Police urge extra caution during Crankworx

FILE

As Rotorua prepares to host the world's biggest mountain biking festival, police are urging visitors to pack their common sense along with their bike equipment.

The Crankworx event runs from March 25 to 29 and is expected to draw thousands of people to the city to watch the world-class riding.

Area Prevention Manager for Rotorua police, Inspector Stu Nightingale, said it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase both New Zealand and Rotorua, so police wanted the event to be remembered "for all the right reasons".

"That can be achieved by visitors taking basic precautions to protect themselves and their property, and by the local community showing those visitors the friendly Kiwi spirit and courteous reputation that this country is renowned for."

One of the biggest concerns for police is visitors and spectators letting enthusiasm getting in the way of common sense leaving them exposed to opportunistic thieves.

"Just because you are in a great place, it doesn't make you immune to crime, and a few simple steps can reduce that risk.

"Make sure you lock vehicles and remove temptation by locking all valuables out of sight.

"The same applies to bikes which, left on roof racks or in cars, even if locked, can be an invitation to thieves.

"Many hotels are providing secure storage for bikes so unless you're riding your bike; our advice is to keep it locked away."

Road congestion is an eventuality police are preparing for.

One of the venues for the event is Skyline on Fairy Springs Rd.

Parking will be limited so spectators are encouraged to either walk or cycle to the venue and anyone not going to the event is encouraged to find alternative routes or expect potential delays.

The other venue is the Whakarewarewa Forest with access from SH5 onto Waipa State Mill Rd.

This was a busy state highway intersection so caution would be required in this area, Mr Nightingale said.

He said extra vigilance would be required by all motorists, given the large numbers of pedestrians and cyclists that will be around the city.

"We all need to bear in mind that there will be a lot of people visiting Rotorua for the first time.

"They will likely be unfamiliar with the city, and in some cases the country, so it is important that everyone is patient and shares the road.

"A smile and some courtesy costs nothing; so offer a helping hand if you see someone lost or broken down," he said.

Police will be highly visible on the roads with a strong focus on speeding and drink-driving.

There will be events on the Village Green on the afternoon and evening of Friday, 27 March and Saturday, 28 March.

This will be a liquor ban area that will be policed.

Bay of Plenty Police will be utilising its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BOPPolice) and Twitter feed (@BOPPolice) to share useful tips and updates in the lead up to the event and for its duration.