Hastings and New Plymouth will benefit from a $7 million Model Communities project aimed at getting more people cycling and walking. Cycling groups welcomed the news.
"Everyone wins when there's more people walking and biking," said Cycling Advocates' Network spokesperson Anne FitzSimon.
"There will be less traffic congestion, less pollution, people will be healthier, and businesses will benefit from more cycling tourism."
"All New Zealand cyclists will be watching closely to see how councils in Taranaki and Hawkes Bay invest in better cycling facilities. If the project delivers good results as expected, we'll be asking the government to extend it around New Zealand so everyone can benefit."
The Model Communities project is a key part of the government's 'Getting There' walking and cycling strategy, which aims to develop walking and cycling environments that are as safe and simple to use as to travel by car.
Model Communities funds infrastructure development such as shared pathways and road widening as well as support programmes such as improved cycle parking facilities, cycle skills training and driver education.
