Dannevirke: Schools embrace bike day

Natarsha Nikora presents Nevaeh-Lee Renata, 4, with the prize pack for winning the small school category in the Go by Bike promotion. Photo / Christine McKay

More than 400 people were on their bikes for the Tararua Go by Bike Day, a Sport Manawatu event, creating awareness and encourage cycling as a means of everyday transport.

"Tararua schools and early childcare centres got behind this event in a big way with more than 400 children from 11 schools cycling, scootering and skating to and from school. The event was a great success," Tararua recreation adviser Natarsha Nikora said. "This year an extra 261 children took part."

At Norsewood's Country Kids Early Childcare all 27 children pedalled their way around the centre, winning the small school category of the event.

Staff and children at Norsewood’s Country Kids Early Childcare celebrating their win.

"Bikes are a big part of what we do," centre owner Jocelyn Knight said. "Our children just love riding around a little mountain bike track, but because we're a rural centre, children depend on their parents to bring their bikes here. Little Natalie Bealing lives 30km away, so that's a huge commitment for her parents.

"On Go By Bike Day our children rode laps around the outside of the centre and were happy to keep on going."

Mrs Knight said the youngest rider in the Go By Bike Day event was Carys Bradley, who will be three in July.

"We encourage our children to start off on the runner bikes and then they progress to a pedal bike and are rewarded with a certificate of achievement," Mrs Knight said.

With a record number of 130 students representing more than half the school roll taking in Go By Bike Day, Huia Range School were the winners of the large school category and along with Country Kids Early Childcare, they won a $150 voucher to spend on new sports equipment.

"Huia Range School is the one of biggest schools in our district and for them to get behind this initiative and hit participation numbers out of the park was no easy feat," Ms Nikora said.

In 2014, Huia Range won the overall participation category with only 50 participants, this year they more than doubled their participation.

The Pimp my Ride photo competition saw a record number of amazing photos submitted.

"The panel of six judges had a very tough time selecting two winners in this category," Ms Nikora said.

The winners were Bridget Chadwich of St Joseph's School and Raynor Hokianga from Busy Bees Early Childcare Centre, who received a Rebel Sport voucher.