Walkway or cycleway?

I’d like to address a potential problem with the Ōmokoroa cycleway and the associated walkway that runs parallel to Myrtle Drive. Whilst the cycleway is, without doubt, a great asset, more cyclists are using the walkway as a cycle track. The walkway is not part of the official cycleway and comprises a grass track which is extremely popular with walkers.

The Community Board will be aware the edge of this walkway is potentially unstable and in places crosses the designated fault line. There have been many slips over the years. This danger has the potential to be exacerbated as more cyclists and even occasional motorcyclists use the route.

The Western Bay description of the Cycleway is that ‘it starts at the southern end of The Esplanade’ and does not include the walkway. So, why have signs been erected at the Crapp Reserve, Bramley Drive, Walnut Grove Reserve and Ruamoana - advising cyclists to give way to pedestrians?

During the winter months, there is the likelihood of erosion and damage to the grass, especially where the width is reduced. Evidence can already be seen at

Cooney Reserve car park, where there is a furrow churned up by cyclists not following the track. This is as unsightly as it is potentially dangerous.

I speak on behalf of residents whose properties adjoin the walkway and would ask that as a matter of urgency the signs encouraging cycling on the walkway be removed, and replaced by a warning that it is not part of the cycleway.

I ride a bike as well, but our walkway must be preserved.

Dave Woodhouse, Ōmokoroa.