The post about the cycling event that crosses the Harbour Bridge got me pretty excited. If the NZTA is open to making the Auckland Harbour Bridge available to events such as this, is there a chance that some time in the future, most likely distant-read when there is a second harbour crossing, there may be a way that allows cycling across the harbour!
Currently the only way to the hallowed North Shore is by taking the bridge in a vehicle, using the ferry or going the long way round. A gap of less than a kilometre is cutting off our city!
If we look at our neighbours across the ditch they got it right from the beginning, allowing cyclists to cross the bridge separate from traffic. The Video shows a short clip of the ride over the bridge, wouldn't be a bad way to commute to work in the morning!
I realise its a bit late to add this to the Harbour Bridge now..although we added more lanes didn't we?, But this has definitely got to be an addition to any new harbour crossing plans in the future.
Think of the reduction in traffic if you didn't have to use your car to get to the cbd!
Tuesday
Harbour Bridge Crossing
This was posted in Auckland Trains a blog about transport issues within Auckland. http://www.aucklandtrains.co.nz/2011/04/26/harbour-bridge-cycle-race-approved/
It got me thinking.....
Cylists will be given a rare chance to ride on the clip-on lanes of the Auckland Harbour Bridge if they take part in a cycle-type marathon event in November.
NZTA has approved the use of the bridge for the ClipOnChallenge event that organisers say could attract as many as 9000 competitors.
The event, planned to be held on Sunday,Novembe 13, will involve the closure of the two outer southbound ‘clip-on’ lanes on the bridge.
The NZTA and Auckland Transport have agreed that the organisers can also use the Northern Busway, which will be closed temporarily for the event.
The cycle challenge will start from the Westhaven Marina in the Wynyard Quarter before crossing the harbour bridge to join the busway and continue on to Albany and beyond.
NZTA’s State Highways Manager Tommy Parker says the cycle event is very much a trial. “Welcoming an event of this size for the cycling community is an exciting opportunity, and with the event following close to the Rugby World Cup tournament another excellent chance to showcase Auckland.”
Mr Parker says the 9000 cyclists participating will be similar to the number of running on the bridge in the Auckland Marathon.
“The high level of planning into the care and operation of the bridge that allows the NZTA to provide temporary access for thousands of runners also applies to the cyclists who will be able to cross the bridge safely as well. We will be expecting event organisers to deliver the same standards of safety and organisation that is achieved each year when the marathon crosses the bridge.”
The two outer lanes of the bridge, and the Northern Busway, will be closed until mid-morning on the day of the event. Like the Auckland Marathon, which will be held two weeks earlier, the closures are timed so that any disruption to drivers is kept to a minimum. Public transport services that would normally use the busway at that time of day will be maintained on adjoining roads.
Cyclists crossed the bridge in a 2009 protest rally
Auckland Transport’s Community Transport Manager, Matthew Rednall says the event gives cyclists the opportunity to experience the Northern Busway from a different perspective.
“It also provides a broader opportunity to promote cycling, road safety and the sharing of the road between cyclists and car drivers,” Mr Rednall adds.
Mr Parker says the NZTA is aware of the interest from cyclists wanting to ride across the bridge, and an event like this provides that opportunity without compromising the main function of the bridge as the strategic transport link for communities on both sides of the harbour.
“The request from the event organisers – Total Ventures Ltd supported by Cycle Action Auckland – was approved by the NZTA after only careful and deliberate consideration. If November’s trial is a success, the cycle challenge could become an exciting addition to Auckland’s events calendar,” Mr Parker says.
Thursday
See more on a bike
Another bonus of riding through town is the ability to take in your surroundings as you move. Your travelling slower than in a car, and are part of the environment rather than cut off from it enclosed in a steel box with its own climate and sounds.
On your bike you hear the sounds of the streets, experience the smells and can actually interact with those around you.
Last friday I met a fellow cyclist on my way up sysmonds street who turned out to be a canadian exchange student exploring the city on a sunny friday evening (a rare surprise in Autumn) we chatted on the way up the hill and sent him on his way to explore the rest of the city. We exchanged a friendly handshake and went our seperate ways....
This was a mere 5 min interaction but highlights the possibilities for interaction that wouldnt happen in a car, have you ever noticed how we ignore there are people in other cars unless they tick us off?
It also allows you to check out anything at a whim, no worry about finding a carpark just a pole, street lamp or fence is adequate to secure your bike and there you have it, stop for food, shops or friends instantly!
Theres nothing quite like riding in the morning experiencing the freshness of the day, and getting to know your city that little bit more. If you don't believe me give it a go!
On your bike you hear the sounds of the streets, experience the smells and can actually interact with those around you.
Last friday I met a fellow cyclist on my way up sysmonds street who turned out to be a canadian exchange student exploring the city on a sunny friday evening (a rare surprise in Autumn) we chatted on the way up the hill and sent him on his way to explore the rest of the city. We exchanged a friendly handshake and went our seperate ways....
