Rotorua campaign encourages bells on bikes

PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Signage reminding shared pathway users to be considerate and respectful of others will be installed around Rotorua as part of a new campaign.

Rotorua Lakes Council is launching the campaign to raise awareness about the safe use of shared footpaths by encouraging people to put bells on their bikes.

As part of the national cycleway initiative, the council has designated footpaths around the district as combined spaces to be shared by pedestrians, cyclists and other users.

The Share with Care campaign promotes the use of handlebar bells and more visible signage on shared paths to make users more aware of others around them.

Rotorua Cycle Action chairman David Crawley said he used a bell on his own bike.

"I use my bell coming up to blind corners to let anyone who may be around the corner know that there's a bike coming.

"I also use it coming up behind any walker or biker who I want to pass.

"It's not about surprising people; it's the opposite. It's about letting the other path users know that you're there in the gentlest way possible," said Mr Crawley.

Handlebar bells will be highlighted at the Frocks on Bikes Fashion show on October 28 to encourage more bike riders to get their own.

"Riders should always be prepared and able to stop in half the visible distance on any shared path.

"And they should always treat fellow users with respect," said Mr Crawley.

The council has issued the following guidelines:

Bike riders should:

• Use a bike bell or call out to warn pedestrians they are approaching
• Ride slowly, courteously and safely
• Be prepared to stop and give way when needed
• Ride on the left of the path (unless on a path where there is a separate cycle and pedestrian lane)

Pedestrians should:

• Walk on the left of the path
• Move aside (to the left) when they hear a cyclist approaching
• If stopping, move off the path
• Keep dogs on a short lead

Mobility scooters and other users:

• Always check over your shoulder when changing direction
• Listen for other users and vehicles exiting driveways
• Use your indicators/rear vision mirror
• Be courteous and move over if you are slower than other users

Shared pathways in Rotorua:

• Ngongotaha Rd
• Lake Rd
• Old Taupo Rd
• Ranolf St (town end)
• Fenton St
• Malfroy Rd
• Te Ngae Rd

For more information about Rotorua's cycleway network or the Frocks on Bikes Fashion Show visit cyway.nz.