The rise of cycle paths in Ōtautahi-Christchurch.

CYCLING IN ŌTAUTAHI-CHRISTCHURCH 2018 ONWARD

Since our return from Europe/Canada in November 2017, it has been interesting watching (and experiencing) the improvement in cycling infrastructure in our fine city. 

Despite feeling decidely uncomfortable when cycling into work on our roadways on my first few days back on the bike in NZ, I did finally adjust to the unpredictable behaviours of local drivers. It did often feel as if drivers were out to target me as a cyclist; few of them gave me 1.5M space when passing and a number felt it was okay to cut me off when turning left rather than slow down and wait patiently behind.  The other annoying habit of some drivers was their choice to use the cycle lane to move ahead of a line of traffic in order to get into a left turning lane .... a particular trick of drivers at the Ferry Rd - Aldwins Rd intersection.

On my way into work I was able to use the St Asaph Street separated cycle lane for the final few minutes into work, usually a blessing to not have to worry about crazy drivers but I soon realised that many cyclists here do not have the same cycling etiquette cyclists in Europe demonstrate.  I keep encouraging fellow cyclists to use their bells or at least vebalise their presence. The development of the St Asaph St cycle lane did cause some controversy - debate raging over parking & access to off-street parking. [See here and here]

The one cycle lane that we love opened in mid 2018 Puari ki Rapanui Rapanui-Shag Rock cycle way [Nice images from Chch Daily Photo]

              

Unicycle https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/105951192/christchurchs-unicycle-route-rides-off-with-top-new-zealand-cycling-project-award 

Port Hills

To keep up with ideas and opinions on cycling in Christchurch check out Cycling Christchurch  or Go Cycle Chch or Frocks on Bikes.