Cycling routes unveiled in Auckland city

Two-way traffic for cyclists. Photo / Supplied

Cyclists can ignore the one-way rule on some streets in central Auckland from today and if all goes well the privilege could be rolled out city-wide.

Auckland Transport said the move would create a useful cycling route on some of the city's quieter streets, adding to the growing network of routes downtown.

Cycling and Walking Manager Kathryn King said the initiative was starting with the shared spaces on Fort Lane, Jean Batten Place and O'Connell St, but planned to roll it out on other appropriate one-way streets around Auckland.

New cycle routes in central Auckland. Photo / Auckland Transport

"The streets are close to each other, creating another safe cycle corridor for the growing number of people cycling in the area. The shared spaces are great places to cycle, the low volume of traffic and low vehicle speeds create a safe environment for cycling.

"We're trying to make it easier and more attractive to get around our city on foot and by bike. Cities like Paris and London have successfully introduced two-way cycling on their one-way streets," she said.

Signs will advise road users that people may be cycling in both directions.