Around the world, a curious and delightful trend has been making waves: people transforming their bicycles into fish. Yes – fish. From shimmering scales made of sequins to flowing tails crafted from recycled fabric, these aquatic-inspired bikes are turning heads and sparking conversations wherever they go. What began as a quirky art project or parade feature has evolved into a vibrant subculture that blends creativity, sustainability, and a touch of whimsy.
The appeal of fish bikes lies in their joyful absurdity. They challenge the utilitarian image of the bicycle. Instead it becomes a moving sculpture, a statement piece, or even a character in a street performance. Some fish bikes are sleek and minimalist, evoking the streamlined elegance of a tuna or haku (kingfish). Others are flamboyant and fantastical, with bulging eyes, glittering fins, and tails that flutter in the breeze. The variety is as vast as the ocean itself.
But beyond aesthetics, fish bikes often carry deeper symbolism. For many creators, the fish represents fluidity, freedom, and a connection to nature. Fish bikes can be a nod to our local marine life or a playful protest against car-centric infrastructure. They also offer a way to reclaim public space with colour and humour – an antidote to grey streets and congested traffic.
Make a fish bike in Auckland
This Sunday, the movement gets a local boost with the Biketober Fish Bike Workshop in Kohimarama. It’s a hands-on event where anyone aged 12+ can turn their trusty two-wheeler into a fabulous finned creature. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just fish-curious, the workshop promises a fun, inclusive space to cut out, assemble, fit and decorate a fish head for your bike. Made from recycled cardboard and foam, the heads are custom made for each bike. They can be quickly fitted and removed.
The workshop is more than just a crafting session – it’s a celebration of community and imagination. You can bring old fabric and shiny odds and ends, to repurpose into aquatic adornments. There will be examples on display. Roger Lacey of Bike Eastern Suburbs has organised the workshop. He hopes the event will not only spark creativity, but also encourage more people to embrace cycling as a joyful, expressive mode of transport.
Fish bikes are a reminder that cycling doesn’t have to be all lycra and carbon fibre. It can be playful, personal, and even a little surreal. In a world where commuting can be a chore, riding a fish bike injects wonder into the everyday. It invites smiles from strangers, questions from kids, and maybe even a few bells rung in admiration.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of pedaling a pufferfish or coasting on a clownfish, this Sunday’s Fish Bike Workshop is your chance to dive in. Bring your bike, your imagination, and a sense of adventure – you might just ride away with something magical.
Register for the Biketober Fish Bike Workshop. Sunhill Garden Centre Markets, St Johns Rd, Sunday 19 October 2025 from 9.00 to 12.00.
