manukau
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Bob Moran.
Hi Alan thanks for your email on a very interesting and valid subject. Here in Auckland we are very poorly served by all the councils when it comes to provisions for cyclists. Our terrain and urban sprawl does not help to encourage people onto two wheels ether but these are just minor obstacles that can be overcome with a bit of thought.
Here are my answers to your questions. Good luck with your campaign.
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen? YES
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ? NO
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking? Where appropriate
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling? Where appropriate
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable. NO this is a commercial decision for the suppliers
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ? This is a possiblity
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town. NO
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ? YES
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ? YES I do
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle? YES
Regards
Bob Moran
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Lance Gedge
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
yes I would. Cycling is a great mode of transportation.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
No I wouldn't, I believe that we need helmets to protect our heads. I am involved in some ACC contract work for mainly road crash victims. I have seen too many head injuries that have caused brain damage.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
Yes, but we still need car park space's. I think a better idea would be a bike lane network incorporated into all future road building exercisers.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
Yes, I've thought about this rule often and I have always thought that cycle's and pedestrians could use the footpaths together. I think that the roads are to dangerous, especially for kids.
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Hey I've lived in Melbourne where theres a beautiful footpath along the 14 kilometers of beach front. This path is shared by both and I think that it's fantastic.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
Hell yes, it's great for the environment and it's great for people's health. If our Government was as Green as what they say they are then they would support such a campaign to the max.
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
I can't promise on behalf of council but it can't hurt to ask.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Once again I can try, I guess it all depends on how the Land Transport authorities feel about such a thing. The other issue is whether the Transport companies want racks on their vehicles. I don't think it bad idea though.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?
No I don't cycle, the reason being is that I live in an area where we have a lot road fatalities. I would prefer to ride on the footpath, when I was a kid this is exactly what I did. The other reason is most of the things I do in my recreational time is within walking distance. I do own a bike but I need to get it some new wheels.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Yes I would, but the road issue is a big one for me. I would have to caution my kids when I have some to be very careful.
Lance Gedge.
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Darron Gedge.
Here are my answers to your questions:
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
No, not the way Manuakau roads are at present. It is far too dangerous here. I am a Secondary School Teacher at Elim Christian College in Howick and got this job because the PE Teacher got run over by a car while riding a bicycle. She almost lost her leg and ultimately had to resign as she could no longer keep up with the kids. There must be a complete separation of roads from cycle paths before I consider lobbying for a law change on helmets.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
Rather than give preference I would like to see both. Unfortunately new developments in Manuakau have not done either vey well. I have been to Christchurch recently and was impressed by how many people cycle there and the paths provided. Unfortunately Manuaku is not a very cycle friendly place at present.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Absolutely yes!!! ( I would love to get rid of that law) It is far more likely for a car to hit a cyclist than a cyclist to hit a pedestrian in my view. I would not want my child cycling on the roads of Manukau.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
Ideally yes, but it would depend on council finances at the time.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Good idea. Had never thought of that before but can definitely see the value of that as there are some place you can't cycle to because of the distance.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?
Yes. In the summer I cycle to work. There is a large park between my place and work with decent cycle paths making it safe. This would have been out of the question last year when I lived somewhere else as the road was too dangerous.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Yes, for fitness and reducing congeston and pollution. But no because the roads are too dangerous in Manukau.
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Willie Jackson.
Thanks for your email. I am totally supportive of encouraging more people to use cycles for leisure, work and as an everyday mode of transport. South Auckland in particular needs to reduce vehicle usage and a switch (as far as possible) to cycles is an ideal option.
Q & A
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
Absolutely. As far as I'm concerned, there are too many vehicles on South Auckland Roads. Whereas it was common for households to have on average two vehicles, that appears to have risen to four. I live in Mangere Bridge which would be a perfect place to start implementing such an initiative.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
Not at the moment. There hasn't been enough public education on cycling safety amongst the public and until we have designated areas for utility cyclling, it would be too dangerous on South Auckland roads. We are desparately trying to deal with boy racers and an oversupply of SUV's. Such a move would be premature.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
Certainly I would in areas like shopping malls and congested public areas. I can understand how this would be essential if we are to have utility cycling.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
Yes.
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
YES
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Yes as part of a planned programme of instituting utility cycling in South Auckland.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?
No, although I do have cycles in my garage that do not get nearly enough use.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Most definitely
Why? / Why not?
For improved health (particularly amongst Maori and Pacific Islanders), cost efficient, pollution friendly, etc etc
Good Luck, you have my support
Willie Jackson
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Waina Emery
Thank you for your email.
