Council confirms horse riding at Tuapiro Point

1 November 2018

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has given its final blessing for horse riding to continue at Tuapiro Point but with stricter rules around permitted riding areas and riders' code of conduct.

Council formally adopted its Reserve Bylaw Review today (1 November 2018). The amended version restricts the area permitted for horse riding, provides greater clarity as to where horses are allowed and places strict obligations on riders to remove horse waste and stay clear of cultural and ecologically sensitive areas.

The change comes into effect on 9 November and signage will be put in place by that date.

Horse riders will be able to continue to use the majority of the area previously allowed but will no longer be permitted beyond the small island located on the estuary side of Tuapiro Point.

The decision is a compromise reached following lengthy consultation with the local hapū Ngati Te Wai and the recreational horse riding community.

Council will erect new signage that clearly explains where horses are permitted and the code of conduct expected from horse riders. This code of conduct, setting out expectations of use, will be used in all horse riding areas in the District.

The initial proposed change to exclude horses from Tuapiro Point went to public consultation from May to July. Open days were held at Katikati, Paengaroa and Waihi Beach, all of which were well attended.

Both Ngati Te Wai and the horse riding community made it clear they wanted to find a compromise that would acknowledge the cultural and environmental issues while retaining what is a popular horse riding area.

A total of 597 submissions from individuals, riding clubs, iwi groups and others were received, of which the majority opposed no longer allowing horse riding at Tuapiro Point.

In addition to the submissions, a petition carrying more than 1500 signatures was delivered on horseback to Council's headquarters at Barkes Corner on 3 August. Hearings were held on 6 August at which 80 people spoke to their submissions.

Council has also decided to conduct a broader review in 2019/20 of the provision of horse riding areas across the District.

Council thanks all those who submitted to the Bylaw Review for their willingness to share views and to find a compromise to which all parties agree. All submitters will receive a copy of the decision.

Ends

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was the main reason for Council proposing to ban horse riding at Tuapiro Point?

A: Ngati Te Wai hapū expressed concerns to Council regarding degradation of the harbour and damage to kaimoana (shellfish) from horses at Tuapiro Point. Council agreed to consult on a proposal in the draft Reserves and Facilities Bylaw to no longer permit horse riding at Tuapiro Point. This was in response to the concerns expressed by Ngati Te Wai.

Q: Why did Council decide against banning the riding of horses on Tuapiro Point?

A: Of all 597 submissions to the draft bylaw, 96% were against the proposed change. However the horse riding community and Ngati Te Wai hapū expressed a desire to reach a compromise that allowed for horse riding to continue while protecting sites of cultural significance.

Both parties worked together in good faith which led to greater understanding of the issues and agreement that changes needed to be made.

The amended position results in a small change to the area where horses can be ridden and there will be improved signage as to the exact route where riding is permitted.

Q: Does this decision to allow horse riding to continue at Tuapiro Point mean that Council will review other beaches where horses are currently permitted/not permitted to be ridden?

A: Council is considering a review of all horse riding areas in the District in 2019/20. This would involve assessing additional areas where horse riding is permitted - not just beaches. These areas may need to be reflected in the bylaw in the future.

Q: What are the conditions imposed on horse riders who ride on Tuapiro Point?

• Riding will be restricted to the permitted area along the foreshore within a 20-metre corridor, continuing around the point and to the small island which is a natural landmark to signal the turn point. This will ensure the kaimoana beds are not entered.
• The requirement to remove horse waste from all areas of the reserve and foreshore will continue.
• An agreed code of conduct has been developed with the horse riding community, applying to all permitted sites across the District.

Q: How will Council monitor the area to ensure rules are obeyed?

A: Council will be monitoring the area on an ongoing basis.

Q: When does the amended bylaw change come into effect?

A: The new provisions will come into effect on 9 November 2018.