Vehicles leave their mark on Western Bay reserves

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is reminding people that motorised vehicles are not allowed on public reserves after a recent spate of damage caused by four-wheel drives and motorbikes.

Over the past couple of weeks, Council has received reports of vehicles being driven across reserves in a number of locations, including Bowentown Domain, Tuapiro Point Reserve, Wilson Park in Waihī Beach and Moore Park in Katikati.

There have also been reports of trail bikes being ridden at speed on shared trails and pathways, with recent near misses on the Waihī Beach to Bowentown cycleway, Waihī Beach forestry trails and the drainage reserve trail between Gilfillan Drive and Wills Road in Katikati.

"Our reserves and pathways are shared community spaces that everyone should be able to enjoy safely. Driving vehicles across grassed areas damages the environment, creates risks for other users and can leave costly repairs," says Peter Watson, Western Bay of Plenty District Council Reserves and Facilities Manager.

“Some of the reserves affected also hold significant cultural and historical value, such as Bowentown Headland, which forms part of Te Hō Pā and Te Kura a Maia Pā and is an important site for mana whenua. The damage being done is disrespectful and shows a lack of regard for places that are special to our community.”

While this is a year-round issue, wet winter conditions can make reserves more appealing for off-road driving, while also causing more damage, says Peter.

Under the Council’s Reserves and Facilities Bylaw 2018, no vehicles or motorbikes are allowed on any reserves, except in areas set aside specifically for that purpose. Where damage occurs, it may also be an offence under the Reserves Act 1977.

"We rely on the community to help us protect these spaces. If people see vehicles being driven on reserves, please let us know and, where it is safe to do so, provide details such as vehicle registration numbers, and photos or videos,” says Peter.

"These spaces belong to everyone. By respecting the rules and reporting damage when it happens, we can all help keep our reserves safe, accessible and enjoyable for the whole community."

People can report illegal vehicle activity on reserves by contacting Council on 0800 926 732, email info@westernbay.govt.nz, or via the Antenno app.

For dangerous driving, contact Police on 111. You can also make a non-emergency report to Police by calling 105.