Hastings' streets were buzzing with excitement yesterday morning as more than 250 primary school-aged children took part in the Go by Bike Breakfast.
More than 30 kilograms of bacon, 10 kilos of sausages, muesli bars, fruit, coffee and more were ordered for the event - the largest mass cycling gathering of the year in Hastings.
Mahora, St Mary's, Parkvale and Flaxmere primary schools were accompanied by their teachers, parents and Hastings District councillors, along with a number of adults who joined on their way to work.
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A Hastings District Council spokeswoman said it was all about encouraging people to make cycling part of their everyday lives.
"Thanks to the teachers, parents and police who helped get the kids safely to the breakfast and back."
Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst also took part.
Every year, Hastings District councillor Henare O'Keefe joined the Flaxmere contingent and believed this year was outstanding, with a sense of comraderie and fellowship between all.
"Biking for me has become as natural as breathing and that's what this event is about – teaching youngsters that it is fun and normal to bike.
"It brought the schools and the pupils together that normally wouldn't see or engage with one another.
"The children were well catered for, all the cyclists were well looked after with a delicious, healthy breakfast."
The breakfast is part of Go by Bike Day, a national event held in February every year, which encourages people to switch from cars to bikes for a day.
There was also a Go by Bike Breakfast in Napier, at the Hawke's Bay Regional Council building, in Dalton St.