Community feedback supports Kuirau Park Road closure
Rotorua Lakes Council received clear support for the closure of the northern part of Kuirau Street following a trial implemented to stop anti-social behaviour and damage being caused by vehicles in Kuirau Park.
As a result, a decision has been made to keep the road closure in place for the foreseeable future.
Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to access the reserve and the closed section of Kuirau Street via designated tracks. The gates in place from the Tarewa Road entrance to the central roundabout will remain locked 24/7.
In January, the section of Kuirau Street was closed to vehicles for a six month trial period. The public were able to provide feedback on the trial to help the council determine whether this section should remain open to vehicles, or closed.
During the trial period there has only been one incident of damage in the area, compared to nine for the same period last year when the road was open.
Of the 36 responses received during consultation, 72% of respondents were in support of the road closure remaining in place, with 17% suggesting a partial night closure only. Eleven percent of respondents were opposed to any closure. The majority of the feedback received noted that the current closure had a considerably positive outcome.
Additionally, the Ngāti Whakaue Gifted Reserves Protocol Committee, Rotorua Aquatic Centre management, Rotorua Neighbourhood Support and representatives from Taharangi Marae have also been very supportive of retaining restrictions to vehicle access through this section of the reserve.
A local Tarewa Road resident, Mere, says the trial closure has made a world of difference for the community.
“To say the park has thrived since the road has been closed off is an understatement. Since the road has been closed, there has been no destructive behaviour. The whole area feels much safer to walk in and take our babies.
“There are plenty of other ways to get across to the other side of the park with a vehicle instead of going through it. Leaving (the northern section of) Kuirau Street open to provide a short cut for people also opens it up for people to be destructive again.”
Council’s Deputy Chief Executive Community Wellbeing, Anaru Pewhairangi, says the permanent closure is a step in the right direction in response to the undesirable behaviour that was occurring and ensuring the safety of the community.
“The community expressed their concerns with this section of Kuirau Park, and we were able to trial a closure to determine whether this helped to solve some of the issues our residents were experiencing.
“The clear support received for the closure to remain in place is a positive outcome for nearby residents, our community, and ensures that we can continue to protect the natural environment of Kuirau Park.”
Council will also look to modify the turning point at the northern end of Kuirau Street to make it easier for vehicles to return to Tarewa Road.