Rising rent is causing trouble for many New Zealanders, the Salvation Army send a warning. Fishermen receive fines for poor conduct as Dunedin Hospital takes another hit.
Fifty cyclists – including a Kiwi star of a global Netflix hit series – took to the roads of Matakana on Saturday morning to stage a protest; against themselves.
Dubbed The Cycle Against Cyclists, the event saw riders intentionally blocking traffic to send a message to motorists: href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/topic/matakana/" target="_self">“Donate to the Coastal Trail and get us off the road.”
Protesters were joined by Kiwi actor Martin Henderson, who is known for his roles in Shortland Street, Grey’s Anatomy and Netflix drama Virgin River.
New Zealand actor Martin Henderson took part in the protest. Photo / Brett Phibbs, PhibbsVisuals
Starting at Wrights Rd and ending at Matakana Wharf Reserve, the demonstration drew large crowds and elicited honks of support from drivers – an outcome organisers had hoped for.
Their goal? To turn road rage into positive change by encouraging motorists to contribute to the completion of the Coastal Trail, a dedicated off-road cycling path designed to separate cyclists from motorists and improve safety for all road users.
Fundraising manager for the Coastal TrailMeg Eriksenhighlighted the growing tensions between cyclists and motorists in the Matakana region.
Protestors Christian Newman, Allison Roe and actor Martin Henderson at the front of the pack. Photo / Brett Phibbs, PhibbsVisuals
“Matakana has long been a favourite destination for both cyclists and motorists, renowned for its stunning countryside and vibrant village and market,“ she said.
“However, the shared use of narrow roads has fuelled rising tensions, with increasing road-rage incidents and dangerous driving threatening the community’s tranquillity.
“The roads around Matakana have become unsafe for cyclists and stressful for motorists. It’s time for a solution that works for everyone.”
Fifty local cyclists took to the roads of Matakana in a bold and unconventional protest against themselves. Photo / Brett Phibbs, PhibbsVisuals
The planned Coastal Trail,which aims to connect Pūhoi to Mangawhai, has been proposed as a long-term solution, providing a safe, off-road alternative for cyclists.
While construction is already under way, additional funding is needed to complete the project.
“Today’s protest wasn’t just about frustration; it was about finding common ground,” Eriksen said.
Cyclists take over the roads of Matakana, urging motorists to support the Coastal Trail for a safer ride. Photo / Brett Phibbs, PhibbsVisuals
“Cyclists and motorists alike want safer roads, and the Coastal Trail is the answer. But we need the community’s support to make it happen.”
Supporters of the project point to the success of similar trails across New Zealand, such as the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Hauraki Rail Trail.
“Today’s protest wasn’t just about frustration; it was about finding common ground,” Eriksen said.
“Getting cyclists off the road is something both cyclists and motorists can finally agree on, and the Coastal Trail is the solution. But we need the community’s support to make it happen.”
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