Council, police crack down on e-motorbikes in parks

Hastings District Council is urging riders to keep electric motorbikes out of parks and reserves after reports of e-motorbikes being used in spots including Tainui Reserve, Te Mata Park and Flaxmere Park.

“This activity is not permitted in any park or reserve,” the council says.

The council stressed the difference between e-bikes (bicycles) and e-motorbikes, noting the latter are treated as motorbikes under the law.

An e-bike is a pedal-assisted vehicle, with a motor limited to 300W, whereas e-motorbikes are classified as motorbikes, it says.

“E-motorbikes are heavy, fast, and almost silent. This makes them a serious risk to other parks, reserves, and reserve users.”

Police have also reminded riders that road rules apply.

“As well as in parks and reserves, police advise that electric motorbikes are illegal on public roads unless the rider holds a valid licence and the bike is registered and roadworthy.

“Pedestrians in Hastings have already been seriously injured by electric motorbike riders.”

“Police are taking this matter seriously. If you see e-motorbikes being ridden in any reserve or park, or on a footpath, please report it to police, phone 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.”