expressed inChainlinksare can.org.nz/chainlinks Webpage Advertising: Pictures: Email content to: 14Oct, Contributions articles Issue:December Quarterly Next Contributions manager: Richardson Editor: Miriam [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, CAN: Cycling Advocates Network any editingdoneonyour submis- If you want to review and discuss sions you needto beavailable with ‘stop press’ items: by Articles by Articles Sun 22Nov, 1–5pm. Sat, 21Nov, 5pm. Sat, 21Nov, 5pm Conference articles: 1024 [email protected] [email protected]

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Contents 2 Editorial Great Urban Rides for Auckland: 2 Road rides in Taranaki 3 Great urban rides for Auckland an imaginative proposal 3 Bikes on public transport 4 Government news A proposal to transform Auckland 5 Forgotten Highway into a cycle-friendly city 6 International snippets 6 Re-cycling cities

Pippa Coom and Julian Hulls From Liveable Arterials Plan 7 New Zealand roundup Cycle Action Auckland and Nextbikes Tourists will take tours or rent bikes to 7 Cyclists get serious about think so, and have developed a pro- explore on their own. climate change posal to transform Auckland into a 8 Cycling Conference 2009 With the maturing of the Auckland cycle cycle-friendly city. Their idea would network, upgrades and more cycle lanes 9 CAN Do 2009 create an asset for tourists and will appear. Eventually, Great Urban 9 Riding to New Plymouth Aucklanders, complementing the re- Rides will have supporting infrastructure 11 Riding the talk: Hugh Wilson gional Great Rides that have captured such as racks, lockers and public toilets. 12 CAN Networking Project the Kiwi imagination. Can ‘Great’ and Cycle Action Auckland and 12/13 CAN news & contacts In the proposal, Auckland’s Nextbikes have submitted 13 Being cycle aware Great Rides will provide ways ‘Ride’ be linked the concept to the Ministry 13 Hinewai and carbon credits to explore Auckland’s culture, with cycling in of Tourism, and are looking 15 New Plymouth cycle promotion history and entertainment by to Auckland City Council to 16 Regional group news riding from the central city. Auckland? develop it with some of the 17 Join CAN Kelly Tarlton’s, the museum, the Ministry’s $50 million for Great 19 Flashing signs to protect cyclists zoo and Ponsonby Road will welcome Rides. Soon, Aucklanders could be using cycling visitors. Carefully chosen routes Great Urban Rides and recommending 19 On the web will introduce tourists gently to New Zea- them to visitors. n land cycling before they head off on other Great Rides. The new rides will meet local needs Bikes on public transport in too, taking advantage of Auckland’s long gentle ridges and coastline. Three Wellington’s public transport will only folding bikes, so Wellington commuters compact, circular Great Urban Rides are be bike-friendly to a degree, but the will soon be poring over the Brompton already part of the proposed Regional Regional Council has left the door and Birdy catalogues! Cycle Network, connecting with schools, open for improvements. In July, Wellington Regional Council’s shops, universities, libraries, the CBD and Transport and Access Committee consid- the hospital. Many other routes can be The region’s public transport is excellent, ered a report that recommended no bikes developed, for example to the airport or but tricky to use in conjunction with cy- on buses (arguing that a survey showed around Project Twin Streams in Wait- cling. Wellington buses can’t take bikes, no demand), but said that free carriage of akere City. and the introduction of free bikes on trains has been a mixed blessing because bikes on trains should continue. Cycling Stage One of the proposal can be com- guards enforce a limit of two bikes per unit. Aware Wellington’s Alastair Smith told plete within six months. Logos and the Committee that overseas transport Hope is on the horizon, in the shape of direction arrows will identify the routes, services are less rigid about bikes, and the new Matangi train units to be intro- which will also be available online and as that fears of danger are unfounded. He duced in 2010. They’ll have space for two printed maps. Each ride will be named; said San Francisco’s BART service carries bikes in a double unit, or six if operators for example ‘Ponsonby Heritage Ride’ or bikes in train carriages with no special allow use of wheelchair space. That’s the ‘Waitemata Harbour Ride’. The most dan- provision, and that out of 500 million good news. gerous roads and intersections will have journeys over five years BART reported cycle lanes. A simple, cost-effective and The bad news is the probability that pas- only six incidents involving bikes. flexible rollout will quickly attract many sengers will get priority over bikes, and Councillor Paul Bruce argued for allow- users without large capital cost. that at peak hours the trains won’t take ing bikes inside buses at off-peak times, bikes at all. Also, old trains will still be in As improvements like the Rugby World and for a trial of bike racks on the Karori use, so a cyclist won’t know if she can get Cup walking corridor and the SH 16 bus route. His fellow committee members her bike aboard a particular service. And Cycleway Central Auckland connection were sympathetic, but decided to allow when train services stop to allow track come to fruition, routes will become even further investigation of bikes on buses maintenance, the buses that replace them safer. Riders will gain confidence as their only when NZTA changes the rules on can’t carry bikes. positive experiences and numbers grow. GWRC report on bicycles vehicle dimen- Aucklanders will use the routes for events on trains and buses, and However, all sions to allow such as Music in the Parks, perhaps with cyclist survey: http://tr.im/ trains (and bike racks on gwrcreport (pdf) ‘riding buses’ like walking school buses. buses?) will buses (expected http://tr.im/gwrcsurvey probably carry in 2010) n (pdf) Bikes in a mock-up 2 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 of a Matangi unit Government news over the 294 m Hapuawhenua Viaduct, squeezed national funding of many other through Whanganui National Park and areas of transport spending including cy- cross the iconic Bridge to Nowhere. Users cling. Each region has had to accommo- would then take a jet boat ride down the date this by altering their own priorities. Whanganui River to Pipiriki and cycle to Nationwide, there is still $50 million over National Cycleway Great Rides Whanganui along the Whanganui River the three year term of the programme © The Kennet brothers The © Road. Most of the trail network is already for cycling projects, but this is a lot less In July it was announced that the in place. Completing it involves upgrad- that had been hoped when regions first initial focus of the National Cycleway ing two track sections, the Mangapu- started drafting their RLTPs before the project will be on developing a series rua-Kaiwhakauka Track in Whanganui last general election. of “Great Rides” and that seven proj- National Park and the Old Coach Road Details of the National Land Transport ects had been identified as potential (Ohakune to Horopito) in Tongariro Na- Programme, as well as Regional Land “Quick Start” projects. tional Park. Transport Programmes for all regions St James Trail The proposal is to can be found at http://tr.im/nztainfo Each project is subject to detailed techni- develop a 50 km “great trail” mountain cal investigations and robust feasibil- bike experience, providing a mix of trails ity studies before being confirmed as a New Road safety strategy in the through beech forest and grassland val- Quick Start project. It is hoped that con- pipeline leys, in the upper Waiau Valley. Hanmer struction on these can start this summer. Springs is the major stepping off point The government released a discussion $9 million of the $50 million has been for the trail. A well formed road links document which outlines key road safety allocated for the quick start projects. Hanmer to the start of the trail, and it issues, and proposed actions for address- Hokianga to Russell This is a 90 km links easily with the established Rainbow ing them. This document is available on trail from the Hokianga Harbour through trail to St Arnaud, and through Moles- www.saferjourneys.govt.nz . They sought to Opua/Russell , through 11 towns and worth Station to the Awatere Valley near public feedback with submissions closing settlements, including historic sites from Blenheim. on Friday 2nd October. The comments before the New Zealand land wars. The Southland Around the Mountain and views the Ministry receives will be first section to be completed would be used to develop the final strategy, Safer Rail Trail This is a 175 km cycling trail. 12 km of an old rail corridor between Journeys, to be released this December. Participants would cross Lake Wakatipu Kaikohe and Okaihau. This will be a guiding document, identify- from Queenstown on the TSS Earnslaw, Hauraki Plains Trails ing a mix of interventions for improving This involves cycle through Walter Peak and Mt Nicho- road safety. See http://tr.im/cansub two linked rail trails. The first is from las Stations, along the Von Valley to Lake for CAN’s Paeroa to Waihi via Karangahake Gorge Mavora, then follow the Oreti River and submission and includes historical gold-mining ar- from Mossburn along the old railway line eas. The other is Paeroa to Thames, on a to Lumsden. Future cycle trails could be The Road User Rule Amendment ‘09 disused railway line with access to areas developed form Lake Mavora to Te Anau, There will be some changes to the Road of ecological significance, and historical from Lumsden to Invercargill/Bluff and User Rule coming into force on 1 No- sites. Development of an initial portion of For further details, from Lumsden vember 2009. There are five that relate this trail is suggested at this stage. to Gore/Catlins including maps: specifically to cyclists but, as road users, Waikato River Trail The trail will be Coast. http://tr.im/cyclewaynz the others will affect us as well. 100 km long and follow the Waikato River • Cyclists will be permitted to do a hook and five hydro-lakes from Atiamuri to National Land Transport turn at an intersection unless a sign Horahora. Thirty kilometres of trails are Programme keeps money tight prohibits it. already open, 23 km are built but yet to be opened and 6 km are under construc- for cycling • There will be an exemption from arm signalling for cyclists going