This was a mere 5 min interaction but highlights the possibilities for interaction that wouldnt happen in a car, have you ever noticed how we ignore there are people in other cars unless they tick us off?
It also allows you to check out anything at a whim, no worry about finding a carpark just a pole, street lamp or fence is adequate to secure your bike and there you have it, stop for food, shops or friends instantly!
Theres nothing quite like riding in the morning experiencing the freshness of the day, and getting to know your city that little bit more. If you don't believe me give it a go!
Monday
Leading by Example
Most people will agree, Auckland isn't a cycle friendly in any sense of the word. If we are to become one there are a whole lots of changes that need to be made.
The way I see it, increasing the number of people that use transport such as cycling to cover short distances within Auckland is vital to relieveing pressure off our roading networks, from motorways to aterial routes.
The reality is we need to get it right first time, it is not something we can afford to spend money on several times over. In order to do this Auckland must look at those cities around the world that successfully integrate cycling into the lifestyle and culture of the city.
CNN created a list of the top 15 cycling cities throughout the world, they all do certain things well that make them cycle friendly and consequently large numbers of the population 'get on and ride'
Amsterdam in the Netherlands is recognised by most as the friendly cycle city in the world and for good reason. They have kilometres of dedicated cycle routes, a governemnt that promotes cycling, transport laws that favour cyclists and a serious case of bike addiction... over 40% of the cities transport movements are on two wheels.
Barcelona, Spain has recently established an effective ride-share Bicycle system, allowing the population access to rental cycles en mass.
The germans are well known for effieciency and when it comes to cycling its no different, over 400,000 Berlin residents cycle to work everyday.... and the city council is still NOT satisfied with this figure so more money has been spent promoting bike use, cycle lanes and deicated specific bike routes. The city has a website that allows users to plan trips thoughout the city using these routes allowing fast safe riding.
Paris gets a nod here for its creation ofVélib', one of the world's largest public bicycle rental programs. Twenty thousand stylish three-speeds are distributed among 1,450 rental stations throughout the city, available to subscribers at variable rates (rides under 30 minutes are free).
Auckland has attempted the beginnings of such a system but in all honesty it is lacked both in volume, quality and pricing, it was overly expensive and hence has been put on hold, the company running it could no longer support it. Council needs to take over! This is essenstial to providing Aucklanders the opportunity to ride within their city.
Chicago Illinois is a great example of the changes that can be made when the local government puts its mind to creating a cycling friendly city. There are cylces only areas on most main roads and laws being passed that protect cyclists.
A litttle closer to home and a city of a similar size to Auckland is Perth Australia. The city boasts some 700km of cycle routes allowing citizens to commute all over the city easily.
Each of these cities have invested time and energy into creaitng a bicycle friendly environment, Auckland needs to follow their lead and look into adopting some of the practices used world wide, then maybe we will see an increase in bike riding commuters.
The way I see it, increasing the number of people that use transport such as cycling to cover short distances within Auckland is vital to relieveing pressure off our roading networks, from motorways to aterial routes.
The reality is we need to get it right first time, it is not something we can afford to spend money on several times over. In order to do this Auckland must look at those cities around the world that successfully integrate cycling into the lifestyle and culture of the city.
CNN created a list of the top 15 cycling cities throughout the world, they all do certain things well that make them cycle friendly and consequently large numbers of the population 'get on and ride'
Amsterdam in the Netherlands is recognised by most as the friendly cycle city in the world and for good reason. They have kilometres of dedicated cycle routes, a governemnt that promotes cycling, transport laws that favour cyclists and a serious case of bike addiction... over 40% of the cities transport movements are on two wheels.
Barcelona, Spain has recently established an effective ride-share Bicycle system, allowing the population access to rental cycles en mass.
The germans are well known for effieciency and when it comes to cycling its no different, over 400,000 Berlin residents cycle to work everyday.... and the city council is still NOT satisfied with this figure so more money has been spent promoting bike use, cycle lanes and deicated specific bike routes. The city has a website that allows users to plan trips thoughout the city using these routes allowing fast safe riding.
Paris gets a nod here for its creation ofVélib', one of the world's largest public bicycle rental programs. Twenty thousand stylish three-speeds are distributed among 1,450 rental stations throughout the city, available to subscribers at variable rates (rides under 30 minutes are free).
Auckland has attempted the beginnings of such a system but in all honesty it is lacked both in volume, quality and pricing, it was overly expensive and hence has been put on hold, the company running it could no longer support it. Council needs to take over! This is essenstial to providing Aucklanders the opportunity to ride within their city.
Chicago Illinois is a great example of the changes that can be made when the local government puts its mind to creating a cycling friendly city. There are cylces only areas on most main roads and laws being passed that protect cyclists.
