Upcycles Charitable Trust is marking a milestone year, gaining national recognition, ongoing funding and delivering its largest-ever impact for local riders and families.

Its new home ‘The BikeHive’ on the old Wastebusters site, was secured by a ‘right to occupy’ agreement with the Central Otago District Council earlier this year.

Continuing its mission to close the gap between Central Otago’s cycle tourism success and the barriers many locals face in owning or riding a bike, has been the goal of the trust from day one.

Founder Chris Foggin established Upcycles to support people who experience financial or health challenges and need help accessing bikes, skills or confidence.

The trust’s flagship programme, COBA – Community Of Bike Ambassadors – was named a finalist for the second year running in the national Recreation Aotearoa Awards. 

Soon after, Upcycles secured a major five-year philanthropic funding commitment through the Gift Trust, providing long-term stability and supporting COBA’s expansion.

Peak Safety Ltd outdoor first aid training for the 2025 cohort of COBA - Community Of Bike Ambassadors, from Clyde School and The Terrace School, Alexandra

The COBA programme has grown rapidly across schools and community groups. 

Chris said this year, 60 adults and 100 young people completed training, with the youth programme now active in six schools. 

COBA also delivered specialised sessions for Cycling Without Age volunteers, who assist older or less mobile residents on e-trishaws.

Bike gifting remains at the heart of the trust’s work. Upcyles has now given 162 refurbished bikes to young people and adults, including adapted bikes for neuro-diverse riders and those with disabilities. 

Around 60 donated bikes were restored in 2025, and the trust continued purchasing ex-rental bikes to pass on to families needing support.

Strengthening safety and wellbeing partnerships has been another major step. 

Upcycles was the first organisation in the region to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Clyde Coastguard in relation to non-urgent assists on waterside trails.

For those wanting to learn how to fix their bikes, Upcycles supports Central Otago REAP’s Repair Cafes, where volunteers teach essential skills.

Businesses also support Upcycles, including the AA Southern Lakes Council providing 300 bike light sets and Rothbury Insurance Brokers funding insurance costs and COBA uniforms.

Chris said its success reflects thousands of volunteer hours and growing collaboration with schools, agencies and local groups. 

He plans to continue expanding its up-cycling, up-skilling and community support initiatives in 2026.