New Zealand road code for cyclists now available

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The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has launched a new and completely free resource to help cyclists keep safe on the roads.

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has launched a new and completely free resource to help cyclists keep safe on the roads.

The official New Zealand code for cyclists can be downloaded free from the NZTA website at http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/index.html(external link). Like the road codes for motorists (also available on-line), the new code for cyclists is a user-friendly guide to New Zealand’s traffic law as it relates to cyclists and also includes lots of useful information on safe cycling practices.

The code will be particularly useful for people who are just learning about cycling on the road or those teaching someone else to ride. The NZTA is also encouraging more experienced cyclists to take advantage of the new resource to brush up on their knowledge of the road rules and safe cycling practices.

The new code includes sections on:

  • Learning to cycle
  • Road rules
  • Signs
  • Tips for cycling defensively
  • How to do ‘hook turns’ and use roundabouts
  • Checking and maintaining your bike.

NZTA National Manager Road User Behaviour Michael Cummins says the number of cyclists on our roads is increasing, so it’s vital they understand the rules that apply to them and learn how to share the road safely with other vehicles.

“The new code will be a useful resource for those already cycling, as well as for parents and caregivers teaching their children to ride a bike,” Mr Cummins said.

The official code for cyclists is part of a new suite of resources developed by the NZTA to improve cycle safety. These include new cyclist training guidelines available on-line at www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/cyclist-skills-training-guide(external link) and a national cyclist skills training qualification for bicycle instructors, currently under development.

 

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