In response I would like to see a reduction in air pollution and a more efficient and effective transport system for South Aucklanders.
Our area is spread out like Christchurch but not as flat.
In response to your questions, see answers below.
All the best with this initiative.
Thank you
Waina Emery
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
I would not actively persue them initially because there are other transport priority issues and until one is elected - one does not know what those are.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
No, I would not lobby to rescind that law becasue too many cyclists are living a better life now because of the protection that the helmet provided when they were involved in an accident including my daughter now aged 32 who was knocked off her bike by a motorist when she was cycling to college.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
I would consider it.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
I wouldn't lobby to rescind, but would consider it. Again there are inconsiderate cyclists using the pavements and who are nearly knocking over pedestrians including elderly pedestrians.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
I would consider this initiative.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Definitely
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?
I don't cycle, I might consider utility cycling.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Children yet in traffic areas that are busy or dangerous, elderly no.
Why? / Why not?
Because of the above stated
Waina Emery
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Kaine Henderson.
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
Yes, I would promote cycle as a viable alternative to the motor car.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
I would have to give this more thought. The law is a sensible one as it's designed to save lives. Cyclists are just as prone to injury as motorcyclists and it's equally important for them to wear helmets.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
Most definitely.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
Yes.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Yes, if it helps promote cycling.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?
Not at present as I'm in between cycles. I do plan to get back into it.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Why? / Why not?
Yes, because it's economical, environmentally friendly and a good way to keep fit.
Kaine Henderson.
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Trevor Armstrong
Botany Communittee Board Member
Answers;
1. yes
2. no
3. yes
4. no, special lanes for cyclists
5. yes
6. yes
7. no, I haven't thought about it
8. yes, make it safe for all ages to cycle
People will have to gain confidence by ensuring that cycle lanes are sectioned off from motor vehicles creating a safer ride for cycling.
Trevor Armstrong
Botany Communittee Board Member
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Kia Ora Alan
Very impressive, Love your passion. Totally agree in principle. many of us need more exerecise as well as the need to care for our planet
I'll answer your questions as soon as I'm able
kind regards & God bless
Jim
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Alan Johnson.
Thanks for this questionaire. Honestly I don't have time to answer it right now. I do support the whole promotion of cycling and ride my bike occasionally (once a week or so). I cannot really see utility cycling or kerb side parking working in South Auckland where I live on account of vandalism etc.
Regards
Alan Johnson
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Kelvyn Alp
Party Leader
Direct Democracy Party - DDP
The following are my answers to your questions provided.
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
ANSWER: I believe any policies that enable alternative transportation as opposed to the current system of congestion and health factors associated need to be explored and where practicable implemented. The biggest problem we face of course is the habitual nature of current trends. To simply wish for people to change is a major ask, however this can be achieved if the benefits of such means is clearly demonstrated and we can get people to take it on board.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established)?
ANSWER: I have never been in favour of such a law to begin with, and should I be in the position to get rid of it, I would. I believe in the “Right to Choose”, I always have and always will. So in Short yes, I would lobby to have that ridiculous law repealed. “Let those who ride, decide”.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
ANSWER: This is a difficult question and would depend on where the proposed dedicated cycle lanes were to be. Some places are simply not viable i.e. on narrow city streets, others there is room to widen pathways to ensure a dedicated cycle lane. Then of course there are roads that could have cycle lanes added to the side to allow for this. To remove curb-side parking (a form of convenience for motorists at present where at times no alternative parking exists within the surrounding location) would be nonsensical and may have an adverse impact on small businesses within the area that rely on such traffic.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g. the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
ANSWER: Yes, cyclists should be able to use the footpaths where there may be a danger to them if they were restricted to the roadside. Again, some pathways are wide enough to have dedicated cycling lanes applied, while on those that are not, commonsense will prevail. I do not believe that just because a few idiots decide to ride in an unsafe manner, that all should be tarred with the same brush and therefore dictated to.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
E.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
ANSWER: I would support any campaign that helped to draw attention to alternative modes of transport. Utility cycling is a great idea and would no doubt gain favour in the summer months. Anything of significant change must obviously be done on a need and necessity basis, and due to the fact traffic congestion and health related issues associated with vehicle fumes is a need to address, it makes sense to promote these types of alternatives, especially where much of the pollution is caused when vehicles are stationary and idling.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles?
ANSWER: Where practicable, definitely as it would be a silly move not too. There is no use promoting bicycle use and then providing no place to place that cycle while the person is shopping or the likes.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future?
