Horse ban proposed

Horse riding may be banned from aBay reserve— and Katikati residents are urged to have their say on the matter.

Western Bay District Council is considering banning horses from being ridden at Tuapiro Point ( pictured), near Katikati, in a bylaw review. The point is a popular spot for horse riders.

However, the council is also looking at the development of an 80ha forestry block on Lund Rd for horse riding, walking and cycling trails.

Damage to the reserve by horses drove the decision to review the bylaw, policy planning and regulatory services group manager Rachael Davie said.

“We know Tuapiro Point is very popular with horse riders but it’s important that we take awider look at all uses of this area with a view to prioritising public health and the health of the inner harbour,” Davie said.

“The Regional Coastal Environment Plan identifies the need to avoid significant damage to the coastal environment, particularly where this impacts public health and significant cultural sites such as kaimoana beds, which is why we’re proposing this change.”

However, riders going outside of permitted areas, leaving waste behind and riding over kaimoana beds are causing significant damage which has led the council to consider this change.

■ To find out more and to make a submission about the proposed Reserves and Facilities Bylaw change and the proposed new Lund Road area, which is part of the Katikati/Waihi Beach Reserve Management Plan, go tohttps:/ /haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/reserves-andfacilities-bylaw

■ Open days for people to make their submissions in person:

★ The Lounge, Katikati Memorial Hall, May 26 from 9am to midday

★ Supper Room, Waihi Beach Community Centre, June 23 from 9am to midday Feedback opened on Monday and closes on July 9.