News Release
Friday 29 November 2013

Mamaku Domain entrances being closed off to motorised vehicles and sale of land being considered

Rotorua District Council (RDC) is closing entrances to the Mamaku Domain following ongoing complaints about motorbikes and other unauthorised vehicles disturbing neighbouring residents and causing safety concerns.

The issue has reached the point where the council is now considering the future of the reserve and whether it should be retained for community purposes or disposed of.

The council and Rotorua Police have been working on a combined strategy to address the issue, and as a result barriers restricting all vehicular access onto the domain will be put in place from 2 December.

RDC Parks & Recreation manager, Garry Page, said motorbike riding is prohibited in all parks however this has not stopped inconsiderate bike riders and drivers from making nuisances of themselves and damaging the reserve.

“We’ve had ongoing vandalism issues, with council staff constantly having to repair damage to the domain and fences. The problem is escalating and there’s the real risk of someone getting seriously hurt by some of the reckless behaviour.

“A public meeting has been set for 11 February to discuss the future of the reserve with the Mamaku community. Rotorua district councillor Charles Sturt will chair the meeting at the Mamaku Hall at 5.30pm, and all local residents are invited to attend.

“Regrettably, one of the options that will have to be discussed is the possibility of cancelling the reserve designation and disposing of the problem area of the domain by selling it for private use. This is a very real possibility unless the community proves willing to take some ownership of the problem and to assist the council and police to deal with the issue in a manageable way.

“It’s a shame that a few unruly offenders have ruined things for legitimate users, however we’ve now run out of options.”

Rotorua Police crime prevention manager, Inspector Ed Van Den Broek, said that a number of complaints have been received regarding driving on the reserve area.

“Of concern to us is that people are putting themselves and others at risk of injury and harm by their actions and it is only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt.

“The Police fully support the actions of RDC and will investigate and prosecute any further reports of damage to the reserve area.”

If anyone notices intentional damage being done to fences to gain access to the domain they should contact Rotorua Police on 07 349 9400, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or Rotorua District Council on 07 348 4199 so offenders can be investigated and prosecuted.

ENDS

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