A heated debate is raging over the beloved bike trails of Wellington's Matairangi/Mount Victoria, a haven for mountain bikers and a source of contention for some local residents.
Mountain bikers rave about the "world-class" riding experience just minutes away from the city center, but a recent wave of vandalism has exposed a deeper divide within the community.
The local residents' association president, Ellen Blake, shares concerns about safety, with some residents avoiding the area altogether.
On any given day, mountain bikers navigate a complex network of trails in the green belt, a short climb away from the bustling Courtenay Place.
The hill boasts an impressive 25.5km of trails and paths, catering to walkers, runners, mountain bikers, and sightseers alike.
These trails have been carefully designated as walker-priority shared trails, walker-only, or bike-only, ensuring a balanced experience for all users.
Mountain bike racer Iley Nunns, who started riding in Matairangi as a young teen, has represented New Zealand on the world stage.
"Mt Vic offers a challenging yet rewarding ride," she says. "The roots and clay can make it slippery, but that's where you develop those crucial technical skills. It's a unique advantage I carry with me in races around the globe."
But not everyone shares this enthusiasm.
In December, locals reported acts of vandalism, with trail-marking signs torn down, holes dug in riding lines, and logs obstructing tracks.
Police confirmed a man was formally warned for "endangering life or safety by criminal nuisance" after admitting to vandalizing the mountain bike trails.
"We've heard concerns from locals and walkers for years," says Ellen Blake. "Close encounters with riders and the ecological impact of the trails are valid worries."
"Some walkers feel threatened or frightened by the mountain bike activity. It's not just about the damage to the tracks; it's about the fear of unexpected encounters."
The Mount Victoria Residents Association has asked the council to ensure a fair balance of trails for walkers and mountain bikers.
"We need a solution that accommodates everyone," Blake emphasizes. "Currently, we have 12 mountain bike-only tracks with no equivalent options for other users."
Vicky Robertson, from the Matairangi Trail Group, coordinates volunteers with the council to maintain the trails, ensure safe crossovers, and promote environmental initiatives like native tree planting.
"GPS data shows nearly 15km of the trail network is designated walker-priority, with an additional 2.5km for walkers only," she explains. "There's definitely room for everyone up there."
Nicola Johnson, national operations manager of WORD (Wellington Off-Road Department), highlights the importance of trail etiquette and education.
"Our instructors teach over 1000 young riders each year, and we often use the Mount Victoria trails for group classes. We encourage our riders to respect the trails and other users."
"Standing still or walking while a rider approaches at high speed can be terrifying for walkers. We've seen improvements in trail direction and signage, but there's still work to be done to ensure everyone's safety."
Sixteen-year-old mountain bike racer Kiera Vlaar, who started with WORD courses, emphasizes the accessibility and convenience of the city-center trails.
"It can get busy, especially with tourists searching for Lord of the Rings filming locations. We encounter people walking on the mountain bike tracks, and it's important to communicate and be aware of each other."
The Wellington City Council tracks usage of the 12 bike-priority trails with counters and acknowledges the need for ongoing improvements.
In recent years, tracks have been widened, resurfaced, and signage enhanced to indicate walker or bike priority. Intersection alignments have been improved to enhance safety and visibility.
So, who should give way: walkers or mountain bikers? Is it possible to find a harmonious balance that accommodates all users? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
