“Bikelash”: A political fault line across Auckland neighbourhoods

Heightened tensions between cyclists and motorists are dividing communities across Auckland as the city evolves to meet growing climate and lifestyle demands.

The divisive dialogue, labelled ‘bikelash’, was described as a “political fault line” during a public meeting at the Gribblehirst Community Hub.

The event was hosted by several community groups aiming to create a platform for open and honest discussion around cycling. 

A panel of several speakers from the Auckland Council and Auckland Transport was moderated by Matt Fordham of Bike Pt. Chev.

Fordham voiced concerns that a breakdown in conversation could negatively affect all involved.

“This divisiveness might be slowing down progress [with transport infrastructure], ” he said.

Auckland Council considers cycling a vital element of its climate emissions targets, however the possible price tag of $2b for infrastructure made heated headlines last year .

Panel member councillor Julie Fairey told the meeting many people’s first thoughts are that the council is lying about its intentions, which makes it hard to have open conversations with those affected.

"A lot of trust in our institutions, our government agencies and our politicians has been undermined over generations now.”

There was a unanimous plea among those in attendance for better dialogue and an understanding that people have real fears around change in their communities.

Head of Cycling at Auckland Transport Adrian Lord emphasised the need for compromise on both sides as well as more dialogue.

He also stressed the need for better strategy around trialing proposed changes so people have a chance to see them in action.

“Sometimes we assume that what the problem on the face of it is, is actually the cause [of the opposition] when sometimes there is a different root cause.”

Councillor John Watson urged AT to be the catalyst for these conversations, saying it was urgently needed as plans and developments incited whole communities.

Watson said that often opposition isn't just from stereotypical motorists but also cyclists concerned with implementation, and that it’s “just about bringing people together”.