Search underway for New Zealand's most bike-friendly organisation

The car parks of hundred of businesses around the country are about to become a whole lot emptier as they encourage staff to swap their cars for bicycles and vie for the title of New Zealand’s most bike-friendly workplace.

Organisations and companies across the country have signed up to give cycling a go in the annual Bike Wise Challenge - one of a series of two wheeled events taking place throughout February for Bike Wise Month. There’s still time for people to register as the Challenge runs throughout February.

Bike Wise Month is New Zealand’s annual celebration of two-wheeled transport.and is aimed at highlighting the benefits of cycling and getting Kiwis of all ages on their bikes.

NZTA National Manager Road User Behaviour Michael Cummins says “The Bike Wise Challenge is about getting the most bums on bike seats and convincing people to give biking a go. To take part, all you have to do is ride for 10 minutes, or 2km, at any point during the month. Organisations with the greatest participation will will some great prizes.”

The Challenge is a great team-building exercise for organisations that get involved. Experienced cyclists can help mentor the ‘newbies’ and encourage them to give it a go. Staff members who swap their car seat for a bike saddle often enjoy the experience so much they continue cycling after the competition.

As well as the health benefits of cycling for individuals, there are also numerous benefits for the wider community, particularly when bikes are used for commuting which eases congestion on local roads. It's also a cost-effective way to commute, with savings made on petrol, parking fees, and even gym memberships.

Mr Cummins says the Bike Wise Challenge is a great way to encourage your staff or work colleagues to jump on their bikes and enjoy the benefits of this low-impact and healthy form of exercise and transport.
Open to any company or organisation in New Zealand, businesses of a similar size compete against each other in their region to see who can get the highest percentage of their members or staff in the saddle.

Last year more than 18,000 participants signed up for the Bike Wise Challenge, with some organisations proving 100 percent participation was achieveable.

Other Bike Wise Month 2010 Activities

• Go By Bike Day: Wednesday, 16 February 2011 New Zealanders are being encouraged to bike to work or school instead of going in the car. Breakfast events, including free food and entertainment, are being held in more than 50 locations around the country.

• Mayoral Challenge: Held on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month: New Zealand towns and cities will compete for the honour of the most ‘Cycle Mad City’ by getting as many people as possible to follow their Mayor on a gentle bike ride.

For further information on all of the events taking place during Bike Wise Month 2011, visit www.bikewise.co.nz. The Bike Wise website has been upgraded and improved to become a one-stop shop and support centre for anyone interested in cycling.