Mountain biker endangers public

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 441, 23 June 1992, Page 5

Mountain biker endangers public

• Police took a man's mountain bike off him on Sunday after he took it up to the High Noon T Bar level on Turoa Ski Field, then rode it back down among skiers. The man was spoken to by Turoa Ski Patrol staff and Department of Conservation staff, who warned him that he was breaking the law by taking the bike onto the ski field. Bicycles, as defined as vehicles, are not allowed off formed roads in the Tongariro National Park. The man chose to ignore the warnings and he was later apprehended by police. Police constable Greg Philips said they were not only concerned at the man's actions in terms of the national park rule, but that he had acted in a way as to endanger public safety. Mr Phillips said the man had ridden his bike through the "bone yard" on the ski field, which is a popular area for learner skiers. "He was in an area where there are skiers who may not have been able to avoid colliding with him," said Mr Phillips. He said the police would like to wam other people that it is illegal to take bicycles off formed roads in the park, and that includes onto the ski fields. The man's bike was returned to him on Monday morning. • The Powderhorn ski shop in Mangawhero Terrace, Ohakune was burgled on 16-17 June. Five Ripcurl high altitude ski jackets were stolen. • A residential property in Goldfinch Street, Ohakune was broken into 17-18 June. Nothing was taken. • At 5 am on Saturday morning burglars broke into Ruapehu Motors and stole a quantity of cigarettes and confectionery. The thieves smashed through the front door. • Ovemight 17-18 June a four-wheel farm bike was stolen from a property on Parapara Road. • On Saturday night a mountain bike was stolen firom an Ayr Street, Ohakune property.