Cyclists, walkers and drivers have a role to play in making Dunedin cycle-friendly and a safer place for everyone. The following information will help you safely navigate the city streets.
Further information can be found at The Official New Zealand Code for Cyclists (link to external website, new window)
You must wear an approved safety helmet when riding your bike. Make sure it isn’t damaged, fits your head properly and you’re wearing it correctly. We recommend you wear bright colours and reflective materials so you can be seen on the road.
Bicycle and equipment requirements
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Your bicycle must have
- A red or yellow reflector at the back of your bike, facing backwards
- Yellow pedal reflectors
- Good front and back brakes.
A bell on your handlebars is useful if you’re using shared paths.
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At night, or when visibility is poor, your bike must have
- A steady red or yellow light at the rear or a flashing red light that can be seen at night from at least 200 metres
- A steady white light at the front that can be seen at night from at least 200 metres.
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Safe cycle practice
- Before you ride on a road or path, check for pedestrians, other cyclists and cars
- Share the roads and paths
- Use hand signals to let other road-users know when you’re going to stop or turn
- Look for other vehicles before turning, especially behind you
- Be visible – ride where you can be seen and position yourself clearly
- Be predictable – ride in a straight line and don’t weave between vehicles.
Cycling with children
It is important for kids to learn how to stay safe on their bikes as well as where the good spots are to have fun!
The New Zealand Police and the New Zealand Transport Agency recommend that you ride on the footpath until you are 10 years old, unless you're with an adult.
But don’t worry! Dunedin has loads of great off-road places where you can have fun on your bike and improve your skills. Here are some of the best ones to start with, have fun exploring and remember, be safe - be smart - be seen!
Good Tracks for Kids
Looking for somewhere to have fun with your bike? Try these tracks:
- Fulton Hogan Cycle Smart at Marlow Park, St Kilda (next to the Dinosaur Park) (sealed surface).
- Forrester Park MTB Tracks, Norwood Street (gravel track).
- Jubilee Park MTB Tracks, Maori Road (gravel track).
- Silverstream Track, Mosgiel (gravel track).
- Portsmouth Drive cycling/walking shared pathway (sealed surface).
- Boat Harbour to Ravensbourne and Maia cycling/ walking shared path (starting at the end of Magnet Street) (sealed surface).
Safety
Make sure you check out the tips for safe cycling on our Cycle Safety Tips page before you head out on your bike. This is extra important if you’re going to start riding on the road.
Bike safety checklist
Get an adult to help you check that your bike has the following things before you use it.
| Component | Checked (pass/fail) | Action |
|---|---|---|
Tyres - good tread | ||
| Tyres - good pressure | ||
| Front brakes | ||
| Back brakes | ||
| Wheel spokes | ||
| Reflectors | ||
| Tight handlebars | ||
| Tight seat | ||
| Pedals | ||
| Helmet |