right at a tion. The remaining 41 km are sections Over recent months many local groups from Waipapa Dam to Lake Karapiro and roundabout – where signalling is not will have been making submissions to practicable. Whakamaru to Mangakino. These sec- their proposed Regional Land Trans- • Cycle lights must be visible for 100 tions are rich in geological and cultural port Programmes (RLTPs) which outline metres rather than having to ‘light up history. funding for transport projects within the road for 100 metres’. Central North Island Rail Trail their region for 2009–2012. • There has been a maximum distance The proposed 60 km cycleway runs from These regional programmes must fit into of 50 metres set for vehicles using a Pureora (off SH30), southwards toward the National Land Transport Programme special vehicle lane to turn left. Ongarue and Taumarunui (SH4), mostly (NLTP) which is governed by the Gov- on DoC land. The area has a rich histori- ernment Policy Statement on Land • Clarification on priorities for shared cal, cultural and natural heritage. The transport priorities. The Government paths as some users were not sure of route would incorporate the Ongarue Policy Statement was revised in May their obligations. Even though some tramway, including the Ongarue Spiral, 2009 to have a much stronger emphasis users may have ‘priority’, no one can and remnants of the historic logging on things that are seen to contribute to unreasonably impede the movement industry. productivity and economic stimulation. of other users. Mount Ruapehu to Whanganui Consequently, the NLTP assigned extra More: http://tr.im/canrules | http://tr.im/ltnzrules The route would cover 245 km, start- funding on building new infrastructure in n ing on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, the State Highway network, and this has 4 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 5 Riding the Forgotten World Highway Cathy Sheehan Riding into a misty valley with a row of pig hides drying on a fence, it’s astonishing to plunge into the brooding countryside of the Vincent Ward movie, Vigil. For three days I shall see no shops or ATMs and few vehicles or people, but plenty of horses, sheep, cows, wild goats, turkeys and parakeets. The remote road from Taumarunui to Stratford is a favourite of motoring writers and Harley-Davidson riders. But what’s it like for cycling? The bitumen runs out, but a steep section Cathy Sheehan rides the Forgotten World Highway up the Waitaanga Saddle is sealed— I’d be walking otherwise. The worst gravel of Club’s Thames Chapter (motto: ‘Growing only guest. Unfortunately I’ve brought the trip follows: a slurry of drifted stones Old Disgracefully’) are dining. They’ve al- too little cash and am too late for the and sand that has me crunching on foot ready raised and toasted their flag on the EFTPOS or dinner at the pub, which on steeply-cambered bends. I look for- main street. On my return, Woody and shuts at 6 pm on Sundays. Mortified, I ward to a cool drink in Ohura, but not a friend are celebrating Earth Hour with slink away, heat my emergency meal and one shop remains in business there. The drinks by candlelight under a starry sky. go beerless to bed. wide, deserted main street, the sagging verandas, boa rded windows and On the 58 kilometre journey to The next day brings in quick succession peeled paintwork announce a town the thrill Whangamomona, the climb to the the Whangamomona and Pohokura Sad- that’s outlived its early twentieth of the first of the day’s two saddles soon dles: climbs through century logging origins. The food appears. I steel myself for a Tour cool ferny podocarp market advertises pies, sandwiches road less de France-style ascent, but am sur- forest with a peaty, and drinks, but it closed in 2005. travelled prised to reach the Paparata Saddle peppery smell and bird quickly and descend into a gorge song. From the top of All the same, in the late afternoon is hard to with hanging gardens on limestone Pohokura Saddle I strike sunlight, Ohura charms me with its bluffs. Compared with yesterday’s out towards the coast neatly painted fire station, com- resist slush and stones, the 16 kilome- rather than continuing munity hall, well-groomed bowling tres of gravel are like the smoothest on SH43 to Stratford. green and Cosmopolitan Club. The grid tarmac. On the map, the first of streets has a mixture of tidy houses part of Junction Road and gardens and sections with shacks and The climb to the Tahora saddle is steep looks tar-sealed; but house-trucks. The relaxed, hippie feel and hot, but manageable. From the top in real life it’s made of makes the town seem populated by happy are views to Mts Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, ground sandstone; and refugees from a too-busy world. Ruapehu and Taranaki, and of Maori pa sites. However, the steep driveway to the worse, it keeps going up. But the thrill of As I photograph the dereliction of the hilltop Kaieto Café and its owner’s refusal the road less travelled is hard to resist. A main street, a woman emerges from what to give EFTPOS cash are the cruelest top-dressing pilot dumps fertiliser on the was an auto repair shop, asks if I need hillsides — I hope he isn’t doing stunts to anything and invites me in for a cup of impress me. tea. Her name is Lizzie, and she has a The road to Makau and Puranui and past wonderland of second-hand perfume the McKee gas facility is traffic-free with bottles, vintage clothes and fabrics, farm interesting patches of bush (including one machinery, bakelite appliances, china and with egg-baited traps for kiwi predators); glassware. She suggests I try Woody, the but by the time I reach Onaero Beach at artist across the bridge, for a place to stay. 5.30 pm I feel as if I’ve been going uphill I’ve noticed his barn studio, bright flags, all day. The camp-ground manager’s hens painted wood carvings and croquet pitch. respond to my hunger plea with fresh Sure enough, he makes me welcome in parts of my day. eggs to go with my noodles. Sunset on one of his cabins from the former Ohura A swooping descent brings pasto- the iron-sand beach is beautiful, and I’ve Prison. ral countryside and the railway line to really earned the $40 cabin with sheets I eat at the Cosmopolitan Club, where Whangamomona. The buildings here are and pillows. members of the Ulysses Motorcycle older than Ohura’s but in better condi- The final day is a short hop, mainly flat— tion; and the legendary Whangamomona until Mt Messenger, the steepest hill of Pub is the heart of the self-declared the lot. Nevertheless I’m soon back at Whangamomona Republic. Instead of the car, and the adventure is over apart paying $110 for dinner, bed and breakfast from the drive back to Auckland via the there, I take a $20 cabin at the commu- Forgotten World Highway to pay the nity-owned campground, where I’m the Whangamomona camp-ground fees.! n 4 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 5 Safety in numbers hits the UK found it unfriendly to walking and biking, International snippets but during the week I began to appreci- Official UK government figures just out ate the efforts that the city is making. show an increase in the number of people Bike Futures Five years ago it had virtually no facili- cycling. conference, ties for cycling, whose modal Melbourne, Cycling levels have reached their share was only 1%. Now, cycle highest point for 17 years — cou- lanes, cycle symbols, sharrows 15–16 October pled with a record low for road (shared-lane markings), ad- fatalities in the UK. vanced stop lines, contra-flow Bicycle Victoria cycling and bike parking are will host the first Department for Transport reports on most streets and intersec- annual Bike Fu- show that cycling increased by tions; many of these needed tures conference 12% (measured in total kilome- only paint. In a short time, cy- this October. Bike tres cycled) at the same time as a cling in Brussels has achieved Futures ‘09 is dedicated to the people substantial fall in cycling deaths, a 5% modal share. who will transform our communities into down from 136 to 115, the second bike-friendly, economically thriving and lowest level ever. http://tr.im/safetyINnumbers Each day of the conference had a theme. sustainable environments. ‘Re-cycling cities’ looked at the charac- teristics of tomorrow’s cities and the role This conference is the first in an annual EC commits to ‘re-cycling cities’ of bikes in urban mobility. Key messages series designed to assist national and The European Commission, the Euro- included allocation of road space for local leaders, planners, designers and pean Economic and Social Committee bikes, cycling as a return on investment, builders respond to the critical demands and several mayors from EU cities have the importance of the journey as an expe- brought on by the explosion in growth of signed the Charter of Brussels — a com- rience, increasing safety for multi-modal bike transportation and recreation across mitment to promoting and investing in mobility, the reliability and speed of cy- Australia. infrastructure for cycling. cling and the issue of bike parking. Keynote speaker is Niels Tørsløv, Direc- The pledge came at the end of the Bel- ‘Benefits of cycling’ was concerned with tor of the Traffic Department at the City gium-based Velo City conference in May the advantages of city cycling. Messages of Copenhagen, where he has guided the which focused on ‘re-cycling cities’ — the included investment in urban cycle poli- massive and unprecedented development role of the bicycle in urban transport. cies, cycling for health, reducing pollu- of their bike transportation environment. The Charter saw the creation of a par- tion and easing congestion. http://tr.im/bikefutures liamentary intergroup for cycling in the European parliament, and also confirmed ‘Communication and Marketing’ was Over a million use UK national that a European Bicycle Officer would be about using bikes for daily travel. Speak- cycle network daily appointed in the EC. ers pointed out that a city of cyclists is http://tr.im/recyclecitiesnews n friendly, that cyclists respond to provided 386 million trips were made on the UK infrastructure, that cycling should be National Cycle Network in 2008, Sustrans seen as cool and that cyclists and walkers has revealed on the first day of the UK Re-Cycling Cities visit cities and spend there. Bike Week. We spent the morning of the fourth and The sustainable UK cycling Gerry Dance final day at the European Parliament transport charity ‘Re-Cycling Cities’ was