Bike Auckland held its AGM on Sunday 16th November at Covert Theatre in Ponsonby. Thanks to the large turn-out of members and supporters who joined us for the day.
Members re-elected the existing board members with one change. We welcome Donna Wynd to the role of Co-Chair, working alongside our incumbent Chair Karen Hormann. Donna was previously a co-opted board member.
The AGM presentations highlighted and acknowledged the work of our amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to submit on and push infrastructure projects along.
Presentations
Board Chair Karen Hormann spoke of the political headwinds we are facing with funding streams drying up and the ideology of the current government making our streets less safe for everyone. She highlighted how evidence about safer streets and increasing speed limits, as well as the benefits of active transport are being consistently ignored.
While the financial reports by Treasurer Juan Espinosa reflected the loss of funding over the last financial year, he also noted that Bike Valet revenue is increasing, and Bike Auckland membership is also growing.
Bike Auckland Infrastructure Team member Carol Green shared the history of the Point Chevalier and Meola Road project. This presentation highlighted just how long it takes to get projects over the line (18 years in this case). It clearly illustrated the improved urban landscape that comes with bike lanes and safe streets. (Carol is also the creative genius behind Bike Auckland’s fabulous illustrations.)
Roger Lacey of Bike Eastern Suburbs shared the Love Your Path initiative. His presentation inspired those present to get their communities involved in path clean-ups and planting.
Sue Cardwell, our Communications Manager, presented the results of the strategy session held in August. She shared how Bike Auckland is acting on the member input received at the session. This includes some small updates to the wording on Bike Auckland’s Pathway to Change strategy on a page. The latest Pathway to Change is now on our website.
Moving on to Bike Auckland’s communication channels, Sue covered the success factors in our Biketober campaign and how Bike Auckland’s social media audience has grown. She also pointed out that social media thrives on conflict. Algorithms direct social media posts towards people who may react negatively towards Bike Auckland posts. She highlighted the value of supporters liking or making positive comments on posts. This can help demonstrate the support for biking to readers.
In summary
As always, it was a wonderful opportunity for our members, volunteers and supporters to get together, reflect on the year that was, and gear up for lots more biking activities in 2026.
If you’re not a Bike Auckland member, please join us (it’s very affordable, starting at $1 per month). Your support helps us advocate for a better region on wheels, for everyone who bikes, and all those who would love to give it a go.
