Aotearoa Bike Challenge returns to Queenstown Lakes this February

The Aotearoa Bike Challenge is gearing up for another inspiring month of pedal-powered action in the Queenstown Lakes District, running from 1–28 February 2026. Organised locally by the Lightfoot Initiative, the annual challenge invites residents of all ages and abilities to log their rides, earn points, and help build a healthier, less congested district. 

A community making a difference 

Last year, riders across the district showed what’s possible when a community commits to active transport. Together, participants cycled an impressive 136,967 km and logged more than 10,000 trips, preventing the release of over 8,091 kg of CO₂ emissions in just one month. 

The 2026 challenge is an opportunity to go even further. Whether you’re aiming to beat your personal best or simply swap a few short car trips for bike rides, every kilometre contributes to cleaner air, safer streets, and a more sustainable future. 

Events to keep you moving 

To keep the momentum going throughout February, the Lightfoot Initiative has curated a full calendar of events and activities in Queenstown. 

Highlights include: 

• Free coffee & kai pitstops – morning commuters can enjoy complimentary barista coffee and snacks at select locations. 
• Bike check & repair clinics – running throughout January at The Hub, offering free safety checks and simple repairs. 
• ‘Learn to fix your bike’ workshops – hands-on sessions teaching basic maintenance skills to keep riders confident and safe. 
• Popup surprises – fun, unexpected activities and rewards appearing across the district all month long. 
• The challenge officially launches on Sunday, 1 February 2026, at Altitude Brewery, a chance for riders to connect, celebrate, and kick off Bike Month together. 

Find the full calendar of events here

How to get involved 

Joining the challenge is simple:  Register at aotearoa.bike. Download the Love to Ride app. Track your rides by integrating Strava or Garmin for automatic logging. Encourage others, friends, whānau, and colleagues, to sign up and ride along.

About the Lightfoot Initiative 

The Lightfoot Initiative is a Queenstown Lakes charity dedicated to promoting active and sustainable transport. Their mission is to reduce carbon emissions, improve community wellbeing, and create a district where walking, cycling, and public transport are easy, accessible choices. 

QLDC is proud to support Lightfoot’s mahi through ongoing funding, recognising the organisation as a key partner in delivering the goals of the Climate and Biodiversity Plan (CBP).

Lightfoot’s programmes directly advance our Climate and Biodiversity Plan's priorities such as reducing transport emissions, and enabling healthier, low‑carbon communities.  

Get ready at the OneBike Hub

Before you hit the road, make sure your bike is safe and smooth. The OneBike Hub in Frankton is a community space where you can:  Tune up your bike with the help of volunteers.  Access the Bike Exchange Programme to find affordable refurbished bikes.  Learn maintenance tips and safe cycling practices.  It’s the perfect place to get your wheels turning before the challenge begins.

Wānaka and our wider communities, this challenge is yours too 

The Aotearoa Bike Challenge isn’t just for Queenstown, riders in Wānaka, Hāwea, Luggate, Makarora, Glenorchy, Kingston, Arrowtown and everywhere in between are a huge part of our district’s success. Every ride you log helps cut emissions and shows how strong our biking communities already are. 

With a new Wānaka school bike bus launching this year (details below), there are even more ways for tamariki and whānau to get involved. Whether it’s the school run, a lakeside cruise, a gravel mission, or a quick trip to the shops, your rides matter. Log them, share them, and help show what our whole district can achieve together.  

Plan your routes with QLDC’s Active Transport Map  

Not sure where to ride? The QLDC Active Transport Map highlights safe cycling and walking routes across the district. It’s a great tool for planning your school commute, weekend rides, or linking up with community hubs.

Find our active travel app here

Did you know? 

• The Wānaka Schools to Pool Active Travel Route now connects Holy Family Catholic School, Wānaka Primary School, and Mount Aspiring College directly to the Wānaka Recreation Centre. This 4.5 km shared pathway is perfect for walking, cycling, or scooting to school; a safe, sustainable alternative to the car. 
• This year, local Wānaka families are invited to participate in the WAO Aotearoa Bike Bus, a supervised Friday morning ride to school from Albert Town and Northlake to Holy Family Catholic School and Wānaka Primary School. The Bike Bus provides a safe, structured way for students to cycle together with an emphasis on road safety, bike confidence, and community connection. More information, FAQs, and registration details can be found here.
• The well‑used Frankton Track is closed until mid-Dec 2026 near Middleton Road through to the end of Park Street, while crews carry out essential water infrastructure upgrades. While the lakeside trail is temporarily unavailable, traffic management will be in place to maintain access for people travelling along the road corridor, ensuring riders (and walkers) can continue to move safely through the area during construction. Click here for more information and regular updates. 

Are you ride-ready? 

• Be visible: Wear bright clothing, use lights front and back, and add reflectors to your bike. 
• Be predictable: Ride in a straight line, signal turns clearly and avoid weaving between parked cars. 
• Check your bike: Regularly inspect brakes, tires, and chains. A quick “ABC check” (Air, Brakes, Chain) before each ride keeps you safe. 
• Follow the road rules: Cyclists must obey traffic lights, give way rules, and road signs just like drivers. 
• Share the road: Watch for car doors opening, pedestrians stepping out, and vehicles turning left across your path. 
• Ride defensively: Assume drivers may not see you. Position yourself where you’re visible and avoid blind spots. 
• Use safe routes: Plan your journey with the QLDC Active Transport Map to stick to cycle lanes and shared paths. 
• Gear up: Always wear a helmet, and consider gloves and glasses for comfort and protection