A researcher into the benefits of active transport says the Christchurch rebuild offers a great opportunity to remove the biggest barrier to people taking up cycling.
A Transport Agency report in 2007 found that every cyclist saves the economy $2.14 every kilometre they bike, because they reduce health and other costs.
A professor of geography at Canterbury University says his research shows the main reason people do not cycle is because they don't feel safe.
Simon Kingham belives the greater the physical separation from motor vehicles, the more people would cycle.
With Christchurch about to repair and renovate virtually every road following strong earthquakes, Professor Kingham says now is the time to introduce proper cycling infrastructure.