the theme of learning how Europe is promoting and said that it was the levels at their the World’s Greatest Bicycle facilitating cycling. The target is Conference papers first time in the 14- Conference, Velo-City 2009 a 15% share of cycling in the modal highest point are available at year long history of in Brussels. The conference split for 2020. for 17 years velo-city2009.com the Network that it attracted to the capital of the Conference delegates took a train Gerry Dance is a had seen more than E.U. more than 800 leaders to the flourishing, beautiful and Principal Policy one million journeys every day. Half were from government, academia lively city of Ghent to experience made by bike and half on foot, according Advisor on Walking and the private sector, and and Cycling in the its many cycle tours. I chose the to the charity. from non-profit, community NZTA. ‘Green lungs of Ghent’, a tour Of the 386 million journeys: 17 million and advocacy groups from all through the city’s green spaces. to school ; 96 million to work. 134 mil- over the world. Ghent, with a population of 239,000, has lion journeys were made by people that the largest area of 30km/h speed zone in I arrived in Brussels shattered, late on a could have used a car, but instead chose Europe (about 1400 streets) and allows Saturday evening after travelling for 42 to use the 12,000-mile long contra-flow cycling in 95% of its one way hours. My first impression was network. streets. The city’s modal split is car 46%, that it is just another big city with bicycle 20%, public transport 23%, foot “It is gratifying to see this lots of buildings, people and cars. 7% and motorcycle 3%. increasing and sustained Belgium’s Minister of Transport use of the National Cycle reinforced this at the conference Brussels and Ghent are similar to New Network,” enthused Sustrans by saying ‘Brussels is the capital Zealand cities. Their centres have nar- CEO Malcolm Shepherd. of the car’. However, Brussels is rower streets and higher density, but http://www.bikebiz.com committed to transforming itself their suburban streetscapes are like ours n to a bike-dominated culture. I and New Zealand.

6 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 7 NZ Roundup New groups in the Cyclists get serious Queenstown — Lakes district about climate change There is a newbie group on CAN joins the 350.org movement the block in the Queens-

town – Lakes area, provision- 350ppm is the safe upper limit of CO2 in ally called the Walking and our atmosphere — we’re at 387, and ris- Cycling Alliance Wakatipu ing. 350 is the movement calling for a fair (WACAW). We welcome global climate treaty that gets us back to Otaki Bridge protest: the 100 km/h zone starts on this busy SH1 bridge more people to be part of get- the safe zone. On which is too narrow for safe cycling ting us up and running and Saturday October wheeling. Contact: Robin Rawson 24 Aotearoa is par- Call for action in Otaki [email protected] | (03) 441 1200 ticipating in an in- Some Central Otago cyclists have started ternational event Otaki cyclists are campaigning for a forming a local advocates’ group with where a whole se- 50 km/h speed limit on State Highway three keen members already. There’s talk ries of activities 1 where it crosses the Otaki River just of putting a group of cyclists in the Blos- happen, as many south of the town. som festival parade. If you have a passion as possible video to help make cycling happen in Central streamed live to Motorists tooted their approval for a Otago and want to be kept in the loop: New York to tell decreased speed limit as thirty adults Contact: Stephen Wood, the political lead- and children at the behest of OCEAN [email protected] | (03) 447 3789 ers meeting in Copenhagen in December (Otaki Cycling Environment and Access what the acceptable CO limit is to stop Network) stood with signs at the north 2 BikeNZ launches 1.5m to survive catastrophic Climate Change. Lots of peo- end of the bridge. challenge ple are doing events to mark this day e.g. Otaki’s Deputy Mayor Ann Chapman is launching Frocks on Bikes said, ‘The community board has regu- BikeNZ is appealing to the New Zealand (frocksonbikes.org.nz ). larly contacted NZTA, only to be told public for support and to sign the ‘1.5m to CAN had stickers designed to support reducing the speed limit on the bridge ridestrong.org.nz survive’ petition at . this movement — they are available free did not fit within national standards. It’s “Would you stand on the edge of a busy from CAN at http://tr.im/350stickers totally barmy.’ road with your back turned towards a 30 Protest organisers Harry Hall and tonne articulated truck as it drives towards Elisabeth Mikkelsen say, ‘We assume you at 100km/h, knowing it’s going to pass that NZTA’s reply has to do with there within a metre of you?” they ask. This is being no houses or businesses near the what cyclists, who now number over one bridge’. However, they say NZTA should third of the population, face every single Kashi Leuchs is serious about getting cy- consider that: the south end of the day. BikeNZ is asking for 1.5m when pass- clists up and riding to support action on bridge has welcoming portals; the Otaki ing a cyclist to become law. climate change. His website 350riders.org Gorge Road, used by children and adult helps co-ordinate cycling events for cli- cyclists, joins SH1 only 200 m south mate change. You can get a sticker to of the bridge and could become part secure to the front of your bike with the of the National Cycleway Project; Te number “350” on it. Horo (about 4 km south) has an exist- in Christchurch Do you have a local cafe that would ing 80 km/h speed limit that changes to help distribute these? Email Kashi 100 km/h only 1 km south of the bridge; Spokes Canterbury members are support- ing the launch of the Christchurch Chap- if you do. Also, a cafe may want to and the existing 100 km/h limit may provide cyclists with some great bike deter tired motorists from using the ter of Frocks On Bikes as part of the 350. org international day of climate change ac- parking facilities. Kashi has drafted a nearby rest area. template letter the cafe can use. tion. The launch is on Labour Weekend, Harry and Elizabeth say the 80 km/h Saturday 24th October (2–5pm) at Victo- 350riders.org limit should extend from Te Horo to ria Square. There’s a City cycle promenade www.350.org is an international movement Otaki Gorge Road, where it should re- leaving Victoria Square at 2.30pm, ‘Catch to raise awareness of climate change. As duce to 50 km/h. They also point out that that Train!’, ‘Catcycle’ — think fashion cyclists we can help by bringing this im- Pukerua Bay, also on SH1, has a reduced parade, featuring fantastic newly imported portant number into the streets and onto speed limit although it is not built up. ‘Dutch style’ bikes and Chalky Digits’ the trails . n They say, ‘We want our children to clothing plus interesting fashion categories cycle to school and adults to be safe to (such as rejigged skirts/dresses), entertain- ride recreationally. Ideally, we’d like to ment, and spot prizes including clothing, be able to cycle off SH1 all the way to baskets, and a lovely retro style recycled Paraparaumu. NZTA should look at the bike. There will be food stalls and coffee. merits of the proposal and consider the The MC is social media guru and environ- cost of its inaction.’ mentalist, Kaila Colbin of Missing Link. Continues p18 6 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 7 Communities, Connections and the Economy Advanced Planning and in focus at the 2009 cycling conference Design for Cycling The conference will be preceded by an Now, more than ever, cycling has The economy Given the current Advanced Planning and Design for Cy- the potential to play a key part in financial climate, everything that we do cling course on 11 November. ViaStrada the economic development of New should provide sustainable economic Ltd is offering this course to follow on Zealand. The 7th New Zealand Cycling development. Cycling can demonstrate from their Fundamentals of Planning Conference aims to bring together a that in a variety of ways, in reduced oil and Design for Cycling course. The wide range of people who share this dependence, better health balance sheets, course will focus on intersection design, vision and can make it happen. economic revitalisation of small commu- including on-site visits and design exer- nities, and so on. The conference will cises. n cover a number of Through a combina- themes. New Plymouth tion of plenary ses- TARANAKI RIDES continued Communities Cy- sions, presentations, NP Inglewood Midhurst Ratapiko Kaimata cling can enhance the 12–13 Nov and networking, par- NP 90 km (Starting in Inglewood 50 km, viability of local com- ticipants will explore about one and half hours) includes a ride munities, by providing these themes. through a peaceful valley and past a small sustainable access to Register now The Conference will Hydrocarbon production station. key services. Communi- be held at the TSB ties can also tap into the Lepperton Blocks — Access Lepperton Showplace, a spectacu- from either SH3 or SH3A This is one of the social, environmental cyclingconf.org.nz lar venue located on locations where the NP Cycling club holds and economic benefits New Plymouth’s main race meetings. Any number of circuits can that cycle networks Full programme details online street. bring with them. be ridden from here out and back, all on Connections More than 40 speak- quiet country roads. There is ers from New Zealand and overseas have a continuing need for completing physi- been invited to speak. New Plymouth cal cycle networks, be it a national cycle- Here are two lunch time ride, under 1 hour. way or a local commuting route. At the Other events include the Advanced Plan- ning and Design for Cycling course, the same time, the many sectors that affect or From Spotswood (South Road, New Ply- Cycle-Friendly Awards, an Exhibitors’ are affected by cycling also need to bet- mouth) ride on SH45 through Omata vil- welcome function, and a conference din- ter connect, including transport, health, lage and turn left onto Hurford Rd, left onto ner, to be held at Puke Ariki Museum. n tourism, education, environment, sport, Pheny Rd and left onto Barrett Rd to return recreation, and economic development. to Spotswood (or you may wish to repeat Cycling conferences are hosted every two years at a different venue around New Zealand. the circuit). p9 The 2007 conference in Napier was attended by 150 people.

