A team of 24 people, the "Cycling the Earth" – New Zealand 4+2 Journey, will set off this week for New Zealand in Oceania, embarking on the first organized group cycling trip by Chinese people in New Zealand.
The term "4+2" refers to four-wheeled cars and two-wheeled bicycles, meaning using a car to carry bicycles to destinations for fitness-oriented cycling trips. This method is common in developed countries and regions such as Europe and America, and has been rapidly embraced in China in recent years. Three months before departure, the team underwent seven cycling experience training sessions of varying difficulty and length, along with two specialized training sessions. The oldest member is 60 years old, the youngest 35, and 15 of them have over two years of experience in cycling and outdoor sports.
It is reported that New Zealand is a world-renowned destination for cycling tourism and a highly developed country in cycling culture. By the end of 2012, the New Zealand government had built 22 national cycling trails. The route of the "Cycling the Earth" New Zealand journey includes the St James Cycleway and the "Tour de Mont" cycling trail, both classic and challenging.
According to the introduction, "Cycling the Earth" is a program developed and implemented by the Beijing Youth Daily Group for specific outdoor and cycling enthusiasts. In 2013, the Beijing Youth Daily Group organized participants to take part in the "Ride Around Taiwan Island," the "Yanqing International Cycling Festival," and a series of cycling-focused activities, aiming to allow capable Chinese people to experience the beauty of the earth, modern civilization, friendship, and family bonds. The New Zealand 4+2 journey is the final event launched by the "Cycling the Earth" project in 2013. In 2014, the "Cycling the Earth" project will also feature classic events such as the "Ride Around Taiwan Island" and the "Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom Journey."