‘Completely unacceptable behaviour’: Large group recklessly riding dirt bikes on Tamaki Drive on New Year’s Eve

A group of around 100 dirt bike riders were seen driving recklessly on New Years Eve. Video / 682marsters_

A video circulating social media shows a large group of around 100 dirt bike riders driving recklessly along Tamaki Drive in Kohimarama, Auckland, on New Year’s Eve.

A police spokesperson said it was possible the riders were from the same group who travelled in Pakuranga the same night. However inquiries to identify those involved were ongoing.

“This is a challenging type of behaviour for police to deal with at the time due to safety for other road users and the riders themselves.”.

Police said it was incredibly frustrating for them and the public, as the group had no regard for the safety of others and their riding was putting lives at risk.

“It is completely unacceptable behaviour,” they said.

“Police regularly follow up to hold those involved to account and either issue them with infringement notices or charge them with driving offences but the message does not seem to be getting through.

“It is illegal to ride a dirt bike on the road unless it is roadworthy with a current warrant and registration. Anyone riding a bike with an engine capacity above 50cc needs to have a motorbike licence.”

Police also asked parents and caregivers to take responsibility for the actions of the riders, some of whom were young.

“The last thing we want is to have one of these riders cause a crash and injure or kill a member of the public.”

Police advised members of the public who come across these riders to keep themselves safe and call police when safe to do so.