Perfect day out for Tauranga's Frocks on Bikes

Lillybeth Melmoth and the Frocks on Bikes group were celebrating 125 years since women gained the vote. Photo / Andrew Warner

Tauranga could not have provided a better day for the group of woman, and a few men, who gathered at Saturday's Frocks on Bikes afternoon.

About 20 keen cyclists arrived at The Elms before they set off on a public ride around Tauranga's historic sites.

Most of the group were dressed in vintage-style clothing to celebrate the New Zealand women's suffrage movement of 1893, when the petition that gained women the vote was signed.

One of the group's ride leaders, Lillybeth Melmoth, said the group met every month and September's ride was perfect for celebrating 125 years since woman gained the vote.

The group gathered back at The Elms after the ride to enjoy a picnic, with tea and food inspired by what their ancestors would have eaten.

Melmoth said the Frock on Bikes group was formed in Tauranga about eight years ago and it was a great way for people to socialise, especially those who were new to the city.

"I like that I get such a feeling of freedom on my bike," Melmoth said.

She also loved not having to worry about parking or traffic.

"You get to smell the fresh air and see a bit more than you normally would from your car."