n NZ Transport Agency award Tauranga City Council CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards 2009 for best cycling promotion for its ‘Kids Can Ride The Associate Minister of Transport, n NZ Transport Agency award - For Life’ programme, Hon Nathan Guy, on behalf of Minister for cycle-friendly commitment by a busi- Bike Central for cyclist of Transport Hon. Steven Joyce, will ness services and facilities at present the Cycle-Friendly Awards at n ViaStrada award for cycle-friendly Britomart Transport Cen- the NZ Cycling Conference 2009. commitment by a public organisation tre, Land Transport NZ and the Ministry n Taranaki Regional Council Award for of Health for Bike Wise Week and Robert The awards, celebrating achievements cycling champion of the year. Ibell for chairing the Cycling Advocates that promote cycling and create cycle- Winners will receive uniquely designed Network. friendly environments in New Zealand, bicycle bell trophies and certificates, and The awards ceremony will take place on are for projects undertaken or completed one lucky early nominator will get a $150 12 November from 5 to 6 pm, at the TSB in the 18 months ending in June 2009. Ground Effect gift voucher. Theatre, TSB Showplace, Devon Street, Categories are: New Plymouth. For more information see n Avanti award for best cycle facility Last year’s Cycle-Friendly Award winners www.can.org.nz/awards n project included New��������������������������� Plymouth District Coun- cil for its Foreshore Coastal Pathway, Chainlinks 3, October 2009 9 Cycling advocates coast into New Plymouth for the CAN Do Fighting climate change, reducing traf- 14–15 Nov fic congestion, staying healthy, build- ing superb cities and weaning our- selves off fossil fuels: issues are coming Register now at cycling advocates faster than traffic Bikes rule: cycling advocates at CAN on Ponsonby Rd. Do in Christchurch, 2008. can.org.nz/2009-can-do CAN Networking Project Manager Patrick Morgan says cycling advocates avoid burnout, set CAN’s future goals, from around New Zealand can learn and of course ride bikes. Riding to New Plymouth much from each other, gain inspiration Stephen Wood and ideas. The CAN Executive will lead a workshop on future directions for CAN. With a new “That’s the reason CAN invites all advo- Are you cycling to the November government, new transport priorities and cates together. Every year we gather to Conference and CAN Do workshop in more players in cycle advocacy, it’s timely ride, share, celebrate, and face the chal- New Plymouth? to refocus. lenges of being a cycling advocate.” A lunchtime ride, led by North Taranaki Distances from Wellington and Auckland On 14 and 15 November, New Plymouth Cycling Advocates, will showcase what are similar, but the ride from Auckland hosts the CAN Do — Cycling Advocates’ New Plymouth has to offer for cyclists. takes a little longer. Metro trains are a Network’s annual workshop. CAN Do good option to exit the cities, while rail to follows the biennial NZ Cycling Confer- CAN is providing food and subsidis- or Hamilton will save ence, also in New Plymouth. ing travel for CAN financial members. a day’s ride. The cost is $70 per member. Some local CAN Do is a chance for CANners to help groups will sponsor their members to How far/long to New Plymouth? shape the future of CAN, learn, celebrate attend. our achievements, gossip, ride bikes, and Start Km Days generally have a good time. After CAN Do there is an optional two or three-day ride along the Forgotten High- Auckland 365 6 CAN Do includes workshops and presen- way 43 (p5), through Whangamomona Wellington 352 5 tations on the UK and Australian cycling and ending at Taumarunui. scenes. Local CAN groups will share Hamilton 241 4 their successes and challenges. Advocates For further information contact Patrick Palmerston North 234 3 will plan how to lower traffic speeds, Morgan, CAN Networking Project Man- n Rotorua 308 5 ager. Taupo 305 5 TARANAKI RIDES continued NP Okato return — 54 km Ride further from Taumarunui 193 3 From NP ride up Carrington Street (urban Oakura on SH45 to Okata, passing through Whanganui 162 2 route 4) and at roundabout right onto Car- Tataraimaka with its old dairy factory, a common sight in Taranaki. Look at ways to avoid State Highways rington Road. The circuit commences at and make your ride more interesting. Hurworth Hall and is formed by Hurworth, NP to Okato, Pukeiti Carrington Road For example, from Wellington you could Frankley and Carrington Roads. It is usually return to NP From Oakura an excellent ride take the Akatarawa road to Waikanae or ridden across Hurworth Rd, up Frankly Rd to up Oxford Rd to Carrington Rd between detour through Wairarapa. the Pouakai Wildlife reserve and return on Kaitake and Pouakai mountain ranges. On Carrington Rd. From Auckland, consider leaving SH 1 Carrington Rd you’ll find Pukeiti gardens, south of Pukekohe and rejoining it at Out west famous for their collection of Rhododen- Ngaruawahia. From Te Kuiti, you could dron. Carrington Rd finally leaves the bush km SH45 south follow SH 4 to Taumarunui and the ‘For- NP Oakura return — 30 line with a magnificent panorama of New from New Plymouth through Omata, Tap- gotten World Highway’ (SH43). People Plymouth and North Taranaki, returning to uae Hill (at the bottom of the hill on the sea- coming from Northland, East Cape or the New Plymouth. Many of the roads off SH45 ward side is the site of old flax mill which is South Island have more options. lead up to Carrington Rd to make shorter worth a look — see the remains of the weir Happy planning! loops. under the bridge over main road). p15

Chainlinks 3, October 2009 9 10 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 11 Biking the talk: introducing conservationist Order your specially- Hugh Wilson designed safety vest Steven Muir and Fiona Whero in CAN colours Hugh Wilson is one of a rare breed of CAN members who Stand out use neither the Internet nor in the midst of the worst weather, a computer. He manages the 1250-hectare Hinewai Reserve busiest traffic, dullest motorists on Banks Peninsula, where na- and gaudiest bunch of road cyclists. tive bush is regenerating. Much effort goes into pest control, track building and maintenance $90 (members) and ‘border control’ (keeping $110 Hinewai gorse off neighbouring boundaries). + gst S M L The recently-released DVD movie ‘Earth Whisperers — Papatuanuku’ is about ten visionary New Zea- landers whose shifts in consciousness are healing our environment. One of them is Hugh Wilson. The disc label shows Hugh with his famous white beard (though not his equally famous smile) and also a photo of him cycling on Banks Peninsula. It calls him a tree farmer, but that’s an understatement considering Hugh’s love of native plants and animals, the number of books he’s written and illustrated and the many awards recognising his work in botany and conservation.

