Council considers bike share initiative
Aucklanders may soon be able to enjoy city cycling without having to own a bike.
Auckland Transport (AT) and NZTA are considering a cycle share programme in Auckland’s city centre.
With big numbers of people taking to two wheels and new cycling infrastructure in place around the city, AT believed the time was right to investigate options for a cycle share scheme.
A feasibility study was underway into how such a scheme would operate.
It would look at how it could be funded and what sort of bikes and technology would be used.
The scheme could be launched by the end of 2019.
Last month it was reported that Auckland Council was reviewing a proposal by a consortium of high powered businesses for a pilot scheme which could result in a fleet of 100 shared e-bikes being available to hire across central Auckland.
The pilot proposed e-bikes stations at 10 transport hubs in Auckland.
Businesses behind the pilot proposal include software developer Centrality, Downer Construction, E-cycles NZ, an energy supplier, a telecommunications services provider and a media communications provider.
Centrality head of strategic partnerships Andy Higgs said the consortium had proposed entering into a partnership with Auckland Transport (AT) and Auckland Council to trial the e-bike share service from October 2017.
Auckland mayor Phil Goff said cycling in Auckland was on the rise.
‘‘I welcome the government working with AT to investigate potential for a cycle share programme in Auckland,’’ he said. anything that made it easier for people to consider using bikes in Auckland.
A bike share scheme addressed the barrier of cycle ownership and bike storage for many people.
‘‘Along with car sharing, it’s a clear sign of a maturing urban transport system,’’ Cuthbert said.