The “Be Safe, Be Seen” campaign encourages children to ride with confidence while learning how to stay visible and protected on the road. It combines essential cycling safety tips with a fun and imaginative twist: the Helmet Design Challenge.

This challenge invites students to have a play and design a helmet, allowing them to express their personal style while reinforcing the importance of always wearing a properly fitted helmet.

Cycling is a fantastic way for kids to stay active, independent, and eco-friendly.  This campaign not only teaches the key principles of bike safety but makes them stick through creativity and hands-on learning.

The campaign focuses on four easy-to-remember messages that every young cyclist should follow:

• Safety First – Always wear a properly fitted helmet to protect your head.
• Be Seen – Bright clothing and lights help others notice you on the road.
• Ride Smart – Know the rules, stay alert, and make safe choices.
• Express Yourself – Your helmet can reflect your unique personality.

Students across three age groups—5–8, 9–12, and 13–16 years—are invited to enter the Helmet Design Challenge. They can use templates provided in school or create their own artwork on paper, designing helmets that are fun, bold, and original. Prizes will be awarded for the most eye-catching and creative designs in each age group. Prize includes a Helmet (Design not printed), reflective tape, reflective bag cover and a set of LED lights.

Each participating school has received a safety pack filled with useful materials: posters, bike safety checklists, design templates for the Helmet Challenge.

The campaign is running throughout the month, with Helmet Challenge entries due by 5 August 2025. 

Let’s help every child be safe, be seen—and be themselves.

Download Helmet design template: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/files/assets/public/v/1/events/adhoc-events/helmet-design-comp.pdf

Download Fact Sheet: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/files/assets/public/v/1/events/adhoc-events/fact-sheet.pdf

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

16/07/25