Hugh has been riding a Car-repelling bike since he was five, message on the back and loves it. He enjoys Lightweight, wind the simplicity and chalchal- proof, mesh-back, lenge of cycling, and appreciates its envienvi- High-visibility ronmental and health Rear reflective stripe benefits. As a youngster Full length YKK zip for rapid — before helmets — he on-road deployment crashed a tricycle into a whaling pot at Timaru’s Caroline Bay and was badly concussed. He began wearing a helmet before it was compulsory, Three rear pockets for tidy after a cycling colleague’s helmet protected her in an accident. storage of comestibles and paraphernalia (third arm not Now in his mid sixties, Hugh rides weekly from home 180 vertical included). metres up, then 630 metres down to Akaroa. The return journey with Made in NZ to NZ sizing. 20–25 kg of groceries is slower but enjoyable, he says. He also com- mutes the 100 km to Christchurch, using the Little River Rail Trail to avoid traffic and take him closer to the birds on Lake Ellesmere. transform yourself He’s had a few run-ins with drivers. One squeezed him badly on an into a living advertisement over-bridge, and Hugh tried to engage him in conversation at the next lights. The motorist ignored him, so he tapped on the window. At this, for the advantages and pleasures the driver jumped out and tried to strangle Hugh in the middle of the of everyday cycling. road, swearing profusely about touching his precious car. Hugh es- caped when the light turned green and drivers started tooting. Undaunted, he tried the same ploy another time, when a driver danger- can.org.nz/shop ously invaded his space. When he politely asked her how many other cyclists she’d tried to kill that day, she jovially admitted to around 20! Hugh avoids riding in cars. An exception was when he was clearing [email protected] pines from the reserve and a rock pinned him by the legs for two hours. After being helicoptered to hospital with crushed legs and a cracked THE SMALL PRINT CAN are offering the vests on a pre- rib, he begrudgingly accepted a ride home. Another time his bike rim paid basis for the first print run. We are asking you to pay split, shredding the tube. and wait until enough orders are received to allow vest- He was debating what to makers Ultimo to print them cost-effectively. We don’t do when a neighbour arar- know how long it will take for you to get your vest, but we Continues p13 plan to have yours to you within two weeks. If you place an order, we will keep you notified of progress. We guaran- 10 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 tee your order will be Chainlinks fulfilled 3,or Octoberyour money 2009 refunded. 11 CAN Networking Project marks Executive Activities Planning & Development 2009/10 another successful year NZTA Networking Project planning/ budget/contracts; ChainLinks proc- After a year of changes — the ess review; developing CAN Fund- Government, the state of the economy, raising staff position; commissioning CAN personnel — CAN Co-Chairs Axel CAN website upgrade contract; CAN Wilke and Glen Koorey see a positive strategic planning workshop; commer- shift in the mood of the country towards cialisation workshop with Living Streets cycling, and a significant growth in the Aotearoa. culture of cycling in New Zealand. Event Organisation 2009 NZ Key achievements of the Networking Cycling Conference; 2009 “CAN Do” Project include contributions to: workshop; 2009 Cycle-Friendly Awards. n Developing a national cycleway network, Local Group Support initially through planning under the aus- NZTA Net- pices of the Hikurangi Foun- n Promoting the Gemini Cycle Friendly working Project Annual Report; LTCCP dation and more recently as a positive Awards which set a benchmark of excellence submissions and presentations; bikes on a result of the Government’s shift in provision for cycling. buses trials. announcement of a NZ Cycle- n Promotion/Campaigns/Media towards Contributing to growth in the number way programme. of local bodies with cycling or combined Marketing of new CAN vests; Glass n Helping to develop a na- cycling walking/cycling strategies, many of which campaign development; CAN inter- tional cycling culture through have been developed with input from CAN views on Radio NZ, Radio Rhema public discussion of cycleway networks, members. regarding national cycleway, new Road crossings, shared n Local groups have reported many sig- Rules, etc. pathways and cycling safety. nificant achievements over the year which CAN Policy Development Com- n Running the CAN Do 2008 in Christch- demonstrate the power of networking and pulsory 3rd Party Insurance for Motor- urch brought groups together from around the value of group resources including a ists; Fuel Taxes; Health & Fitness; Speed the country to share experience, ideas and 3,500-signature cycle safety petition pre- Limit Tolerances. resources. sented to the (former) Ministers of Trans- port, Police and Road Safety, a successful Meetings/Representation Darien CAN’s Networking Project, which funds CAN’s campaign to reverse cuts in the Wellington Fenton and Darren Hughes (Labour staff in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, City Council cycling budget, Frocks on MPs); Kevin Hague (Green MP); Angus aims to strengthen the capacity of national Bikes and many others that have featured in Davidson (Min of Tourism national cy- and local groups to participate in transport this magazine over the last 12 months. n cleway project manager); Colin Cramp- planning and decision-making. The project is ton, Ian Gordon, Ernst Zollner (NZTA funded by the NZ Transport Agency. Each year Group Managers); Supt Paula Rose (NZ CAN reports on Project achievements. Police HQ); monthly with NZTA walk- Being Cycle Aware: ing/cycling staff; bi-monthly with Min- istry of Transport staff; Cycle Training Workshop and resource kit Advisory Group; Bike NZ staff/CEO. Donations deductible Being Cycle Aware is a half-day road safe- Feedback/Submissions Draft ty workshop about issues that face cyclists Land Transport Rule (Vehicle Dimen- on your tax return every day. It involves practical cycling in sions and Mass Amendment); Driv- Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) is now real road conditions, guided by experi- ing Rules regarding cycle lanes in enced cyclists, with facilitated discussion Road Code; Kahurangi National Park a Registered Charity (number CC36909). and feedback to review the experience. Management Plan Partial Review; It took a long time, but we got there. There The resource kit for Being Cycle Aware, Draft Traffic Control Devices manual are many things we would like to be able developed from the experience of Cycle (Direction, service and general guid- to do around the country to help espe- Aware Wellington in running a workshop ance signs); Pedal cycle safety standards; cially new groups to spread the word about for traffic police, makes it simple for any 2020 Road Safety Strategy preliminary cycling. Every year we allocate an amount group to do the same. While the origi- feedback; Bikewise funding support; for local groups to apply for funds towards nal workshop was for police officers, the NZTA Proposed Key Research Areas; something they are especially good at: map resources will suit local authority staff, CAN submissions development process. making, doing short films or events or cam- councillors or bus drivers with minimal Presentations paigns. This amount has necessarily been CAN Networking adaptation. Mixed audiences are possible Project to NZTA staff, Wellington. n small, but with your help we can do more too. and do it better. The resource kit is athttp:// tr.im/cancyclea- Thank you to all who support us with your ware. For more information or for help in membership dollar. organising a workshop, contact Patrick Elisabeth Mikkelsen, Treasurer n (details p13). n 12 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 13 Contact CAN Cycle Skills Training Hugh Wilson continues from p11 rived with a bike rack on his car, and pragmatism :: Chair, Axel Wilke and Glen Koorey, ruled. Two or three car journeys in the last ten years [email protected] Update Anne FitzSimon is is good going! Anne FitzSimon the CAN CTAG Rep :: Secretary, Adrian Croucher, secretary@ Two or three can.org.nz