Most 'Cycle Mad City' title up for grabs

The annual cycling showdown between the regions is set to take place this month as the title of most 'Cycle Mad City' vied for during Bike Wise Month celebrations.

The title will be awarded to the winner of this year's Mayoral Challenge, which challenges towns and cities across the country to get as many people as possible to follow their mayor on a fun, easy bike ride in their region. The events will be held around New Zealand on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month. Each region's Mayoral Challenge will take place on selected dates available on the Bike Wise website.

Last year Bike Wise Mayoral Challenges took place in 12 centres involving about 13,680 participants. Upper and Lower Hutt Cities were honoured with the 2010 title: Most Cycle Mad Cities in New Zealand, (with 58,000+ residents) earning the highest percentage of their residents taking part.

NZ Transport Agency National Manager Road User Behaviour, Michael Cummins, said those who come along and take part will not only help their region earn the prestigious title of New Zealand's most Cycle Mad City, but will get involved in a fun community event.

"It's a great day out and a great way to give cycling a go. Last year over 13,000 people on bikes took part and this year we have set our sights even higher.

"The Mayoral Challenge is open to everyone, regardless of ability — the competition is all about getting the most people out there and experiencing cycling, not who finishes first. Cycling is a fun, safe, social, healthy and environmentally-friendly way to get around and we want as many people as possible to come along and learn how easy it is."

The Mayoral Challenge is part of hundreds of events being held throughout the month as part of Bike Wise Month, a true celebration of the bicycle — invented nearly 200 years ago - and the health, environmental, social and financial benefits it offers.

For more information on the Mayoral Challenge, and other events in your region visit the Events page at Bike Wise(external link).

Additional Bike Wise Month 2011 Activities

• Go By Bike Day: Wednesday, 16 February 2011 - New Zealanders are being encouraged to bike to work or school instead of going by car. Breakfast events, including free food and entertainment, will be held in more than 50 locations around the country.
• Bike Wise Challenge: 1-28 February 2011 - open to any New Zealand company or organisation - is a fun, free, online competition that encourages organisations to get their staff on their bikes for Bike Wise.