Waitaki Mayor Alex Familton wants Oamaru citizens to join him in a massive group cycling excursion - hopefully by more cyclists than from any other New Zealand town or city.
Pedallers of all ages are being urged to join Mr Familton on February 20 at 6pm for a 5km cycling ride as part of Bike Wise month.
The Mayoral Challenge gives New Zealand cities and towns the chance to vie for getting the most people out for a bike ride with their mayor.
One point is earned for each participating cyclist, with extra points for celebrities, business leaders, councillors and journalists.
Jan Keown, of the Heart Foundation's North Otago Branch, said the challenge was a great opportunity to have fun and be active while showing support for the Waitaki region.
Last year, 200 cyclists took part across all the events, but this year it was hoped Oamaru could do better.
"We want New Zealand to know that Waitaki is a cycle-madness force to be reckoned with," she said.
Cyclists can bike the route at their own pace and are encouraged to simply enjoy the ride and the atmosphere.
Other events have been organised across the Waitaki district to entice people out of their cars, off their couches, and on to their bikes instead.
Sport Waitaki spokesperson Grahame Johnston said people were looking for ways to become more active, save money and lessen their impact on the environment.
Cycling was the perfect way to do all three.
Events have a heavy emphasis on fun and have been designed to suit anybody.
Cycling activities organised in the Waitaki for the month include:
Go by Bike Day on Thursday, February 12, at the Feel Good Thursday Heart Foundation event (in the Oamaru Harbour-Tyne Street area).
Mayoral Challenge, in the Cruise the Coast Event on February 20 (also in the Oamaru Harbour-Tyne Street area).
Duntroon Get On Your Bike Event (in the Elephant Rocks-Tokarahi-Duntroon area) on March 1, the last event of the Lion Foundation Summer Starter Series and Bike Wise month.