Hugh uses a mountain bike for Many are wondering what’s happening its low gears and stability on car journeys treasurer@can. :: Treasurer, Liz Mikkelsen, with Cycle Skills Training. The Cycle org.nz gravel, but in the Reserve and in in the last ten Training Advisory Group (CTAG) has national parks he prefers to walk. initiated the NZTA Cyclist Skills Train- STAFF He explains that Hinewai is not years ing Instructor Project to establish a na- a recreation area but a conserva- :: Networking Project Co-ordinator tionally recognised qualification, train- Patrick Morgan, [email protected] tion reserve, with tracks primarily for management; ing and Quality Management System Wellington: 04 385 4967 / 027 563 4733 and maintenance is higher when bikes use the tracks. which will support Cyclist Skills Train- But parks that are set up for mountain bikes are fine, :: Networking Project Officer, South ing providers to deliver safe and effective Hugh says. Island programmes, focusing on three areas of Fiona Whero, [email protected], Hugh wishes that more resources were put into instructor competency: managing safety, Christchurch: 03 366 2645 / 027 449 cycling infrastructure. He cites the struggle to fund 1845 cycling proficiency and teaching. the Little River Rail :: Networking Project Officer, Upper The project outcomes include: Trail, when vastly more NI • A clear specification of the com- Kisten Shouler, [email protected] funding goes to roads petencies required to qualify to Auckland: 09 378 0953 / 027 449 1848 for cars. We must corcor- provide Cyclist Skills Training. :: CAN Administrator rect the imbalance if Alex Revell, [email protected] • A qualification that is achievable cycling numbers are to Wellington: 04 385 4967 and supported by stakeholders.. increase. n Hinewai has many vol-vol SOME ExECUTivE ROLES • Training and credentialing proc- esses for instructors which are unteering opportunities :: Membership secretary, recognised, understood and can for anyone who’d like to Adrian Croucher, [email protected] get their hands dirty on be effectively implemented by track maintenance or :: Email & DNS Server Administra- providers of Cyclist Skills Train- tor, Thomas Schwarz,thomas @can.org. you may like to offset nz ing. some carbon. Arriving :: Media & marketing co-ordinator, The project aims to be complete on bike is not manda-manda Stephen McKernon, [email protected] by June 2010: the project plan and tory but you earn you Technical Advisory Group begin in lots of extra brownie OTHER CAN ROLES September. n points. For $5 annu-annu ally you can subscribe :: e.CAN editor, Adrian Croucher, [email protected] to Pipipi, which will keep you abreast of happenings at Hinewai and has lovely sketches of fauna and flora by NZ’s :: Chainlinks editor, Andre Cymbalista departs leading botanist. Miriam Richardson, [email protected] Andre Cymbalista has resigned from the Contact Hugh at (03) 304 8501 or write to Hinewai Reserve, :: Chainlinks contributions manager, CAN Executive. He and his family have Stephen Wood, [email protected] Long Bay Road, RD3, Akaroa. decided not to return to New Zealand :: Mailouts co-ordinator, from their native Brazil. Andre was the Ritsuko Ogawa, [email protected] main energy behind the upgrading of ::: Merchandise co-ordinator CAN’s website as the project manager Hinewai and carbon credits Karen Hunn, [email protected] for our Department of Internal Affairs- :: Awards co-ordinator, funded Digital Strategy Initiative. That Hugh Wilson Gaz Sanvicens, [email protected] project was delivered successfully on As governments lurch ponderously to confront WORKING GROUPS time and within budget — a rarity in the the terrifying threat of human-induced climate world of IT! change, brought about by rampant abuse of fossil :: Model Communities:vacant fuels, Hinewai Reserve finds herself in a curious :: Research: Andrew Macbeth Under Andre’s direction the CAN website acquired significant new features, with lots situation. :: Media/Communications/Market- ing: of potential for collaborative working. The Carbon sequestration by growing forests offsets car- Stephen McKernon new website has proved to be a wonderful bon-dioxide emissions from transport, enery genera- :: Information Centre: Thomas resource, though naturally it is a work in tion, agriculture and industry. Alas, if we carry on as Schwarz progress, with improvements to its appear- usual, reforesting the entire land surface of the planet ance and usability in the pipeline. MORE would not alone save us from rising atmospheric Andre’s energy, ideas and enthusiasm carbon dioxide levels produced by burning carbon For the full list of CAN roles: will be much missed in CAN. Andre, sequestered over millions of years. And planting a few can.org.nz/can-roles Carine and Lina have settled back hap- trees can be an easy salve on guilty consciences, per- Contact CAN: can.org.nz/contact pily in Brazil, with baby number two on haps inhibiting lifestyle changes we need to make. the way. We wish them all the best, and On the other hand it is potentially part of a solution. hope to see them back in New Zealand It can also provide a monetary some time in the future. n Continues p15 12 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 13 14 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 15 tARANAKI RIDeS continued Round the Mtn upper DOwN SOuth road Wiremu Road 120 km A popular short- Stratford to Whangamomona SH43 THE er ride, and very beauti-

FORGOTTEN WORLD HIGHWAY 126km return ful views being quite Go South from New Plymouth on SH3 some close to the mountain. 46 km to Stratford. Turn onto SH43 pass- ing through Toko, Douglas, Strathmore, Te Round the Mtn via Were and Pohokura. At Whangamomona Opunake Eltham 150 km you will find food and drink at the pub; This is the traditional view their historic photos and chat to locals. route for the annual Whangamomona has its next Republic Day race and fun rides. on January 22, 2011. It also has an interest- From NP ride SH45 to Dawson Falls is accessed from Stratford ing mountain bike circuit, see details on The Opunake, then just South of Opunake turn on SH3, Opunake Road and Upper Manaia Bridge to Somewhere. onto Eltham Road to Eltham through Te Kiri Road, and is well signposted. A very interest- and Kaponga. There are views of the Kapuni ing lodge along Swiss lines provides food Hawera to NP via SURF HIGHW AY SH45 — Gas and Condensate production station. km Make your way to Hawera, a moder- and drinks and accommodation. Also check 100 From Eltham, return to New Plymouth on ate sized township in the south of Taranaki. out the small hydro electric scheme. SH3 passing through Stratford and Ingle- From here ride the Surf Highway SH45 along wood. Access to the Stratford Mountain house is the coast through Manaia (the home of from Stratford via Pembroke Road where Yarrows the bakers), Opunake, Oaonui (the Round the Mtn via Opunake Hawera 180 km you may purchase food and drinks and ac- Maui Gas and Condensate production sta- An extension of the round the mountain commodation. This is also the access to the tion, with a visitors centre), Okato, and lovely route. Rather than turn at Opunake, remain mountain’s main ski field, a walk of approxi- Oakura with its popular beach and New on SH45 riding through Manaia (the home mately 30 minutes from the top car park. Plymouth. Many rugged surf beaches and of Yarrows the bakers) to Hawera. Return on North Egmont mountain house is accessed small towns to pass through. SH3 to New Plymouth passing through Nor- manby, Eltham, Stratford and Inglewood. from Egmont Village via Egmont Road. At CeNtRAl the top there is a DoC visitors centre with Triple Peaks Mountain Climb A challeng- café. Great views (on a fine day) of the North Many will have ridden the round the moun- ing ride for the road cyclist is the ride to Taranaki coastline tain circuit (Egmont National Park) over the and ascent of the three main roads into the and the summit Download the pdf from years. It can be ridden in either direction, http://can.org.nz/article/ National Park, thoroughly enjoyable. They of Mt Taranaki. n CAN but it is traditionally ridden anti-clockwise could also be ridden separately. taranaki-rides-09 via SH45 through Okato. Three routes are Alan Chapman is a member most popular. of NTCA.

