Competition in the workplace returns for 2015 with Sport Bay of Plenty's Tour de Bay corporate cycling challenge.

In teams of three the mission is to get cycling and clock up as many kilometres as possible over the month of February.

Workplaces are being invited to bike up their bikes and clock up as many kilometres as possible as part of Sport Bay of Plenty's Tour de Bay.

Kilometres are collated each week with the goal of virtually cycling the 410 kilometres around the Bay of Plenty.

Western Bay of Plenty recreation advisor Jen Riley encourages workplaces to enter as many teams as possible.

'You could even create your own inter-workplace challenge or challenge another workplace to take part.”

As well as an overall prize there will be weekly $100 vouchers courtesy of Rocket Bikes, Whakatane Cycle Centre and Rotorua Cycle Centre for most teams entered from a workplace, best team photo on Facebook and most improved team form previous week. Teams will also enter the draw to win morning tea shouts from Robert Harris Cafe.

Last year saw nearly 100 teams throughout the Bay of Plenty take part in the challenge with some teams clocking up in excess of 2000km over the month.

Competing against other teams from around the Bay of Plenty provides healthy motivation to cycle further.

Jen says that the Tour de Bay is all about giving people a fun incentive to get on their bikes and explore some of the great cycle trails around the Bay of Plenty.

'Not only is cycling good for your health but it is also a clean and green form of transport, it's a great way to get to work or go to your local cafe on a Sunday morning.”

Entries are now open online at www.sportbop.co.nz/tourdebay.

Workplaces need to register by January 31 to receive a Tour de Bay map, recording sheets, bike month calendars and a few bike goodies.

Tour de Bay is one of many activities happening over Bike Month.

Over the month of February many cycling related events and activities will be happening. For more information or to view the Bike Month calendar visit www.sportbop/playinthebay.