DoC have been approached by the Ruapehu District Council, iwi and local groups to undertake a partial review of the Tongariro Plan to provide for three proposed mixed-use mountain-biking tracks. It is intended that the tracks be developed, owned, managed and maintained by local community trusts.

NZRA has consulted with various groups and formulated its submission here: NZRA Submission

NZRA is supportive, in principle, of the establishment and maintenance of walking and cycling tracks by the Department of Conservation.

With regard to these three specific tracks, NZRA is supportive. More high quality opportunities for people to get out there walking, trail-running and mtbing is a good thing. This seems like one of those times where the development of recreational infrastructure suits both tourists and local recreationalists.

But we do have some concerns about the proposed Turoa to Ohakune section, specifically:

A) the standard to which the track will be constructed and maintained.

B) The extent to which the track could be reasonably shared and enjoyed by walkers and Mountain bikers, concurrently.

C) How conflict between user groups would be reported, measured and acted upon.

D) How breaches of the mountain biking code of conduct would be investigated and sanctioned.

We look forward to seeing the outcome and wish all those involved the best of luck.