Hinewai carbon credits, from p13 Apart from the financial help this gives to the reserve, we have another reason for incentive for landowners to allow mar- going along with the arrangements. There ginal lands to regenerate naturally into is much talk in New Zealand of plant- Council and cycle promotion native forest, providing large spin-off ing thousands of hectares of exotic trees, gains for conservation and biodiversity. The council is active in getting more mostly Pinus radiata, across wide swathes people cycling more often. For the last few years the Maurice of marginal land to absorb carbon and White Native Forest Trust, help meet New Zealand’s emission Within our council we have a Workplace which owns and manages the reduction targets. This is may Travel Team who meet regularly to im- nearly 1300 hectares of Hinewai well do, but only at enormous prove conditions for all sustainable trans- Reserve, has drawn useful funds cost to conservation and port users. National and local cycling from carbon sequestration pay- native biodiversity-a strik- initiatives are encouraged with signifi- ments contributed by businesses ing reminder, if one were cant participation by our staff. Council aiming voluntarily to reduce needed, that Homo sapiens is facilities are monitored and upgraded as their “carbon footprint”, and brokered by the arch blunderer when it comes to required, we have increased bicycle stor- Manaaki Whenua/Landcare Research. attempts to “manage” its natural habitat, age, a new drying room for wet gear and The payments have been based on care- Planet Earth. In registering for the Per- towels and we have recently implemented ful mapping and measurement of carbon manent Forest Sink Initiative, we hope to new slow speed signs around the council dioxide uptake by Hinewai’s extensive put natural regeneration of native forest car parks. regenerating native forest. at the forefront of the agenda. Hinewai In 2007 the New Plymouth District Cycle Now that the Kyoto Protocol is in force, is a significantly sized and (dare I say it?) Strategy was adopted by council with Landcare Research is assisting us to reg- magnificent example of the process. three main objectives: ister for the Government’s “Permanent Meanwhile we continue to move about n To improve cycle safety through net- Forest Sink Initiative”, allowing our Trust on our own two legs and well-maintained work improvements and education. to sell annual fully-accounted carbon bicycles, with occasional long forays by n To increase the role of cycling as a vi- n credits on a national, and possibly inter- public transport. able mode of transport. national, carbon market. Continues p18 14 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 15 cars. Although speeds in these areas are Regional groups already low, a 30 km/h limit will make cyclists more comfortable. Spokes Canterbury Preparations for the 24 October day of Longer days and warmer weather herald action to promote reducing atmospheric CO to 350 ppm are going ahead: on 22 the approach of spring and with it Spokes 2 Cantebury members begin to awake from August several hundred Wellington cy- their winter hibernation. Shaking off the clists gathered on the waterfront in a big Wellington, 22 August disappointment of the city council’s fail- 350 formation (photo, p5) then celebrat- regular bike rides with a Spokes Dunedin has a ure to increase the woefully inadequate ed with a ride around the . DCC traffic engineer to relatively small mem- funding for cycling in the just completed The plan for 24 October is a ride around show him some of the bership at present. LTCCP, we once more begin to look to the (approximately) 350 degree circuit of Wellington Harbour: the Great Harbour trouble spots. These rides We would love to the future. are proving to be very Way. have more members. First up is a strategic meeting later this useful. It is much easier Monthly meetings are month to plot the direction we intend to NZTA has implemented some interim to convince someone that at 5:30pm on the third take over the coming years. One deci- measures to make cycling between Wel- a situation is dangerous sion already implemented is devolving lington and Petone safer. These include if they are experiencing it Monday of the month, responsibilities to several sub-commit- green surfaces alerting motorists to the themselves. We also have a email us for details tees. These are Cycling Improvements; routes that cyclists will take along SH2, ride with NZTA planned in —we are still finding a Major Submissions; and Promotion and and an innovative system of warning a couple of weeks. regular meeting place. Information. This will leave more time for signs that are activated when cyclists ride other topics at the monthly Core meet- on the SH2 shoulder. A BLIP in Golden Bay ings. Alastair Smith Bike Lanes in Paradise Up-coming events we are supporting Spokes Dunedin After years of advocating for safer cycling include Car Free Day on 22nd Septem- in Golden Bay, we finally had a response ber, Frocks on Bikes on 24th October, a We are in a rebuilding phase at the mo- from NZTA on a winding, hilly section screening of the cycling orientated film ment. Last year, Fiona Whero got in of SH60 just north of Takaka. We had ‘Triplets of Belleville” and the series of touch with several of us who had been requested a multiple Spokes slow Sunday bike rides. putting in the odd submission or contrib- message sign that In August a meeting was arranged be- uting to the spokes email list to encour- could be activated tween Spokes and Chch City Council age us to get involved. Since then we have by the cyclist or transport planners to discuss the pro- put together a small group of keen people other slow road posed CCC Transport Plan, which will and are getting some projects up and user, setting off an incorporate several strategies, including running. illuminated flashing the existing cycle strategy. Hopefully this We were very busy in April and May sign for the dura- is a serious attempt to improve conditions writing and presenting submissions to the tion of the transit for cyclists and pedestrians, rather than DCC, the Otago Regional Council and through the cutting. just another exercise in time wasting. NZTA. With SH 1 going right through This idea came from another advocate Several Spokes members recently heard the city and the cycleway planned along in Nelson and we More on this issue p19 a presentation by Simon Davenport (Ti- SH 88 not yet finished, we have a lot to thought it was a maru District Council Engineer) on low- talk to NZTA about. We held an AGM great low cost solution to a very frighten- ering speed through road narrowing in with approximately 30 people attending. ing bit of road for vulnerable road users. Timaru, using narrower lanes to increase Adrienne Mulqueen was elected secre- “side friction”. For more information on tary and Anna Star, Treasurer. Our guest Well, we did get the signs but many com- Simon’s work: http://tr.im/catforum. speaker, Nikki Bould talked about the plaints have come forward saying that the Nigel Rushton Harbour Cycle Network’s efforts to try duration of the illumination is way too and get a safe cycling route from Dun- short, it does not flash, there was no sign Cycle Aware Wellington edin to Port Chalmers. At present anyone warning road users of what this new sys- wanting to ride from Dunedin to Port tem was all about. They have put a sign As well as bikes on public transport (p13) Chalmers has to ride on the State High- with two dots on it right next to the but- speed limits have been a focus of CAW’s way which has a large number of trucks, ton that is meant to be pushed — so far submissions: Julian Boorman prepared and several corners with limited visibility no one knows what that means… There is submissions supporting Wellington City and no shoulders. no sign saying to press the button, and it Council’s proposal to set speed limits as We have been having regular meetings would easily be overlooked by first time low as 10 km/h, and to introduce 30 km/h with the DCC to talk about cycling in the user, as it is at the start of a hill and a very speed limits in the Aro Valley and Tina- city and to try and encourage them to busy turn off to the popular Waikoro- kori Road. The 10 km/h limit may be used fast-track the revision of the city’s cycling pupu Springs. in lower Cuba Street, when this is turned strategy. This needs to be updated before After speaking with Mark Edwards, road into a shared pedestrian, motorist, and we can hope to see much progress on the safety engineer in Wellington, he told me bicycle space. Aro Street and Tinakori many issues that Dunedin cyclists face. we could not have the other images that Streets are narrow and busy, with parked Adrienne Mulqueen has been going on we requested (walkers and horse riders),

16 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 17 because those images where not on the Otago Rail Trail and the Banks Peninsula approved list of allowable images. Can Little River Trail. They distributed mate- Join online you believe that? These are legitimate rial from PureTrails New Zealand and road users and yet NZTA will not allow told guests about off-road cycle routes or clip this form those images on the illuminated signs. in the Kapiti area. Patrick Morgan spoke So we have spent $30,000 for a facility about his work as CAN Project Manager. The evening gained three new members Join online at that is not doing the job it could do. Of www.can.org.nz/join course no consultation of the stakehold- for KCI. OR post this form to us with your ers took place before this device was KCI has also submitted on its council’s cheque: constructed, and now there is not much Long Term Council Community Plan. interest in listening to the considerable Members are supporting Otaki residents Name number of people who are saying that the and cyclists who want a reduced speed system is giving a false sense of security limit on the Otaki main road bridge. KCI because the duration is not adequate. suggests that clip-ons for cycling and Address Victoria Davis walking would improve safety and traf- KCi gets active fic flow. The Government has identified State Highway I from Wellington to Levin Kapiti Cycling Incorporated (KCI) is as one of seven nationally significant both encouraging cycling and promoting roads that need improvement, making safety. this an opportune time for action. Phone In May, the group hosted an evening in Email Paraparaumu to screen DVDs about the Regional groups continues p18

Contact the local group nearest you Please send the e.CAN email news fortnightly. Bike! Whangarei Palmerston North Please send me information Cycle Aware Manawatu Paul Doherty 09 436 0033 about ‘cycle safe’ insurance. [email protected] Julie Dalziel 06 357 6962 can.org.nz/mana- watu [email protected] Cycle Action Auckland Occupation: caa.org.nz [email protected] Kapiti Cycling Barbara Insull 0274 731 831 Janet McDonald [email protected] How did you find out about CAN? www.caa.org.nz www.kapiticycling.org.nz

