Bike Month returns to Bay of Plenty in February

People are encouraged to get on their bike. Photo / Supplied

A month-long programme of events, activities and workshops, revolving around cycling, is encouraging the Bay of Plenty to put pedal to the metal next month.

Bike Month is part of Sport Bay of Plenty's Play in the Bay initiative, which seeks to connect the region with low cost and free recreational activities.

Held during February, the programme had been created by Sport Bay of Plenty's Recreation Team and was suitable for all ages and abilities, said team leader Sonia Lynds.

"This calendar is also a real collaborative effort between our team and local government, local recreation providers and local businesses, who all recognise the benefit of cycling as active transport or as a hobby.

"From first-time riders after 20 years to regular commuters, we think you'll be pleased with the programme we have put together."

Events and activities are tailored to suit the natural recreational areas, cycle trails and events available in different parts of the region.

In Rotorua, a hoon through the Redwoods and a family-friendly ride along the Sulphur Flats is on offer.

Meanwhile in Whakatane there are social cycles through the dunes in Opotiki, a Bike Picnic Party at Warren Park Bike Park and a scavenger hunt along Warren Cole walkway.

Across the region, Go By Bike Day is one of the month's flagship events where people are encouraged to commute to work via two wheels, with pit stops along the main commuter trails between 7am and 9am to provide refreshments and spot prizes to travellers.

With Go By Bike Day falling on Valentine's Day, February 14, the theme is "Love Me, Love My Bike" and celebrates a love for health and fitness, active transport and the environment, and the Play in the Bay team is encouraging commuters to dress up and decorate their ride for bonus prizes at the pit stops.

Schools are encouraged to take part by hosting their own pit stop on Go By Bike Day or similar throughout February.

Bike Month also coincides with the NZ Transport Agency's Aotearoa Bike Challenge, a month-long free competition that's all about seeing which workplaces can get the most people to ride a bike for 10 minutes or more. It's not about the number of kilometres completed, but how often they get out for a ride.

Lynds said that, with an increased awareness of active transport and health and fitness, there has never been a better time to get pedalling.

"Our cities are growing by the day and with it comes increased opportunities to create infrastructure which supports cycling.

"Our cycleways go through some of the region's most beautiful areas and we would love to see more people making the most of this – it sure beats sitting in traffic."

For a full list of activities go to www.sportbop.co.nz/bike-month.