Cycle Trains

Nelson is leading the way and is first in New Zealand to trial school-based cycle trains.

What's a cycle train?

Just like a walking school bus, a cycle train has at least one adult conductor who cycles along an agreed route, collecting children waiting at designated train stops and cycling with them to school. After school, they cycle back along the same route.

A cycle train can be flexible to suit the needs of the families using it - the train can go as little or as often as parents want to conductor it and children can use it everyday or once a week, according to their family schedules.

Children and adults will wear brightly coloured yellow backpack covers or vests so they are easily seen. These have been sponsored by the Manchester Unity Friendly Society.

Where cycle train run

Routes will be established along roads close to where pupils live and where parents have volunteered to be conductors.

How to join a cycle train

The cycle train coordinator at Nelson City Council can advise you on which schools are taking part, where there are established routes and how to join a train.

Before they are allowed to join a cycle train, children have to show they can confidently ride a two-wheeled bike, without training wheels, in a group--they will be assessed by a qualified Kiwi Cycling instructor at their school. Their bike will also be checked to make sure it is road safe. This will be organised by the cycle train coordinator.

How to start a cycle train

If there is no Train running near to where you live or at your child's school, or if you want to start your own Train, contact the Cycle Train Coordinator at Nelson City Council.

Current cycle train routes

Contact the Council for the latest information on where cycle trains are running.

Contact

School Travel Planner
Private Bag 4, Richmond
+64 3 546 0214