EW team hitting the pedals

A team of more than 40 Environment Waikato staff is taking part in Bike Wise Month which gets underway on Sunday.

Bike Wise Month is a national event aimed at highlighting the benefits of cycling such as promoting good health, reducing vehicle emissions and easing traffic congestion.

A core part of the month’s activities is a competition involving various organisations to see which teams can chalk up the most kilometres over the month. Besides EW, many Waikato organisations are taking part in the event, including Hamilton City Council.

EW’s walking and cycling strategy planner Isy Kennedy said having so many EW staff participate in Bike Wise Month was a reflection of their willingness to try biking as an alternative transport mode and leave the car at home.

“The council is keen to promote activities that have health and environmental benefits, and which ease the number of cars on our roads.

“We hope people will get into the spirit of Bike Wise Month and give cycling a try if they’re not already getting on their bikes regularly.”

Ms Kennedy said people giving cycling a try for the first time, or after not riding for some time, needed to be particularly careful on the roads.

“We advise cyclists to wear high visibility clothing and ensure they keep to cycle lanes or as far to the left as possible. Also, make sure brakes are working properly and, if riding at night, that the necessary lights are displayed at the front and rear of bikes.”

Further information is available at www.bikewise.co.nz