BikeNZ signs new sponsor

BikeNZ has announced a new sponsorship agreement with banking service RaboPlus with a view towards growing cycling as a sport, recreational activity and means of transport in New Zealand.

"With increasing car use and trends away from physical activity, the development of our recreational membership programme will be another step towards BikeNZ's vision of a nation embracing cycling," said BikeNZ chief executive Rodger Thompson.

The money will be used over three years to market BikeNZ's recreational membership programme to be launched in November this year which aims to provide special deals on equipment and discounted rates for competitions and events.

New Zealand has over 70,000 cyclists although many are recreational not competitive riders, partaking in events such as the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge and Graperide. Bike NZ's recreational membership programme will be designed for these riders.

"Our sponsorship reflects Rabobank's long association with cycling via our Dutch heritage, where Rabobank sponsors cycling at both a recreational and competitive level," said RaboPlus general manager Mike Heath.

Cyclists who would like to register for information and updates regarding BikeNZ's recreational membership programme prior to its launch in November can do so via the BikeNZ website at www.bikenz.org.nz