On track for safer cycling

Kids learned to how to be safer on their bicycles at Lakeview School yesterday as part of a holiday programme.

The day was the finale to a week-long programme organised by Masterton Safe and Healthy Community Council, which included Rippa Rugby, soccer and netball.

Wairarapa Road Safety Council (WRSC) road safety co-ordinator Kerry Hefferen said there were a few different activities to help teach children cycle safety.

These included the importance of flashing lights and high visibility gear, a truck safety workshop, a DVD about a boy who had an accident who was not wearing his helmet and an obstacle course.

A mechanic from Avanti Plus was also on site to check the kids' bikes and over 35 helmets had already been given away by Thursday morning.

"It's about being safe," said Ms Hefferen.

Road Transport Association New Zealand area executive Sandy Walker was also on hand to teach children about cycling safely around trucks.

The kids stood at various places around the truck, while one child was inside, to demonstrate how far away you need to be to make sure the driver can see you.

MSHCC manager Sandy Ryan said about 100 children attended the programme this holidays.

"It's really nice to be supporting other organisations with the programme and to give the kids new skills, and to encourage them to ride to school safely," she said.

"We've got larger numbers than we expected for cycling so perhaps that's an indication that they're keen to start cycling."