What is your first memory on a bike?
A 3-year-old me with a black and yellow plastic trike with red handle bars and a hill that looked like College Hill Road, blonde hair and legs in the air.
What type of bike do you ride?
I cover most bases with this one, I have a small cargo ebike, a mountain bike and a road bicycle.
Cycling for transport, recreation, community; or all three?
A combination of all three.
Where is your favourite place to ride in Auckland? Or in the world?
In Auckland, Riverhead Forest, or Mission bay to Wynyard Quarter along the waterfront.
Cycling across China and Spain are on my bucket list.
What attracted you to working for Bike Auckland?
A passion for bikes and cycling. Hearing and seeing Bike Auckland’s initiatives and what they’ve achieved in building a safe and vibrant cycling community.
You’ve been in the cycling industry for over 17 years. Tell us about the experience that you will bring to Bike Auckland.
I’ve worked across a broad range of roles, from mechanic and manager, to event support and distribution, so my skillset these days covers all aspects of the biking world.
Today, as well as working for Bike Auckland, I’m the owner of Mobile Bicycle Services, which brings professional bicycle services and repair direct to customers all over Auckland.
What do you think some of the biggest challenges for cycling in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland are?
Infrastructure gaps. These limit safe commuting options in some areas. Many lower income or outer suburban communities remain underserved still despite potentially high demand.
Fears around cycling. Aucklanders often fear traffic and driver aggression. It’s a deterrent to cycling. Even experienced cyclists can feel unsafe on the roads, particularly where there are no separated cycleways.
What suggestions do you have for people who want to really get into cycling like you have?
1. Ride Regularly
Don’t just ride fitness, ride to the shops, to work, to see friends. The more you make the bike your main transport tool, the more it becomes second nature. You’ll quickly learn what gear you like, what routes work.
2. Learn Basic Bike Maintenance
Knowing how to fix a flat, lube a chain and having an understanding of fundamentals can be empowering and can save time and money. Start with YouTube tutorials or attend a local bike workshop like Tumeke Cycle Space or Eco Matters. Over time, this knowledge grows into confidence and potentially a career path if you love the hands-on side.
3. Embrace All Conditions
Don’t wait for perfect weather. Riding in the rain, wind, or cold makes you a more adaptable, resilient rider. Just invest in good waterproofs and lights, and you’ll soon see that bad weather isn’t a barrier, it’s just another layer.
4. Get Involved in the Local Cycling Community
Join local group rides, workshops, or community bike events. It’s the fastest way to meet other riders, discover new routes, and share skills. Many cities (like Auckland) have community bike hubs or advocacy groups you can plug into.
5. Try Different Types of Riding
Explore mountain biking, gravel, road, commuting, and even e-bikes. Each teaches different skills and gives you a better understanding of what kind of cycling you love most.
6. Consider Volunteering or Working in the Industry
Volunteering at events, fixing bikes for a charity, or helping out at a local bike shop are great ways to build connections and experience. Many people working in cycling today started this way including mechanics, advocates, and business owners.
And to end, a question that’s not about biking: crunchy or smooth peanut butter?
Definitely crunchy! This is the way!
