Focusing on non-urgent help, the ambassadors from all walks of life wear their blue shirts whenever they’re out riding on the trails and are on hand to help at any time.  

Since it began a year ago four intakes of adults, rangatahi and tamariki, on board through a COBA school-based programme, have undergone training, alongside staff from cycle tour companies. 

Alexandra-based Ellena completed her course through school and is now one of the youngest fully-fledged ambassadors.

She joined to equip herself with bike safety and biking first aid skills that she could put into practice if need be. 

“I signed up because I wanted more knowledge on bike safety. Some of my friends signed up and they enjoyed it very much.” 

Armed with her biking first aid kit and bike tools, she is often out riding the trails around central Otago. 

 “I like Alexandra. It has so many different trails to ride for different levels, like for beginners you can ride the Otago Central Rail Trail Great Ride, and for advanced you can ride Drainpipe.” 

Ellena began riding as a youngster when she lived in Tauranga. 

“I started biking when I was little. Most weekends from the age of eight to 11 we’d go to Whakarewarewa mountain bike park, also known as the Redwoods, in Rotorua. 

“What I love about biking is being in nature where you can clear your mind and enjoy the serenity of nature.”  

To date, Ellena hasn’t needed to put her new-found skills to use on the trails, but she has used the tools to help fix family and friends’ bikes. 

“Whenever I bike, I always carry my biking first aid kit and bike tools in case I have to use them. It is better to be prepared than not being able to help.” 

Examples of cyclists needing help include fatigue, mechanical issues or minor injuries that don’t need urgent medical care, says programme director Chris Foggin (pictured below). 

“It’s a judgement call. However, if in doubt, like a damaged helmet indicating a possible head injury, bike ambassadors are trained to call 111.”  

Ellena encourages others to get involved as ambassadors if they use their bikes or regularly go out onto trails. 

“All of the skills you learn are very helpful. Even if you don’t ever have to use them, you must know that you can whip those skills out whenever needed." 

The COBA programme Ellena is part of is run in conjunction with Coastguard Clyde and Central Otago District Council, and it is helping to make the region’s extensive trail network safer and more enjoyable for everyone. 

It’s an idea Chris came up with after returning home from a mountain biking conference in Scotland 10 years ago. 

“I was inspired to develop a pool of knowledgeable local riders, from all demographics, who could assist others on our trails, report issues, and deal with incidents such as trail-side bike repairs or administer first aid when required. 

“I had seen how the Scots used ‘bike patrols’ on their network of trails and in their bike parks. All volunteers were well trained, all passionate bike riders, and easily identifiable with their branded ride shirts.” 

It’s taken time for Chris’ vision to come to fruition, but now it’s full steam ahead. Two more courses are scheduled, alongside one with a group of rangatahi and another with central Otago’s Cycling Without Age.  

“The programme is growing, which will ultimately help enhance safety on our trail and road network and ensure riders enjoy a great experience on our trails.” 

Read more about the Great Rides and download a map of the whole network here