Cyclists getting squeezed off roads: tour operators

BARRY HARCOURT/ The Southland Times

BREATHER: Australian Bruna Lisciotto takes a break after a ride from Manapouri to Te Anau as part of an Active New Zealand tour.

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New Zealand has some of the most scenic roads in the world but cycle tourism operators say some are becoming increasingly dangerous.

Road cycle tourism was at risk because the roads were not designed for cyclists and increasing traffic volumes, operators said.

This is despite efforts to educate both drivers and cyclists to improve road safety.

Cycle Tourism Operators New Zealand chairman Tim De Jong said it was harder for operators to cater for tourists wanting to do road tours because of the increase in volume of traffic on roads that were not designed for cyclists and vehicles.

The Catlins highway was one area where problems could develop, with more motorists and cyclists visiting the area, Mr De Jong said.

"The more cars you get on there the more potential you have for conflict, unfortunately. In the end, as cycle tour operators, we have to look for other options and other routes, which is a shame."

Other popular southern routes such as State Highway 94 to Milford Sound and State Highway 6 along the West Coast were becoming increasingly dangerous, he said.

"That's the premier cycling route but in the end the choice is either clients being put in unsafe situations or having unpleasant experiences, or looking at other options," he said.

The concerns echoed those raised by Southland Highway Patrol supervisor Sergeant Geoff Sutherland who also this week cautioned motorists on roads to stop speeding, particularly between Invercargill, Queenstown, Te Anau and Milford. Active New Zealand tour guide Michael Searchfield said the company no longer took cyclists into Milford Sound and only travelled parts of the road because it was unsafe.

"There's just not enough room for everyone on the roads," Mr Searchfield said.

Mr De Jong said Cycle Tourism Operators New Zealand had been working with Cycle Advocates Network, the New Zealand Transport Agency, the National Incident database, Bus and Coach Association, the Rental Vehicle Association and the NZ Road Transport Forum to improve safety for cyclists and motorists.

This had resulted in share the road protocols with some road user groups and road signs. But Cycle Tourism Operators New Zealand was still lobbying for signage on the Milford road.

Improving road experiences needed a mutual effort. Cyclists needed to be considerate towards motorists by riding in single file and moving over if they were holding up traffic, he said.

High visibility was important. That included cyclists wearing bright clothing, and having lights and reflectors.

In an emailed response, New Zealand Transport Agency communications manager Andy Knackstedt said state highway widths and levels of service were regularly reviewed.

Factors considered include the volumes of traffic and the types of road user.

"Where appropriate, NZTA will look to provide extra road width to improve safety, but this must be balanced against a variety of factors including the practicality of providing extra width in a particular location, providing it consistently, and targeting the portions of the state highway network where the safety benefits are greatest."

On Tuesday, a German tourist was killed as she cycled along State Highway 3 between Bulls and Turakina. Police said Mia Susanne Pusch, 19, was cycling towards Wanganui when she was struck by a truck and trailer heading in the same direction.

- © Fairfax NZ News