Jen Riley WBOP Recreation Advisor Sport Bay of Plenty

They say you can't buy happiness ... but you can buy a bicycle and that's pretty close!

We are so lucky in Tauranga that we have a fantastic climate for cycling and a number of great trails that we can use to get around the city. This is only going to get better once the Omokoroa to Tauranga cycleway is completed.

Cycling is not only great for your fitness and health but it's something the whole family can do and a perfect way to get to work or school. It allows you to enjoy the outdoors, it's good for the environment, you can stop and take in your surroundings and most importantly it's fun!

Whether you are into racing on the road, just cruising on your mountain bike or are completely new to cycling there are plenty of cycle groups you can join around the Western Bay of Plenty, all of which are listed in the Play in the Bay Activity Directory.

Tracy who joined the Wednesday evening mountain bike group back in March has been hooked on mountain biking ever since, saying, 'It still amazes me how much fun there is to be had on a bike.”

The group Tracy joined was one of four recreational cycle groups that started up in Tauranga earlier in the year that are aimed at those keen to explore Tauranga by bike, meet other cyclists and have fun.

Soon after joining the group Tracy emailed through saying how much she was enjoying it and it really sums up the groups are all about, 'I'm learning where all the bike trails are, improving my riding skills, getting the heart rate up with a few hills and really enjoying night riding! The group are such a friendly, helpful bunch of people, and they push me just enough past my comfort zone and fitness level, which is absolutely brilliant."

For more information about cycling options around the Western Bay of Plenty pick up a copy of the Activity Directory and get on your bike!