Cycle network and route planning guide - NZ Transport Agency

4.10 Watercourses
Routes adjacent to watercourses are often
picturesque, relatively flat and therefore
well used as recreational cycling routes,
particularly in urban areas.
If they provide access to central business
districts, they are also popular commuter
routes. In this case, care should be taken
to avoid meandering, indirect paths. They
tend to also attract pedestrians, so conflicts
between pedestrians and cyclists need to
be considered.
Floating cycle path, Yarra, Melbourne, Australia. (Photo: Tim Hughes)
4.11 Foreshores
Paths along the coastal foreshores of cities
and next to lakes and harbours are often
popular for leisure cycling and can offer
unsurpassed riding experiences. Perth and
Melbourne in Australia offer extensive
foreshore routes. However, establishing
foreshore routes often generates significant
controversy.
Generally, foreshore paths are located
to provide attractive views for cyclists.
However, strong coastal winds may dictate
situating them behind dunes.
Foreshore cycle path, Oriental Parade, Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo: Juliet Rama)
4.12 Reserves
and parks
Reserves and parks are popular cycling
environments.
Ideally, these cycling routes need to
be several kilometres long to provide
a meaningful cycling experience.
Alternatively, important links can be
established through reserves and parks,
which enhance the directness or coherence
of a backstreet cycle route.
Shared path through Jellie Park, Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo: Tim Hughes)
28