Some of your correspondents do make reasonable points about cycling issues. However of major concern is the arrogance and inconsiderate behaviour of some cyclists (in tandem of course with some motorists), riding in large packs, sometimes 5 wide and oblivious to dangers around them. Perhaps the licensing of adult cyclists and registration fees for adult bikes might assist with lifting riding/bike standards and meeting the unreal and impractical expectations of the cycle fanatics. It's not the existing roads that are the issue - it's the additional special facilities being demanded by cyclists. Additional ACC Levies for cyclists would be incorporated in any registration fee charged to cyclists.
‘No go' areas should be specified for cyclists like on the Tamaki Drive, Auckland waterfront and narrow-guttered roads like the Mount Main Street and the Strand could also fall into that category. Welcome Bay Road rates a mention, don't worry about cyclists, it's unsafe for motorists.
Off-road cycle tracks in Auckland like the use of parks – Cornwall, Domain, Ellerslie and Avondale Racecourses might assist with peddling the urge out of cyclist's systems. Tauranga also has the capacity to achieve this, with Matapihi Road /Airport /Omanu Golf Course plus Cameron Road /Tauranga Racecourse, Tauranga Golf Club areas and Ferguson Park, etc. Mountain bikers appear well catered for already. It just requires a bit of imagination to put facilities in place.
A bit of voluntary work and financial input from the cycling fraternity could be a good start, instead of expecting everyone else to pay for their leisure activities.
R Paterson, Matapihi.