BikeNZ welcomes the Minister of Road Safety’s (the Hon. Harry Duynhoven) interest in encouraging more people to ride bicycles, but helmets aren’t the issue that we need the government to focus on said John Willmer, BikeNZ’s Cycling Development Manager.

“What we need is a safer riding environment. This means a fair go from other road users and dedicated cycling facilities,” Mr Willmer said.

 Mr Willmer’s remarks followed comments by Mr Duynhoven who told a New Zealand Traffic Institute forum that making helmets compulsory may be discouraging people from cycling. He suggested that more people might ride bikes if they did not have to wear helmets, although he did not support a law change.

Mr Willmer said that motorists need to be much more aware of the needs of cyclists and respect cyclists as legitimate road users. Cyclists also need to take responsibility and follow the road rules.

“The government has made good progress setting a framework to support cycling but what is needed now is action.

“The government could do a lot to improve the awareness of motorists towards cyclists – both legally and through education and promotion.”

Greater priority and investment for cycling infrastructure would also rapidly improve safety for cyclists, said Mr Willmer.

Cycling is already popular with about 1.3 million New Zealanders riding bicycles. Growth of cycling as a means of transport is already on the rise and will continue to do so as people choose cycling for the benefits of freedom and convenience, health and avoiding increasing costs of using cars and public transport, he said.

“However, it’s critical that people need to be and feel safe otherwise they’re not going to enjoy riding or even get on their bike in the first place.”

 Ends

 For further comment and information

 John Willmer
Cycling Development Manager
BikeNZ
DDI +64 4 560 0332, Mobile +64 (0)21 599 102 

john@bikenz.org.nz