Cycle Action Waiheke Cycle Aware Wellington Tom Ransom 09 372 3215 Alastair Smith 04 972 2552 [email protected] www.caw.org.nz [email protected] We respect your privacy and will not give your details to anyone not Hamilton Cycle Action Waikato Nelson Tasman Bicycle Nelson Bays affiliated with CAN. Rob Davidson 07 856 5217 Richard Butler 03 539 0355 [email protected] [email protected]

Rotorua Cycle Action Bicycle Lanes in Paradise Golden Bay Mark Dyer [email protected] Victoria Davis 03 525 9298 Membership fees per calender year [email protected] Bike Taupo • Unwaged $15 Richard Balm 021 919 851 BikeWalk Marlborough • Waged $30 [email protected] www.biketaupo.org.nz Paul Millen [email protected] • Family $35 Cycle Action Tauranga Bike West Coast (SI) • Supporting organisations $75 Phil Browne 07 544 3123 [email protected] Fiona Whero 03 366 2645 027 449 1845 [email protected] Cycle Aware Hawke’s Bay Membership fee $ ...... Bernie Kelly 06 356 3588 Christchurch Spokes Canterbury [email protected] Keith Turner 03 355 8908 Donation $ ...... [email protected] Total $ ...... New Plymouth www.spokes.org.nz North Taranaki Cycling Advocates Make cheque payable to CAN Graeme Lindup 06 757 2062 South Canterbury Squeaky Wheel [email protected] 3 614 8777 Jon Harris 0 CAN www.ntca.org.nz [email protected] Freepost 147092 Whanganui Bicycle User Group Spokes Dunedin PO BOX 6491 Hadi Gurton 06 345 5048 Adrienne Mulqueen 03 478 0315 Wellesley St, Auckland [email protected] [email protected] 16 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 17 Supporting Regional groups continues from p17 A new short section of river path on the Help needed! east bank of the Waikato River now pro- Waikanae residents who vides a wonderful alternative to compet- Organisations want to keep their roadside parking op- ing with cars on River Road. Politics and pose Kapiti Coast District Council’s plan finances have delayed repair of a washout Abley Transportation Engineers to create cycle lanes on both sides of a on the riverpath near the city centre, but Adventure Media Group Waikanae arterial route. KCI is prepar- an engineer’s report is to be commissioned ing a petition in support of the lanes, and Adventure South Ltd and the repair may be funded this year. seeks advice from anyone experienced in Cycle Action Waikato was consulted ARTA such petitions. Please send suggestions to about the fast-tracked Kopu Bridge Auckland Cycle Touring Association [email protected] project near Thames. The design incor- Canterbury District Health Board What’s happening in Hamilton porates a bi-directional walk/cycle path Central Otago District Council with access under the ramparts for safe Cycle Action Waikato made a huge effort crossing of the highway. Crank It Cycles in writing submissions on the Long Term Two National Cycleway projects are Cycle Touring Company Ltd Council Community Plans of local coun- to be funded in Waikato. The Hauraki Cycle Tour Operators NZ cils and Environment Waikato, encour- Rail Trail project from Thames to Waihi aging councils to map potential walking will get a push, and the Waikato River and cycling networks in urban areas and Trail from Whakamaru to Taupo (parts Ecoassist Sustainable Solutions to provide for cyclists throughout the of which already exist) will gain a path Engineering Outcomes region. In response, Hamilton City Coun- linking the Waikato hydro lakes. We Environment Canterbury cil has allocated money to study ‘pinch hope that this will continue from Lake points’ highlighted by our members in Karapiro through Cambridge, Hamilton Francis & Cambridge 2009–10 and to fix them in subsequent and Ngaruawahia to Huntly or Mercer, Greater Wellington Regional Council years of the plan. This is a great outcome making a superb cycle ride. n Ground Effect for Hamilton cyclists. Hamilton City Council NP Cycle Promotion, from p15 Harbour Cycle Network n To promote cycling as a healthy and GETACROSS Living Streets Aotearoa fun recreational activity. Auckland Harbour Bridge Marlborough District Council Since the adoption of the cycle strategy there have been many benefits to cycling After the May 24 Demonstration of Sup- including: port we received many offers of support. Mountainbiking Otago n Improvements to our on and off road One of them was the strengthening solu- MWH NZ Ltd cycle network. tion for the clip-on lanes currently being n An extension of our coastal walkway. considered by the Transport Agency. Natural High n A closer liaison with council’s parks This not only enables the walkway and Nelson City Council and planning departments that has cycleway to be provided on the Bridge, North Shore City Council resulted in a more permeable cycling but also defers the need for a harbour network and in securing more cycling Pacific Cycle Tours road tunnel, saving taxpayers tens of mil- routes. lions of dollars. The Transport Agency OCEAN Council officers meet monthly with the has agreed to work with us in order to see Palmerston North City Council North Taranaki Cycling Advocates to how any barriers to the walkway and cy- Pedaltours monitor the implementation process of cleway can be resolved. We haven’t seen any significant progress yet, but remain Rotorua District Council the cycle strategy. . optimistic our agreement will bear fruit. Rotorua MTB Club A sustainable transport coordination role was created and filled in 2008, respon- Our supporters’ survey revealed 88% in Sport Waikato sible for encouraging walking, cycling favour of another Demonstration of Sup- Council and all other modes of self propulsion port if we don’t see significant progress from the Transport Agency. n and passenger transport throughout the New Plymouth district. n Bevan Woodward University of Waikato ViaStrada from p7 Waimakariri District Council awareness that cycling can be done in Spokes Canterbury will have a pres- NORMAL and beautiful clothing and ence helping at the event. It’s hoped to debunk the perception that in order Women on Wheels Te Puke the event will encourage more women to cycle commute you need specialized to think about cycle commuting as the clothing. obvious transport option in our beauti- frocksonbike- ful Christchurch FLAT urban landscape. For more information email [email protected] frocksonbikes. Men are invited to wear stylish, everyday or visit org for other events around New Zealand. clothing. Frocks on Bikes aims to raise n 18 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 19 2009 dates Flashing signs to protect On the web cyclists New Zealand has begun to introduce new New Plymouth flashing warning signs advising of the presence of cyclists in places where there November 11–15th 2009 are no better safety options, such as on narrow bridges, tunnels or windy roads.

Tailored to the needs of local road users, Australian Bicycle Council these signs are unquestionably a fantastic as- Lightlane is Nov 11 set to improve the safety of cyclists. a unique new They have been used overseas for some time, concept for safe but our new NZ signs are unique in that they cycling. Mounted flash. Peter Kortegast will be presenting a under your bike Advanced Planning and Design paper on these at the NZ Cycling Conference seat, the LightLane system projects a in November. crisply defined virtual bike lane onto for Cycling pavement using a laser, thus providing Nov 11 Four regions have these signs now — Golden the driver with a familiar boundary to Bay, , Blenheim, and Nelson. The avoid. lightlanebike.com Following on from the award winning proactive stakeholders in the upper South D-Day Bicycles Fundamentals course, the Advanced Island can be thanked for leading the way— course was developed in conjunction both advocates, who have been lobbying for If you think fold- with the NZTA to meet the needs of these for years, and engineers and council able bicycles are a the NZ transportation industry. At- staff who have seen the value of these and relatively new inno- tendee numbers are limited to 25. implemented them. vation, think again. http://viastrada.co.nz/cycling-advanced A BSA (Birming- In Lower Hutt they work really well. Gerry ham Small Arms) Dance, NZTA Acting Principal Policy Advisor folding military — Walking & Cycling, has noticed a visible bike was utilized by The 7th NZ Cycling Conference change in the behaviour of motorists around some of the British him on his ride into Wellington. paratroopers deployed in the D-Day 12–13 November In her article (see previous page), long-term invasion on the coast of Normandy on Golden Bay advocate Victoria Davis of Bicycle June 6, 1944. http://tr.im/ddaybike Communities, connections Lanes in Paradise raises issues about how the Cycling with signs were installed, and concern that they and the economy sharks As cy- did not cater for all the local road users. cling isn’t a dan- can.org.nz/conference/2009 The Golden Bay signs were installed as part gerous activity, of a trial, and because the trial involved road cycle instructor signs there was no local consultation. After Jo Brooksbank much discussion in Golden Bay it has been wanted to intro- decided to increase the timing phase for cy- duce an element CAN Do clists, and install a sign to let people know in of danger into words to push the button. The old horse rider her ride, so she Nov 14–15 signs will also be resurrected. The problem for donned a wetsuit and took a cycle ride pedestrians remains under discussion as the with sharks. Story and video. phase for cyclists is not long enough to allow http://tr.im/cyclewithsharks New Plymouth their safe passage. Soaping up Just Soap is a hand- the cycle-mad city Victoria’s experience reminds us of the value crafted, all natural soap — blended of advocacy and consultation to reach good by bicycle! Why the bicycle? Tradi- The proud hub for the Taranaki region. solutions built on local knowledge, to poten- tional soap making demands hours New Plymouth was named “New tially get it right first time. This is particularly of stirring. So, founder Frederick Zealand’s Top Town” by North & South important if these signs are to be rolled out Breeden, a biking enthusiast and en- magazine in 2008, and was the top without further consultation. vironmentalist, shared his vision with large “Cycle-Mad City” in the 2009 Bikewise Mayoral Challenge. Over It’s great that NZTA is installing the signs and a bicycle builder, recent years New Plymouth has built we hope that more are rolled out around NZ, and the result is a solid network of cyclists and over building on the lessons learned from the trial a one-of-a-kind 50km of on- and off-road cycleways. installations to ensure good “strategic fit” and bicycle-powered The most visible of these is a 7km wa- making the roads safer for all road users. n soap blender. justsoap.com n terfront pathway that connects New Fiona Whero Plymouth with the coast and provides a spectacular focal point for the city. can.org.nz/chainlinks/links 18 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 Chainlinks 3, October 2009 19