Christchurch Crowned Asia/Oceania’s Most Bicycle-Friendly City

Christchurch has been named the most bicycle-friendly city in Asia and Oceania, according to the latest findings from the Copenhagenize Index. This index, published every two years, evaluates cities globally based on their efforts to make cycling safer and more accessible. Christchurch’s ranking reflects a significant commitment to improving cycling infrastructure and promoting bicycle use among residents.

In the regional ranking, Taipei secured the second position, while Wellington claimed third place. Following them were Fukuoka and Seoul, ranked fourth and fifth, respectively. On the global scale, Christchurch stands at 38th, a notable achievement that highlights its advancements in cycling initiatives.

Planning and Delivery Transport Manager for Christchurch City Council, Jacob Bradbury, expressed pride in the city’s accomplishment. He noted that this recognition underscores the extensive efforts made to foster a cyclist-friendly environment. “We are pleased to see the investment that has been made in building cycleways and education in recent years is paying off,” he stated.

Bradbury highlighted that cycle usage across Christchurch has surged by over 40% in the past eight years. According to ongoing resident surveys, the perception of Christchurch as a bicycle-friendly city has changed dramatically; only 38% of residents felt this way a decade ago, while projections indicate that this figure will rise to 67% by 2025. Additionally, there has been a notable increase in female cyclists, with their share of inner-city cycling rising from 33% to 41% within the same timeframe.

The results align with the 2024 National Quality of Life Survey, which ranked Christchurch highest among New Zealand’s major cities in terms of safety perceptions on local bike networks. Bradbury emphasized the importance of fostering a bicycle-friendly reputation among younger residents. The city’s Cycle Safe Programme is designed to teach cycling skills in schools and is regarded as one of the best in the country. Through this programme, students learn about the benefits of cycling, gaining confidence and road awareness.

Investment in the city’s Major Cycleway network is set to continue, with plans for further developments commencing in early 2026. These ongoing investments are anticipated to enhance cycling infrastructure and promote increased usage, reinforcing Christchurch’s position as a leader in bicycle-friendly initiatives both locally and internationally.

Wellington is the only other New Zealand city featured in the Copenhagenize Index, ranking third in Asia and Oceania and 47th globally. The index’s rankings for bicycle-friendly cities across different regions reveal the global landscape of cycling initiatives.

In North America, Montreal leads at 15th in the world, while Utrecht, Copenhagen, and Ghent dominate the European rankings. In Latin America, Niteroi stands out at 43rd, while Quelimane leads Africa at 83rd.

As Christchurch celebrates its recognition, the city continues to focus on enhancing cycling infrastructure and promoting a culture of cycling among its residents. The ongoing improvements are seen as crucial in maintaining and elevating Christchurch’s status as a bicycle-friendly city for the future.