$3.5M Boost for Bikes in Schools to Teach Kiwi Kids Safe Cycling Skills

Originally launched in 2010 under the previous National Government, Bikes in Schools has become one of New Zealand’s most successful community-based safety and wellness initiatives.

The Government has announced a major boost to the Bikes in Schools programme, committing up to $3.5 million in new funding to ensure thousands more children across New Zealand can learn cycling safety skills in a secure, school-based setting.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop confirmed the funding, which will be provided by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) through the National Road Safety Promotion Programme, extending the initiative’s operation until June 2027.

“Bikes in Schools is a great programme that provides an opportunity for our primary and intermediate school kids to learn the basics of how to ride a bike safely,” Bishop said during the announcement, made at Wilford School in Petone, where he also opened the school’s brand-new bike track.

Building Lifelong Skills Through Safe Biking

Originally launched in 2010 under the previous National Government, Bikes in Schools has become one of New Zealand’s most successful community-based safety and wellness initiatives. It is delivered in partnership with the Bike On New Zealand Charitable Trust (BONZCT) and aims to make biking a normal part of everyday school life.

Through the programme, schools receive support to:

• Build bike tracks on school grounds

• Purchase a fleet of bikes and helmets for student use

• Teach bike safety education including road awareness, helmet use, and basic bike maintenance

• Promote confidence, physical activity, and independence in young children

“Bike riding is a really useful skill for life,” Bishop said. “We want to make sure Kiwi kids get the chance to learn how to ride safely from a young age. Jumping on a bike is a great way to get around, keep fit, or just have fun with your mates and family.”

Programme Success and Community Impact

Since its inception, over 400 schools across the country have joined the Bikes in Schools programme, positively impacting tens of thousands of students. In many lower-income or rural communities where children may not have personal access to bikes, the programme offers equitable access to important transport and recreation skills.

Students not only learn how to ride confidently but also engage in lessons on road safety, hazard awareness, and equipment maintenance, giving them tools that serve them throughout their lives.

“The programme gives kids the chance to build confidence, stay active, and pick up key skills in a safe school setting before they head out onto the road,” Bishop explained. “Learning about helmets and doing regular bike checks also means they’re set up with the knowledge they need to ride safely.”

At Wilford School in Petone, Bishop witnessed firsthand how the programme benefits both students and the wider community. The new track provides a safe space for learning and play, while also becoming a shared asset for families outside school hours.

Recognising Programme Champions

Minister Bishop took the opportunity to thank Paul McArdle, founder of the BONZCT, for his vision and leadership in developing and expanding the programme over the years. He also acknowledged the many teachers, parents, and local volunteers who make the programme a success on the ground.

“Seeing the impact this programme has on students and the wider community shows exactly why it matters, and I’m looking forward to seeing it continue,” Bishop said.

Future Funding and Expansion

With funding now confirmed through June 2027, the Government plans to evaluate the programme’s future under the next National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), with the potential for further investment and expansion.

The funding announcement aligns with broader government goals of promoting active transport, improving road safety, and encouraging physical activity among young New Zealanders.

In a country where cycling is growing in popularity but also poses safety challenges, initiatives like Bikes in Schools help build a new generation of riders who are informed, confident, and responsible.