Cycling is booming in Auckland and more pathways are being added, making taking to two wheels increasingly attractive.
Papakura Local Board Chair Brent Catchpole says there are some amazing bike-friendly routes in the area and he’s urging residents to make the most of them.
"But if you haven’t ridden for a while, it’s easy to lack confidence and worry about traffic," he says.
Free cycle skills courses
To help everyone stay safe, he recommends taking a free cycle skills course at Papakura Normal School on 11 February from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
"Top marks to Auckland Transport, who are sending cycling experts to give adults some tips on how to ride safely," he says. "They'll also recommend great places to ride and encourage us all to leave the car behind."
Friendly and fun
The course is friendly and fun and covers basic cycle skills. It will be followed by a ride in Bruce Pullman Park for those interested. No registration is required: just show up on the day. A limited number of bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to be early.
The course is suitable for first-time riders, and covers basic skills like changing gears, braking and bike control.
It’s also a chance to ask regional coordinators for more information on riding locally.
And don’t worry if you can’t stay for the whole session – you can stay for as long as you like.
Find out more
Information about other bike skills courses is available on the Auckland Transport website.
