12.04.14

HRH Prince George to receive his first bike - Avanti Lil Ripper - HRH Prince George will take his first bike home from New Zealand – an Avanti Lil Ripper 12” bike with a helmet, proudly gifted by Avanti, one of Australasia's leading cycling brands.

The Avanti Lil Ripper was presented to the Duke of Cambridge by Avanti New Zealand founder John Struthers at the official opening of the Avantidrome in Cambridge today. The bike features a bespoke design by Shane Hansen, one of New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists.

John Struthers, Avanti founder, said it is a privilege to gift one of Avanti’s popular children’s bikes to Prince George on his inaugural visit to New Zealand.

“Avanti is honoured to be presenting the Lil Ripper to the Royal family and we’re sure, as with all new parents, it will be exciting for the Duke and Duchess to see their son riding his first bike. We understand a child’s first bike has always been a significant event in any family.”

“It is a pleasure to be part of the official opening of the Avantidrome. Avanti is committed to cycling in New Zealand and to continually designing bikes with leading edge technology, for family recreation through to high performance cycling teams. We are excited that this new world-class facility will cater to these groups,” he said.

The Avanti Lil Ripper’s lightweight alloy frame, wheels and no pedals is perfect for teaching balance and confidence in the early years of learning to ride. Integrating bespoke artwork personalised the bike for the Royal family and will be a reminder of their time in New Zealand.

Artist Shane Hansen said the Big Adventure design was aptly named because a bike signified a “big adventure” for young and old alike.

“The design was created to represent Prince George’s first visit to New Zealand and in a bigger context, his future journey through life. Maori motifs signify the planting of seeds, the nurturing and growing of relationships and connection to the people of this land. The flowing nature of the design creates movement, helping to carry Prince George forward and negotiate life’s ups and downs, with a balanced approach,” he said.

A replica of the Prince’s bike has been made as a reminder of the Royal visit and will be on display at the Avantidrome.

About Shane Hansen

Shane Hansen is one of New Zealand’s most popular artists of contemporary, Maori-inspired, artworks. Shane likes a strong, clean line. His works take us on a journey of cultural discovery and personal life experiences through the use of modern Maori motifs, vibrant colours and expressive bold imagery.

In 2013, Shane completed a number of successful projects with BMW NZ, Air New Zealand and the New Zealand Olympic Committee. Shane started 2014 contributing original works to charities and fundraisers for Amnesty International and Starship Foundation.

For more about Shane Hansen please visit www.shanehansen.co.nz

Big Adventure Design – Full Description

Aotearoa, New Zealand, is a land of mixed cultures and beliefs, where majestic mountains meet elegant flowing rivers. New Zealand sits proudly under the Southern Cross and celebrates its place in the world.

Maori motifs signify the planting of seeds, the nurturing and growing of relationships and connection to the people of this land.

The three circles, throughout the design, are symbols of HRH Prince George, and his father and mother who will guide him through life - protecting and mentoring him. The Whanau (family) that grows together is strong, solid and supportive.

The flowing nature of the design creates movement, helping to carry HRH Prince George forward and negotiate life’s ups and downs, with a balanced approach.

AVANTI RIDERS