Police said they were disappointed some participants ignored road safety messages and legislation at the event attended by about 120 riders. Video / PassMe TheBall
The organiser of a recent large-scale bike ride, shadowed by a large police contingent with four people arrested and scores of cyclists fined, hopes riders will be on their best behaviour at a repeat event across central Auckland this weekend.
Police said some of the around 120 bicycle riderswho attended the West Auckland ride last Sunday showed a “complete disregard” for others on the road.
YouTuber, “bikelife” advocate and organiser Kimami Ngaluafe said he talked to the riders about some of the conduct on Sunday and expects things to be better at this weekend’s Onehunga ride.
“I’m definitely looking to have our riders on their best behaviour this weekend ... we’re expecting no arrests and no infringements.”
Tour De Neighbourhood attendees at the Auckland Transport Bike Hub in Henderson. Photo / Supplied
Around 150 people are anticipated to attend Sunday’s event, dubbed Tour De Hoods: Central Auckland, where riders will travel from Onehunga to Mt Roskill and back.
Police had been in contact with the group and will be monitoring the ride again, he told the Herald.
Ngaluafe said that although some of the actions last weekend, like riders crossing the centre line, were unacceptable, the police were “coming off a little bit too rough”.
“With the police that we’ve dealt with on the previous rides, they were real good with the boys, and they knew the boys, got along with them.
“I think just this one, I feel like there was a bit of a clash between the two for some reason.”
Riders crossed the centre line into oncoming traffic during last Sunday's large-scale cycling event. Photo / Supplied
The overall rider behaviour was good with only a few individuals breaching the rules, Ngaluafe said.
Police have been approached for comment.
Ride organisers, Bikelife Collective NZ, plan to do large group events on a regular basis, Ngaluafe said.
“We actually want to create something for the boys because on the weekend they’re not doing much ... these kids are not making the rugby teams or doing anything, you know, so we’re hoping to make it like a weekend thing that kind of gives the boys something to do."
Four people were arrested, 53 infringement notices were issued, and a bike was impounded after the mass three-hour bike ride.
Albert said police monitoring the event were disappointed that a portion of the group failed to comply with road safety messaging and legislation, resulting in the enforcement action.
“These riders showed a complete disregard for others on the road, and we will continue to hold them to account and impound their bikes.
“Police attempted to keep disruption for commuters to a minimum and hope that police enforcement action ... sends a strong message about the seriousness of road safety.”