ANSWER: No I do not cycle at this point in time. If I was working in a specific location and did all of my business within the surrounding area, then I would indeed adopt such an approach should the facility be there. At this stage I am all over the greater Auckland area and would basically be absolutely stuffed by the time I got anywhere and would not be able to meet schedule commitments.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
ANSWER: I would recommend that they choose whether to or not, however, if we are able to make such an attractive proposition, I do not see why they would not consider this. For some it is about safety also, if the journey they take can be made as safe as possible, I believe this would have a major impact on the decision whether to take this on or not.
Why? / Why not?
Thank you for the opportunity to participate in your questionnaire and I hope you receive replies from all other candidates.
Kelvyn Alp
Party Leader
Direct Democracy Party - DDP
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Berend de Boer
Alan> Would you actively pursue policies that would enable
Alan> utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it
Alan> the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?
Actively pursue will all depend, but I am in favor.
Alan> Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to
Alan> wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider
Alan> (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
Yes.
Alan> Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of
Alan> cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
Curbside parking is annoying for cyclists, but I found it hard to see
this habit changing. Open to ideas. Cycle is quite possible in
Manukau, and people who choose it, should have some choice.
Alan> Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists
Alan> from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the
Alan> years it will otherwise take to establish real separation
Alan> from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the
Alan> elderly)to take up utility cycling?
Yes, with police powers for arrest when cycling dangerously,
i.e. abusing privilege.
Alan> Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or
Alan> retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or
Alan> make available the types of bicycles and technologies which
Alan> make utility cycling universally practicable. To ensure
Alan> that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout
Alan> New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a
Alan> campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling
Alan> technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer
Alan> demand ?
Nope, I don't see any government involvement in any kind of commercial
activity as benefiting tax payers. I'm not taking away the money from
grandmothers to make some business successful, or sink money onto a
deep hole. This is up to the businesses themselves.
Alan> Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on
Alan> ALL public transport vehicles ?
No, as I don't believe in public transport in the sense that the
government should provide it. Commercial enterprises can provide this
facility and you/myself can lobby them.
Alan> Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your
Alan> life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility'
Alan> cycling in the future ?
Did it a lot (I'm Dutch :-)).
Alan> Would you recommend that other people (children/ the
Alan> elderly) cycle?
Yes.
Alan> Why? / Why not?
Fun, healthy, clean.
- --
Cheers,
Berend de Boer
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Janeen Collier
My family and I lived in Scotland for 3 years where we all enjoyed cycling. So much so that we usually took our bikes with us on camping holidays across Europe. I am very much in favour of your ideas but see myself in a position as a councilor that I must receive all ideas with an open mind. I will listen fairly to new arguments and when I am elected look forward to your submission.
Regards Janeen Collier
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Darryl Evans JP
CM District Health Board Candidate
Hi Alan
As I am not a Council candidate a lot of the questions are not for me to answer, however as a District Health Board Candidate I am an advocate of cycling.
I believe that all forms of exercise are extremely important and in particular enjoy cycling myself. As a family we do cycle, all owning bikes etc and more recently enjoyed a cycling holiday in Holland. I was extremely impressed at the large numbers of people who cycle daily for work, school and personal enjoyment etc. I am most definitely an advocate of improved cycle lanes, the introduction of more cycle lanes and trails etc. And would also like to see the introduction of cycle groups for children going to and from school as we have seen the introduction of walking buses (waka wae wae) etc.
I would love to see more cycling education, road safety for the cyclist as well as the driver, encouraging better and safer road usage etc. Drivers need to respect both pedestrian and bike riders, allowing greater access to roads as well as be more courteous to riders.
Of course encouraging people out of cars and buses onto bikes is also appropriate for better health and the reduction of toxic carbon fumes etc.
I hope this assists you.
regards
Darryl Evans JP
CM District Health Board Candidate
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Sophia Auckland
Dear Alan
Sorry for the delay. I have received another survey regarding cycling and walking too. www.livingstreets.org.nz and www.can.org.nz maybe you can have a look too.
I am from grass roof. I also original from China, and kingdom of bike. I was biking to study everyday no matter the weather near 10 years. I also support New Zealand's conservation activities. On my personal view. New Zealand's green and clean just because its lower population density. the lifestyle of the people who lives here are not environmental friendly. For example, Chinese people feel they do not have their leg as car are the normal transportation for every household. the distance to facilities and lack of public transport isolate the people.
KEEP THE GREEN LAND GREEN, LET RESIDENTS LIVE CLOSER IN TOWN, FREE CONSERVATION SUSTAINABLE LIVING COURSE.
I would like to see a bike-highway around the nation inthe future.
