Christchurch Crowned Most Bicycle-Friendly City in Asia/Oceania

Christchurch has been recognized as the most bicycle-friendly city in the Asia and Oceania region, according to the latest **Copenhagenize Index**, which evaluates how cities worldwide enhance cycling safety and convenience. This biennial report highlights Christchurch’s commitment to creating a cycling-friendly environment, placing it 38th globally.

The index ranked **Taipei** second and **Wellington** third in the region, followed by **Fukuoka** and **Seoul**. The results underscore Christchurch’s significant progress in promoting cycling as a mainstream mode of transport.

Jacob Bradbury, the transport manager for the Christchurch City Council, expressed pride in the city’s achievement, stating it reflects the substantial efforts made to foster a cyclist-friendly culture. “We are pleased to see the investment in building cycleways and education in recent years is paying off,” he noted.

Statistics support this claim, with cycle usage across the city increasing by over **40%** in the past eight years. Surveys indicate a shift in public perception: in 2013, only **38%** of residents believed Christchurch was a bicycle-friendly city. By **2025**, this figure is expected to rise to **67%**.

Additionally, the number of female cyclists has also seen a notable increase. Eight years ago, **33%** of cyclists in the inner city were women; this is projected to grow to **41%** by 2025. These figures align with findings from the **2024 national Quality of Life survey**, which ranked Christchurch highest among New Zealand’s major cities for perceived safety on its bike network.

Bradbury emphasized the importance of encouraging young people to view cycling positively. 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. Students learn not only how to ride safely but also the numerous benefits of cycling.

Looking ahead, Christchurch continues to invest in its **Major Cycleway network**, with new projects scheduled to begin in early **2026**. This ongoing development aims to further enhance cycling infrastructure and solidify the city’s reputation as a bicycle-friendly destination.

Wellington, the only other New Zealand city featured in the Copenhagenize Index, ranked third in Asia and Oceania, occupying the **47th** spot globally.

As cities across the globe strive to improve their cycling facilities, Christchurch’s recognition serves as a testament to the effective strategies implemented to promote sustainable transportation and encourage healthier lifestyles among its residents.