News & Results
Sport BOP staff hit the road for the Aotearoa Bike Challenge and Bike Month
Despite the troublesome weather February has seen people up and down the motu getting out on two wheels as part of the Aotearoa Bike Challenge 2023.
Whether a seasoned cyclist or a lapsed rider, the Bay of Plenty has been no different – including the Sport Bay of Plenty team.
In line with Love To Ride’s national Aotearoa Bike Challenge campaign, locally it has been Bike Month across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.
Organised by Travel Safe, almost 200 people have signed up for events across the calendar which includes group rides, maintenance evenings, film nights and skills lessons for everyone – whether you are dusting off the saddle or already a pedalling paragon.
Travel Safe Team Leader Sonia Lynds says riding a bike is fantastic for fun, fitness, and friendship.
“Biking is healthy, environmentally friendly, and brings people a lot of happiness,” says Sonia. “It is also an awesome way to get to work or school, and an ideal activity for the whole family to enjoy together.
“As well as having fun, Bike Month is about supporting and upskilling our community to cycle safely through education, knowledge of safer routes and encouraging regular bike maintenance.”
Sport BOP have also been getting involved this year with participants across the rohe.
Sport BOP Women and Girls Lead, Melanie Giles, is already a regular cyclist and enjoys riding around Welcome Bay, the Mount, Pāpāmoa, and Maketu. She is a big advocate for the varied benefits of getting out on a bike.
“Two wheels is a great way to get wind in your hair, breathe the fresh air and have time to yourself or with others you ride with, great way to meet people if you have just moved down to the region,” says Melanie.
“I also love the speeds you can go and the thrill of racing.”
Kylie Hapihene, Healthy Active Learning Community Connector (EBOP), admits the poor weather conditions have impacted her usual cycling routine, which often includes rides alongside Ōhinemataroa (Whakatāne River).
“I cycle mostly to get from A to B with less impact on the environment and it is also healthy for me,” explains Kylie.
“Bike riding has always been a thing for me, and I have always owned a bike, so I suppose it is just part of my lifestyle.”
Nicola Gapes, Office Administrator (Rotorua), has enjoyed some beach biking along Waihi Beach but her favourite place to ride remains on her doorstep - the Redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest.
“I love the scenery, biking amongst the trees with varying colours and light shining through as you ride, the song of the cicadas and the buzz of people enjoying the beautiful area,” says Nicola.
“The February challenge definitely encourages me to set aside time to bike. I’m a bit of a binge biker once the Challenge starts up.”
If you are still keen to get involved check the Bike Month calendar to see what is available at www.mytauranga.co.nz/bike-month.
Alternatively, sign up to the Aotearoa Bike Challenge 2023 at www.lovetoride.net/nz.
