Police Plan Crackdown on Illegal Dirt Bikers in Rotorua Amid Rising Safety Concerns

April 2025

Roturua police are preparing to intensify their efforts against illegal dirt bike riders, as concerns grow over the potential for fatal accidents in the city. Acting Rotorua area commander Inspector Phil Gillbanks has warned that if the current pattern of behavior continues, it could only be a matter of time before someone is killed.

Recent reports have highlighted a troubling trend: dirt bikers are causing significant damage to public spaces, including parks and recreational facilities. In one instance, an elderly person was assaulted after confronting riders on Harris St, and earlier this month, a rider hit a lamppost. These incidents have raised alarms among officials and residents alike.

"If this activity continues, more people are likely to be injured or, worse, killed," said Gillbanks. "Not only are you damaging public property like children's sports grounds and parks used by everyone in the community, but your reckless actions could put people at risk of being hurt and killed, and that could be yourselves, innocent members of the community, members of your family or your friends."

The police have urged the public to come forward with any information they might have, as they plan an upcoming operation targeting the illegal riders. "While we don't want witnesses to put themselves at risk, we rely on information from the public to help us combat this illegal activity," said Gillbanks.

Local residents have also expressed frustration over the growing issue. One resident described a reserve in Pukehangi as being "hijacked" by dirt bikes and skid cars, stating that the activity happens daily. "It's only a matter of time before someone is hurt or hit," they said. The resident has reported the issue to both the council and the police, but the problem persists.

Rotura Lakes Council has confirmed that it has received 12 reports so far this year. "This behavior is irresponsible and poses a danger," said a spokesperson. The council has been working on investigating and reviewing access points to prevent further damage. However, efforts to block access to dirt bikes at reserves and parks have proven challenging, as they could also affect pram users and residents with disabilities.

Damage to parks and reserves has been widespread, with 16 spaces affected so far. Neil Hunt Park, which is home to Waiariki FC and Eastern Pirates, has become the latest sports field to suffer. The park's main football and rugby fields were damaged on 30 June and 2 July, leaving the fields unusable for several weeks. Club manager Praneel Nair described it as the worst damage the park has experienced in over a year.

Resident Ryan Gray shared a harrowing account of a dirt bike rider who rode through the Rotorua lakefront playground and onto the boardwalk while children were playing. "Just about every day," he said, "I see bikes tearing through parks, footpaths, and shared spaces. No helmets, no number plates, and no care for who else is around."

Police are asking the public for any information that could help identify the riders, including descriptions of bikes and riders, video footage (taken safely), and any knowledge of where illegal riders live. If people witness such activity in their neighborhood, they are encouraged to call 111. For incidents that have already occurred, they can contact police at 105.

The situation has sparked calls for more action, with many hoping that the planned crackdown will bring an end to the dangerous behavior. "We really need to do something to stop this," said Nair. "We do the work to keep it up, and then others come and ruin it."