The Waimārama Beach summer bylaw comes into effect today, banning vehicles from the southern rocks to the front of Waimārama Domain between 8am and 8pm.
As with all Hastings’ beaches, a 20 km/h speed limit applies to all areas of the beach, all drivers must have a valid driver’s license, and motorbike and quad bike riders must wear helmets, Hastings District Council has advised.
The bylaw remains in place until April 30. Extra police will patrol the beach during the busiest times and will issue tickets to those not sticking to the rules, Council said.
Over summer, the Council says it will continue working with the community on changes to the rules, in response to community concerns about beach safety.
“Over the last year three rounds of consultation on potential changes to the rules had been held, the most recent an option that would have seen the vehicle ban area extended, reaching from the southern end (adjacent to the end of Harper Rd) to a point 1.7km north of the beach end of Tiakitai Rd,” Council said in a statement.
“While 80% of respondents opposed the change, their reasons varied. Some supported more restrictions but disagreed with the access points, others preferred fewer restrictions, some wanted a complete vehicle ban, and some suggested a permit system for fishers to access the beach.”
It says additional issues around heritage and land ownership arose during the consultation. As a result, a heritage assessment has been commissioned, and a new community group has proposed an alternative plan, which will be reviewed by council staff.
In the meantime, Council’s proposal would lie on the table, with both plans and the assessment to be reviewed in the new year.
Councillor Marcus Buddo has been involved in discussions with community members about the proposed ban extension.
“I’m proud of the community for finding a way to come together rather than focus on their differences, and I look forward to them considering any further Council proposals,” he said.
Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said safety was the Council’s priority and stressed the importance of community cooperation to ensure compliance with the rules.
“Hastings District Council cannot issue infringement notices, so the only agency that can enforce the rules is Police, and they cannot be there all of the time,” she said.
“We can educate and put up large signs, but in the end we have to rely on beach users being responsible. Safety has to be our top priority – both for people using the beach, drivers and passengers alike.
“Please everyone, make sure you, your children, your grandchildren, and your friends are safe on our beaches this summer.”
