Cycle counters are in place to track the use of the cycleways across Ōtautahi Christchurch. Currently, 35 cycle counters across Christchurch’s cycle network are included in our tracking programme.
The cycle counters track cycle trips at the specific location of each counter and thus provide a sample of cycle trips people make across the entire city. The counters collectively provide a large quantity of data to show the level of cycling over time.
The installation of automated cycle counters started in 2016, with eight counters. Additional counters have been installed alongside the expanded cycleway network.
To understand how cycle counts are tracking over time, we're calculating the percentage change depending on how much cycle counts increased or decreased each day, compared to the same day last year. For example, we compare how many cycle trips were made on 23 March 2024 compared to 23 March 2023.
Fluctuations occur seasonally and over school holidays. You’ll notice during the COVID-19 lockdowns that cycle counts peaked when families were out biking with fewer cars on the road, although with many businesses closed, the commuting routes had fewer cyclists.
We maintain the data to the best of our ability, however, counters may go offline from time to time.
If you would like the raw cycle count data, visit SmartView(external link), or if you have any questions, email monitor@ccc.govt.nz.