Connecting our communities through fitness and fun.
Creating a warm, supportive environment for cycling.
"We're known as 'that loud cycle group'," says Cycle Safe Porirua (CSP) Founder, Findlay Siania, "the amount of banter and laughs we have during our rides is amazing!"
And it's no wonder. With the kaupapa of making cycling as accessible as possible, CSP creates fun opportunities to exercise, enjoy and engage with members of the community. "There are no real rules here – you can wear what you want, come and go as you want and go at your own pace," says Findlay, "we're all about creating a welcoming, supportive environment and removing as many barriers for participation as possible."
CSP's journey started in October 2018 with the support of USO Riders Chris and Mel Te’o, when Findlay and family held their first ride with a friend looking to improve his health. What started as a one-off quickly turned into rides taking place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, attended by a network of 70-80 people.
All rides are organised via a CSP Facebook page and thread, and take place on tracks across the Greater Wellington Region, including the Remutaka, Pencarrow and Shelley Bay Bike Trails.
As part of their inclusivity mandate, CSP welcomes riders of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities and abilities. "Some of our riders have told us that because of their weight they feel intimidated to join one of the more professional groups and find CSP to be a fun, social and supportive environment – yes we have cyclists who have disabilities and it’s fantastic," says Taima Fagaloa, CSP working group member.
A committed regular, Leesa Lealaisalanoa, is a testament to the real impact the programme can have on physical and mental health. Jumping on a bike for the first time in February 2021, Leesa has lost 20kgs and counting. “It doesn’t matter how big you are you know or what obstacle you face; essentially we are all here to ride. The end goal is just to be active,” says Leesa. She loves the programme so much that she will be at the helm of CSP's new women's programme, which was launched in late October 2021.
Helpful Funding
In early 2020, CSP sought funding to purchase an e-bike, allowing riders to participate in cycling for the first time, no matter their previous cycling experience or fitness level.
"The e-bike has provided plus size riders with an opportunity to participate in cycling for the first time," says Shane Laulu, CSP Working Group member, "During the tougher rides, the e-bike is used by our lead-riders so they can cycle back and forth ensuring that our riders from the first rider to the last, are receiving support and are being checked for health and safety purposes. Many riders have enjoyed their experiences so much, they have purchased their own bikes including e-bikes, it’s all about reducing barriers to participation."
