February 17th marked the start of the Tour Aotearoa Brevet 2020. Cycling guidebook writer Jonathan Kennett carefully designed this self-supported, amazing 3,000 km route from Cape Reinga to Bluff, which takes place every two years. Jon’s journey is more than just an adventure. It’s a mission focused on cycling & recycling NZ to highlight sustainable travel and waste reduction.
The Tour Aotearoa is known as one of the world’s greatest bike riding routes and is high up on the bucket list for many. Jonathan specifically created this route using a combination of stunning cycle tracks, paths, and trails to highlight New Zealand’s most iconic cultural and natural sites.
Jon, director and founder of Easi Recycling and Agecko UK Ltd, is keen to participate. When we asked Jon what prompted him to undertake such a challenging (albeit beautiful) ride, he told us: “he takes every opportunity to see more of the beautiful country that he lives in and that the Tour Aotearoa ticked many boxes.”
However, his motives run deeper – he’s also on a mission. Jon says: “Riding is an environmentally-friendly way to see the natural beauty New Zealand has to offer. Incorporated in the ride, I aim to raise awareness of the waste that we produce and throw away. My goal is to encourage people to look at the alternative options to the choices we make when buying products, not just in our country but globally.”
However, the ride itself is no easy feat. Although the Tour Aotearoa is not a race, it follows a set course that must be completed within 30 days. Outside support is not allowed, as tour riders are encouraged to support each other. Riders receive no help from family and friends along the way. Participants must be skilled, experienced and competent riders who can remain self-sufficient for most of the trip.
Waste management during the Tour Aotearoa
Of course, our next question was how does Jon plan to manage waste on the journey? Well, he plans to strap one of the smallest Longopac recycling baskets to the back of his bike! His goal is to collect an average of one piece of waste every kilometre. That will be 3,000 items during the duration of the course. That’s dedication right there folks!
To share their experiences, riders must take snapshots at certain locations along the way. This encourages riders to stop and enjoy the scenic journey. But, Jon plans to take things a step further. He will also be shooting some videos about what he noticed each day in relation to waste and discuss alternatives on how we could reduce, re-use of recycle the waste.
Jon also plans to see customers on his way through NZ and anybody else who would like to talk rubbish.
Watch this space! Keep checking back for more great content to come over the next four weeks. We promise to include photos of beautiful NZ, as well as updates on how Jon’s ride is progressing. (Check out Facebook for updates)
Conquering the length of New Zealand will no doubt create memories that will last a lifetime. Jon will also have helped clean up NZ’s countryside along the way!
