28 Sep 2023

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The annual festival of cycling, Biketober, is kicking into gear this weekend.

Whether you’re a keen cyclist, wanting to educate tamariki on cycling, or just looking for something to do this spring, Biketober may be what you’re after!

The festival is back from 1 October for its seventh year with over 40 events including workshops, guided and self-guided rides, bike-repair workshops and seminars.

“The month-long programme is a great opportunity for residents to come together and participate in cycling activities around Christchurch,” says Transport Operations Manager Stephen Wright.

“Plus, it’s a chance to get on your bike and explore the fantastic network of cycleways around our city.”

Check out the festival’s opening night on 1 October with the New Zealand premiere of The Engine Inside, a film about the power of the bicycle to change lives.

Take part in the Dogs on Bikes event on 29 October, the first mass dog ride this city has ever seen. Bring your pup along to check out the city and enjoy the ride in a box, basket, trailer or backpack.

Keep track of your rides in the Biketober passport. Visit 40+ destinations throughout the month and collect a unique code from each to be in to win some impressive prizes.

The festival is organised by the local cycle advocacy group Spokes Canterbury, who have been thriving for better everyday cycling experiences in Canterbury for more than 20 years.

Other events planned for Biketober include:

Aranui Community Bike Fixup: Looking for help to repair your bike? Come along to Community Bike Fixup event hosted by Aranui Bike Fixup on 12 October and get back on the road.

Radicals Ride: Discover the radical side of Christchurch on this gentle ride - a Heritage Festival X Biketober collaboration. Dr Rosemary Baird of Heritage NZ Pouhere Taonga will explain the history of each stop along the way of this gentle ride on 15 October.

WORD Whānau Ride & BBQ: Join WORD (World Off Road Riding Department) on 29 October for some family fun bike riding and a BBQ. Pedal with your whānau from Bottle Lake Forest to Spencer Park picnic area on a mostly flat trail.

Sunday Sunrise ride: Challenge yourself and start the day the perfect way with a ride to witness the sunrise. Meet at 4:45am at the Bridge of Remembrance on 29 October and ride to Summit Road in time for daybreak.

Take a look at all events here.