03/10/2026
COBA - Community of Bike Ambassador Programme - Expression of Interest (Cohort 9) – 2026
Expressions of interest are sought from community members (any age group or demographic), group leaders, social services workers, teachers or teacher aids who would like to become involved with our award-winning volunteer COBA – Community of Bike Ambassador programme, assisting others to enjoy cycling in our fabulous region.
The COBA - Community Of Bike Ambassadors programme is a community-based project designed to increase safety and enhance the user experience around our cycle trails and road network. Additionally supporting cyclists in our towns & urban areas where cycle transport connections are being developed.
An ever-increasing number of people are sharing a common interest i.e. cycling and specifically recreational riding, and there is an exponential growth in the use of the trail and road network here in Central Otago.
With the impending opening of the Kawarau & Roxburgh Gorge trails adding even more world class riding options, we are expecting another surge of visitors to the region.
The programme is normally delivered over 3 days - 2 days of COBA skills input and a further day of Peak Safety Ltd Outdoor First Aid skills.
The COBA – Community of Bike Ambassadors programme has received awesome feedback and has been formally recognised as an extra layer of safety on our trail network. The programme has been featured in the ODT, The News, Central App and nationally on the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand website, and the Daily Encourager media.
In 2026 we were awarded a Merit in the Recreation Aotearoa - Te Whai Oranga Outdoors Awards in the Outstanding Programme category.
A Community Bike Ambassador is someone who lives in the community, loves to ride bikes and uses the local trail network and connecting road infrastructure regularly.
We have already delivered 8 cohorts with around 90 adults and 110 rangatahi through the programme. This includes teachers, keen local riders, Cycling Without Age – Central Otago & Wanaka pilots, cycle tour operators’ and physical activity leaders in schools.
Our aim is to have a critical mass of knowledgeable locals who are out and about riding in our region, and may wish to assist others in strife.
Community Bike Ambassadors are an informal way of engaging with other cyclists and assisting others where appropriate, or potentially leading cycling groups off-road or in on-road settings, or assisting in a school’s programme.
We have also signed a MOU with Clyde Coastguard in relation to assisting people with non-urgent assists off out waterside trails.
Here are some links showcasing the programme:
https://www.nzcycletrail.com/inspire-your-ride/volunteers-help-keep-riders-safe-on-central-otago-trails/
https://www.nzcycletrail.com/inspire-your-ride/rangatahi-help-keep-riders-safe-on-central-otago-trails?acceptCookies=6920b81a5f893
https://www.codc.govt.nz/your-council/news?item=id:2rq9mfhq317q9scd2l0n
https://www.trailhub.co.nz/news-and-events/central-otago-bike-ambassador-training/
https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/central-otago/national-recognition-programme
https://www.facebook.com/100088230506296/posts/604993189118359/?
Typical activities of Bike Ambassadors may include:
* Encouraging and role modelling safe cycling and expected riding etiquette on our trails and roads.
* Creating and nurturing a good cycling culture.
* Occasional first aid or trail-side bike repairs.
* Leading groups.
* Advising, offering guidance, or assisting to educate other network users.
* Reporting issues to the relevant authority via the correct protocols.
* Making decisions when required for the benefit of a group or individual rider or other trail users.
* Helping support people to develop their skills and confidence.
* Route planning and preparation.
The programme is based on a series of modules called COGS and we build a set of GEARS from these COGS to suit the individual or groups needs.
Typical course content can include:
* Pre-Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR Q) + Docs.
* Advice on clothing – Helmet, Shoes, etc.
* Bike Parts, Bike Checks & Bike Fit (ABC or M Checks).
* Set Up of Cycle – how an e-bike works – weight, speed, handling.
* Warm Ups – getting people started.
* Pre-ride Assessment – Control & Balance.
* Fitness, Nutrition & Hydration (optional).
* NZTA Road Code for Cyclists.
* COBA Safety Gear.
* Trail Etiquette – Good Practice Guidelines.
* Fundamental Bike Handling Skills.
* NZTA BikeReady Content - Grade 1&2. (Typically schools version)
* Basic Trail/roadside repairs. ‘Get you home techniques’.
* NZTA Grade 2 Practical incl. Moving/Leading Groups.
* Incident and/or Conflict Management (Optional).
* Heuristics – Human Factors.
* Input from Clyde Coastguard re ‘non-urgent assists’.
PLEASE NOTE:
Places are limited to 18 for each cohort.
There are no upfront costs for successful applicants, and there will be significant investment in you, therefore you will need to engage fully with the programme.
You will be fully supported through the programme by experienced cycling industry educators.
You will need:
* Reasonable riding skills (you do NOT need to be an elite rider).
* A love of cycling.
* Your own bike (in excellent working condition), helmet and riding gear.
* Great communication & people skills.
* Be part of the local community and love cycling in our region.
* [A coaching or guiding qualification/experience would be nice but is NOT essential].
Please send an expression of interest, in the form of a letter/email, outlining the following:
* Full name and contact info including cell no. & email.
* Your reasons for wanting to be involved with the COBA programme.
* Your cycling background and your favourite style of riding.
* Where you live?
* Any relevant leadership or coaching experience.
* How often you ride the local trail/road network.
* Any other relevant experience you may have.
Please send your EOI to Chris Foggin, COBA Programme Director, Up-Cycles Charitable Trust
E: [email protected]
Or DM for further info.
Ngā mihi nui