A litttle closer to home and a city of a similar size to Auckland is Perth Australia. The city boasts some 700km of cycle routes allowing citizens to commute all over the city easily.
Each of these cities have invested time and energy into creaitng a bicycle friendly environment, Auckland needs to follow their lead and look into adopting some of the practices used world wide, then maybe we will see an increase in bike riding commuters.
Saturday
Commuters on Scooters: New Zealand Herald
Commuters on scooters streets ahead
By Kieran Nash
If you're looking to get to work as fast as possible, buy a scooter - you could cut your commute time in half.
Members of an Auckland traffic consultancy business, Traffic Design Group, put the city's roads to the test this week, sending workers out to test the travelling times of various modes of transport. The group set off for their Newmarket office from Kingsland at 8am rush hour. Travel times ranged from 13 minutes to 35 minutes, depending on what type of transport they took.
Riding a scooter was the fastest, followed by driving, cycling and running. Public transport was at the bottom end of the scale, with bus and train faster only than walking.
Scooters can use the bus lanes and weave through lines of backed-up traffic.
Transportation engineer and scooter rider Tom Guernier said he wasn't surprised he was the fastest of the team. "Skipping traffic is pretty much the reason I got a scooter," he said.
Meanwhile, Transportation engineer Ruby Mak took the bus. "It took a while for the bus to get here and the bus was full," she said.
Traffic Design Group Auckland branch manager Don McKenzie said the race was designed to give group members a first-hand experience of transport in Auckland and to find solutions to Auckland's traffic problems.
"From our perspective it's recognising that there's not one single solution, that it needs to be balanced appropriately across all modes of travel," said McKenzie.
By Kieran Nash | Email KieranTuesday
Cycle Safety: The Winter Months
As we move into winter the days are getting shorter which means by the time most finish work its dark and that makes riding a bike a little more dangerous.
Because bikes are typically ridden on the shoulder of the road, drivers often don't notice riders when they are turning off, pulling out of an intersection or opening doors, which happened to me on Friday night, and if had been any closer would have been a free ambulance ride. And before you ask, yes I did have lights on.
This got me thinking, there's no point complaining too much about not being seen, hopefully that particular individual has learnt his lesson after having my bag rattle his window at 30km/hr less than a metre from his head....
I am now considering more measures to insure I am seen on the road at night.
Bikes must follow the rules for road going vehicles, white lights in the front and red in the back.
So there's two options brighter lights, or more lights.
http://www.bikelights.com/vis360.html
This option provides front side and rear lights that are claimed powerful enough to stand out amongst other urban lights which may be the problem I have.
This is what may be on the cards which is from the same company 'light and motion"
http://www.bikelights.com/seca1400.html
This headlight puts out 1400 lumen's which is equivalent to most cars on low beam, now that should be noticed!
Other options I am considering are removable reflectors for wearing on my clothing or backpack.
Short of letting off fireworks there is not much more that can be done but be aware of what's happening and treat everyone like an idiot the old cliche
Because bikes are typically ridden on the shoulder of the road, drivers often don't notice riders when they are turning off, pulling out of an intersection or opening doors, which happened to me on Friday night, and if had been any closer would have been a free ambulance ride. And before you ask, yes I did have lights on.
This got me thinking, there's no point complaining too much about not being seen, hopefully that particular individual has learnt his lesson after having my bag rattle his window at 30km/hr less than a metre from his head....
I am now considering more measures to insure I am seen on the road at night.
Bikes must follow the rules for road going vehicles, white lights in the front and red in the back.
So there's two options brighter lights, or more lights.
http://www.bikelights.com/vis360.html
This option provides front side and rear lights that are claimed powerful enough to stand out amongst other urban lights which may be the problem I have.
This is what may be on the cards which is from the same company 'light and motion"
http://www.bikelights.com/seca1400.html
This headlight puts out 1400 lumen's which is equivalent to most cars on low beam, now that should be noticed!
Other options I am considering are removable reflectors for wearing on my clothing or backpack.
Short of letting off fireworks there is not much more that can be done but be aware of what's happening and treat everyone like an idiot the old cliche
Friday
Petrol pain to get so bad you'll be forced to change your ways
Heres an Article from the New Zealand Herald
this morning
By Michael Dickison
Commentators say Kiwis will have to get used to fuel prices continuing to rise. Photo / Paul Estcourt
Petrol prices are likely to keep climbing past this week's record highs, despite a sudden drop in crude prices yesterday.
Some analysts say crude oil prices could rise by as much as double in the next few years, causing related increases at the pump.
The trend is expected to force major shifts in behaviour, starting with transport and extending to other consumption habits.
New York's main crude oil index fell 8.6 per cent yesterday on the back of weak economic indicators, leading to expectations of a small dip in petrol prices next week.
