Cycle counters are in place to track the use of the cycleways across Ōtautahi Christchurch. Currently, 31 cycle counters across Christchurch’s cycle network are included in our tracking programme.
As cycle counters only track cycle trips at the location of the counter, all the other cycle trips people make across the entire city are not counted. The counters provide a snapshot of cycle use.
We started cycle counts back in 2016 with eight counters. As new cycleways are built, new counters are installed.
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 COVID-19 lockdowns 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.