A Cabinet Minister acknowledges some people may not be using bicycles because they don't like wearing safety helmets.
Minister for Transport Safety Harry Duynhoven made the comments at a transport forum in Wellington.
He said cycle helmets should still be compulsory, because of the safety benefits.
He also said he wonders how many people would be cycling in New Zealand if they did not have to wear them.
The Cycling Advocates Network says it's heartened to hear the comments. It says the compulsory wearing of helmets is a vexed issue and the legislation should be reviewed.
Mr Duynhoven noted that "no one wears a helmet" while cycling in Holland - unless they are racing.