But economists agree that the long-term outlook for consumers remains bleak.
UBS New Zealand senior economist Robin Clements said the cause of the rising prices was straightforward - demand had outstripped supply.
"Energy use in countries like China and India is growing, and oil supplies are under some pressure," Mr Clements said.
Lloyd's of London and Chatham House, a British think-tank also known as the Royal Institute of International Affairs, said that crude oil prices could double in two years, reaching $200 a barrel by 2013.
The chief economist of the International Energy Agency sounded a similar warning, saying last week that the peak of oil production had already passed - five years ago.
Westpac economist Dominick Stephens said this country would be buffered against price rises because the New Zealand dollar's exchange rate loosely followed oil price movements.
Goldman Sachs economist Philip Borkin said New Zealand would still see an increase in prices, though it was difficult to speculate how much.
"We need to get used to petrol prices getting higher."
Interest.co.nz managing editor Bernard Hickey predicted that society would have to adjust to petrol prices reaching as high as $4 a litre.
"We simply have to prepare the economy for very expensive oil. New Zealanders won't have a choice," he said.
The growth of China was a fundamental shift demanding billions of barrels of oil a day, Mr Hickey said.
Petrol price rises have already forced changes in behaviour, with Auckland Transport reporting last month that public transport patronage had increased 9.6 per cent in one year.
Claire Pascoe, a spokeswoman for Wellington-based service Let's Carpool, said the number of people signing up every month to share rides had surged 50 per cent in a year.
There were now almost 2000 people using the service for carpooling. Transport Ministry figures show that new cars being sold are increasingly fuel efficient.
"It's become a part of people's thinking," said Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association chief executive David Vinsen. "There's a progressive trend towards looking for fuel-efficient cars."
Stephen Pollard, owner of importer the Clean Green Car Company, said there was huge demand for hybrids - so much of it worldwide, in fact, that it had become almost impossible to source any used ones.
The trend was instead for smaller cars, but there could be as much as 40 per cent difference in fuel efficiency even between two similarly sized cars, he said.
Automobile Association spokesman Mark Stockdale said motorists could also save as much as 40 per cent of their fuel costs by driving more smoothly and avoiding excess drag and weight.
"That's $1000 a year for the average motorist - a huge saving and far, far more than the costs of fuel increases in the past year," Mr Stockdale said.
Spokespeople from the major oil companies said yesterday that they were closely watching Singapore refined oil prices and would not immediately be dropping prices at the pump.
Green Party analyst Julie Genter said that easily obtainable oil had run out, and petrol companies were now turning to deep-sea drilling at times more than a kilometre under water.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10723973
Monday
Cycle Friendly.... Businesses?
Cycle friendly cities, streets, yeah we've all heard of them, but cycle friendly businesses, that's a bit of a new one.
I was at a wedding as you do and fell into conversation about planning (its pretty much inevitable), instead of the usual awkward conversations about fixing problems in New Zealand and particularly in Auckland the conversation turned to cycling, in particular as a way of commuting to work. This may have had something to do with the person I was talking to being from Perth, where apparently the public transport works really well and her car was hardly ever used for commuting.
That aside, she talked about how where she worked offered brilliant facilities for cyclists. A secure place to store bikes during the day that was easy to access, good for your bike in that they didn't fall over or get jammed together. Changing and showering facilities with lockers so it was easy enough to take a weeks worth of clothing into work and ride the rest of the week without worrying about the results of strenuous exercise, i.e. being sweaty for the rest of the day. On top of this the business provided subsidised laundromat and dry-cleaning service access as well. Talk about benefits!
I do not know the amount of businesses that offer those facilities in Auckland, but they would be a huge encouragement to jumping on a bike in the morning.
Bike parking, like car parking is vital to attracting cyclists, this works for retail areas and corporate areas as well
Examples such as these from velo-city.org are great.
Or if room is tight, something like the following examples could be utilised, leaning racks (on the left) Photo: VeloBusDriver on flilckr or indoor "double up racks" (right) Photo: commuterpage.com
These all show different ways of providing secure and accessible storage facilities, which can be a huge incentive for commuting to work, shops or cafes and bars.
Businesses could use unused storage areas on ground floors, provide space in underground car parks or round the back of buildings for bikes.
Other facilities that make a business cycle friendly are changing rooms and showers. While this may be hard to achieve in buildings that already exist, it should be mandatory in new office buildings within the city. They can range from basic facilities to providing dry-cleaning and laundromat service access.
There are other incentives that businesses could offer to encourage biking as a way of commuting are providing breakfast basics, such as milk, bowls spoons etc.
There is also options such a subsidising bike costs or creating a relationship with a local bike store to provide staff discounts.
Whatever they can do businesses have huge potential to influence the amount of commuters who choose to cycle instead of driving on a daily base.
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