Thanks and regards
Sophia Xiao
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Graeme Adams
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen? I would look at the feasability
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ?
As a nurse I would want evidence of the injury rate occurring to people not wearing helmets
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
I would certainly look at the options available
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
Again I would need to look at research in relation to accidents-bikes versus pedestrians
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ? Certainly am aware of the choices as have recently visited Europe and made a point of stopping to see how the bike lanes and public mingled,
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?I would like to look at the concept and feasibility
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ? Yes but only in the safety of the local gym. Remember I am a nurse and I have worked in the biggest orthopaedic hospital in NZ so seen the consequences of bike and usually vehicle confrontations.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle? My children both rode push bikes and motorbikes but their safety was always of concern to me when they were out.
Graeme Adams boldadams@xtra.co.nz
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Linda Reid.
I found the information you supplied interesting. First I should tell you that I am far from convinced that human activity has any effect on the climate – it has been changing ever since the earth was formed and will continue to change. We are, in fact, somewhat overdue for an ice age. The computer models that predict global warming do not take into account variation in the sun’s energy output, for example.
Even if human’s do have an effect on the climate, I am far from convinced that we can do enough – short of going back to subsistence living – to make any difference. So while, like the vast majority of people, I care about having a clean environment, and I think cycling is a good mode of transportation in flat areas with good visibility, I would not promote it to the point of trying to ‘social-engineer’ people into using a bike.
If you would like to know more about me and how I feel about issues you are welcome to visit my blog: www.lindareid.blogspot.com
Kind regards
Linda Reid.
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen? In certain circumstances I think I would.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is well-established ) ? Yes – I believe that wearing helmets is counter-productive in safety promotion. Drivers and cyclists alike are more cautious around un-helmeted riders. I think the wearing of helmets puts people off riding bikes.
Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking? It depends on the street. I’d look at it on a case by case basis.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
-Before you answer this question, next time you're out driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist harmoniously in significantly greater numbers. Cyclists on the pavement are in considerable danger from cars coming out of driveways – I’m not sure how you would solve this problem. Also small children walking to school or elderly folk would certainly be more at risk.
Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or make available the types of bicycles and technologies which make utility cycling universally practicable.
To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or support a campaign that will create awareness of utility cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate consumer demand ?
e.g. acquire a fleet of utility bicycles for your own council for trips within your city/town. I’m not sure that would work in Manukau. I would imagine it would work well in Christchurch. But I’d certainly encourage you to promote utility cycles anywhere you want to.
Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on ALL public transport vehicles ? If the demand is there, then I’m sure the public transport companies will provide them.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future? I do not bike anywhere – I don’t own one. I live near the top of a steep hill. It would likely kill me to cycle up it and I certainly don’t want to arrive at work all sweaty.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle? That’s easy – of course ‘other’ people should cycle. But walking is good for people too.
Linda Reid.
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Neville Hudson,
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable
> utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made
> it the transportation mode of choice for so many in
> Copenhagen?]
No.
>
> Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists
> to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the
> rider (as it is wherever utility cycling is
> well-established ) ?
No.
>
> Would you give preference to a comprehensive network of
> cycle lanes over retaining the right to curbside parking?
No.
>
> Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits
> cyclists from using pavements (at least as an interim
> measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish
> real separation from motorized vehicles)to enable 'slow
> cyclists'(e.g.the elderly)to take up utility cycling?
> -Before you answer this question, next time you're out
> driving, take note of how few pedestrians are actually
> using our pavements and keep in mind that there are places
> in the world where cyclists and pedestrians co-exist
> harmoniously in significantly greater numbers.
In certain circumstances yes.
>
> Virtually none of New Zealand's bicycle importers or
> retailers are taking the initiative to either promote or
> make available the types of bicycles and technologies
> which make utility cycling universally practicable.
> To ensure that fleets of such bicycles become established
> throughout New Zealand's urban areas, would you promote or
> support a campaign that will create awareness of utility
> cycling technologies among the public to help to stimulate
> consumer demand ? e.g. acquire a fleet of utility
> bicycles<http://www.koga.com/uk/segment.asp?collection=7&s
> egment=56>for your own council for trips within your
> city/town.
No.
> Would you lobby for the installation of bicycle racks on
> ALL public transport vehicles ?
No.
> Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your
> life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility'
> cycling in the future ?
No. I use an exercycle. To do better I would need to move
house to be closer to my work place.
> Would you recommend that other people (children/ the
> elderly) cycle?
Yes.
> Why? / Why not?
Fitness. Gets them away from the TV and games stations.
Regards
Neville Hudson
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