Care needed by cyclists on walkways

May 29th, 2012
By Linda Beatson,
Deputy Principal, Motueka South School

There is an excellent scenic walking pathway which our students access from behind the Up The Garden Path cafe to walk safely to the Motueka Recreation Centre. Our Special Needs students also walk regularly along the path for exercise, with their teacher aides.

Unfortunately some cyclists using the path still don't read the signs asking them to watch out and give way to pedestrians. We have had a few close shaves with our ORS students and staff, which is concerning.

Would you please add a note to Motueka Online asking readers to encourage cyclists to be courteous and safe around walkers on the path?

Comment by Sherryll Worthington:
[Posted 8 July 2012]

As an owner of a small dog, I find that I increasingly avoid the walkways where shared use with cyclists is likely. Problems arise around lack of visibility and the narrow width of paths compounded by cyclists moving so much faster than myself. With the advent of the district wide cycle trail, increased numbers of cyclists is imminent.

So having resorted to sticking to the streets around town it is really annoying to see how the footpaths are so often frequented by cyclists, even when the roads are wide and traffic is light. Time to reclaim these footpaths it would seem.

Also as a resident on the west side of High Street it would be good to see some options looked at to provide some "green walkways" to enjoy. Access along the river seems non existent. All ideas appreciated.

Comment by Beth Bryant:
[Posted 19 March 2014]

I agree with Sherryll that access to the Motueka River for walking would be an excellent scheme and as well, might take some of the pressure off the estuary. How is this be achieved? Any ideas?

In addition, children in motorised cars are beginning to use shared pathways. I consider this is likely to cause a collision soon. What is the answer?

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