Sharrow Road Marking
The ‘Sharrow’ marking resembles a standard cycle symbol supplemented with two chevron arrow markings. The distinctive stencil-style road marking is used overseas and around NZ to improve cyclist safety and promote better road sharing.
Sharrows indicate that cyclists can position themselves safely in lanes where it is too narrow for a motor vehicle and a bicycle to comfortably travel side by side. The markings are there to remind drivers they should expect to see people on bikes riding further out in the traffic lane. They may be used in conjunction with "Share with Care" signage.
Motorists: Be patient as cyclists are entitled to their place in the lane. Do not attempt to overtake them on narrow sections or around parked vehicles. Slow down and wait until you can pass safely.
Cyclists: You can occupy the traffic lane along narrow sections and around parked vehicles. Only move over to allow vehicles to pass only when you have room to do so safely. (Please note: The sharrow markings are not intended to show exactly where on the road you should ride).
Background
In 2012, the Road Controlling Authority (RCA) Research and Guidelines Steering Group agreed to establish a national cycling signs and markings working group. This new working group convened in 2012 and its membership contained a mix of Road Controlling Authorities throughout NZ.
This group agreed to undertake trials on several markings to further define a cycle lane, a shared lane and the safest route for cyclists.
The need for shared lane marking within the NZ context arose due to the need to provide additional 'toolbox' measures to help in the design of infrastructure. Internationally, the use of shared lane markings has overall, proved to be successful in improving safety, way finding and awareness of cyclist routes. The RCA working group identified 'sharrow markings' and 'supplementary cycle lane' markings for trial.
In 2014 Nelson was one of the cities involved in a national 'Sharrow’ marking trial, using Hardy, Tasman, and Brook Streets for several months. Driver and cyclist behaviour was monitored during this time, and this was followed up with a survey of all road users.
