The programme had now been fully implemented at seven Northland schools and included five elements - storage, bikes, the track, a helmet for every child and a basic cycle skills training.
"So when we set up a school we also do the NZTA's recommended training, in the safety of the school environment. For [this age group] it's non-traffic, whereas the older children will start learning road rules and things like that," Mr Bell said.
St Francis principal Craig McKernan said he was thrilled with the track and applauded the patience involved with fitting hundreds of helmets.
The ceremony was also attended by officials from Sport Northland, the New Zealand Transport Agency and Whangarei District Council, many of whom took to the track following proceedings, including a skirted and high-heeled Mayor Sheryl Mai. She was joined by WDC chief executive Rob Forlong, who said he had not been on a bike since before most of the primary school students - and possibly some of their parents - were born.
The Bikes in School programme was started in Hawke's Bay and is run in Northland by Bike Northland, with support from WDC and a range of businesses.
St Francis was the first school where the NZTA had also contributed funding, designed to prop up its Urban Cycleways Programme, with a final route to run near the school.
Transport Minister Simon Bridges said in a statement the idea was to make cycling a safer and more attractive option for pupils, particularly those at schools surrounding the planned cycleway routes.
Raurimu Ave, Ruakaka, Otaika Valley, Onerahi, Ohaeawai and Hurupaki schools also have tracks supported by the programme, while Kaurihohore had just finished their track this week. Waipu and Te Kopuru schools will soon follow.
