Kids BT background
The 2012 Taupō Cycling Summit highlighted that Taupō is well known for its cycling events, but many local people do not ride or get regular exercise. We believe that getting kids out riding will lead to an increase in adults on bikes. This will mean a safer, healthier community, and develop a stronger cycling culture in Taupō. The Kids Bike Taupō Programme (Kids BT) grew from this realisation.
The emphasis is on kids having fun and getting moving, and since we started in November 2012 we average 7,800 'rides' each year. We have also recorded an annual average of 210 learning to ride on two wheels for the first time.
Kids BT is being supported with $5,000 per year from the Council plus some other funding. With ongoing support from Lake Taupō Rotary and the Contact Energy Charity Golf Tournament we have now purchased a jumbo van to carry up to 30 bikes, 4 jumps, a seesaw and helmets.
Kids Bike Taupō Long Term Goals for Children in the District
By the end of Year 2
Can ride on two wheels competently. Demonstrated by starting and stopping alone, negotiating a cone obstacle course and ride our low see saw and easy ramps.
Will be able to identify a properly fitted helmet and ask for help to if it isn’t.
Will be able to check if the tyres are inflated enough and get help to pump them up.
Will be able to check if the brakes work well and tell an adult if they don’t.
At the end of Year 4
Can show that they can ride in a straight line with either hand off the handlebars.
Will be able to control a bike slowly down a steep hill, using both brakes and standing on their pedals.
Will be able to ride at least 2km on a Grade 2 mountain bike track.
Can comfortably ride 5km on a flat path.
Will be able to ride around the Pump Track and the BMX Track.
Know how to adjust a bike helmet so it fits properly.
Can adjust the seat height on the bike.
Know how to pump up their tyres to the correct pressure.
At the end of Year 8
Will have completed Grade 1 and 2 of the Road Safety Bicycle Course, so that they are competent riding on quiet streets.
Can comfortably ride 5km on a Grade 2 mountain bike track.
Can comfortably ride 10km on an easy path or on quiet streets.
