‘Wheel life’ for cycling residents
Whether they’re looking at a trip for the views, the hills, or a café at the end… the cycling residents at Arvida retirement village in Te Awamutu (Whai Mauri Ora) know they can go the distance.
The large group of enthusiastic cyclists regularly go for group rides or solo expeditions around the region, supporting local business. They also trade hellos and hot drinks between rides at local cafes too. It’s a social scene on wheels and no one misses out on the camaraderie - especially Derek Fox, a cyclist of fifty years. “I had no idea so many residents were into cycling before I moved in. I’d resisted buying an e-bike until I came into the village and then I didn’t want to be that guy at the back of the group saying, ‘wait for me’. I’ve really enjoyed it,” Derek admits.
Whether it’s a trip from Te Awamutu to Cambridge or Te Awamutu to Pirongia, the cyclists always remember their high viz and safety helmets at all times.
“There’s always a rule in cycling. You go out together and you come home together,” Derek says about making sure everyone feels included no matter how fast they cycle. Marie Van Den Berg has been cycling for twenty years and has mastered the art of dodging morning chaos and catching the best sunlight. “I prefer waiting to go for a ride after the school traffic has gone. So, after 9am onwards.”
According to Marie, cycling keeps the wheels spinning when it comes to health benefits too: “Cycling is good for the cardiovascular system, and it keeps the lungs working. It’s great exercise.” Both residents agree you can talk to others while biking, something some people struggle with when running. The cycling bug is catching in the retirement community for over-65s too. “A couple we know are moving into our village in two weeks and my daughter has a bet on with them that they’ll have bikes within twelve months,” Derek says, grinning.
At Arvida retirement village in Te Awamutu, the road is always open, and the only thing left behind is the idea of slowing down in retirement.
