I’ve found google maps to do some really stupid things. Like direct you down SH1, or through the Lyttelton Tunnel.

It also manages to miss quality bike infrastructure, like every part of the cycleway from Latimer Square to Linwood, and instead directed me down Goucester Street and Linwood Ave.

So while google maps is a great source of ideas, do be aware its not perfect. Strava’s crowdsourced info at https://www.strava.com/routes/new and https://www.strava.com/heatmap#12.57/172.61586/-43.51993/hot/ride can be much more relevant, because they track popularity of route. Downside, they tend to be the sporty riders who may not baulk at a main road, so there’s some level of bias there too.

I don’t believe there is a fixed method when it comes to cycling on roads regarding the distance from the kerb. There are so many variables. Like the width of the lane the cars are in and the width of space available for cyclists and parked cars. If the car lane is narrow and not going to accomodate me and a car I will go closer to the kerb when there is a gap between the parked cars to allow cars past. If there is no such gap then I will claim the lane, like on roundabouts, but again not always as some roundabouts are just too busy and fast, and no way will I put myself in front of speeding cars eager to overtake me on roundabouts as some drivers often do regardless of a lack of room. In some situations regardless of what legal right I have to be on the road and claiming the lane I will get off my bike and walk along the footpath to negotiate parked cars protruding out too far or at roundabouts etc. I guess what I am saying is that common sense also has to apply. Being on the right side of the law is no use to when your dead.

You could let Lynette Ellis at CCC know about that.

It’s got to be a lot better when the connection along Oxford Tce to Hosp Cnr is reopened in Dec (although the jury is still out about the final design…). For now you are expected to continue past Tuam St and connect with the new cycleway on St Asaph St to get in and out of the park.

I wonder whether that is more about the natural instinct of kids to shy away from fast, noisy traffic? Hard for anyone to get out of the habit of until you realise the benefits of holding the line.

‘Go Cycle Christchurch’ is the go-to group in Chch for adults wanting to get some tips about getting into (or back into) cycling around our city. Connie and the team have regular friendly rides to show the ropes and they’re always looking for more volunteers – https://www.facebook.com/GoCycleChristchurch/

I agree with you Joy. I watch the cyclesafe school lessons outside our house, and feel nervous to see the children hugging the kerb and then move around the parked cars.