Biking and belonging: understanding the role of socio-cultural influences on cycling in Auckland

This research investigates the influence of socio-cultural factors and sociodemographic characteristics on bicycle use in Auckland, a multi-cultural city in New Zealand. To identify the strength of socio-cultural factors compared to other various social psychological determinants, a conceptual model is proposed encompassing Socio-cultural influences, Price Value, Perceived Safety and Security, Perceived accessibility, Information and Engagement, and Bicycle use. Using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), the effects of these determinants on bicycle use were assessed. The moderating effects of sociodemographic factors including age, gender, ethnicity, and income level on the influence of these determinants on bicycle usage were also examined. Results suggest that socio-cultural influences have the strongest impact on bicycle use in Auckland, showing that those who ride a bicycle more than others are influenced more by family, friends, community, and culture to use a bicycle. Additionally, sociodemographic characteristics only moderate the influence of socio-cultural factors on bicycle usage indicating that socio-cultural factors influence bicycle use differently across various population groups. The strong influence of socio-cultural factors and the moderating role of sociodemographic characteristics on bicycle use in Auckland suggest that social and cultural dynamics are critical in shaping individual decisions to cycle, even more than practical considerations such as price, infrastructure, engagement, or safety. Therefore, transport strategies targeting specific population groups and relevant socio-cultural barriers can enhance bicycle use and promote equity in cycling. Suggested transport strategies include integrating socio-cultural initiatives with local government’s transport policies such as education, community engagement, and awareness campaigns, implementing effective monitoring and evaluation initiatives followed by longitudinal investigations, and incorporating cultural representation in cycling initiatives. These short-term, mid-term, and long-term strategies can guide the development of more inclusive and effective transport strategies to enhance cycling participation across diverse demographic groups and achieve broader societal benefits.