Auckland is experiencing a biking boom. A report released by Auckland Transport (PDF) shows big numbers taking to two wheels in 2016.
Forty-five thousand people started riding in 2016 and there has been a 62 per cent increase in cycle trips in the city centre since 2013.
Mayor Phil Goff says, "Cycling is an important part of Auckland's transport system. It gives Aucklanders transport choice, lessens pressure on our roads, reduces carbon emissions and helps people stay fit and healthy."
New cycling paths
In 2016, 16.8km of cycling infrastructure was built. Auckland Transport's Manager for Walking, Cycling and Road Safety, Kathryn King, says, "We are now seeing what other cities around the world have experienced over the past decades. When you meaningfully invest in a well-planned cycling network, people will leave the car at home and take the bike to work or study."
Unitec gets cycling
"Unitec is a great example, being close to the Northwestern cycleway means they have 4.3 per cent of students biking, rather than the average of 1.7 per cent which we see across other tertiary education sites. And I'm sure next year's report will see this increase further as the Waterview Shared Path opens in the coming months."
Public feedback
Ms King says, "We had more than 6000 pieces of public feedback over 12 cycling infrastructure and network consultations during the year. That's a massive response and we have carefully used that feedback as plans continue to unfold for the network."
"We could not have done this work alone, and I'd like to acknowledge the partnership between Auckland Transport, the NZ Transport Agency, Auckland Council, the local boards, and the dedicated special interest groups who have also collaborated with us over the past year."
Watch the video
Kathryn King was interviewed by TVNZ. Watch the video.
