helmets mandatory, everything else optional

In case you missed it in today's paper:

By The Associated Press
Friday, March 10, 2006

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The mayor of a New Zealand town wants a nude cycling race to be called off — because the participants won't be wearing helmets.
Mayor John Hurley of the Tasman District said police would look like "fools" if they allowed the race to go on for the third straight year, despite the objections of local residents.

Police said they investigated the legality of the race and found they cannot take any action.

"We have taken advice on the legality of their proposed action and have been advised that it falls short of an offense," Sergeant Arthur Clarence said.

About 100 people are expected to take part in the "clothing optional" race Sunday around Golden Bay on the southern tip of New Zealand's South Island. The race aims to promote safe cycling and alternative energy.

Hurley said police should enforce laws that require all cyclists to wear safety helmets.

"They have ridden bikes in the past down the road with no crash helmets, no nothing on, and people say that's a double standard," he said.