The Tauranga community is being encouraged to swap their engines for pedal power in February with the Aotearoa Bike Challenge.

The challenge is designed to be a fun, free competition that incentivises people to improve their health and wellbeing and win prizes by riding their bikes during February.

'It's not just about the daily commute, but exploring your neighbourhood, developing healthy new habits, and enjoying the outdoors during the summer months, even if it's only 10 minutes a day,” says a statement from Tauranga City Council.

Aotearoa Bike Challenge is open for all, even if you haven't been on a bike for years.

As well as workplaces - clubs, groups, families, and individuals are welcome to enter too.

There's heaps of prizes to be won, including an eBike valued at $3999 for one lucky early bird who registers at www.lovetoride.net/bop before Christmas Day.

Council's workplace travel coordinator Yvonne Rooney says the challenge is an ideal way to connect with colleagues.

'Riding a bike has many benefits, and the Aotearoa Bike Challenge is a great reason to get back on your bike or ride more often. Year after year workplaces report a real buzz in the office, staff seem happier and healthier and there's a genuine sense of comradery.

'Although the challenge doesn't start until February now is a perfect time to get the team together and sign up, you might even win an eBike.”

In 2021, 2600 people from more than 200 Bay of Plenty workplaces got involved, collectively riding nearly half a million kilometres!

Aotearoa Bike Challenge isn't the only celebration of cycling happing in Tauranga, with Bike Month returning in February too.

The Bike Month calendar is presented by Travel Safe and features free cycling opportunities that cater for all, including non-riders wanting to learn, people looking to gain confidence on the road, and experienced cyclists of all ages.

Tauranga has a significant network of off-road and shared paths and Bike Month is a perfect chance to explore them on a guided urban group ride or historic group ride.

There's safety and skills focused activities, events for families and children, and even bike maintenance workshops.
To find out more and to register visit www.mytauranga.co.nz/bikemonth