Get riding: Biketober

Christchurch is a cycling paradise and every October the city holds Biketober, a month-long cycling festival that is a celebration for cyclists of all abilities.

Whether you ride a bike for transportation, recreation, competition, skill-building, or simply for the joy of it, Biketober has something for you. It’s a spirited ode to cycling, and what better time to indulge in pedal-powered adventures than spring?

This festival highlights Christchurch’s excellent cycleway infrastructure, demonstrating that cycling can be an easy, safe, and enjoyable mode of transport. Biketober is proudly presented by Spokes Canterbury, a dedicated local cycle advocacy group, along with its supportive partners.

What’s on the Biketober Agenda?
The enthusiastic Biketober team, backed by Christchurch City Council, forward-thinking local businesses, and organisations, has planned a range of cycling events. These include guided and self-guided rides, social gatherings, bike-friendly pit stops, repair workshops, seminars, and more. Most of these events are free.
Don’t miss the Biketober Passport. You have the entire month to explore over 40 local destinations, each offering a unique code for a chance to win exciting prizes. If you’re up for a challenge, consider the Biketober Passport One/Two Day Challenge or the Biketober Family Passport.

Join Biketober and embrace the joy of cycling in Christchurch.

biketoberchch.nz

Olive and Wendy’s wonderful day

Last October, Wendy Babe, had a “wonderful” day exploring central Christchurch by bicycle with son Lawrence, and granddaughter Olive (then aged 3).

We discovered things we hadn’t noticed in a car, says Wendy. They used Biketober’s Whanau Passport webapp to find child-friendly places of interest.
All destinations can be reached via safe bike lanes and shared paths.
From her special seat on dad’s bike, Olive had a great time. “She loved the animation that stamped her virtual passport at each stop.”
This year, Olive is big enough for her own bike, and her cousins (aged 4 and 6) are coming too. “I think the six-year-old will just love it,” says Wendy. “He’ll be out in front.”
Biketober’s Whanau Passport runs 1-8 October inclusive. It’s free, with great prizes on offer (though Wendy says the best prize was the family-time). Families can even join free guided rides with cycle coach Paul Odlin.

Find more details at biketoberchch.nz